The Three Musketeers

There’s one thing that Poteau is well known for and that’s football. Friday nights are the biggest highlight of the school year. Everyone is looking forward to seeing another Poteau Pirate victory. Besides coaches, three people hold the team together and that’s the captains. Not only must captains be competent in their playing, but they also need to inspire confidence in their players, evaluate the game plan, and change it if circumstances dictate. They need to handle pressure well, make tactical decisions, and communicate effectively with the referee as well as the team. Captains embody the 3 C’s in leading their team: Caring, Courageous, and Consistent. Being named a team captain is quite an honor. The position of captain is given to those athletes whom the rest of the team respects and trusts to lead the team in the right direction. Our three captains are seniors Dax Collins, Holden Mattox, and Jackson Sommers. “Being a captain means a lot to me,” says Dax. “I’ve been wanting to be one since I started Varsity, now that I’m a senior, I can finally do it. Todd Mattox and Dean Odom have been my inspiration throughout the years.” If a bad play or choice is made, the captains are normally responsible for it. “Making a bad play has consequences,” added Holden. “It can make a huge difference in how we play or make a move on the field. It can throw us off and make us lose focus.” One goal that these three have is making it to state with their team and taking home a victory. “I expect a lot from this team,” Jackson stated. “We worked so hard these past years and we’ve gotten better. I’m proud of these guys and all we have accomplished.” These guys always make the team better and more prepared. They encourage each other and make sure that they are heard. By the end of the day, they are grateful for each other.