By Derrick Smith

Everyone has that one teacher that had an influence on their life and helped shape them into the person they become. Javon Schutte says that one of his elementary teachers fits that bill perfectly and he is thankful for her.

“A teacher that has had a big impact on my life was my third grade teacher Mrs. Goad,” he said. “She helped me feel really welcome when I moved back to Stillwater and that made a big impression on me.”

Javon is a senior at Stillwater High School. He plays football and basketball for the Pioneers. While his teacher impacted his life, Schutte says that his family has also played a big role in his life.

“My biggest role models are my mom and my grandpa,” he said. “My mom because she works very hard for me and my sister to be able to do the things we love. My grandpa because he has shown me where hard work and determination can get you and he also very knowledgeable.”

Schutte has reaped the benefits of his work and time he has put in to preparing for competition. He says that when he steps on the field, it is one of the best feelings and that feeling keeps him working.

“For me to be successful in my sports, it’s taken hard work throughout the season and off season,” Javon said. “I have also had to say committed to bettering myself. My motivation for playing sports is the excitement and atmosphere of the games. One of my favorite moments while playing sports happened last season. We were playing football against Edmond Santa Fe. Towards the end of the game, I got my first sack and it was a great feeling.”

While he appreciates all of his teammates, Schutte says that there is one guys who is really good but flies under the radar.

“I think that the least appreciated player on our team is Wesley McGaugh,” Javon said. “ At practice he is always giving us a great look he’s everywhere the coaches need him to be always sprinting places and always doing what’s best for the team and I think he deserves more recognition for it.”