Sports Locker • November/December 2024 • Don't Talk about It, Be about it Hayden Kilmer

As a senior at California High School, Hayden Kilmer has established himself as a key player on both the basketball court and baseball field. His versatility and dedication to his teams have made him a standout athlete, while his humility and love for competition have earned him respect from teammates, coaches, and the community.

Hayden plays multiple positions in both sports, but it’s his adaptability in baseball that really shines. “Last season, I played seven out of the nine positions. The only ones I didn’t play were first and second base.” In basketball, he mainly plays as a shooting guard or small forward, occasionally stepping into the point guard role. His love for competition fuels his performance across both sports. “Competition really drives me. It makes me want to work harder and be better.”

Though Hayden excels now, his love for sports didn’t always come naturally. “When I played t-ball, my parents had to force me onto the field.” But over the years, baseball grew into one of his passions, alongside basketball, which he always liked but didn’t fully love until high school. “Getting to play under good coaches and seeing my skill develop over time really made me fall in love with basketball.”

One of the most defining moments in his athletic journey came during his sophomore year of baseball, when he got to play a full season with his older brother, Martin. “It was an awesome experience playing with him. He’s always been one of my biggest influences growing up. I always wanted to be as good as him. He’s pushed me to get better, not just in sports but in life.”

Hayden’s parents, Justin and Tammy, have also played significant roles in shaping his character and athletic abilities. “My parents have always taught me to work hard and be kind to everyone.” His parents added, “Hayden has always been one to work hard in whatever sport he’s participating in. He puts in the extra hours and works hard in the classroom as well. He’s a great kid with a big heart who will do anything for anybody. We’re so proud of him.”

Hayden’s coaches have had a lasting impact on him as well, particularly Ronnie Kissick, who has coached both Hayden and his brother for years. “Ronnie has always been there for us, ready to hit the field whenever we ask.” Another coach who stands out to Hayden is Coach Brandon Kliethermes, who not only helped develop his basketball skills but also became a mentor off the court. “Coach Kliethermes is a great storyteller, and he always has advice for us. One of my favorite quotes from him is, ‘Don’t talk about it, be about it,’ which really stuck with me.”

Despite his many accomplishments, including earning Academic All-State honors in baseball and All-Conference and All-District recognition in basketball, Hayden remains grounded. This season, Hayden has his sights set on some significant goals, both individually and as part of a team. He aims to score 1,000 points in basketball and hopes to lead his team to another district title in baseball, just as they did his freshman year. “Winning districts in baseball was one of the best moments of my high school career.”

Off the field, Hayden enjoys the outdoors, spending his time hunting, fishing, and looking for arrowheads with his family. He’s also involved in the National Honor Society, FFA, and his church youth group. Looking ahead, Hayden plans to attend community college, using his A+ scholarship, before transferring to Maryville University to pursue a degree in sports business management. But wherever his future takes him, his work ethic, love for sports, and the support of his family will continue to guide him.

In the words of his mother, Tammy: “We can’t wait to see where life takes Hayden after high school. We know he’s going to do great things.”