By Derrick Smith

Eli Wood says that he has a few people that have helped him get to where he is today. “My parents have been my biggest influences and role models for my life,” he said. “They have taught me almost everything I know about God and sports, helped me through difficult times, and they always stand up for what is right. Another person would have to be coach Holt. He has been my math teacher for three years and my cross country coach for six years. He has taught me the importance of discipline. He always makes sure I am learning and getting my assignments done in the classroom. On the trail, he pushes me to run to the best of my ability, teaching me that my hard work determines how well I perform.”

Eli is a senior at Claremore Sequoyah High School, where he is a multi-sport athlete. He plays point guard as a member of the basketball team and is in the outfield for the baseball team. He also runs cross country for the Eagles. 

While he plays three different sports, Wood says that the preparation in order to be your best are all the same. “To be successful in my sports, it has taken a lot,” he said. “I have put in hard work, been ambitious, and built strong bonds with my teammates. That is what I have used to become successful.”

There is one moment that stands out for Eli as his favorite of his career. It was a moment that he was able to help his team achieve a big victory. “I was not much of a scorer during my sophomore year in basketball,” he recalled. “In the district championship game against Locust Grove, I contributed five points at the beginning of double overtime. We won the game and it was a great feeling.”