Pawhuska High School’s Vann Wildcat and Jimmie Wildcat bring different levels of experience to the football field, but the brothers share a commitment to leadership, hard work and the relationships built through the game.
Vann, a senior wearing No. 5, plays running back and linebacker. He said the responsibilities on both sides of the ball demand quick recognition and discipline.
“What makes the running back position hard is that you have to read where everyone is going and try to find a gap. What makes the linebacker position hard is that you have to read the lineman and the back field to make the play.”
His favorite game memory reflects the persistence he values as a ball carrier. “When I broke four to five tackles for a twenty-yard run and scored,” Vann said.
Vann draws inspiration from former NFL running back Barry Sanders. “Barry Sander’s because he is a hard runner when he runs the football.”
As a senior, Vann embraces the opportunity to set an example for younger players. “Being a leader and showing people the right way,” he said of what he enjoys most about being part of the team.
That approach was shaped by former teammate Noah Wilson, who helped Vann adjust to varsity football early in his high school career. “Noah Wilson, because he helped me learn the play book as a freshman and he taught me how to play linebacker,” Vann said.
Before games, Vann prepares by listening to music and mentally picturing his role in the upcoming contest. “Listen to music and visualize what I am going to do.”
Away from football, Vann’s favorite subject is math, and he named Mrs. Walker as his favorite teacher. He also spends time with friends and helps at a local soup kitchen after church on Sundays.
“I like to help out at the soup kitchen after church on Sunday,” Vann said.
Jimmie, a junior who wears No. 7, follows a similarly physical path as a middle linebacker and running back. He said the toughest parts of his positions are dealing with extra blockers on defense and protecting the quarterback on offense.
“I play middle linebacker and running back and the most difficult thing about linebacker is getting double teamed and for running back is picking up blitzing linebackers.”
His most memorable performance came in a game where he was constantly around the ball. “My favorite memory from a game is when I had 24 tackles.”
Jimmie said his parents inspire him, while a teammate’s work ethic has also made a lasting impact. “The teammate who has left the biggest impression on me is Grayson Reeves because even though he’s a lot smaller than everyone else he still out works everyone and gives his all. He will try his best to not let you down.”
For Jimmie, football reinforces a lesson that reaches beyond competition. “Something that athletics has taught me is that anything is possible if you work hard enough for it.”
He values the close connections within the program, saying, “What I enjoy most about my team is the friendships I have with everyone.” He added, “What I love most about my teammates is that everyone has each other’s backs.”
Like his brother, Jimmie’s favorite class is math with Mrs. Walker. In his free time, he enjoys being with friends, including driving around town. He also helps prepare for Sunday church services.
“Recently, I’ve been helping out at church by setting up before service on Sundays,” Jimmie said.
