Entering his ninth-grade year, Hayden Back didn’t feel like he was good enough to even be considered for the role of varsity quarterback. Turns out, the Wright City coaches saw more potential in him than he perhaps observed in himself. Told to be ready for the possibility of playing after halftime, Beck was spontaneously called onto the field during the second drive of the first game of his freshman season. From that moment on, he has been the starting quarterback for the Wildcats.

Now heading into his senior campaign, Beck is determined to build upon last fall, during which he completed 85 of 158 passes for 1,033 yards, throwing eight touchdowns and six interceptions. He also rushed for 233 yards and two scores on 63 carries.

When he began playing football in seventh grade, Beck was a receiver and free safety. In eighth grade he moved to quarterback. For the first two years of high school he did not play defense, but last season he was placed at middle linebacker, where he recorded 70 total tackles, one sack and one interception.

Beck is also the top returning scorer for the Wildcat basketball team, contributing 16 points per game last season. He also participated in track during his freshman year but prefers the constant activity provided by football and basketball.

In addition to sports, Beck has been a member of the student council and was the class president during his sophomore year.
While his future plans are still uncertain, he would like to continue playing football and has interest in Northwest Missouri State. He would like to pursue a career centered around his strength in math.

Favorite food: Chicken alfredo
Favorite restaurant: Taco Bell
Favorite TV show: “QB1: Beyond the Lights" or "All American”
Favorite movie: “Greater”
Favorite song: “The Bigger Picture" by Lil Baby
Favorite musician: Lil Baby