By Derrick Smith

Success is what we all strive for in most areas of our lives. Whether it is family, work, or just life in general, we want to be thought of as successful in what we do. Athletes are no different, putting in the hours of work and preparation in order to be ready for competition.

Gentry Baldwin says that while there is a lot to growing as an athlete, all the work will pay off.

“For me to become successful, it has taken dedication and a lot of hard work,” she said. “I have also put in a lot of work outside of practice on my own time.”

Baldwin is a sophomore at Bixby High School. She plays point guard and shooting guard for the Lady Spartans basketball team, a sport that she first played when she was in first grade. She also plays soccer and softball.

She has had a lot of people that have touched her life throughout the years, but Gentry says that there are a few people that have made the biggest impact.

“My parents are both huge role models in my life,” she said. “They have both taught me hard work pays off, and they have always supported me in everything I’ve done. Also, my coaches inspire me daily to be the best I can be on and off the court.”

Throughout her schooling, Baldwin has been in many different classes, but she says that there is one teacher who taught her more than just what was in the textbook.

“One of my favorite teachers is Mr. Powers,” she said. “He always challenged me academically and he also taught me to never give up on myself.”

Gentry says that while she likes all aspects of basketball, she says that defense is probably her favorite. That is what made winning a certain award so special.

“I take a lot of pride in defense,” she stated. “So receiving Defensive Player of the Year as a freshman was very rewarding.”

Along with athletics, Gentry is also a member of the National Charity League and the National Honor Society. She says that she is thankful for God, her family, teammates, and coaches.