Rhett Butler did not expect his freshman football season to place him on varsity. When senior kicker Logan Bloxsom was injured, Butler had to step in, even though he had never played the position. Bloxsom could have turned his attention to recovery. Instead, he practiced with Butler and showed him what the job required.

“He always congratulated me and included me,” Butler said. They later played soccer together, letting Butler line up alongside the teammate who first made him feel welcome.

Now a senior at Wagoner High School, Butler participates in football, cross country, soccer and bass fishing. Earning the opportunity to continue bass fishing in college is the accomplishment he values most. Football also gave him a lesson that applies in every part of his life.

“You have to be resilient on and off the field,” Butler said.

Some of his most useful lessons came in the classroom. John French, Butler’s geometry and Algebra II teacher, taught him practical skills alongside math, including how to make sound financial decisions.

Butler’s favorite part of Wagoner is its people. He appreciates that neighbors are friendly, generous and ready to help when someone needs them. He tries to offer that same willingness through his involvement. Butler is an FFA member and part of Wagoner’s livestock show team. He volunteers annually with the Wagoner Education Foundation, attends First Baptist’s youth group and serves as a boat captain at a firefighter burn camp.

His parents and grandparents have pushed him to give his best, while his teachers have helped prepare him for what comes next.

The advice he carries came from his grandmother: “Don’t worry about what other people think about you.” Butler said it has helped him stop measuring himself against others and become the person he believes he was created to be.