Experiencing his last day of high school, Clint Heffern could sense the bittersweetness of moving on.
“I never thought this day would come,” he said Wednesday afternoon.
Between school and baseball, Heffern has been so caught up with activities he’s had no time to savor the significance of graduating from Iola High School. The feather in his cap is he’s one of eight valedictorians to be awarded at Sunday’s graduation ceremonies for earning all A’s during his high school career.
Heffern credits a number of things out of his control for his success.
His parents, grandparents, teachers, coaches and church have all helped shape him into an optimistic and hard-working young man.
“My grandmother taught me that at the end of the day, the only person I have to answer to is myself, and God. I guess knowing the difference between what’s right and wrong makes it pretty easy for me to decide what path to take. My parents and coaches have instilled in me to always do my best.”
Heffern is the son of Chuck and Linda Heffern. His mother teaches sixth grade math at Iola Middle School. His father works in the city’s power plant.
Heffern is the middle of three sons. His older brother, Chris, also was named a valedictorian for IHS. He’s majoring in construction science at Pittsburg State University.
“Chris has been a great role model — almost too perfect, sometimes. He’s the nicest guy you’ll ever meet,” Clint said of his older brother.
“I’m sure this puts a lot of pressure on our younger brother, Colton. But he’s up for it.”
Heffern’s coaches have made as much of an impact on Heffern as his parents.
“Sports have taught me a lot of life lessons,” he said. “A sport builds you up as a person, always challenging you to improve. Offseason, it’s important to keep conditioning and weight-training. Being on a team, makes you put others first.”
Heffern singled out Mark Percy, baseball coach. “He said to change the big things, work on the little things.”
It’s only now Heffern said he can appreciate the discipline his parents instilled at home.
“I used to think they were really tough,” he said. “But now I’m very thankful my parents expected us to do our best. I’m glad they pushed us and kept us accountable for our actions.”
Heffern’s grandparents, Bernita and Charles Heffern, have also been very involved in Clint’s life.
