Mustang’s Tayten Duncan
By Bryce McKinnis
Tayten Duncan, a Mustang High School senior football player, has achieved a pretty unique benchmark among his peers: running a 4.56 40-yard dash while maintaining a 4.04 GPA in the classroom.
“My mom definitely plays a huge part in my dedication to maintaining a 4.0,” said Duncan, a star defensive back who caught three interceptions and tallied 73 tackles last season. “Growing up, she never allowed me to have a B on a report card. I also have two younger brothers that I am setting an example for.”
Set an example he has. Duncan is also a member of the MHS Athletic Council, the Mustang Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership Program and Students Assisting Students, where he helps students with special needs.
“I’m a firm believer in ‘The Golden Rule,’ which ultimately says in Matthew 7:12, ‘So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you,’” Duncan said. “Loving others, praying for their success and being excited with them when it comes is a big part of who I am as a person.”
As he dedicates himself to service, Duncan dedicates himself to the gridiron with the same fervor. Growing up, the do-it-all athlete played soccer, baseball and basketball but chose to focus on football in high school. After his junior season, he worked tirelessly with MHS strength and conditioning coach Jason Doran and Shaq Miller of D2R training to maximize his potential.
“I really focused this offseason on my weight, strength, speed and perfecting my game,” Duncan said. “I’ve put on 25-pounds since my junior season and my numbers in the weight room have increased significantly.”
Like many players, especially in their senior year, Duncan is pondering his football future.
“I want to see how far I can go in the game, and I will chase my dream with everything I’ve got, but whether football takes me to the next level or not, I know it will open doors, shape who I am and prepare me for a successful future,” Duncan said. “After football, I want to be in a position where I can give back — whether that’s through coaching, mentoring young athletes or working in a career where I can lead and make a positive impact.”
