Built by Family: Kyler Harden

By: Jude Morales

SEATTLE– People see Kyler Harden as a top-ranked football player in the class of 2028. They see him as a 4-star athlete and a 2-time state champion. But what people don't see is the inspiration he got from watching his grandpa play football, and the little pieces of wisdom and encouragement that act as his true fuel come Friday night. 

Harden’s football journey didn't start his freshman year of high school when he got called up to varsity and won the state championship. It started way before that, even before he put on the shoulder pads and a helmet. 

Harden was inspired by his grandfather, who played two years of professional football. This pushed him to reach to be the very best.

At the young age of five Harden was already playing tackle football for the Ballard Knights; coaches saw his talent and Harden played with kids a year older than him. 

“Ever since I started, I've been in love with football,” Harden said.

This love for football and desire to take his talents to the next level isn't new for Harden. The pattern of Harden playing a year up would continue into his high school career. In his freshman year Harden was called up to play varsity football for the O’Dea Fighting Irish and was a part of the 2024 state title winning team that would eventually go back-to-back a year later. 

Harden clearly has an athletic aspect that gives him a physical advantage over his opponents. But Harden doesn't attribute the success he has found to that, rather to the people who support him behind the scenes, and in this case, it is his mom. 

As Harden put it, “My mom always pushes me to be better, even if I'm doing well, I can still do better in her eyes.” 

Harden isn't just pushed by his teammates and coaches, his own mother can be his biggest driving force. 

While most moms will simply support their kids, Harden’s mom will push him to be his best. When Harden has a tough game, his mom reminds him to have a short memory. When he has a good game, his mom reminds him to stay hungry. 

This unseen encouragement serves as motivation for Harden. So far in his high school career, it seems to have paid off. He has won two state championships with O’Dea, and looks to make it 3-in-a-row in 2026.