Owen Russell signs with Culver-Stockton College
Mar. 18—Owen Russell's life changed in the blink of an eye.
The McAlester senior signed his National Letter of Intent on National Signing Day last month to play college football at Culver-Stockton College in Canton, Mo., next season. And he said the day was one he had been looking forward to for some time.
"I'm super excited to (have signed)," Owen said. "I'm pretty excited about it."
Russell had 81 tackles for the Buffs this season at the linebacker position, including eight tackles for loss, three sacks, two deflected passes and caused a pair of fumbles.
A major player in the McAlester defense, Russell wanted to continue his career at the next level. And he said once he got his name out to some programs, things moved quickly.
"Honestly, at first, I didn't think it was going to happen," he admitted. "And then, one thing led to another, and here we are."
Russell said he plans to get to business immediately both on the field and in the classroom from the moment he steps foot on campus — and continue to grow as a student-athlete.
"I imagine just whenever I get there, go to work real hard," he said. "Start early, and just be the best I can."
Many people have helped form Russell into the person and player he is today, but maybe none more so than a special few people.
"Definitely my parents and my family and my friends," he said. "And then all the coaches I've had over the years, you know."
Although he's hung up his black and gold jersey for the final time, Russell said he had so much gratitude for everyone that has been in his corner. And he had a little bit of advice for the next generation as they too look to turn imagination into reality.
"Set your dreams and your goals big, because they're always achievable," he said. "Even if it may not seem like it is. So just keep working. Everything's on the other side."
