For Catoosa High School junior Brysen Jimenez, being a multi-sport athlete means committing to improvement throughout the year. Whether he is on the football field, basketball court, or soccer pitch, Jimenez brings the same determined mindset and appreciation for the people who have helped him reach this point.
Jimenez competes in football, basketball, and soccer, giving him a demanding schedule that requires him to stay focused in the classroom as well as in athletics. He credits his family, especially his parents, as the foundation of his motivation.
“My family motivates me,” Jimenez said.
His parents have been constant supporters in his athletic career and continue to influence the way he approaches both sports and life. Their guidance has helped him develop the values and work ethic needed to handle the responsibilities that come with being a student-athlete.
“My parents are my biggest influences because they have always supported me, taught me important values, and pushed me to become the best version of myself,” Jimenez said.
Jimenez believes success is not based on one strong performance or one memorable game. Instead, it comes from the daily work done away from the spotlight, remaining disciplined, working to improve, and continuing to push forward when challenges arise.
“Being dedicated to getting better every day, staying disciplined and keeping going even when things get hard,” Jimenez said.
One of the top moments of Jimenez’s career came during basketball season, when he helped his team reach the state tournament. The experience gave him a chance to compete on one of the sport’s biggest stages and remains a milestone he is proud to carry with him.
Rivalry games also stand out for Jimenez. Among the opponents he enjoys defeating most is Inola, especially because of what the matchup means to the school and community. Winning the Battle of the Port trophy creates a sense of pride that goes beyond the final score.
“Inola. It feels good to beat rivals and bring home the Battle of the Port trophy,” Jimenez said.
Practice is another important part of Jimenez’s growth. He enjoys competing against teammate Ryder Phillips because their work together creates a productive environment where both athletes are challenged to improve.
“Ryder Phillips we help each other get better every day,” Jimenez said.
Jimenez also made sure to recognize a teammate he believes deserves more attention. He said Jason Watkins consistently does the work, serves as a strong teammate, and contributes in ways that may not always receive the recognition they deserve.
“Jason Watkins. He is a great teammate and puts in the work; he doesn’t get the recognition he deserves,” Jimenez said.
Balancing three sports with schoolwork requires organization and discipline. Jimenez understands that managing his time is essential, particularly when practices, games, and assignments all demand attention.
“Organization and time management. I have to make sure my homework gets done so that I can do things I enjoy,” Jimenez said.
For Jimenez, representing Catoosa means playing for more than himself. It means representing the coaches, classmates, families, and community members who consistently support the school’s athletes. With his family as a source of motivation and a commitment to getting better every day, Jimenez continues to make the most of every opportunity across all three sports.
“It means a lot having such a great group of coaches and a community that supports all sports,” Jimenez said. “I’m lucky to be surrounded by people who care and who are always there to cheer me on.”
