Athletes work hard so that they are ready when it comes time to compete. When they put on that uniform, not only are they looking for their hard work to pay off, but they are also a representative of their school and community.

“I take pride in the name on the front of my jersey,” said Rylee Standlee. “And everytime I step out on the field, I want to represent my team in the most positive manner.”

Rylee is a junior at Meeker High School. She plays softball and basketball for the Bulldogs. She is also in the Health Careers program at Gordon Cooper Technology Center.

There have been people in her life that have helped Rylee become who she is. And while she is thankful for all of them, there are some that have made a bigger impact.

“My parents are my role models because they have taught me how to be consistent and work hard for what I want,” she stated. “Also, coach Simpson because she always picks me up when I’m having a bad game and always inspires me to be better.”

Throughout her career, Standlee continually invests her effort and dedication so that she can grow.
 “It takes hard work and time to be successful,” she said. “But motivation is also important. What motivates me is reaching new personal levels and the challenge of competition. I have also seen my hard work payoff on the field. I think the highlight of my career would have to be when I hit my first homerun.”

When Rylee and her teammates take the field, they are ready to play whoever is on the schedule. But out of all the teams they face, she has one team that she enjoys going up against the most.

“Prague is my favorite team to beat,” she said. “Mainly because they are our rivals and it’s always a competitive game.”

Standlee knows that in order to be able to compete on the field, she has to maintain her grades and complete her school work.

“I am a student before I am an athlete,” Rylee said. “Having that mindset helps me prioritize my work first.”