Tyrel Jade Wagner, son of Ernie Wagner and Amy Kraber and stepdad Bill Kraber. He was born on November 29, 2005 in Liberal Kansas. During his childhood, he grew up in Elkhart until 7th grade. He then moved to Waterville, Kansas and now attends Valley Heights High School. Tyrel has 2 older sisters: Teagan and Tori.
Tyrel has been involved in many clubs throughout his high school career, including: Football 4 years, Track 4 years, FACS 4 years, FCA 4 years, All School Play 4 years, Forensics 4 years, Journalism 3 years, STUCO 3 years, Mustangs Tough/Mentor 2 years, Art 1 year, KAYS 1 year, and NHS 1 year. With that being said Tyrel has held leadership roles as well, STUCO Rep 3 years, Yearbook Co-Editor 2 years, Football Captain 2 years, Class President, and Club Officer 1 year. Outside of school he has participated in Harvesters, and volunteers at KNDY radio station.
When asked “Who had the greatest impact on your life?” Tyrel stated, “My older sister, Teagan, has had the biggest impact on my life because she has guided me throughout high school and was one of the reasons I wanted to continue to pursue college sports. My mom also had a large impact, because she has shown me how to stay strong through any adversity thrown at me and is the reason I push myself harder every day.”
Tyrel said his favorite memory during high school was how the community helped him and his family. Tyrel said “I will never forget how the Valley Heights community was so welcoming and open to helping my family in times of need. I will never appreciate any other community more than the one I live in right now.” He said “It feels like yesterday that my family and I moved here and became a part of the Mustang family.” Which ties into his favorite quote "We all know time goes way too fast, hold on tight ‘cause it doesn't happen twice, don't miss your life.” This quote sticks with him because it encapsulates his life, especially through his senior year.
Now Tyrel loves music, always having his airpods in or jamming out in class. His favorite song to listen to is “Call Your Sister” by Taylor Edwards. He said he enjoys this song because it represents his deep connection with his two sisters. Tyrel’s favorite food is, Qudoba burritos and Pasta.
Tyrel’s ideal Friday night depends on the season. While in football season he’s on the gridiron playing his favorite sport, football. But out of season, he would either be going out to eat or hanging out with his family and friends. After high school Tyrel plans to attend Bethel College to major in communitation arts and minor in coaching, while continuing to play football. He strives to be a very successful coach and help impact the lives of the young men he will coach in the future. In 10 years, Tyrel sees himself settled down in either the Northwest or Texas, coaching a high school football team.
Tyrel’s advice to underclassmen is “Be careful not to look to the future too much. You have time, enjoy high school. It will be the best years of your life.” When Tyrel leaves the community, he wants to be remembered as a caring person who always felt a love for the community.
Article By Carson Spoonts