By Ariel Casida
Trace Hamilton is a senior at Alva High School. He participates in football, basketball, baseball, student council, and Key Club. Trace has been participating in football since he was in the fourth grade after being introduced to the sport by his parents. He has previously been selected as Defensive Player of the Game three times, Offensive Player of the Game twice, and Player of the Game twice by his local radio station and team.
His favorite parts about football are the memories that he makes and the community that one builds along the way.
“Your team becomes a family,” Trace says.
His favorite football moment so far was when he and his team played in the quarterfinals during his sophomore year. This was also the highest moment in his football career to date. Trace says, “we worked extremely hard that entire season and we were able to showcase our determination during that game.”
His biggest role model is his coach, John Johnson, because “no matter what, he is always right by my side and helping me improve,” Trace says.
Sports have taught Trace how to be a great teammate, how to be a part of one big family, and that how much effort you put in will be the determining factor to the success that you can expect to gain from it. He says that to be a great athlete, you have to give 100% effort during practice and games, you have to be a team player, and you have to have faith and believe in yourself.
His biggest positive impacts have been his parents, who have been his biggest supporters. When things get tough for Trace, his family is what keeps him going.
“They are always there for me, no matter what,” he says.
His advice to other athletes is that you are the one in control of your own success.
“If you want to have success, you have to be willing to work hard and give 100% effort,” he says.
In his free time, Trace likes to hang out with friends, play golf and catch, and watch NFL and college games. His favorite subject in school is English; taught by his favorite teacher, Dr. Halah Simon. Dr. Simon is Trace’s favorite teacher because she’s been there to help him through any tough times.
After high school, Trace plans to attend a university while playing sports and acquiring a degree in Architecture. One day he hopes to get a job in that field.
Photo Credit: Melanie Gaisford
