Zachariah McCulley, a freshman at Elk City High School, is an all-around athlete. By playing multiple sports has learned leadership skills and the importance of being a team player. “It has taught me to step-up and be a leader giving direction in the positions I play,” he says.
The first sport Zachariah played was soccer, which only lasted one season because he didn’t like it. The next sport he played, however, was baseball and he loved it. He can play the entire field, but his primary positions are shortstop, catcher, and pitcher. The highlight of his baseball career happened during a tournament at MAC Field in Mid-West City. “I hit a grand slam to win the game by a point,” said Zachariah.
He discovered basketball when he joined his grade school team. He now plays point guard for the Big Elks. Football is Zachariah’s most recent addition, having played it for the first time this past season. Zachariah enjoys the physical challenge and mental focus of athletics.
“I am proud to represent the brown and white due to the upperclassman taking on the responsibility to mentor the new younger athletes. I want to be as big an inspiration to others as they have been to me,” he said.
Zachariah’s parents are strong influences in his life. He is thankful to them for getting him to practice and games on time. “They are always there for me and expect the best out of me,” he says.
The teacher who most influenced him is Mrs. Carr. She never judges you for wrong answers and explains it until you understand. A teammate Zachariah looked up to is Catch Geno. “He took me under his wing when I changed schools. I was able to text or call him anytime I had a question.”
On a final note, Zachariah wants to thank Coach D for encouraging and believing in him. He also wants to give special thanks to the ECHS Booster Club for all they do. From providing meals after games, cleaning the locker room, making posters, and last-minute custom T-shirts, their efforts are noticed.
