Sophomore at Anadarko High School,  Jaxon Barrett, is a member of the boys tennis team, where he competes in doubles. After watching his dad teach his brother tennis, Barrett knew it was a sport he wanted to join.  After a few lessons, tennis went from something new to something he  developed a huge passion for.

Barrett proudly mentions two of his biggest role models as his dad and his brother, Jon.

“Jon is very talented at tennis and incredibly intelligent, while my dad is highly respected in the Anadarko community for his work as a biology teacher and principal,” Barrett says.

They both set the bar for what it means to truly work for something, and their examples push him to do the same.

Barrett believes the Anadarko tennis team is special because it is a small, tight-knit group. Even though tennis is an individual sport, the team always supports and cheers for one another. Lots of practice, hard work, guidance from his coach and teammates are the tools that have led Barrett to his success. Some tennis moments that he’ll never forget are placing in tournaments and watching fellow teammates advance to state, moments that truly showcase his respect for his team.

When it comes to competition, Barrett focuses on competing with the same intensity no matter who he’s up against.  Although he admits it always feels good to beat Chickasha.

In addition to tennis, Barrett also plays in the Anadarko High School band, where he plays tenor drums and piano. He enjoys the opportunity he has to juggle multiple talents. His advice to anyone wanting to join a new sport, activity, or just try something new is solid:

“Practice often and don’t give up.  You can always get better, no matter how small the improvement,” Barrett explains.

Barrett takes pride in being an Anadarko Warrior.  He feels honored every time he steps on the court to represent his school and respects the community that supports him. After high school, he plans to attend either the University of Oklahoma or Southwestern Oklahoma State University, and is taking into consideration a career in the medical field so he can give back to the community that’s treated him so well. 

By: Rose Hutchins