By Derrick Smith

Role models have the ability to shape the minds and careers of a high school student-athlete. No matter what sport they participate in, having someone to look up to can impact the life of the student. Jacob Long says that he has someone that he is close to that has made a difference in his life. 

“One big influence on me is my Uncle Daniel,” he said, “He was a state runner up in high school for cross country, and I thought if a little scrawny guy like him could do it, then maybe I could too. He taught me ways in making my form in running better, or how I could improve myself. Another role model is my mom. I see her working hard for my siblings and me every day, so I try to do my best and go the extra step to get better every day for her. These two are not the only influences though, I feel very encouraged and influenced by many people all around me, from my older sister Arianna, to my dad, to my cousins, and to my friends.”

Long is a junior at El Reno High School, where he runs the mile and two-mile in track. He is also a member of the cross-country team. 

As a student, Long says that there were a couple of teachers that made a difference for him. 

“Both Mr. Pierson and coach Casey would have to be my favorite teachers,” he said. “Mr. Pierson was my eighth-grade science and history teacher. He always taught my class and me life lessons. Like how to keep a positive mindset and he really made us understand that life could be tough. He also opened up my eyes on the word “success” and how it’s based on my eyes and opinion only. Coach Casey taught geography and English. He was cool and funny. He’s like a friend to me. He strengthened my dedication to the school and my desire to learn. Although this was about four years ago, I still keep what they taught me to heart.”