by Derrick Smith

Every athlete that ever steps on a playing field or court has one thing in common. They are all working toward a goal that they or their coach has set for them. For some, the goals may be bigger than others, but it is still something that they work towards. For Gage Blankenship, reaching one of his goals has been the highlight of his career so far. 

“I qualified for regionals in golf as an individual my freshman year,” he said. “It felt great to make it that far during my first year of varsity. I’m looking forward to seeing how far I can make it this season and in future seasons.”

Gage is a sophomore at Chandler High School. Throughout his life, he has been influenced by a few people that have helped him become the person that he is today. 

“My dad, mom, and uncle are the biggest role models in my life,” he said. “They are the ones who have shown me how to live for God. They also showed me how to work hard and achieve my goals. It has taken a lot of work on my part to get where I am. Hard work, desire, drive, giving 100 percent effort every day, and keeping a good mind. There are a couple of things that keep me motivated to work hard and that is the desire to play and to live my life for God.”

Another member of his family that has been helpful to his success is his older brother Gannon who is a senior on the golf team.

“Gannon and I are always competitive,” he said. “No matter what it is, we always battle and always have. I think it has also helped me grow and become a better athlete.”

When he is on social media, there is one person’s account he loves to follow.

“My favorite follow would have to be Craig Groeschel,” he said. “He is my pastor and always posts what I need and want to hear. I plan on being a pastor in the future, so he is someone that I look up to.”