Senior catcher Tate Saxon has built his Altus baseball career on leadership, work ethic and pride in representing his school.
“My main position is catcher, but I will be helping out in the field where I can,” Saxon said.
He said one recognition stands out among his accomplishments. “An accomplishment I am proud of is making the top 100 high school baseball athletes in Oklahoma,” he said.
Baseball, Saxon added, has shaped who he is far beyond the field. “Baseball has taught me to be the best version of myself, to try my best at whatever I am doing, and to be a leader,” he said. “All of these things I have learned through baseball.”
In the classroom, a Spanish teacher made a lasting impact on him as a freshman. “My favorite teacher is Mrs. Bennett,” Saxon said. “I had her freshman year for Spanish II. Although the class was challenging and I didn’t understand Spanish well, she was an engaging teacher and I liked her teaching style.”
At home, his older brother sets the standard. “My older brother Tommy inspires me because he leads by example and always pushes himself to be better,” he said. “Watching his work ethic and the way he handles challenges motivates me to do the same in my own life. He’s someone I can look up to for advice, support, and confidence, and knowing he believes in me makes me want to work harder and improve every day.”
Saxon also points to two teammates who molded his idea of leadership. “Two of my teammates have left a huge impact on me,” he said. “Trent Carmen and Garrett Gribble. They showed me what type of leader to be and how not to be a leader. I strive to be like both of them.”
Wearing Altus across his chest is something he never takes lightly. “My favorite part about representing my high school as an athlete is the pride that comes with wearing the school’s colors and competing for something bigger than myself,” Saxon said. “Knowing my teammates, classmates, and community are supporting me motivates me to work harder and give my best effort every time I step on the field.”
One simple phrase from his dad has stuck with him. “The best advice I have gotten is from my dad, ‘Look good, play good,’” he said.
