Four students, seniors Johnny Fuller, Kayli Potter and juniors Levi Hickert, Yesenia Maldonado, had the opportunity to represent Hays High at the WAC leadership conference in Dodge City on Wednesday Oct. 3^rd.

“It feels like an honor because out of the entire school and leadership team, us four were chosen to be able to do this,” Hickert said.

According to athletic director Lance Krannawitter this was the first time this conference was held.

“I think it’s a great opportunity for students in the WAC school to work together and learn more qualities about being a good leader,” Krannawitter said. “They can work together to set goals, and work towards those goals.”

They met with 16 other students who also represented their school in the WAC conference, Great Bend, Liberal, Dodge City, and Garden City, again each sending four representatives. There they all listened to Joe Coles, a public speaker from Cimarron, KS, and were given different perspectives, and new tips on not only how to become a better leader both on and off the field, but an overall better version of themselves.

“I learned a lot of different life skills that could benefit myself and other people for the better,” Potter said.

The students were motivated and pleased with how Coles used different ways to engage them during his presentation. They talked to other students, watched short chips, and had a good laugh once in a while. During the presentation Coles also had many quotes. He would pause for a minute or two and make the students ponder how those simple words could change their mindset. Fuller’s favorite was a short, but meaningful one.

“Life doesn’t happen to you, it happens for you.”

The students have three more meetings within the school year, the next being held on December 5th.

20ymaldonado@usd489.com