Rucker, Jones love getting hyped for games

Four-year seniors Marcus Rucker and Nate Jones enjoy their time under the lights and look to make a name for themselves in the upcoming football season for the Lawton High School Wolverines.

Marcus Rucker is senior defensive back and player on the Lawton High basketball team with aspirations of continuing his football career into college. He said he’s communicated with a few colleges about playing football for them, but he hasn’t settled on one yet.

“It’s a good feeling to be noticed for my talents,” said Rucker.

Pregame music while putting on his gear is how Rucker gets ready for the game. The locker room buzz gets him in the zone. When it comes to performing under the lights, it gets no better than the intracity rivalries.

“I like when the town comes together while the high schools play each other. When the lights come on it gets fun,” said Rucker.

On his expectations for the season, Rucker said that he expects the team to give it their all. “Our coaches put us in the right situations. We just have to keep working and play ball.”

Rucker has learned some lessons thanks to his time as a part of the football and basketball teams at Lawton High. His advice for his underclassmen teammates and anyone working towards a goal; keep working and your time will come.

“Work hard for everything and be ready for whatever comes.” said Rucker. “Stay the course and keep working. Your time will come.”

“I’m ready to prove what we can do and make it deep to the playoffs. It hasn’t been done in a while and I think we have the team to do it.”

Jones eager for senior success

Four-year football senior and track and field runner Nate Jones is getting attention of college programs to continue to play at the next level. He loves to play under the lights and says that the feeling of running out of the tunnel and playing in front of the fans is like no other.

Jones has gotten offers to play college football from a few schools but he’s still putting all of them into consideration. As of now, he’s determined to play at the next level. “I’m definitely going to try and get a football scholarship. It’s a good feeling to have schools looking into my game.”

“I like looking into the stands, hearing the band in the background, seeing the sunset,” said Jones. “That stuff is crazy. I’m lucky that I get to see that every Friday.”

Before the game, Jones is ready from the moment he starts listening to his music and putting his arm sleeves, wraps, and pads on. “I’ve gotta listen to music and get the pre-game drip going.”

After a big win, Jones likes to celebrate the win by dancing in the locker room with his teammates. You can also catch him after a big win celebrating at IHop, his go-to spot.

Lessons he’s learned from his time in football and track and used off the field include time management and discipline. “You need to be disciplined, work hard and be on time. Do everything the best you can.”

His advice for his underclassman teammates is to start working now and put in the work to see rewards. “Don’t wait to be great. Start now and continue working.”

Jones has high expectations for the team this season and says the brotherhood that he and his teammates have formed will help the Wolverines achieve them.

“Definitely working towards a championship and playing as a team,” said Jones. “Football is like a family. We’re brothers, that’s all it is.”