By Rose Hutchins
Trystan Baker, a senior at Stroud High School, is going all out in his final season on the Tigers field. Involved in football, baseball, and basketball, Trystan’s had a huge love for the game since childhood, living in a competitive household where sports were always part of daily life. On the football field, playing both linebacker and fullback, he makes his presence known both on offense and defense. No matter where he’s playing, Trystan is determined to give everything he’s got.
Trystan has been blessed with the influence of his family, teammates, and most importantly, his faith. His dad and grandpa first introduced him to the game of football as a young boy, instilling it in his heart from the start. Trystan’s teammates, like Kason Presley, push him to be ready for a good challenge, no matter the opponent, and become lifelong friends with him. Above all, he keeps his faith at the center of everything he does, believing it to be the true path to success.
For Trystan, becoming successful as an athlete requires a lot of extra work, whether it’s at home or studying film to break down an opponent’s strengths and weaknesses. One standout moment for Trystan is his team’s accomplishment last season, where they went 12-1, which ended with a trip to the semifinals. Another highlight for Trystan was beating their arch rival, Chandler Lions, last season for the first time. This year, he hopes to lead the team all the way to state and get that state title.
Beyond the field, Trystan is just as dedicated. He serves as president of the NHS, JCC, and STUCO, and as the Senior class president. In class, he sets an example for fellow athletes, learning to juggle school and sports. For Trystan, it means everything for him to be able to represent his community, which still holds a tradition-rich program that he has the honor to play for. When he looks into the stands and sees younger players watching him, he wants to offer some rich advice: “Stay coachable, the coach’s job is to get the best out of you, don’t take anything personal, listen, and fix it,” he explains. After high school, Trystan plans to attend college and proudly serve his country by joining the US Marine Corps.
