There is someone in each of our lives that makes an impact on us and helps shape us into the person that we will become. Whether it is a family member, school teacher, or someone else, the influence that they have can be immeasurable. Brode Shull is a senior at Bixby High School and he has a few people that fill that role in his life. 

“My mom and dad are definitely my biggest role models,” he said.” My dad has shown me how to be a man. My mom is there to help me and be the person that I go to talk to and help me cope with whatever I am dealing with. My physical therapist Andrew and my boxing trainer Steve are both very good mentors. I work hard with them and they help me push past where I am and go further than I thought I could. Coach Burch and Coach Montgomery both push me to my limit, which prepares me for D1.”

Shull has committed to play football at Auburn University. He is going to be able to get an early start with his new team as he will be joining them in December as they prepare for their bowl game. 

ANother person that was influential in Shull’s life was his fifth grade writing teacher, Mr. Sharp. 
 “I struggled with my dyslexia in most of my classes,” he recalled. “But he inspired me to enjoy what I love to do and that is write and create stories. He helped me to be creative again. He was always there for me when I had struggles.”

When he puts on the Spartan uniform and prepares to compete, Brode remembers that he is playing for more than just himself. He is not only representing his school and community, but also those that played before him. 

“It means so much because there is a lot of legacy at Bixby,” he stated. “From Chris Harris to Luke Hess to the Pucketts, just to name a few. It is a huge family and it is a legacy that continues to build up over time. When you are part of that legacy, and you show that on the field, it is really great.”

He has played alongside a number of outstanding players but Shull has one teammate that helped him become a better person and player. 

“Brody Duffel was the teammate that had the biggest impact on me,” he said. “He was a guy that pushed me to be better and was honest with me when I needed to work harder. He was not mean or anything, but he did motivate me to be better. And I am a better lineman thanks to him.”