When high school student-athletes step out on the court, field, or other venues to compete, in most cases they are playing in front of a group of fans that include, family, fellow students, teachers, and community members. All these people are there to not only watch a game but also cheer on and support the athletes. Elijah Pollard loves to play sports and is thankful for the opportunity to do so for a community that he loves. 

“At the end of the day I’m a student-athlete,” he said. “I’m thankful for Geary High School for allowing me to play, but it really warms my heart knowing our fans enjoy watching us play, and that they believe in our future.” 

Pollard is a senior at Geary. He plays basketball, football, and baseball, and is a member of the track and field team. He is also part of the student council. 

Throughout his life, Elijah has had some people that have been very influential in helping him grow into the person and athlete that he is today. 

“My mom has been motivating me my whole life,” he said. “She believes in me even when I don’t. And also my dad pushes me to be great at what I do. My teammates help me to work harder and to continually get better. All of my basketball coaches have driven me to fall more in love with the game of basketball.” 

While others have helped motivate him and help keep him working hard, Pollard has spent a lot of time actually putting in the work. 

“In order to be a successful athlete, you have to be willing to put in the hard work,” he stated. “You also have to be dedicated to being your best and passionate about playing the game.” 

When Elijah steps out onto the field or court and competes alongside his teammates, he usually does not care who the oppoent is, he just wants to win. But he does have one opponent that makes a victory a little sweeter. 

“I love to beat the Okeene Whippets,” he stated. I just really don’t like the Whippets.”