“Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work”…these inspirational words seem to be a perfect match for success, especially when the athlete’s last name is Labor.  So is the lifelong commitment of Brandon Labor, a senior at McCurtain High School.

“I have heard this from my coaches all my life in every sport I’ve played,” replied the 2022 senior who plays left field as well as pitches for the Bulldogs baseball team. “It’s impacted my ability to achieve success a lot.”

While recalling the lifelong memories made when Labor and his teammates reached the state baseball tournament, Brandon explained his personal DNA.

“Hard working, passionate and above all determined to achieve my goals,” said six-foot, 17-year old. “My favorite is determined because I am determined to get better every day in everything I do including sports, classwork and life.”

Bulldogs coach Michael Mills cherishes the efforts of Labor to set the standard of expectations for his teammates.

“We’ve got a lot of younger kids on this year’s squad and Brandon has been the guy that every coach wants to have on the roster,” explained Mills. “He’s a positive example that lets his actions speak louder than words.”

Also a member of the McCurtain basketball team, Labor enjoys being a part of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes huddle at his school noting it’s all about displaying character by example and never having to make an excuse.

“Character is earned not given. My dad has proven that to me by his efforts to make things better everyday,” said Labor in a voice of commitment. “Being a good role model to the little kids, that’s a big thing for their future. They look up to you more than you think. Knowing that inspires me to always give it my all in everything I do, even when no one else is watching.”