Rising Star: Ty Cooper

Age is only a number when it comes to Ty Cooper, a soon-to-be sophomore defensive tackle for Lutcher High School. The former baseball player benches 235, squats 425, deadlifts 420, and cleans 100, standing at 5’10 and weighing in at 234 pounds. From his amazing rushing skills to his aggressiveness and extreme work ethic, Cooper considers himself hardworking and responsible, some key attributes to maintaining a successful football career; and at such a young age! He studies and models his playing style after former Lutcher defensive tackles, working to improve his game each week and each season.

When was your first time playing football?

• I could say as a young kid at the age of 5 years old, playing recreational football

Why did you start playing football?

• As a kid growing in Gramercy, Louisiana, it was pretty much a football town. A lot of people suggested I do it and try something new, I was baseball player before so I tried the football thing and it kinda caught on to me. I mean, it was a great experience from then and I just took off with it.

  

What would you say your strengths are, specifically in your position?

• Very agile, aggressive and can read the field clearly

What have you learned the most from playing football?

• It’s your character that you learn the most as you grow and keep playing the sport. I’ve learned about my character and discipline so far

If you weren’t playing football what would you be doing?

• Since I am a former baseball player, I would’ve probably kept playing baseball.

Do you think a player’s attitude affects the results of a football game? Why or why not?

• Yes, attitude affects the way the game goes because as you know, when you step on the field you have to have a clean attitude so you don’t cost your team any mistakes down the road. If you have a bad attitude and something goes wrong, you’re likely to give up on your teammates.

What are your goals going into next year/after college?

• Pretty much have fun with the seniors, working towards the state championship, just bring another state championship to my community

What do you do to prepare for a game?

• Most before games, I’m viewing over film with players of former players and coaches and critiquing any mistakes before we take the field

What qualities or characteristics would you say makes a great football player?

• I would disciple, honesty, and drive to keep going

Cooper is nothing short of a respectful and mature young man. His dominant presence on the field and during the interview allowed his best characteristics to shine through. He has a well-drawn out plan for his future and is creating the path to get there. I have no doubt that Cooper will join some of the best in his class of 2022 on university fields one day in the future, hopefully majoring in sports medicine to become an athletic trainer or sports administration to become a coach.