Classroom Champions: Abbott’s Max Stalker

ABBOTT, Texas (KWTX) - Abbott senior Max Stalker is not like most kids.

“My parents always said school first and then everything else after that,” said Stalker. “I’ve never had social media, I’ve never really gotten too much into video games and things. Once you take those things out, there’s actually a lot more time than you think.”

With all of that extra time, Stalker has built an impressive resume. He will finish his high school athletic career as state champion baseball player and a state finalist in both cross country and golf.

All of his coaches say it’s an absolute privilege to get to coach him.

“He’s the same kid every single day,” said Abbott head baseball coach Kyle Crawford. “He could be in an 0 for 10 (slump) or 10 for 10, he could be lights out or struggling a little bit and you’ll get the same work ethic, same mindset.”

On top of his many athletic accomplishments, Stalker is class valedictorian. He also will have the prestigious honor of attending the United States Naval Academy after graduation, where he will join both of his older sisters.

“It’s obviously a new place to go to,” said Stalker. “With the plebe summer that I’m going into, it’s a new environment with new people and new rules. It’s always kind of something you’re always thinking about. I’m just super excited to go and I think it’s a new challenge that will raise my level even higher.”

“He works extremely hard, he gets into a great head space and that allows him to thrive in high-pressure situations when the stakes get higher,” said Crawford. “Again, it’s just all the traits they’re probably looking for at the Naval Academy. It’s just an honor to have a kid like that, a leader like that that’s just steady day in and day out.”

Stalker said he wants to be remembered for his humility.

“I want to be remembered by the example that I set for the people around me,” said Stalker. “Just the kind of person that will always do what they’re told and do everything to the best of their abilities without ever talking about it.”

Congratulations to Max Stalker, you’re a Classroom Champion!

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