Kansas High School sophomore Rebel Hays is already making his presence felt on the varsity football field, combining discipline, focus and a team-first mindset.
A 10th-grade defensive end, Hays has embraced the challenge of contributing at a high level early in his high school career. He credits his success to consistency and leading by example.
“Showing up on time, doing the workouts, not complaining, doing what is asked just leading by example,” Hays said. “That’s how you get the rest of the guys to buy in.”
Hays’ work ethic was shaped at a young age by watching Sam Hurley, a former Arkansas state decathlon champion who now competes at Texas Tech. Growing up around the track while his mother coached, Hays saw firsthand what it takes to succeed. “I remember watching him practice and wanting to be like him,” Hays said. “I knew it was because of all the work he put in because I saw him doing it.”
On the field, Hays faces the physical demands of playing defensive end, where reacting to offensive schemes is critical. “You know your job is to not let the ball get to the outside, but then you see the pull coming and you have to be able to shed,” he said.
One of his favorite moments came during a rivalry game against Colcord, when he recorded a key sack late in the game. “The kind of sack you hear the crowd go ‘Dang,’” Hays said.
Hays values the culture and chemistry within the Kansas program, emphasizing the discipline set by the coaching staff. “The discipline that Coach Terry demands from the team and watching the guys show up and put in the work,” he said. “I enjoy working out with the guys.”
That shared effort has helped build strong connections among teammates. “We all get along and we all play with the same mindset: winning means playing as hard and as smart as you can,” he said.
Off the field, Hays enjoys hunting and fishing, but prioritizes rest. “I like my sleep,” he said.
His calm demeanor carries into game preparation, where he prefers quiet over distractions.
“I like to sit in the dark and I like quiet,” he said. “I just want quiet so I can focus.”
In the classroom, Hays enjoys science and credits former teacher Ms. Raffaelli for her continued support. “She reminded me that I can do it,” he said.
Through steady effort and quiet leadership, Hays continues to establish himself as a key contributor for Kansas.
