By Chris Cox

For someone who has only played organized soccer for about three years, McLoud senior Jacob Claxton has really made his presence felt.

“He’s quick to learn and a lot of the players around him noticed that,” says McLoud soccer coach Earl Harrison. “He meets up with the players that have problems and helps out with them. He’s also a good leader by helping others when they’re a little bit off by speaking up and getting them going in the right direction.”

Helping others is a part of Claxton that wasn’t there when he was younger, but he credits God with helping him find his way and get on the track he’s on now.

“Humbly, I try put God first in everything I do,” Claxton says. “That’s what I want to go to college for, to spread the Gospel. God is where my character comes from because I was not naturally like this. I definitely give glory to God.”

Claxton is a part of Emmanuel Baptist Church in McLoud, and he says he’s grateful for those around him that have helped him through the challenging times he’s faced.

“My youth pastor (Jared Walker) at church has definitely helped me when I haven’t been able to have food on the table,” says Claxton. “My coach, Coach Harrison, has also always made sure that I was okay and had everything I needed.”

On the field, McLoud has big goals. Coach Harrison has talked to his team about the realistic goal of making it the state tournament now that McLoud has a group of guys that have played together for a few years. To that point, Claxton agrees.

“We have the skill, I’m confident in that,” Claxton says adamantly. “I do have high hopes for this season. I feel like this can be a really great season.” 

Away from the field, Claxton is involved with power lifting, Bible club, and the Emmanuel Baptist youth group. Following graduation, Claxton plans on attending college and majoring in business and minoring in Bible. He hopes whichever college he attends will allow him to play soccer as well.