Sapulpa’s Rylan Watson
Playing football holds Rylan Watson accountable for his actions and holds him to a higher standard. Rylan is his best self with the help of his sport. “It has taught me that in the real world you have to have discipline, determination and integrity to reach your personal goals in life,” he says.
Rylan is a sophomore at Sapulpa High School. The conditioning and teamwork needed to win games are his favorite part of the sport. Rylan, who plays defensive end, says it takes the brotherhood of a bonded team to be successful.
Representing SHS as an athlete allows him and his team to showcase their skills and make history. He anticipates making more school history this upcoming season. A proud accomplishment for Rylan was earning varsity minutes as a freshman. He turned those minutes into a starting spot with hard work and athletic skill.
Logan Hicks and Isaac Shelton are teammates he admires. They took him in like a little brother when he first came to Sapulpa. “They held me accountable, taught me the importance of watching film and broke down how to watch film,” he says.
Oklahoma history teacher, Mr. Darius Boone Jr., is Rylan’s favorite teacher. “He held a standard of accountability that not only came from the field, it came to the classroom as well,” said Rylan.
“My parents inspire me by telling me I can go anywhere and do anything in the world as long as I’m willing to have the work ethic.” This work ethic also shows on the basketball court. His best vacation was playing and traveling with the Elite Youth Basketball League across the country to study while playing against the top athletes in the world.
Some interesting facts about Rylan are his fashion sense and how he relaxes. “I like to collect a variety of shoes and I like to meditate for my peace of mind.”
After high school, Rylan plans to play Division I football.
