By Derrick Smith

No matter how old or young you are, the end of a season of your life can be tough. But it can also bring excitement for what the new season will bring. Jayden Anderson is a senior at Fairland High School and is just a few months from graduating. As a multi-sport athlete for the Owls, he says that his final year has had some ups and downs, but he is ready to finish on a high note. 

“Senior year has been challenging due to a couple of injuries,” Anderson stated. “But it also has  been very rewarding to see the hard work pay off. In football, we were able to beat our rival twice in one season and were able to have our best record in six years. Once I was able to get healthy, I enjoyed this basketball season probably more than any other season. We are off to a good start in baseball and looking forward to helping lead this team to a successful season.”

As he looks back on his career at Fairland in all of his sports, Jayden says that he can see so much growth in himself. Not just as an athlete, but also as a person. And he adds that there were some really great moments as well. 

“I am very thankful for the opportunities I have had to compete in athletics at Fairland,” he said. “It hasn’t always been easy but I have learned to work hard and keep pushing through. We have made some great memories over the years, but beating Afton twice my senior year in football by a combined score of 98-0 was definitely a high point for me. Also taking Oklahoma Union to overtime on basketball senior night was something I’ll never forget. I have never heard our gym so loud.”

After he graduates, Jayden plans to play baseball at Southwestern College in Winfield, Kansas, and pursue a degree in Physical Education.

As this chapter ends, Anderson aspires to leave his mark on the program.

“I hope that I have been a good example to future Owls,” he stated. “There is no substitute for hard work. And remember, the weight room is open at 6:00 AM.”