By Derrick Smith

Motivation is a key for any athlete that wants to be the best that they can be. Throughout a career, they can have ups and downs, but if they are able to work through the rough times, they will get back on track quicker. Keegan Thomas says the best way to stay focused is knowing how high his goals are.

“I keep myself motivated by wanting to be the best in the world,” Keegan said. “I want to be able to set an unbeatable world record.”

Thomas is a senior at Stillwater High School, where he is a member of the cross country and track and field teams. He says that he has put in a lot in order to get to the level he is in both of his sports. 

“It’s taken patience and trust in my coaches, Trevor Fieldsend and my new coach Chad Noelle,” he said. “As well as getting up a six in the morning, walking through a warm house, and going out in the cold to run ten miles. Work ethic is a huge key in both of these sports.”

Keegan has had a few people that have played a role in influencing his life and have served as role models to him.

“The first is Eric Liddel,” he said. “I look up to him because he follows his beliefs and runs despite everyone telling him to change. Also, Jakob Ingebrigtsen because of his work ethic. Finally, my father who taught me AP Physics, Computer Science Programming, and digital electronics. He taught me that even if I don’t fully understand a topic, I ought to give it my best anyways.”

Along with competing in sports, Thomas also helps with the Wagon Crew, who runs the flags for Stillwater football games. He is also an acative part of his church, Sunnybrook Christian Church. When he has downtime from his sports and other activites, Keegan has one person that he enjoy to follow on social media.

“My favorite person to follow on social media is pastor Andrew Carter,” he said. “He  constantly posts positive and truthful ideas that are always encouraging.”