As Foyil High School junior Kaige Baxter takes the field at quarterback, he carries a mindset shaped by perseverance, teamwork and the people who have encouraged him along the way.
Baxter is a multi-sport athlete for the Panthers, competing throughout the school year while taking on leadership roles in each program.
“I play quarterback in football, point guard for the basketball team, and I pitch and play third base for the baseball team,” Baxter said.
Football has given Baxter meaningful moments, including one that stands out from last season. With the game in hand against Claremore Christian, the Panthers took the final step to secure a victory.
“My memory I am most proud of was the moment we kneeled the ball to seal the victory against Claremore Christian last year,” Baxter said.
That memory reflects the competitive drive Baxter brings to athletics. He believes sports have reinforced the importance of continuing to work, even when circumstances become difficult.
“Sports has taught me to never give up, to always keep pushing forward,” Baxter said.
Baxter’s support system extends beyond the field. He credits his mother as a major source of inspiration because of the example she sets for him and his siblings.
“My mom inspires me because she has taught me to never give up. She is a single mom and has never given up on me or my siblings, she is always there for us no matter what,” Baxter said.
He also appreciates the teachers, teammates and coaches who have been part of his journey. Baxter named Mrs. Aschoff as a teacher who has made an impact, having known her since fifth grade. He said teammate Kolbey Sanders has also left a lasting impression after the two have played together since fourth grade.
As Baxter continues his high school career, the advice that has stayed with him is simple and fitting for an athlete committed to pushing forward.
“The best advice I’ve been given is to never give up on your dreams,” Baxter said.
Baxter is thankful for the people around him who challenge him and believe in his potential.
“I just want to say thank you to my teammates for pushing me every day. To Coach Anderson for putting me in the position I am in today and having Faith in me to do it,” Baxter said.
