By Chad Waters 

Stetson Bunyard is entering his third season as a starter on both sides of the ball for the Stroud Tigers. Offensively, the senior leads a talented front at the guard position, where the 6-foot-1, 215-pounder was named All-District last season. 

“Stetson is a kid who plays extremely hard,” coach Josh Presley said. “He is a very physical player who doesn’t back down from a challenge. Stetson has a strong work ethic off the field. He looks to lead his teammates and encourage them.” 

Bunyard is a terror on the defensive side of the ball as an edge rusher, finishing with 83 tackles and six sacks in 2021. Last season, against district opponent Wewoka, Stetson led the Tigers with 18 tackles in a 26-6 victory. Bunyard also showed his playmaking ability against Liberty, where he returned an interception for 40 yards while breaking several tackles in the process. 

“Stetson is the kid that always plays to the end of the whistle,” Presley said. “He always hustles to the ball and never gives up. He is a throwback type of kid that plays with reckless abandon and toughness that you don’t see every day.” 

On the defensive side of the ball, Presley wants his team to play aggressively and fast with the front seven. And Stetson will be a big part of the Tigers success with the front seven in 2022. 

“There is never any doubt, Stetson leaves it all on the field,” Presley said. “Stetson plays the game the way it’s meant to be played; he is a tough kid that plays relentlessly. When the game is over, I know Stetson has given everything he has.” 

Outside of athletics, Stetson competes on the powerlifting team in the 220-pound weight class, where he qualified for state last season. He also shows pigs as a member of FFA. Stetson is also involved with the Chamber of Commerce and FCCLA. 

Stetson credits his dad, Chad, for being an inspiration for him on and off the field. 

“My dad has taught me how to be a hardworking individual who never gives up,” Bunyard said.