With an non-stop commitment to achieve success, Trenton Miller of Tahlequah crosses the high school graduation stage continuing to reap the rewards for his hard work while following the advice of one of his mentors.

“It will be hard but it will be worth it…those words from one of my teachers at ICTC, Wren Stratton motivate me everyday,” said Miller who not only ranks in the top ten percent of the 2021 senior class at Tahlequah High School by maintaining a 4.0 GPA, is just steps away from achieving his LPN degree as part of the Nursing Transition Program at Indian Capital Technology Center.

One such challenge and rewarding victory happened on the tennis courts where Miller earned one of his desired achievements at the Class 5A state tennis championship tournament.

“Trenton played doubles as a sophomore where he qualified for state,” explained Tigers coach Cody Ryals. “After the season, knowing that the one singles spot would be open the next year, he went to work hitting every day only to have Covid force Trenton lose his junior year. When most kids went and sat on the couch or hang out at the lake. Trenton picked up his tennis racket and kept working to improve his game and made the best of this season.”

During the 2021 season Miller finished first or second in every tournament for the Tigers including a second place finish in the Class 5A regional qualifier.  Not only did the 6’5 senior reach the state tournament, Miller finished in eighth place in #1 singles and earned All-State tennis recognition. 

“He deserved the honors. Trenton became a great tennis player because of what he does off the court,” confirmed Ryals.

Having played tennis since he was in the eighth grade, Miller who likes the grind for every point while playing singles explains his strategy for winning on the tennis court. 

“I think I’m successful in tennis because I put in a lot of work year round, and I love it,” said Miller who confirms the mental test of tennis is the hardest part of the game. “I think the best part of my game is setting up points and getting to the net.”

Miller, along with his Tiger teammate Jaden Carroll will compete in the tennis competition during the All-State games in July.