By KEN HAMWEY, Staff Sports Writer

If there were an award for overcoming adversity, then Franklin High’s Katie Jones would be high on the list of potential recipients. She could easily be the poster child for coping with adverse situations. 

A starter as an attack for the Panthers’ lacrosse team as a freshman, she had a dynamic season, scoring 37 goals and registering 15 assists. Her sophomore and junior years, however, should have been superb campaigns, but they weren’t. They’re in the books as DNPs (did not play). 

Jones missed her entire sophomore year after suffering a torn ACL and a torn meniscus in her left knee. And, when she was healthy and ready for her junior season, Covid-19 arrived, forcing State officials to cancel all spring sports in 2020. Now, the 18-year-old senior is gearing up for her second and final season, eager to get started and delighted to be ending a two-year lapse.

“I’m thankful to finally get the opportunity to compete after a two-year absence,’’ said Jones, who could also be a poster child for academic excellence (4.1 GPA). “The route to my senior season wasn’t the path I expected, but I’m blessed to get the chance to play again. I love lacrosse, and my teammates know I’ve waited two years for this moment.’’

Jones’ objectives were to have a successful high school career and play lacrosse at the collegiate level. The University of Connecticut didn’t hesitate to recruit Jones, even after her injury. She committed to play for the Huskies as a junior and got a scholarship.

“After the injury, I wasn’t sure what was in store, but when decisions had to be made, I went to work, put my head down and accepted all the conditioning work and all the physical therapy that was needed,’’ Jones said. “After six months of rehab, I was able to help the team in practice and by evaluating film. I even emulated being an opponent. Rehab was tough, but I stayed focused. 

“Later, when Covid-19 struck, I was disappointed because I was ready to return. But, I accepted it. You can’t feel badly for yourself, because others were dealing with it. I focused on what I could control — like improving my technique and stickwork, staying in shape, and maintaining a strong mental approach.’’ 

Jones’ goals for her final season are for the Panthers to finish first in the Kelly-Rex Division of the Hockomock League, qualify for Sectionals and advance as far as possible. “King Philip will likely be our toughest opponent,’’ she said. “They’re competitive and traditionally strong. I also want everyone to stay healthy and avoid any Covid-19 issues. “My individual goals are to be a league all-star, and I’ll strive to become a high school all-American.’’

Jones strengths are sure to shine again. She’s athletic, technically sound, has a high lacrosse IQ, and is a team-first player with excellent field vision.

“Katie has embraced a leadership role, despite missing two years,’’ said coach Kristin Igoe. “She’s continued to persevere despite the adversity, and for that, is well-respected by her teammates. Katie always plays with a team-first mentality, and I know she’s eager to get on the field and have some fun. I’m looking forward to watching her compete this season for Franklin and also in the future at UConn.’’

The 5-foot-9 Jones, who’s played seven years of club lacrosse, competed in the playoffs her frosh season and rose to the occasion when Franklin faced Lexington in its opener. 

Relying on a finesse style, Jones enjoys playing attack because it requires creativity. “The key is being instinctive and know where the ball is going,’’ she said. “The position involves quick thinking and being creative. I also like attack, because it provides chances to pass effectively, to be strategic and to anticipate our opponent’s next move.’’

A native of Franklin, Jones was focused on attending UConn, a school whose coach (Katie Woods) saw film of Jones competing at the club level. “I visited the college, liked what I saw and liked the idea of playing in the Big East Conference,’’ Jones said. “UConn’s program is traditionally strong and coach Woods respected my tenacity after the injury.’’

Playing at the college level will involve a transition and Jones knows what’s needed to be successful. “The key is to adjust to a faster pace,’’ she emphasized. “The defenses in college will be far more aggressive and decision-making will have to occur quickly.’’

A high honor student for four years, Jones, inspired most by her parents, will major in marketing and she’s aiming for a career in sports marketing, perhaps at the pro level.

Acutely aware that athletics teach valuable life lessons, Jones lists six that she’s learned. “Sports have helped me to be a good teammate, how to encourage and assist colleagues and how to develop a strong work ethic,’’ she said. “Sports also help to overcome adversity, to strengthen one’s leadership ability and to build confidence.’’

Katie Jones has a great sense of perspective. She also knows how to handle adversity.

And conquer it.