After being named to the Casper Star-Tribune Super 25 last year, Powell High School senior Toran Graham knew what it took to be one of the best players in the state of Wyoming.

Graham knew the bar was set high after the success of his junior season, and he exceeded those expectations with a 2021 season that landed back him on the prestigious list.

Compared to his junior year, the linebacker’s production increased from 86 to 96 tackles, which ranked among the top five in production for tackles in Class 3A for 2021.

“It took countless hours on and off the field to be able to achieve where I am today,” Graham said. “I was very grateful to be able to receive this award and was very happy to see all the hard work paying off.”

He said it took a lot of focus and drive to come out with the same intensity each and every time. The hours spent in the offseason — including working out two to three times a day — helped push the success he saw his senior year to a new level.

Graham said his senior season was not the easiest, however, as he battled sickness and faced the pressure of being a team captain, with players looking up to him throughout the season.

“I’ve had many wonderful teammates that have guided me throughout my football career that have helped me develop to be the best person I can be,” Graham said. “I’ve had many past teammates that have taught me so much about the game of football and have taught me countless life lessons, but the teammates that have shaped me the most are my fellow seniors this year.”

Along with his teammates, the coaches at Powell High School have also impacted the success that has come to Graham; he said they have all impacted him in a positive way and he will remember the lessons they have taught him.

In addition to being named to the Casper Star-Tribune’s Super 25, Graham was also named to the 3A All-State team and was named Co-Defensive Player of the Year in 3A West.