SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: McAlester's Owen Russell learns lessons of football, life
Nov. 17—Owen Russell has learned a lot about himself and life on the football field.
The McAlester senior started his football career early with flag football, and worked his way up to the rough and tumble of high school Friday nights.
"I played it ever since I was little," Russell said of his instant love for the game. "Just playing it, it clicked."
Russell recalled a moment in little league football when he rattled off a long score that helped him see some of his potential.
"It was like an 84 yard touchdown," he said. "I was like, 'maybe I'm good at this.'"
Russell has seen a lot of success in his time with the Buffaloes on both sides of the ball, and said he has learned a lot about the game and himself since transferring to go to school at McAlester.
"Being at McAlester has definitely taught me a lot more about football than what I already knew," he said. "Being in a 5A, and like a bigger school and everything like that, it's like a whole different type of football; different atmosphere, different type of program."
Russell said there have been many memories made the last four years, and started to recall those that stood out early in his career as a Buff.
"Our El Reno game on our comeback a freshman year," he said. "I know my mind was blown a little bit."
Russell has a few ideas for what he wants to do after high school graduation. If he doesn't continue his athletic career, he wants to enter into law enforcement.
"I have a few family members (that are law enforcement). And I know like, all the benefits they get and how everything was for them," he said. "And it's ever since I was little, I've just been interested in it. I've always liked it."
And just like with football, Russell knows that will take a lot of responsibility, dedication, and passion as he sets out to pursue his new path in life.
"It's just, I know the dangers that come with it," he said. "It's a big commitment."
