Becoming a Connors State Cowboy seemed to be pre-destined for Stilwell native Tyson Fourkiller. His brother, Tyler, played on the Connors State baseball team in 2013-14 that went to the NJCAA National Tournament and Tyson spent a lot of time around the program watching his brother.
“I knew at a young age just being at the ballpark here and watching my brother have success that Connors was the place for me,” said Tyson. “Other than my brother, I really didn’t follow any players as role models but I’m a student of the game and just like to pick the brains of former players like Caleb Knight and David Mendham when they’re around and I’ve learned a lot from them and coach Keith and his son Korey.”
Though he’s dealing with bone spurs in his ankles during this sophomore year, Tyson is still hitting .450 with 23 RBIs through March while playing second base for the Cowboys and veteran Cowboy coach Perry Keith calls him a true baseball guy-a term that Keith doesn’t use lightly.
“Tyson has such a passion for the game and a great work ethic. He’s a good player and does it all well. He’s been around the program a long time with his brother playing and all. He fits well into our culture and has become a good leader. He’s a good young man both on and off the field.”
Tyson says he leads by example though he is working on being a little more vocal this year.
“I lead by setting a consistent example of what to do and keeping the team focused on our big goal.”
Though he does have personal dreams, Tyson is a team player first as the Cowboys roar into the second half of the season.
“I would ultimately like to play at a D-I school and maybe even the pros someday. But right now, my focus and that of the other 40 guys on this team is to get us back to the national tournament. That would be really special for me to be able to follow in my brother’s footsteps.”
Tyson is also a leader in the classroom as he already has a degree in general studies and is pursuing degrees in physical education and business as well. Academically and athletically, Tyson Fourkiller is a great example of getting it done the Cowboy Way.
