By Derrick Smith

Athletes put in a lot of work in order to be their best and reach their potential. But along the way, they realize that there has been someone beside them, guiding them and helping them grow. Jordan Nelson is thankful for those people in her life.

“Some of the biggest influences in my career have been my coaches,“ she said. “They have pushed me to do my best in everything and have shaped me into the player that I am today. There is no way I would be where I am without their help.”

Nelson is a senior at Pawhuska High School, where she plays multiple sports. She plays post for the basketball team, first base on the softball field, and she throws the shot and disc as a member of the track team. 

Nelson has put in her share of work over her career and that is also a key to her progression as an athlete. 

“It takes a lot of hard work and dedication in order to be your best,” she said. “You also to be mentally tough and never give up, even when things get tough.”

As a student in the classroom, Jordan has sat through lessons from a lot of different teachers. While she learned something from each of them, she says that one teacher made the biggest impact on her.

“Mrs. Yang was my math teacher and she would have to be my favorite teacher,” she said. “She taught me to take everything by steps to make sure that I haven’t missed anything. That is a lesson that I can use for the rest of my life.”

As she enters her final season of high school basketball, Jordan is ready to use last year’s lessons to improve this season.

“I think last season as a whole was my favorite memory,” she said. “But I am looking forward to this year because I think I will have an even better season.”

Away from sports, Nelson is a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes at Pawhuska. She also serves as the worship leader for the youth group at her church, Pawhuska First Assembly of God.