“It’s all about the attitude, gut, heart, and determination to go out and give 120 percent every time to try and help the team win.” ~ Bo Jackson

The words of his all-time favorite athlete serve as a voice of motivation for Jake Tucker, no matter whether he’s attacking opposing ball carriers from his linebacker position or he’s in the classroom at Tuttle High School mastering another academic assignment.

“No matter what the job or obstacle in your path, don’t just settle for finishing the job, do everything with as much effort as possible to be the best,” said Tucker, who wears the Tigers number-34 jersey like Jackson as well as the number worn by his father (Brandon) when he was in high school. “My dad and mom (Jennifer) have shown me by their example the importance of hard work as the only way to do something.”

Tucker, who began playing football in the second grade, has always thrived on playing defense.

“My little league coach was J.R. Conrad who played in the NFL and at OU helped me discover my love for football,” recalled Tucker. “I always wanted to hit people and that’s how I play today by being the most physical player every snap. I like to go through people not around them. The sound caused by an explosive contact when make a tackle is the best.”

One of three defensive starters on this year’s team at Tuttle, Tucker understands his role as a leader on the field.

“At Tuttle, it’s about being smart and doing your job and always being accountable for your actions,” said Tucker. “It‘s more than just being vocal, it’s all about setting the right example every day on every play.”

Head football coach Brad Ballard compliments the non-stop efforts of Tucker.

“Jake is a true team player that has spent years preparing himself to play. He’s an extremely hard worker who is also a great student and one of the leaders at Tuttle.”

Tucker’s hard work in the classroom is evidenced by his 4.0 grade point average and ranking number-5 in the senior class of 2023. Among his favorite “Tucker Time” things to do is hunting and fishing as well as getting in another workout in the weight room.

“I really like to work out, get in another rep to get stronger. Down the road, I want to become a strength and conditioning coach.”

Among the many character traits used to define the multi-talented senior including hard working and leadership, Tucker believes that dedication is what ranks at the top of his list.

“I’ve always been driven to succeed no matter the challenge. As a Tuttle Tiger, there’s a tradition that’s special to young and old alike, Tucker said with a voice of confidence. “The pathway of success laid by those before me is something I definitely want to work hard to continue the tradition of winning in everything we do. I want to be remembered as the playmaker that did everything possible to lead our team to victory.”