Meet Charlie Darracott, a senior at Buford High School. Charlie is the son of Rick Darracott and Daneya Thompson, the stepson of Dave Thompson, and the sibling of Elizabeth, Andrew, and Sara. After transferring to the school system at the start of his 9th-grade year, Charlie immediately immersed himself in the Buford community. His involvement in and support for Buford High School led to Charlie’s success at the school and created a lasting legacy he will leave behind.
Charlie is a double threat academically and athletically. Academically, Charlie is considered as one of the top-performing students at Buford High School in spite of his rigorous course schedule. He is also an Executive Member of the National Honor Society, a club intended to encourage leadership and service among the highest achieving academic students in 11th and 12th grade.
As a lover of learning, Charlie shares that his favorite subject is literature because “…it provides an outlet for me to express myself through writing.” He describes his language arts teacher, Dr. Tim Harris, as being a significant influence in his senior year. “Dr. Harris is passionate about what he teaches,” Charlie says. “The way that he connects many topics to AP Lit always has me looking forward to his class.” Charlie is a student who enjoys putting emphasis on purposeful learning and thrives on challenges in the classroom; ultimately, both factors result in his love for thought-provoking classes such as AP Literature.
Athletically, Charlie is a fierce and dedicated competitor. The Varsity Wrestling team is the place where he has prospered as an athlete, but also as an individual with personal goals and dreams. As a two time State Champion, one time National Finalist, and one time National Champion saying that Charlie is talented is a gross understatement. His success on the Buford Wrestling Team is a contributing factor to his acceptance into Stanford University, one of the most prestigious schools in the nation. Charlie states, “I am beyond excited to be surrounded by yet another great community that will help me excel academically and athletically. The community at Stanford is truly great and I am grateful to be able to grow as a human being alongside some wonderful, amazing people.”
Beyond his tremendous success as an athlete, the tight-knit community that the Varsity Wrestling team promotes is a very important aspect of Charlie’s high school experience. “Wrestling is my way of life,” Charlie says. “It is my passion, and it is a great opportunity to lead and love on others.” Indeed, leadership is another major component in Charlie’s arsenal of inspiring personal traits. After being elected on the student council for two straight years, and as a member of the Buford Wolfgang, Charlie has undoubtedly thrived as a leader among his peers.
When Charlie isn’t busy getting stellar grades or winning championships, he is most likely exploring the great outdoors. He enjoys hiking, kayaking, and rock climbing on occasions. Adventuring with his friends is one of his favorite activities and something he truly cherishes. Charlie shares that he also loves playing with his sister’s French bulldog (he describes himself as a ‘doggie uncle’) named Moonie.
On his overall experience as a Buford Wolf, Charlie shares, “Being at Buford has been a great opportunity for me to excel in all aspects. I am truly grateful to have been surrounded by such a great community that believes in my abilities. This belief is what brings the best out of me and all Buford students and has helped me to get accepted into Stanford University.” Charlie Darracott is an active member of the Buford community, an unforgettable student, a dedicated athlete, and a remarkable person.
— By Regan Saunders
