Playing football is a generational activity in the Garrett household in Poteau so it’s no wonder that even though he also plays baseball, Pirate senior Wesley Garrett enjoys football better.

“My grandpa, dad and older brother all played football and my brother, Tucker, was on our 2019 state championship team. I like it because it’s just more of a family feeling to me than baseball.”

Wesley started summer practice in a three-way battle at quarterback but is now a wide receiver and defensive back on the gridiron and pitches and plays outfield on the diamond. While he plays both offense and defense in football Garrett says he likes the offensive side best.

“It’s just a thrill to catch a pass or throw a great block for a teammate,” said Garrett.

When asked about role models in his athletic career, he was quick to point to a former teammate.

“When I was a freshman there was a guy named Vahameilalo Tuifua (now playing at Central Oklahoma) who was a senior and I really looked up to him. He did every little thing right and treated everyone the same and now that I’m a senior leader that’s how I try to be. I can be vocal at times in the locker room or during a game, but I mainly try to set a good example by doing things right and showing the younger kids how to do things.”

And Wesley is apparently doing just that as Pirate football coach Greg Werner talked about the senior.

“Wesley is a true leader of our football team. His work ethic and calm demeanor inspire all of the kids. He has become and outstanding receiver who leads the team in receptions. He impacts the game with his leadership and play on the field.”

Since the time his brother was on that title team several years ago, Poteau football has always had high expectations such as last year when then went to the Class 4A state semifinals. They are expected to do well again this year with a solid group of returning starters and, given his family tree, Wesley feels a little pressure to achieve those goals in his senior year.

“We’ve got a lot of expectations on us again this year since we did so well last year and I think we’ve got the group to make it happen,” said Garrett.

Wesley says he would like the opportunity to play college football or baseball if that came about but otherwise says he will probably attend OSUIT to pursue a trade after high school.