Bowen Morton approaches every snap with a clear purpose: to do the work that helps his team succeed. Whether he is lined up at defensive end or nose guard on the football field, or behind the plate as a catcher in baseball, the Woodward High School senior brings a team-first mentality and an appreciation for everyone who has supported him along the way.
“What motivates you?” Morton said. “All the people that believe in me and have my back.”
That support begins at home. Morton said his father has played a major role in shaping both his outlook and character.
“My dad is a big influence in my life; he gives me a lot of wise guidance that has helped me be the person I am today,” Morton said.
A teacher who made a lasting difference is Mrs. Baker. Her willingness to stay connected with Morton beyond the classroom meant a great deal to him.
“Mrs. Baker had the biggest impact in school for me. She always knew what was going on in my life and always checked in on me, even after i didn’t have her class,” Morton said.
Morton understands that success is built long before game day. He has committed time outside of organized practices to improve, while also recognizing the people who have invested in his development.
“To be successful in my sport, I had to put a lot of work in on my own time. I’ve had many people give up their time to help me, and that has helped me push me to where i am today,” he said.
One of his favorite career memories came at the Oklahoma State Games, where he tested himself against strong competition. On the football field, Morton especially enjoys competing against Woodward’s starting offensive line during practice, using those repetitions to help teammates prepare for Friday nights.
He also values the players whose work may not always show up in the box score or on the stat sheet. Morton pointed to teammate McLovin for the energy he brings to the scout team.
For Morton, representing Woodward is about competing for a community that fills the stands and gives the players extra motivation each week.
