By Derrick Smith

When an athlete decides to play a sport in high school, they also make a decision to work hard and be the best that they can be. Hard work, extra practice, and things like that are just part of the regiment. But Gage Keaton says that there are also some other things that he has done to help himself.

“It has taken me changing my life around,” he said. “Changing things like my diet and also getting into the gym a lot more.”

Keaton, who is a senior at Bartlesville High School, plays football and track for the Bruins. On the football field, he plays wide receiver and cornerback, while he runs the 400-meter dash and the 4×400 relay for the track team. Keaton is no stranger to his two sports, he started playing football in the fifth grade and running track in the sixth grade.

During his career, Gage has had a few people that have been influential in his life. 

“I would have to say that the biggest role models are my parents,” he said. “They are always there for me and have always shown me what hard work is. I would not be the person that I am today without them. Also, my gym teacher Prince McJunkins has taught me a lot about being a humble person and athlete.”

Bartlesville head football coach, Jason Sport, says that Keaton is a key player for the Bruins on the gridiron.

“Gage is a three-year starter for us,” Sport said. “He is a possession wide receiver that blocks well on the edge and wins fifty-fifty balls. He has been a consistent hard worker since day one.”

While he has had some great moments over his career, Keaton says that this year would have to be this year, his final year of high school.

“I am really excited for this year,” he said. “I am close to graduation and going to college. I know that will open up a lot of new opportunities for me.”