By PAYTON MOODY

The high school sports realm has become a very competitive atmosphere. It takes young people who understand teamwork, commitment and grit to be successful. Liam Edwards, a senior track and field and football team member at Gore High School, values the lessons he learned in sports and hopes to take that with him into his future.

“I’ve always enjoyed sports, particularly football,” Edwards said. “Coming together to achieve a common goal, the hard work and dedication it takes to succeed, there’s nothing like it.”

Edwards has been playing football since the sixth grade and reiterates the passion, heart and work ethic a player must have to make a significant impact on a team.

“Sports has taught me to be hardworking, responsive and goal-oriented,” Edwards said. “I’ve always tried to succeed in the things I do, and these qualities are the ones that helped me the most in sports and in life.”

Respect and self-control are also some traits Edwards feels he has gained from his time in athletics.

“Without these life skills I have gained from sports and my coaches, I am not sure who I would be today,” Edwards said.

Though the talent of these athletes is unquestionable, they do not become great without the help of coaches and mentors throughout their journey. Edwards is no exception and has had one very influential person in his life.

“Ryan O’Connor has always been there for me,” Edwards said. “He’s always been super supportive and has been the best father-figure in my life.”

Other activities Edwards is involved in include the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America at Gore High School, the football and track teams, and his church youth group.

Post-graduation plans for Edwards are to attend Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology where he will study electrical construction.