Brody Duffel
Bixby High School
It’s easy to credit the skill players when you think of the state championships the Bixby Spartans have amassed since Loren Montgomery took over as head coach. The unsung heroes of those teams were the players in the trenches on both sides of the ball. Brody Duffel is one of those players. The senior started playing football in the 1st grade. Although he played multiple sports, football was the obvious sport for him.
“Growing up I played a number of sports including basketball, baseball, and soccer but the ones that stuck was lacrosse and football. This year I’m going to throw in track this off-season,” said Duffel.
His efforts on the gridiron have earned him multiple offers to play football at the next level, but Duffel has made his decision and it includes the blue and gold. Duffel took to X to make his announcement.
“First and foremost, I would like to thank God for blessing me with the opportunity to continue playing football at the next level. I am thrilled to announce that I will be continuing my academic and athletic career at the University of Tulsa! Reign Cane.”
Duffel contributes his success on the field to the work put in off the field.
“The biggest contributor to the success in my opinion is everyone is committed to the process and buys in from a young age. Another thing that is highly important in our program is the consistency in the weight room,” said Duffel.
During his career at Bixby, Duffel has made a lifetime of memories.
“It’s hard to pick a favorite play or one that “stands out” but I can pick out a moment and that would be beating Jenks this year at state for my senior season it was truly a special moment that my entire career has led up to with me and my teammates. The things I love most about my team and teammates is we are like one big family, and everyone is always looking out for each other and encouraging each other while competing to get the best from everyone,” said Duffel.
His career as a Spartan will be discussed for generations and his impact on the program has only just begun.
“Bixby is truly a special place especially when it comes to the school and community. It’s the best feeling knowing that no matter what the school and community will always show out for us and have our backs it is an incredible place to play. Grades and an excellent education are highly important to me because as much as I would love for football to last forever sadly it won’t and I want to be prepared for my future with a great degree,” said Duffel.
In 10 years, Duffel said he would like to be a player in the National Football League. He leaves the Spartan program with these words of encouragement for his teammates.
“My advice for upcoming freshman and sophomores is to enjoy all the small things and don’t take anything for granted. There’s going to be hard days, but your family and teammates will make it all worth it. Soak up all the knowledge you can from watching the older players that may be in front of you and the advice coaches give to you. There is nothing wrong with being criticized as long as you learn from it.
Photo by the Bixby Creative Team
