By Ariel Casida
Tayden Hamilton is a junior at Chisholm High School. He participates in basketball, baseball, trap shooting, FCA, NHS, and student council. Hamilton got his start in basketball at four years old. His dad got him enrolled in sports and helped to coach his teams.
Hamilton’s favorite things about basketball are the team, the connection they share, and the ability to go to the gym to clear his mind when he’s overwhelmed. The highest moment in his basketball career so far, was when his team won districts during his sophomore year. His favorite sports moment so far was when his team was competing against a rival team, Alva, and he made three three-pointers late in the fourth quarter that brought his team the lead.
His biggest positive impact is Coach Sean Swaim, because he always believed in Hamilton and his talents, and has pushed him to practice and work harder. His biggest role model is his dad, because he always gives his best in everything that he does.
In his free time, Hamilton likes to hunt, fish, go to the lake, and spend time with family and friends. His favorite subject in school is math, because he knows that he’ll need it in the future. His favorite teacher is Mrs. Beverly Weber, because she pushes him to be his best and makes learning fun. After high school, Hamilton plans to play baseball in college while majoring in business.
To Hamilton, being a great athlete means having a lot of grit.
“It brings all kinds of challenges, you just have to get through it and keep pushing,” Hamilton said.
Sports have taught him that when things aren’t going your way, you can’t let yourself get down.
“You have to dig deep and push forward, always giving your best,” Hamilton said.
Hamilton’s coach, Cole Hibler, has seen his positive attitude and hard work and is ready to see what he brings next year.
“Tayden is a junior who exemplifies our standards. He always carries himself with great pride and does things the right way. Tayden is looking to have a great year for us and step into a more advanced leadership role,” Hibler said.
When times get tough for Hamilton, his faith in the Lord and his family and friends get him through it. His advice to his fellow athletes is that hard work beats talent, and if you want something, work for it.
