By Payton Moody

At the core of Idabel High School’s football team shines a junior with a passion for the game and a drive for excellence—Beau Ritchie. As a dynamic player on both offense and defense, Ritchie’s impact on the field is undeniable.

Ritchie’s journey in football has been shaped by guidance, and he attributes his growth to a favorite coach. “My favorite coach throughout my career has been Coach Scott Pratt,” Ritchie shares. Coach Pratt’s influence extends beyond the game, making Beau tougher and smarter, while also imparting valuable life lessons.

A player’s journey is often enriched by teammates who provide support and inspiration. For Ritchie, teammates Case Pratt and Caden Coursey hold a special place. “They each took me under their wing and taught me how to be a better player and person,” he said, highlighting the camaraderie that fuels his development.

In the classroom, Mr. Lance Wyrick stands out as Ritchie’s favorite teacher. “He made class fun and enjoyable,” Ritchie said. More than just academic support, Mr. Wyrick’s influence has prepared Ritchie for his future endeavors.

Preparation is key, and Ritchie’s off-season routine demonstrates his commitment to honing his skills. “I have prepared this off-season by attending football camps and 7 on 7s. I have also been attending summer workouts,” he said.

Lessons learned on the field often transcend into daily life. “Football has taught me perseverance and confidence. It also has taught me great discipline,” Ritchie said.

Amidst memorable moments, one stands out vividly for Ritchie. “My favorite memory in football would be practicing on Thanksgiving Day last season,” Ritchie recalls. A goal achieved, that practice held a unique significance and a sense of accomplishment.

As the upcoming season beckons, Ritchie’s aspirations remain high. “I and our team hope to accomplish our goals of beating our biggest rivals, Broken Bow,” he said. “We also hope and are prepared to win a district championship and a state championship.”

Looking forward to the matchups, one stands out for Ritchie. “I am most excited about our matchup with Eufaula, our main district competitors, this season,” he said.

Beyond high school, Ritchie’s aspirations extend to the realm of engineering. “My plans after high school are to go to college and become a mechanical engineer.”