“Never do the bare minimum.”
Jacob Atha heard those words from his dad, and as he begins his freshman year at Westville High School, they have become a standard for how he wants to approach what comes next.
“That has taught me to strive harder to be successful,” Atha said.
For someone entering high school with three sports on his schedule, there will be plenty of chances to live up to that advice. Atha competes in baseball, basketball and football, moving from one season to another while learning what it takes to consistently show up and put in the work.
“Hard work and commitment are two lessons my sport has taught me,” Atha said.
Those lessons matter to Atha beyond wins, losses or individual performances. When asked about a memory he is most proud of, he did not point to anything that happened during a game. Instead, he chose a moment from June 2025, when he was baptized.
That decision reflects the importance of faith in Atha’s life. As he begins high school, he is also involved in Fellowship of Christian Athletes, giving him an opportunity to stay connected to his faith while participating in the sports that are already a significant part of his life.
The people around Atha have helped shape his approach, beginning at home. His dad’s message about never settling for the bare minimum has stuck with him because it applies to more than athletics. It is a reminder to expect more from himself, whether he is competing, working in the classroom or handling the responsibilities that come with growing up.
“I would like to thank my coaches and my parents, but specifically my dad for teaching me many lessons and always being there for me,” Atha said.
Atha has also noticed those same qualities in the athletes around him. Bradley Hinkel has made the greatest impression on him because of “his hard work and dedication,” providing an example of the commitment Atha wants to bring to his own sports.
That expectation has followed him into the classroom, where Mrs. Guthrie played an important role in preparing him for the jump to high school.
“She held me accountable and prepared me for high school,” Atha said.
Accountability fits naturally with the standard Atha has been taught at home. Doing more than the minimum requires someone to recognize when more effort is needed, and Atha enters his freshman year with that lesson already established.
Even with three sports, school and FCA filling his schedule, Atha appreciates the places that offer a chance to simply gather with others. His favorite place in his hometown is The Kitchen Table.
“It’s a great place to gather and enjoy some good food,” Atha said.
Atha is only at the beginning of his high school experience. The games, seasons and accomplishments that will eventually tell the story of his time at Westville are still ahead.
But the standard he plans to carry through those years is already clear.
Never do the bare minimum.
