Whether it is Friday nights under the lights or spring evenings on the diamond, Ada High School’s Kyler Gaddis is right in the middle of the action. The senior standout has built a reputation as a tough, reliable presence in both football and baseball while representing his hometown with pride.
Gaddis is a true two-way, two-sport competitor. In baseball, he primarily mans third base and takes the mound, and he can slide over to shortstop when needed. In football, he lines up at tight end, sometimes splits out at wide receiver and also plays outside linebacker on defense, embracing contact and physical play.
His versatility helped earn him the opportunity he is most proud of: signing with East Central University in Ada to play both baseball and football at the next level. “It means a lot to represent my community and continue competing in the sports I love,” Gaddis said.
Gaddis said baseball and football have shaped who he is far beyond the field. The sports have taught him discipline, accountability and how to put the team first, along with the value of consistent hard work and staying mentally tough through adversity.
“Those lessons have made me more focused, humble and driven to improve both on and off the field,” he said.
Relationships have defined his Ada experience. Gaddis points to Coach Boyles as his favorite teacher, saying the veteran coach believed in him, held him accountable and pushed him to be his best in the classroom and as a person. He credits his dad as his biggest inspiration because of his work ethic and constant support. Teammate Brock Boyles, Ada’s quarterback in football and catcher and top pitcher in baseball, has also left an impression as an example of leadership and what it takes to succeed.
Gaddis loves “playing for something bigger than myself” when he puts on an Ada jersey and tries to live by the advice to leave everything he has on the field so he has no regrets. He gives all the credit to the Lord, along with his family and coaches who have supported him every step of the way. Gaddis looks up to Kansas City Royals star Bobby Witt Jr. for his work ethic, humility and professionalism, qualities he is striving to carry with him to ECU.
