Freshman sprinter Rhaziah Reese is quickly making a name for himself on the Elk City High School boys track team, but he says his motivation starts at home. The ninth-grader points to his mother, Shena, as the person who keeps him grounded and focused as he navigates his first year of high school competition.​

“My mom Shena, she inspires me because she’s hardworking and never gives up,” Reese said. “She always puts God and our family first and that motivates me to be and do better.” That foundation has helped Reese handle the demands of a busy spring schedule as he lines up in multiple sprint events for the Elks. At a recent meet, Reese competed in the 4×100 relay, 4×200 relay, open 100 and open 200, giving coaches a versatile option across the short sprints.​

Reese, a freshman in Media Production class, said the support he feels from his teammates has made the transition to high school track easier. He lists Media Production as his favorite subject right now and mentions Mr. McClure as his favorite teacher, a class that lets him be creative away from the track. On meet days, he said the team culture is both competitive and close-knit, a balance that pushes him to perform.​

“I enjoy that everyone is competitive but also supportive,” Reese said. “It pushes us to do better while knowing our teammates have our backs.” Between races, Reese can usually be found either hanging around the tent with friends or along the fence cheering on other Elk City athletes in their events. He said that sense of unity is one of the best parts of being on the team.​

Away from the track, Reese fills his free time working out, going to church and hanging out with his buddies. He believes those routines, along with the demands of athletics, are teaching him habits he can carry well beyond high school. “Athletics has taught me discipline, teamwork, and how to stay focused,” he said. “These skills will help me succeed in the future.”​

Reese hopes to branch out and try the high jump one day, adding another event to his growing list. He also keeps a couple of short phrases in mind when training and racing: “G.A.B.O.S. (Game Ain’t Based On Sympathy)” and “Earned Not Given.” Looking ahead, Reese said his ultimate goal is to use his work ethic and time in high school track to help him “go play collegiate sports” after graduation.