By Payton Moody
Every athlete has that one coach who leaves an incredible mark on their journey, guiding them towards greatness. For Matrail Lopez, a junior at Idabel High School, that coach happens to be someone very close to home.
Lopez, who plays as a cornerback and wide receiver on the football field and takes on the role of point guard in basketball, shines as a promising young talent. “My favorite coach would be my dad,” Lopez said. “He has had a lot of impact on me just by the extra work and all the time we put in together.”
Team sports thrive on camaraderie and support, and Lopez is fortunate to have a teammate who embodies these qualities. “The teammate that supported me the most is my brother,” he said. “He knows how to get me going and knows how to get me motivated when I’m not doing too good.”
In the classroom, Lopez has found inspiration in Mrs. Hamilton, one of his favorite teachers. “Mrs. Hamilton cares about the students and how we do. She also loves sports and stays on me about my schoolwork.”
To prepare for the upcoming season, Lopez dedicated his off-season to honing his skills. “This off-season, I have been with Sean Cooper at C4,” he said. “He knows what he is talking about and helps with key things in my game and in life.”
Football has imparted invaluable life lessons to Lopez. “Football has taught me dedication because to be great at something, it takes time and consistency.”
As he looks forward to the upcoming season, Lopez has clear goals: “I hope to get the district title and then go on to win the state championship.”
One matchup he eagerly anticipates is against Eufaula, a strong rival. “I’m looking forward to the Eufaula game,” he said. “They’re a good team who we have to beat for the district champs. They got us last year, and we’re looking for a little revenge.”
Beyond high school, Lopez has his sights set on a college education. He hopes to pursue a degree while continuing his athletic journey. Matrail Lopez is a player to watch for the Idabel Warriors.
