As the starting quarterback for Thomas-Fay-Custer, Tye Littlebird is more than just the leader of the offense; he’s the emotional heartbeat of a team built on grit, belief, and relentless effort. Going into his senior season, Tye has earned the respect of teammates and coaches with his work ethic, humility, and passion for the game.
“My biggest motivation is Jesus and my mom,” Tye says. “She always tells me what I need to hear, not what I want to hear.” That kind of tough love has shaped him both on and off the field. Whether it’s late nights studying game film or early mornings in the weight room, Tye keeps pushing, trusting the process and learning from every setback along the way.
One of his proudest moments came last season, in a wild last-second win over #2-ranked Mangum. “We beat them 47-46 on the last play,” he recalls. “It was unreal.” Another highlight came in a physical playoff battle against Hominy that sent Thomas-Fay-Custer to the state semifinals. “Just a tough, physical game,” he says. “I’m very privileged to be around a bunch of dawgs. Honestly, our second-team defense is better than some teams we play.”
Tye is quick to give credit to the guys in the trenches. “I’d have to say our O-line, I try to show them love every chance I get. They don’t get enough credit.” As for role models, he studies Tom Brady, calling him “informational” and “the GOAT.”
Balancing football with school hasn’t always been easy, but Tye leans on his mom’s advice: “You’re a student-athlete, student comes first.” That mindset fuels him, especially during long, exhausting weeks in the season.
“I hate losing more than I love winning,” Tye says with a grin. That competitive fire, combined with his leadership and humility, makes him one of the most respected players in the state and someone his teammates are proud to follow.
