Bartlesville High School junior Davin Carter is easy to spot on the field, whether he is coming off the edge on defense or carrying the ball on offense. A versatile presence for the Bruins, Carter lines up primarily at defensive end and in the defensive secondary, while also seeing time at running back. “I play defensive end primarily and in the defensive secondary. I play running back on offense. I love sacking quarterbacks and celebrating with my teammates.”

For Carter, football is as much about relationships as it is about making plays. He points to the bond with his teammates as a driving force in his development and his love for the game. “I love my teammates especially my best friend Boden Roberts who encourages me to be better every day.” That daily encouragement fits into a broader circle of support that keeps him focused on improvement, both on and off the field. “My coaches and my teammates inspire me. Also, my dad, Davin Carter Sr. They inspire me every day to be a better man and football player.”

Summer has been busy as Carter balances football with his commitment to the basketball program. “Summer workouts are going good for the days I’ve been there,” he said, noting that he has also spent time on the hardwood. “I also play basketball under coach Christenson, so I have been at basketball camps this summer.” The overlap of sports keeps him active and sharp, and he credits a former player turned coach with helping shape his approach to competition. “Our newest addition to our coaching staff left an impression on me my sophomore year knowing and playing alongside him I have learned that don’t take the game or practice or summer for granted and no matter how small you are you can still make plays.”

Carter already has his eyes set on the future beyond Bartlesville. “After I graduate, I plan on attending college and playing football and majoring in early childcare.” On the field, he leans on his speed and feel for the game while staying honest about what still needs work. “The strength of my game is my speed and football knowledge I’m working to improve my footwork and my hands.” He also carries a simple message into every huddle and workout, one that reflects the standard he sets for himself and his team. “My message to my teammates is to play as hard as I can every play and knowledge = reps.”