By Chance Burk

Kooper Kelley is a senior at Duncan High School. He is a part of the football and wrestling teams for Duncan and also participates in Student Council. He not only portrays hard work in sports, but his effort also pays off in the classroom. Kooper maintains a 4.16 GPA and is a part of the National Honor Society. 

When it comes to passion, football stands out above the rest for Kooper. “I play football because I grew up watching my dad coach, and my two older brothers on the field,” said Kooper. Kooper serves as a team captain and devotes nearly all of his time to his team. His motivation and love for the game are surrounded around the same subject, teamwork. “I love football because it is the biggest team sport. It takes everyone to be good,” said Kooper. He believes in the phrase “teamwork makes the dream work” and he uses it to drive him to be great. “I get motivated by thinking about playing for my teammate next to me. When you are playing for someone other than yourself it makes you dig deeper,” added Kooper. 

During his life, Kooper has had multiple people he has looked up to. Out of all the inspirations and role models, one person stands out, Kooper’s father. “My biggest role model is my dad; he is the best man I know. He is the reason I am the player and athlete I am today” said Kooper. He also shared high praise for his mother and grandfather. He’s very thankful for the lessons and blessings that his family has given him. 

Outside of family, faith is the biggest part of Kooper’s life. “I’ve been raised in a Christian home my whole life,” said Kooper. He has attended church his entire life and is an avid believer in God. While attending church Kooper participates in the youth group and gives God all of the glory for his success. 

Although Kooper finds success on the playing field and has a very strong love for sports, he is undecided if he wants to pursue a career in sports at the collegiate level. He has made the decision to attend a university, but for the time being, has no set plan for his future. Using the tools and lessons he has learned throughout his life, Kooper hopes to succeed in whatever he decides to do.