Charles Page High School sophomore Wesley Russell brings a quiet competitiveness to the tennis courts, fueled by an unlikely source of inspiration: a Formula One driver. Russell looks up to Fernando Alonso, noting how the veteran racer has not won a world championship since 2005 but still competes at an elite level. “He hasn’t won a world championship since 2005, but he’s still a great driver,” Russell said.
Russell, a 10th grader at Charles Page High School in Sand Springs, enjoys the balance of academics, activities and athletics. His favorite subject is math, and he points to Mr. Wright, the band director, as his favorite teacher for the impact he has had on students. When he is not on the courts, Russell likes to unwind by playing video games, especially Overwatch 2, which gives him another outlet for competition and strategy.
On the court, Russell embraces the unique responsibilities that come with tennis, including calling balls in or out for his opponent. He admits that making those calls can be a mental break at times. “Sometimes it’s a relief,” he said. His favorite part of being a Sandite tennis player is traveling to tournaments and seeing different styles of play. He enjoys getting to “go to tournaments to play different people” and test himself against new opponents.
One of his favorite memories came when he earned his first win, a milestone victory that came against Muskogee. That early success helped solidify his love for the sport and his belief that persistence pays off. Russell said tennis has taught him a lesson he plans to carry beyond high school: to never give up, no matter the score or situation. “Tennis all day,” he added when asked which game he would choose for fun. As he looks ahead to the season, he circles Skiatook on the schedule and prepares by stretching and telling himself he will come out on top.
