JACOB TIGER

Tahlequah High School

Jacob Tiger has earned a long list of accolades during his running days at Tahlequah High School.

The 2025 senior cross country and track standout is a two-time all-state selection and four-time state qualifier in cross country, and is on pace to earn a fourth bid to the OSSAA State Track & Field Championships. He’s also a three-time conference champion and has been a part of three team conference titles.

Tiger accomplished a big goal of his on April 11 when he ran a 9:55 in the 3200 meter run to place second behind Sapulpa’s Titus Ellis at the Claremore High School Zebra Invitational Track Meet. He also ran a personal-best 4:39 in the 1600 meter at the same event.

With the help from his mom, motivation has played a key part in Tiger’s success.

“My most memorable moment was either finally breaking 10 in the 3200m or getting All-State for the first time,” Tiger said. “It feels so surreal to be an All-Stater, especially when I have been underestimated my whole life.

“My biggest influence as an athlete is probably my Mom. She’s always been there cheering me on. She always reminded me to push and be my best as an athlete and as a human being.”

Tiger says he’s progressed on his top speed, which has allowed him to compete in the 800 meter event.

Tiger, who is heavily involved at First Baptist Church in Tahlequah, will continue his running career at Oklahoma Baptist University in Shawnee.

“My future at OBU is to run cross country and track and give it my all on and off the track, and the reason I chose OBU is because it’s the best place for me as a Christian and where I can get a good education and be competitive as well in running,” Tiger said of his decision to choose OBU.”

He’s already has mapped out his goals for the collegiate level. But he has more immediate goals.

“Some goals are to make the top 7 as a freshman in cross country at OBU and to win state in at least one event for Tahlequah track in May,” Tiger said.