VYPE: When and how did you first get into playing your sport?

Luke: I got into track my freshman year because I wasn’t enjoying baseball and because my siblings were on the track team and excelling. I got into cross country my eighth grade year because, like track, my siblings did it and I needed something to do other than being in off-season. I think I started wrestling in second or third grade, and I didn’t really like it until my freshman year when I just clicked for some reason.

VYPE: What is your favorite part about representing your high school as an athlete?

Luke: My favorite part about representing my school is showing the good things my peers have given me, like sportsmanship and determination. I also like representing my school in sports like wrestling, where, for a long time, we didn’t have a prominent program and I enjoy being one of the many who are helping the program get back on its feet.

VYPE: What teammate has left the biggest impression on you?

Luke: My teammate that has had the most impression on me is Jamarques Dye. Jamarques was always my equal in wrestling and he was the best teammate I’ve ever had. He is a great sportsman and always super supportive of myself and my team. I was really sad when he graduated this past year because I don’t think I’ll ever have a teammate quite like him.

VYPE: What has been your favorite memory of playing?

Luke: My favorite memory of any sport is during wrestling when I made it to the finals at the Western Conference Tournament in Kingfisher. I don’t think I’ve ever seen my team more excited than that, and it really made me feel good.

VYPE: What is your favorite part about being on a team?  

Luke: My favorite part about being on a team is the teamwork that goes on. Having the right team really makes a difference, and the constant encouragement from my teammates make my experience a lot better.

VYPE: Are you involved in any other activities?

Luke: I am involved in the Student Council, FFA, and the Kiowa County 4-H, academic team, Junior Main St. and the Fellowship Christian Athlete. I also serve as the president of our junior class. 

VYPE: Which professional athlete do you look up to?

Luke: One professional athlete I look up to is Joe Montana. Though I’ve never really been interested in football, Joe’s nicknames like “Joe Cool” and “The Comeback Kid” remind me of the way my teammates talk about me. People close to me tell me that I stay calm in tough situations, and I’m pretty good at keeping my team’s spirits high, even if we’re losing.

VYPE: What is your all-time favorite meal?

Luke: My all-time favorite meal is chicken-fried steak and mashed potatoes and gravy. 

VYPE: Here is your chance to give a shoutout or say thank you to anyone you wish.

Luke: I’d like to thank my teammates and coaches for always supporting me. I’d also thank my family, especially my grandpa Marvin, for always being there for me, even outside of sports ,with no end and in the hardest times.