GlenOak’s RJ Hairston: Building mental toughness and striving for success
CANTON, Ohio — At just 17 years old, RJ Hairston is making a name for himself as a standout athlete at GlenOak High School. With 12 years of experience in football and track, as well as time spent on the basketball court, RJ’s athletic journey is marked by determination and discipline. A junior set to graduate in 2026, his ultimate goal is to play football at the college level, a dream that fuels his work ethic and dedication to the game.
RJ’s approach to sports is about more than just physical preparation; he places great importance on mental toughness. “The next play could be your best,” he often reminds himself, pushing through exhaustion by focusing on what’s ahead rather than what’s behind. For him, each game is a chance to improve, and each moment is an opportunity to prove himself. He isn’t just playing for personal success, though. RJ draws motivation from the people around him—his teammates, coaches, and fans—and is committed to contributing to their collective success.
Facing tough competition week after week only adds to RJ’s passion for football. He thrives in these challenging environments, knowing that it takes mental strength, as much as physical ability, to come out on top. Before each game, RJ centers himself through prayer, a ritual that helps him focus and find peace before stepping onto the field.
When he’s not immersed in sports, RJ enjoys lifting weights and spending time with friends, balancing his athletic grind with relaxation and camaraderie. These activities, while enjoyable, also help him maintain his strength and stamina, preparing him for the demands of football and track.
Over the years, sports have taught RJ invaluable lessons about teamwork and self-confidence. He’s learned to rely on and trust the people around him, understanding that success is a group effort. At the same time, he’s developed a deep belief in his own abilities, knowing that the hard work he puts in will ultimately pay off.
RJ’s resilience was on full display during a game against Lake, where he was called for pass interference. It was a frustrating moment, but he didn’t let the mistake linger. Instead, RJ bounced back with a critical interception on the goal line, a perfect example of his ability to learn from mistakes and quickly move forward.
In addition to his athletic accomplishments, RJ is also an honor student, excelling in the classroom just as he does on the field. He comes from a sports-oriented family, with his father, Rick Hairston, serving as GlenOak’s boys basketball coach. With his strong support system, relentless work ethic, and talent, RJ is well on his way to achieving great things, both in sports and in life. Whatever path he chooses, there’s no doubt that his future will be bright.
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