Madilyn Whittaker is a senior at Altus High School. She participates in basketball, tennis, and NHS. She’s been playing basketball since she was in the second grade. Her favorite things about basketball are the friendships that she’s made, the feeling of being part of a team, and the discipline and commitment that it has taught her.

“It has influenced every aspect of my life,” Whittaker said.

The highest moment in her basketball career so far, was when her team made it to the area championship. It showed how much their teams hard work and dedication had increased and was a really proud moment for her. Shes previously been awarded Player of the Week, Player of the Month, and third team All-District.

The biggest positive impacts for Whittaker have been her parents, for their consistent love and dedication to her and her family.

“They’ve always encouraged me to work hard, stay humble, and keep God first,” Whittaker says.

Her biggest role model is her mom, because she’s strong in her faith and always puts others first.

In her free time, Whittaker likes to spend time with family and friends, running, watching movies, and reading her Bible. Her favorite subject in school is English because she loves writing and expressing her thoughts. Whittaker’s favorite teacher in school is Mrs. Morley, because she is always kind, instructive, and makes learning fun. After high school, she plans to attend OU to study pre-med.

To Whittaker, being a great athlete means having discipline, staying positive, using constructive criticism appropriately with teammates, and always giving glory to God. Sports have taught her teamwork, patience, dedication, and how to handle challenges with a good attitude. When things get tough, Whittaker remembers the plans that God has for her to stay the course. The advice that she has for her fellow athletes is to never give up, always work hard, and keep your faith strong, no matter what.

By Ariel Casida