Braxton Dean – Verdigris HS
To say Verdigris High School’s Braxton Dean is ready for the start of the new season, would be an understatement. Through spring ball and team camp, and hot summer practices, Dean said he and his teammates are eager to get on the field and compete.
“I don’t think I’ve ever been more ready to start a season than now, mainly to show the state the type of team we truly are and can be. Teammates have been putting in a lot of work outside of normal practices doing all they can to make our team better as a whole,” said Dean.
The hard work is paying off as several teammates are stepped into roles as starters under a new head coach in Justin Morsey. After going winless in 2024, Dean and his teammates have dedicated themselves to winning and under coach Morsey, the expectation is play hard, stay disciplined and believe in the process.
“I’ve noticed how hard our team has been working with our new head coach. Everyone has been trying to make a great impression, and their attitude and effort shows,” Dean said. “Some players that are doing good and that you should keep eyes on are Peyton Stelling, Tate Roller, and Charter Zeimet.”
Every team has a rival and for the Cardinals one of the teams they look forward to playing this season is Jay High School. Dean said it’s going to be a great game because of a connection both teams share.
“The game most of our team and I are ready to play is the Jay Bulldogs because that is where our old head coach went,” said Dean.
In the classroom, Dean said he’s focused on making excellent grades and setting himself up for college.
“My favorite subject is math because I like working with numbers. My favorite teacher is Mr. Reed,” Dean said. “My goals are to play college football and be a Sports Data Analyst.”
The junior said his source of inspiration comes from his father. Someone who is always there to support and guide Dean through the challenges of prep athletics, school and life. “I would say that my dad inspires me to be the best man I can be. He pushes me every day and does things that take up so much of his time just to make me better,” said Dean.
As for the upcoming season, Dean said the team has fought through injuries, welcomed a new head coach and everyone has bought in to the new system and what it could mean for the Cardinals this season.
“My message to my teammates about the upcoming season is push yourself and work as hard as you can. Every decision I make has a direct impact on my teammate and I know all our teammates believe in this as well,” said Dean.
