For most, high school ends with a diploma and walking across a stage, but for Coach Clayton Keys, that was not the case. A once a Tompkins High School athlete under Friday night lights, is now watching from the sidelines in pride. Keys graduated from Tompkins Highschool in 2020 with great achievements throughout those four years. He was involved in many sports including baseball, track, and football, and also excelled in the National Honors Society for Art. Now, Keys is giving back to the Tompkins community serving as an assistant football coach, and science teacher. Being only his first year back at the school, he has already made a great impact on the students he teaches, athletes he coaches, and even other coaches he works with.

“He represents everything it means to be a falcon. He’s a great example for our young men to look up to,” Varsity Football Coach McVey said. 

Graduating from Tompkins only six years ago is definitely helpful for Keys in order to connect with the athletes he coaches. It is easier for him to understand his students; what they’re going through, why they act the way they do, and how to help them. Many students view him as not only a coach or a teacher, but a helping hand. Because of this, he has a great influence on his students. They acknowledge that he, not too long ago, was going through the same Tompkins athlete life that they are right now. The ability Keys has to bond with his students is something that many look for in a leader, so he truly has shown his capability of good works in this school. 

“Being an alumni, he’s been in the process and trusts it, just like his students should. He has what’s called, “Skins on the wall,” which means he’s been successful in track and field, and also football, so it’s good for the students to see how he did it,” Coach McVey said.

 For Keys, coaching at his former high school is a process of renewing lessons and support he once received. He was once coached by head varsity football coach, Coach McVey, and has the privilege to work with him. He treasured the companionship and teachings Tompkins High School showed him, and is now continuing that legacy alongside the same people who helped shape him. 

“It means everything to me to give back to this school. I grew up wanting to do certain things, but to give back to the younger generation, especially the generation that is right under me is one of the most important things to me,” Coach Keys said.