By Derrick Smith

There are a lot of things that are required in order for an athlete to become successful and be the best that they can be. Success is not something that happens, instead for Payton Stacy, it requires work and dedication. 

“Hard work has been a main factor in me getting to where I am today,” he said. “You have to be willing to work, even when it is difficult. You also have to be mature enough to be consistent in the weight room and with conditioning.”

Stacy is a junior at Collinsville High School, where he is a three-sport athlete. He runs the 100m dash and throws the shot and disc for the track team, while he plays running back and defensive end on the football field. He is also a member of the Cardinals’ wrestling team. 

There are a few people that have made impacts on Payton’s life and he says that they have helped him become the person and the athlete that he is.

“First of all, I have to thank God,” Stacy said. “He has blessed me with this talent and it would be foolish of me to waste it. Also, my parents have pushed me to get better and they have taught me to never give up, even when things get hard. Lastly, I have learned a lot from Bob Humble. He has mentored me since I was thirteen years old. He has taught me how to have fun while also staying focused.”

During his career, Stacy has made some great memories, but he says that there is one personal accomplishment that he will remember for a long time. 

“The highlight moment of my career would have to be when I scored my first varsity touchdown,” he said. “It was a twenty yard run against Will Rogers High School. It was a really exciting moment for me.”

Other than his sports, Payton is also involved with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Collinsville advanced choir and musical production, church youth leadership, Xtreme Ministry Outreach, and he attends Owasso First Assembly of God.