Wichita Falls student scores AF Academy football scholarship

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Tonnette Thompson
  • 82nd Training Wing, Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  It's every parent's dream child: an excellent student, an accomplished athlete, spiritually grounded, active in their community ... and the recipient of a full college scholarship.

It's safe to assume the parent of such an exceptional person might proudly take some credit for their child's accomplishments, even feeling it's their due. But not Sean Huskisson, a driver/operator with the 82nd Civil Engineer Squadron's fire department.

"I'm beyond proud, and I know I'm lucky. Even I don't know where he gets it from," Mr. Huskisson laughed, in reference to his son, Taylor.

Taylor, a senior at Wichita Falls High School, successfully applied for a scholarship to the United States Air Force Academy, Colo. Once he earns his college degree - which for now will likely focus on aeronautical engineering - Taylor will begin his five-year service to the Air Force as a second lieutenant.

"It's a relief to get here, finally," Taylor said, moments after the official signing Feb. 7 at the high school. "To know this moment is here, it's finally happening, it's the best feeling ever."

The scholarship is based in a program where U.S. senators and representatives can nominate students for each of the three academies - the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y., the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., and the USAF Academy. Once nominated, the academy's board decides whether to appoint the student as a recipient.

Taylor was nominated for the USAF Academy by Rep. Mack Thornberry, R-Clarendon. Taylor was informed of his appointment shortly afterwards.

"Taylor had his eye on the Academy since his sophomore year," Mr. Huskisson said. "He chose it mainly because of the educational opportunities."

Though he had other offers from Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Abilene Christian University in Albilene, Texas, Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Oklahoma State University and Kansas State University, it was the Air Force Academy that pursued Taylor most persistently - especially after his recent injury.

"He broke his collarbone in the fourth game of the season," Mr. Huskisson said. "Most of the other colleges broke off after that, but the Academy stuck with him."

Although it's a football scholarship, the board also takes into account a student's grade point average and extracurricular activities. No doubt Taylor's 4.25 GPA - with advanced placement classes in chemistry, calculus, English and physics - played a part in their choice. When not playing football, Taylor also participates in baseball, track, and Olympic weightlifting. When not doing schoolwork, he edits his school paper. Even with all this, he still finds time to volunteer for Young Life, a Christian-based youth group.

"He's an exceptional young man, academically, athletically" said Travis Pride, head football coach of Wichita Falls Senior High School. "He just has great character."

However, when the opportunity arose to brag on himself, in front of reporters and cameras covering his momentous day, Taylor didn't go that route.

"I've just received awesome support from my family and the school," he said. "This is a great school, I grew up around all these guys, and I'm just glad I could share this with everyone who's been supporting me."

The Wichita Falls Senior High School student will leave for Colorado June 28.