At Central Plains High School, junior Brodie Crites is the kind of athlete who rarely leaves the field or the spotlight. Whether he’s commanding the offense as a quarterback, attacking the basket as a guard, or making plays at shortstop and on the mound, Crites has built a reputation as a year-round competitor driven by both pride and unfinished business.
His motivation runs deeper than wins and stats. It’s rooted in the sting of coming close and falling short, and in the responsibility he feels to uphold a tradition bigger than himself.
“Motivation comes from past losses and keeping the success of Central Plains still going and knowing that my teammates have my back and I have theirs through it all.”
Crites’ journey into becoming a leader started long before high school, shaped by the people closest to him. Watching his older brother set the standard gave him something to chase, while his coach helped refine not just his skills, but his mindset.
“Biggest role model was definitely my brother growing up watching him play, just trying to be like him, my coach just how he’s showed me how to play the right way and has taught me so many things that I can take into my future.”
This past year brought tangible success. Crites played a key role in Central Plains capturing both the Amos Morris Classic title and the CPL championship, moments that reinforced the program’s winning identity.
“My highlights have been winning the Amos Morris Classic and CPL title this past season.”
Still, for Crites, wearing the Central Plains uniform carries weight beyond any single season. It’s about honoring what came before and making sure the standard doesn’t slip.
“Playing for my school means a lot because of the past success that Central Plains has had and wanting to keep that tradition alive.”
Even with success, the hunger hasn’t faded. Near-misses continue to fuel him, second place in football and back-to-back fourth-place finishes in basketball serve as constant reminders that there’s more to achieve.
“Things that keep me pushing are losses that I’ve been so close, but I haven’t gotten there yet, second at state in football and back-to-back fourth place at basketball keep me going.”
Through it all, one constant has been the guidance of his coach, who has helped shape Crites into both a better athlete and a more disciplined person.
“My coach has been a great role in my development because he always tries to get me to be the best player and person, and is there for me when I mess up and helps me through rough games.”
As Crites heads into his senior year, he carries not only the expectations of a multi-sport standout but also the mindset of someone who isn’t satisfied yet. For Central Plains, that’s exactly the kind of leader you want setting the tone.
