Coweta Football Players Lean On Each Other As They Navigate Adversity Off The Field

Not even a tornado can stop the Tulsa Tech Game of the week from happening between Coweta and McAlester. 

For the Tigers, a lot is on the line. Beyond homecoming, the annual pink-out game and staying undefeated - there is much more behind this game.           

Teams will use the word adversity to motivate their squad. For Coweta, it’s been a badge of courage and not only from rebuilding from the tornado that touched down early this week.

"You know this team has been hit with tragedy,” Coweta head coach Tim Harper said. “With grandparents that are the major caregivers in the family passing this year with one of our sophomores, [and] another sophomore passed unexpectedly maybe just a month ago.”  

Then there is Tiger Linebacker Michael Fletcher, the youngest of four, who lost his mother due to breast cancer in July, prior to the start of senior season.

"It’s tough, it’s really hard to get in the mindset and get going,” Fletcher said. “It just gives me that extra grit and extra grind that I need cause I'm doing it all for her.”  

Fletcher said he finds support in his fellow teammates.

"This is for sure my extended family, we are all a brotherhood. Me and the captains made a point to break down on family when we end practice and games, and I know they are there for me anytime I need,” said Fletcher.

"These kids are blue collar. The best part about being blue collar is you are big hearted and seeing one another’s pain and want to come fight, has been an awesome thing," said Harper.