High school athletes put in a lot of time and effort so that they can be ready when it comes time to compete. Along with the work, most of them have a support system that is there to serve as an example or role model for them as they grow. Westyn Hopkins has a few people that fill that role for him.
“My biggest influences would be my parents, Mike Harris, and coach Bennett,” he said. “I look up to them because they never let me give up. A teacher that has had the biggest impact on my life would be Mrs. Richardson because she always has a positive attitude.”
Westyn is a senior at Hennessey High School where he is a member of the wrestling and baseball teams. Outside of sports, he is also involved in 4H, agriculture mechanics, and powder and string club.
To get to where he is athletically has taken more than just physical work. He also has to work to keep himself focused on the goal.
“In order to be successful in my sports, it has taken dedication, discipline, and desire,” Hopkins said. “Staying motivated is also important. Something that motivates me is the fear of failure.”
Throughout his time competing, Westyn has made a lot of memories. But as he looks back, he has one monet that stands out as his favorite.
“The biggest highlight for me would be when I made it to the state tournament in wrestling,” he recalled. “I would say that an opponent that I enjoyed beating the most would be Colton Mills of Newkirk. The win I had against him is what advanced me to the state tournament.”
Working on becoming a better athlete can be tough work at times, but it can be just as tough to be a student athlete. Westyn knows that you need to have your priorities straight in order to be successful in sports and in the classroom.
“It takes time to balance my school work and my activities,” he said. “But in the end it is worth it because I can maintain good grades while doing what I love.”
