El Reno’s Ryker Crain
By Trina Walker
Ryker Crain picked up a bat when he was two. From there, the game of baseball has become a major part of his life. Crain is now a freshman at El Reno High School.
He loves the challenge and difficulty of baseball. He has learned self-control and gained mental strength playing his sport. Another valuable skill he gained is learning how to accept failure.
“This sport has done so much for me. I just love the game,” says Crain, “it has helped shape me to be the person I am now.”
Crain has developed a strong bond with his team and made amazing memories on and off the field. His entire team has helped him in one way or another, but some have really stepped up, making his first year playing high school ball a great experience.
“Mason Fulton really helped me out this summer with things. Damien is also there to work out with me and do drills,” he says.
Crain is also greatly influenced by his dad, who encourages him to push harder in baseball and to keep working out. Conditioning is crucial to maintain skill.
“Thank you to all my friends, coaches and teammates for always helping me out. Also, my family for loving me and being there for me during games,” Crain says.
Making the future better for his school is what Crain hopes to accomplish as an athlete at El Reno. He wants up-and-coming athletes at his school to have the opportunity to do something with the sport they enjoy just as he has.
The best advice he says is “don’t be too hard on yourself and be the hardest worker on the field.”
His favorite teacher is Mrs. Dow, who teaches science.
“She is cool 99 percent of the time. My favorite subject is history because it’s pretty cool to learn about people and old history,” Crain said.
Crain is a well-rounded teen. He likes fishing, hunting, hanging out with friends and going on vacation to the beach with his family. He also enjoys playing basketball and golf in his free time.
