CLINTON, Miss. --- Mississippi College celebrated a momentous occasion on Saturday, as the women's soccer locker room was officially named the Jewell Longabaugh Locker Room in honor of Mrs. Jewell Longabaugh. The event, held at Robert P. Longabaugh Field, brought together a close-knit gathering of family, alumni, and current Lady Choctaws to pay tribute to a woman whose dedication and generosity have left an indelible mark on the program.

The dedication ceremony was a fitting tribute to Mrs. Jewell, whose contributions have gone far beyond financial gifts. She has provided unwavering encouragement and guidance to countless players, helping to shape the program into the powerhouse it is today. As Mrs. Jewell stood surrounded by her family and a large contingent of Mississippi College women's soccer alumni, she was visibly moved by the honor. "I was so shocked! I had no idea that this was going to happen," she exclaimed. "It was so great to see everyone. The program has really grown since the beginning, and to have the locker room named after me is something I never expected. Seeing so many former players here, many of whom I've had the pleasure of knowing over the years, makes this moment even more special."

The ceremony was further enriched by words from Mississippi College Athletic Director Kenny Bizot, who addressed the gathering. "Mrs. Jewell, you were here from day one. You gave of your time, your energy, your effect, commitment, and your finances to this program. Because of you, this program has grown the way it has, and we are so thankful for you," Bizot said.

The day started with the annual alumni soccer match, bringing back many former Lady Choctaws to play against the current team. This lively contest highlighted the enduring bond between past and present players, many of whom were profoundly influenced by Mrs. Jewell's impact on their lives. Former Lady Choctaw and 2007 graduate Tina Lennard reflected on Mrs. Jewell's unwavering support. "We were truly grateful for Mrs. Jewell. Anytime we needed a bus, a practice jersey, or anything else, she was there. During Hurricane Katrina, she even helped out our kids from the coast," Lennard shared.

In a spirited contest, the current Lady Choctaws defeated the alumni by a final score of 5-1 in two 35-minute halves on a beautiful Saturday at Robert P. Longabaugh Field, named after Mrs. Jewell's husband and head coach Darryl Longabaugh's father. The current team showcased their skills with goals from Jadyn Mallory, Parker St. Amant, Erin Stamatopoulos, Cooper Holmes, and Madison Leber. The alumni scored their lone goal off a stunning strike from near midfield by 2024 MC women's soccer graduate Kaylee Foster.

The day was filled with fun, reminiscing, and shared hugs, culminating in a special ceremony that honored both Mrs. Jewell and the women's soccer program as they prepare to kick off the 2024 season. 

The dedication of the Jewell Longabaugh Locker Room serves not only as a tribute to Mrs. Jewell's remarkable contributions but also as an inspiration for future generations of Lady Choctaws. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to influence and uplift the program for years to come, embodying the spirit of support and community that has defined Mississippi College women's soccer.