Claremore’s Hayden Lee
By playing football, Hayden Lee discovered that success is when a team works well together to win games. Hayden is a receiver and outside linebacker for Claremore High School’s football team. Being on a team and playing several positions has taught him discipline and given him valuable communication skills.
Now a senior, Hayden has had the chance to play with many different teammates through the years. One group in particular had an impact on him. “The senior class from 2024 has inspired me the most,” he says, recalling their 11-2 season.
The relationships made with all his teammates and coaches are something he enjoys about football. The bonds built on the field, combined with the excitement of competition, make football the perfect sport. “Football is fun and exciting. I love Friday nights playing in front of a big crowd,” says Hayden.
Hayden started playing football in the second grade when his dad signed him up for a team.
He says the support of his family made him a better player and a better person. He does not single out a specific person who inspires him. Hayden credits multiple family members. “I don’t have just one person. I have several family members who inspire me for different reasons,” he said.
Hayden values the support as well as the advice he gets from his family. “I have been given a lot of good advice from family and mentors. One thing that sticks out is just make sure I’m working hard and not settling for mediocrity.”
Being a student-athlete at CHS comes with responsibility. “I like representing my school, community, coaches and teammates. There are a lot of people that stand behind our team and it feels good to give them something to be proud of,” says Hayden.
A standout memory is from his freshman year. “My favorite memory is being brought up as a freshman to the varsity football team against Pryor. I was put into the game after a few offensive plays and played the rest of the game offensively,” he said. Another accomplishment he is proud of is starting on both sides of the ball since his sophomore year.
In the classroom, his favorite teacher is Mr. Bruce Riggs. “He’s an excellent teacher who engages all students with hands-on learning.”
The best time away for sports was a family vacation. He traveled to Hawaii with his grandparents, parents and brother. He says this was the best and most memorable vacation he has ever taken.
Hayden’s goal is to play college ball somewhere and earn his degree in physical therapy.
