In addition to serving as the soccer team’s last line of defense, Brandon McDaniel is a shining example of tenacity as the goalie for McAlester High School. As a senior at McAlester, Brandon’s soccer career has been marked by his steadfast dedication to excellence and his continuous search of development. 

For Brandon, motivation is not just a fleeting feeling; it’s a constant drive to outdo himself every day. “My competitiveness pushes me to strive to do better than the day before,” he asserted.

Among Brandon’s biggest influences stands his father, whose wisdom and guidance have left a mark on his life. “He taught me many great lessons…to shoot for the stars,” Brandon reflected, cherishing the valuable advice imparted by his father before his passing. Another influential figure in Brandon’s life is Jared Sutmiller, whose unwavering support and belief in Brandon’s abilities have been a source of strength and confidence.

Brandon’s his journey in soccer has demanded immense mental fortitude and resilience. “It has taken a lot of mental effort to be successful in my sport,” he acknowledged, underscoring the importance of psychological strength in the game.

Among the highlights of Brandon’s soccer career was a memorable game during his sophomore year when McAlester narrowly lost to Tulsa Edison, a top team in their district. Despite the loss, Brandon’s stellar performance on the field showcased his talent and determination.

In addition to his individual achievements, Brandon finds joy in team victories, particularly relishing McAlester’s triumph over Ada this year. “We lost 1-0 to them last year, so this win was particularly satisfying.”

On the practice field, Brandon thrives alongside teammate Jaime Carranza, whose precision and power push Brandon to elevate his game. “His shots allow me to push myself to get better each practice,” Brandon remarked.

Looking ahead, Brandon plans to continue his soccer career at the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain Community College on an athletic scholarship, with aspirations of transferring to a four-year university thereafter. Yet, beyond individual accolades and achievements, Brandon remains grounded in his commitment to representing his community and school with pride.