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we just really pursued it for enjoyment….as a hobby at first. We decided to fish our first competitive tournament at Ross Barnett four years ago. For a few years, we would just enter that one annually. Then, we got the wild idea of chasing the state trail.” We pause so his father, Dan, can explain the lingo to me. Clubs have tournaments every month on a different lake in Mississippi and “chasing the trail” means following the tournament route. The Jeffries began that on the state level in 2020 and entered their first national tournament in September of 2021. They came in 10th out of 104 boats - a big confidence booster which propelled them to their second place win at the next national tournament a month later. I’m still not sure I had wrapped my mind around the staggering success these men experienced until Hayden off-handedly mentions that in 2022 they won three national tournaments and a total of $220,000. Upon further investigation, I discovered that this is akin to winning the Triple Crown in horse-racing and, as far as the Jeffries know, has never been done before. Hayden, who is one course shy of completing his business administration degree and works as a full-time fishing guide at other times of the year, usually heads to a tournament location early in the week to scout things out, practice, and find the big fish. Dan and his wife Katie then join Hayden closer to the weekend where Katie acts as “team mom,” booking VRBO’s and making sure everything is in order. This family hobby-turned-career is the product of decades of investment Dan and Katie have made in the lives of their three sons, of whom Hayden is the middle. Dan shares, “When the boys were two, growing up, I did everything I could to keep them busy and outside. We hunted, fished, and played every sport you can think of. In fact, when all three boys were playing tournament baseball, Katie and I often felt like we were just passing each other in the night.” Those sacrifices appear to have paid huge dividends—and not just in wins and prize money, although both men smile when we discuss how successful their partnership has been. By listening to them talk, it is obvious Dan and Katie took their responsibility as parents seriously and truly enjoy the sons they have raised. Finding the time to prioritize hobbies as a family, getting outdoors together more, and directing our childrens’ energy into productive avenues….. these are things that I, as a young parent, am glad to be reminded of. As Hayden encourages, “Just get out there and try something new. Get outside and enjoy.” Hometown RANKIN • 69