Cambree Bair, a student at Central Sallisaw High School, embodies the essence of a multidimensional athlete. Juggling academics and sports with finesse, Cambree’s background speaks volumes about her dedication.

“I’ve always placed an importance on academics and sports,” she begins, highlighting her involvement in varsity basketball and softball for two consecutive years, along with noteworthy achievements in cross country and track. Her commitment extends beyond the sports arena, as she actively participates in school clubs like yearbook, FCS, FCCLA, CYC.

When asked about the inspiration behind her athletic journey, Cambree offers a light-hearted response: “I don’t really know… I’ve just always been playing ever since I can remember, and I haven’t stopped.” Her love for the game is evident, a passion that has driven her consistently.

Navigating the demands of academics and athletics, Cambree emphasizes the priority of good grades, recognizing that academic success is a prerequisite for playing the sports she loves. “Academics always have been a first,” she reiterated. 

A standout moment in Cambree’s high school sports career unfolds in quite a climatic way. Making it to the area tournament last year, the team faced Minco in a double-overtime showdown, ultimately losing by a narrow margin. “Seeing how far we had come from the start of the year to the finish was an accomplishment all in itself,” Cambree said. 

However, Cambree’s journey took an unexpected turn in the fall of 2023 when she broke her leg during a softball game. Overcoming physical challenges, she encountered doubts and a lack of confidence. Yet, supported by a massive group and driven by the commitment to her teammates and coaches, she battled back. “It taught me how to not take things for granted like your physical health; I learned you can really accomplish anything you put your mind to if you have hard work and effort. It also taught me patience.”

Being part of various teams throughout her life, Cambree has absorbed essential life lessons. “I’ve had to learn patience, selflessness, understanding, when to speak up or when to just be silent, how to trust them and how to be trustworthy, and also to trust myself.”

Whatever path she chooses post-graduation, Cambree Bair will approach it with the same tenacity and spirit that defines her athletic journey.