High school athletes do more than just compete in their sport, they also serve as examples to the younger players and students that look up to them. Whether it is in competition or away from it, their influence can have a big impact. Nathan Oxford hopes that he has been a positive influence on those young athletes.

“I have always attempted to be involved in supporting our school and local community,” he said. “I can only hope that I helped instill some of those characteristics in my younger peers to help carry on these actions in the future.”

Oxford is a senior at Catoosa High School where he plays both soccer and basketball. He knows how much one person’s impact can make on someone because he has had those people in his life, and they have helped him become the athlete and the person that he is today.

“I have had a few people that have always been there for me,” he said. “When it comes to sports and leadership characteristics, I would like to mention my coaches, Pat Flesher, Evan Drake, and Jeff Oxford. They have helped me learn so much more about the game and what it takes to work as a team.  Additionally, I would have to say, my family. They have continuously been there for me and taught me so many values in life that I will never forget.”

Nathan enjoys playing team sports and along with the camaraderie, he says that there are other things that he really enjoys about playing.

“I enjoy watching my teammates and myself grow, both on and off the court,” he said. “I also love seeing my family and their familiar faces in the stands during games. I really enjoy the competition aspect of sports. Isaac Harris and I have played sports together for a long time and he has always been someone that I enjoy going up against in practice.”

Oxford says that all the members of his team work hard and do their best and every person brings something to the team.
“I do feel like we often under appreciate the younger guys or underclassmen,” he said. “Each of these players brings a new skill to the table and is striving for additional playing time and development.”