For Bryce Hartlieb, Vandalia isn’t just home—it’s a place where dreams are cultivated, leadership is nurtured, and community comes together to lift its own. As a junior at Vandalia High School, Bryce is making his mark both in the classroom and on the field, balancing his passions for FFA, football, and his future aspirations.

Bryce’s journey into FFA began in eighth grade, inspired by his older sister, who served as FFA president. “I started by helping her out,” Bryce recalls. “By the time I was a freshman, I was fully invested.” His involvement grew quickly, and by his sophomore year, Bryce was elected secretary of the Vandalia FFA chapter—a rare achievement for an underclassman.

While many associate FFA with farming, Bryce is quick to explain its broader scope. “FFA isn’t just for farm kids,” he says. “It’s about leadership, teamwork, and gaining life skills.” Bryce, who comes from a farming background and helps his family manage 500 acres and raise pigs, appreciates the agricultural aspects of FFA but values its leadership opportunities just as much. Through FFA, he’s participated in community service projects, animal judging competitions, and even public speaking—experiences he says have helped him grow as both a student and a leader.

Beyond FFA, Bryce’s passion for football has been a defining part of his life. Starting at age six in Highland’s youth football program, he brought years of experience to Vandalia when he began playing locally in middle school. “That early exposure gave me an edge,” he admits. Now a key player for Vandalia’s varsity team, Bryce thrives on the camaraderie and discipline the sport demands. “Football teaches you to push through challenges and to rely on your teammates,” he says.

This season, Bryce transitioned from defensive tackle to defensive end, a move that required him to further hone his speed and agility. Over the summer, he trained with specialized coaches, including a former NFL player, to sharpen his skills. “It’s the little things that make a difference,” Bryce explains. “Tweaking a technique or learning a new move can change the game.”

Bryce credits much of his success to his coaches, who have not only refined his athletic abilities but also instilled life lessons. “Coach Rinehart brings so much energy—it’s contagious,” Bryce says with a smile. “And Coach Clay knows the game inside and out. I’ve learned so much from them.” Their guidance, combined with Bryce’s drive, has positioned him as a leader on the team and a role model for younger players, including his younger brother, who is following in his footsteps.

While football and FFA keep him busy, Bryce remains grounded in his academics and his community. In his ag business class, he’s already working on building a resume—a skill he knows will serve him well in the future. Looking ahead, Bryce hopes to play college football, with schools like the University of Illinois and even the Georgia Bulldogs fueling his dreams. “If the opportunity comes, I’ll take it,” he says. “Not everyone gets to experience something like that.”

If football doesn’t pan out, Bryce plans to pursue a career in agriculture, possibly following in his father’s footsteps. “My dad works in agricultural chemicals, and it’s fascinating to see the science behind it all,” he says. “Agriculture is such a massive industry—it’s more than just farming.”

When asked to describe Vandalia to an outsider, Bryce doesn’t hesitate. “It’s a fun, loving town where everyone knows everyone,” he says. “During football season, the whole community comes together. Businesses put up signs, people honk as they drive past practice—it’s incredible.” One of his favorite memories is walking into Casey’s before a game and seeing his teammates’ names and numbers displayed in the window. “That kind of support makes you feel like you’re part of something bigger,” he adds.

Bryce’s story is one of ambition, resilience, and gratitude. Whether leading in FFA, making big plays on the football field, or dreaming of his next steps, he exemplifies the spirit of Vandalia: a community rooted in connection, hard work, and the belief that its young people can achieve great things. And they ARE.