Collinsville’s Kellen Rhoton
When Kellen Rhoton entered the seventh grade, he made the decision to try out for the track team. Now a junior, Rhoton is a member of the varsity team competing in the 800-meters, the 4X800 and the 4X400 relays.
Rhoton said he loves being around his teammates and competing against other school as a team. Several teammates have left an impression on him during his time at CHS.
“Practices can be hard, especially on hot days, but everyone always works hard to improve their times. All while cheering each other on,” Rhoton said. “Jordan Rangel works hard both in and out of school and is extremely close to breaking the one-mile school record.”
Finding inspiration as an athlete is easy for the junior. Rhoton said one of his coaches is a source of inspiration.
“Coach Tesar has inspired me the most. He was my first track coach and the first person to cheer me on, regardless of whether I had a good race. He had a saying, “The reward is the effort.” It’s a simple idea, but it has greatly impacted my running. It has led me to enjoy running itself, including difficult practice. I largely contribute my passion for track and field to coach Tesar and his lessons, which started in seventh grade,” said Rhoton.
Also a member of National Honor Society and leadership, Rhoton said he belongs to nearly every club offered at school and believes the athletic program is competitive because of the coaches and the athletes who work hard to represent CHS.
“Collinsville is a growing school. We don’t have much, but we are a competitive school for 5A. Being able to train and look forward to that competition is part of what drives me,” said Rhoton.
Rhoton has put in the work to be competitive as a member of the track team and continues to improve in certain areas he feels need some attention.
“It’s a generic answer, but I would have to say determination is my greatest strength. I put in the work by running in the mornings and giving my all at each practice. Along the same lines, my discipline has been the area where I have improved the most,” said Rhoton.
Rhoton plans to attend the University of Oklahoma and study Business Administration.
