There is someone in everyone’s life that plays an influential role in their life. They help them grow and become the person that they will become. Grant Hinkle is a tennis player for the Broken Arrow Tigers and he has someone that has been in his corner since day one that has been a big reason for his growth as an athlete and a person.

“The biggest role model in my life has been my dad,” Hinkle said. “He has been a part of my tennis career ever since my first practice and he hasn’t stopped supporting me since.”

Grant, who is a senior, is proud to wear the Broken Arrow uniform anytime he steps onto the tennis court.

“It means a lot to me to be able to represent my community,” he said. “Knowing that I have my friends and family’s support when I play motivates me to push onward and play my best.”

Throughout his career, Hinkle has put in the work that it takes to be successful. He has also seen that work pay off on the court.

“Consistency is an important part of getting better,” he said. “Being at every practice and giving it my all every time has helped me get to where I am today. I think the highlight moment of my career was when my partner and I got second place at state. Being able to look back and see how hard it was to get there made it worth it.”

The teammates that Grant competes with have also helped shape him.

“Max Fitzgerald is someone that I like to practice against,” he said. “He always pushes me even on the days that I don’t want to be there. One of the guys on the team that works really hard is Luke Wells. He always shows up and gives it his all. He also always has a smile on his face while playing tennis.”

As a student, Grant has learned from a number of teachers, but says that there is one that stands out as his favorite.
“Mrs. Turner is the teacher that had the biggest impact on me,” he said. “She helped me understand the importance of school and how it can change my future. She also supported me by always asking how tennis was going.”