By Trina Walker

Playing flag football in kindergarten introduced Nate Neal to a sport that would become an important part of his life. Now a senior, Nate plays quarterback for the Bartlesville High School Bruins. 

Football taught him discipline and the characteristics of good leadership. Nate has played football for 13 years. In this time, he has built himself into a better person and player. “I love it,” he says, “the best advice I’ve ever been given is to believe in myself.” 

The best part of being on a team is forming a family. “My teammates are my brothers. Shoutout to all my teammates, I love these guys and always will. Just to name a few, we got Niko, J Rack, Jr., Sammy T, Torres, and Avo. I could go on. Also, shoutout to my dawg, coach Munoz. I would not be here without him,” says Nate.

Choosing just one player who left the biggest impression is hard to narrow down. “My guy Shaun Lickliter helped me tremendously when I was trying to learn the ropes my sophomore year. He always kept my head up,” said Nate.

Many people inspire Nate, with his dad being one of them. “I am inspired by a lot of people and have learned lessons from them. My dad taught me hard work, respect, and to be myself,” he says.

Nate is proud to be part of continuing the legacy of the BHS football program. “I think representing this program is a testament to the dedication and care my coaches and teammates put in,” he said. 

His best memory from football is the year his team came back in the extreme cold to beat Lawton in the first round of the playoffs.

Nate has many interests. He loves to play music and to cook. He is currently trying to learn golf and would love to go on a vacation to see family in West Virginia, ideally with his girlfriend.