The achievement that matters most to Joshua Bull did not happen on a football field or at a track meet. It came when the Durant High School junior made a decision about how he wanted to live each day.
“My proudest achievement was surrendering my life to Christ and living for Him,” Bull said.
Football and track are important parts of his life, but his faith determines how he wants to compete, treat people and handle both success and disappointment.
Sports have taught him that nothing is promised. A season or opportunity can change quickly and remembering that helps Bull stay grateful instead of taking success for granted.
“An important lesson my sport has taught me is to forever stay humble,” Bull said. “Understanding that what you’ve worked to build can be over in a flash teaches you a true appreciation for the sport.”
Teammate KJ Lowry helps Bull keep that perspective. Lowry knows when Bull needs encouragement, and their friendship keeps both accountable in their faith.
“He always knows just how to uplift me, and I love how we keep each other accountable on our walk with God,” Bull said.
Bull also found support in his favorite teacher, Mrs. Sager. What stood out was not only her ability to teach math, but also her willingness to notice when a student was struggling.
“She always understood when I was having an off day and was so eager to help us truly learn math,” Bull said.
The care he received reflects what he enjoys most about Durant. He appreciates living in a community where people pay attention to what others are going through and step in when help is needed.
“If someone is ever in need, you can bet people from all over are reaching helping hands out,” Bull said.
Bull tries to return that support through community service with his church. He has also attended mission trips locally and abroad, experiences that have allowed him to serve people outside his usual surroundings.
His best advice comes from 1 Corinthians 10:31: “Whatever you do, do it for the glory of God.”
Bull carries that verse into football, track, school and service. It reminds him that the way he does something matters as much as the result, especially when no award or recognition is attached.
His parents have provided the encouragement and support needed to pursue his goals, but Bull does not hesitate when naming the first source of his gratitude.
“God is the foundation of my success, so He receives all of my thanks, and my parents after Him,” Bull said.
