Moore’s Slaydon Williams

By Mike Moguin

Moore freshman Slaydon “Keaolani” Williams has a history of success on the mat and is already off to a good start in his young high school career.

If there is one person he credits his success to, it would be a mentor from an early grade. 

“My second-grade teacher, Mrs. Carothers, I wouldn’t be near where I am right now if it were not for her. She gave me the ability to actually understand stuff in school,” Williams said. 

The best advice Williams said he ever received is “Those who listen to instruction prosper,” he said. His favorite memory in sports is “my first time winning the state tournament,” he adds. 

Williams said that what he has learned from wrestling, “It’s taught me great sportsmanship and respect for the other people.”

Keaolani also competes on the Lions’ track and field team, where competes as a pole vaulter. He draws inspiration from everyone in his family. 

“In wrestling, my dad is my main inspiration. He is the one who put me in wrestling and has taught me most of what I know. My mom has taught me life skills, such as respect, consideration, balance, and connection, and my big brother, Stetson, has been a huge help in band,” Williams said. Williams is also involved in the Moore marching band as a percussionist.

“My big brother is also the one I practice with every day, and he helps me overcome my flaws and my skills.”

When the Lions take the mat for a dual or even in a tournament to represent their school, Williams is thrilled that “It makes other people in our school want to join the wrestling team,” he said. 

The Moore freshman grappler claims Oklahoma State as his favorite college wrestling team and is a fan of the legendary coach John Smith, who retired in 2024 and was also a U.S. Olympian in the sport. His hobbies outside of wrestling are building his fort, R.C. planes, roller blading, weed whacking, video games, and riding go-karts. 

“Thanks to my dad for all the lessons in wrestling, my mom for the life advice, and Mr. Smith for teaching me a good work ethic,” Williams said.