(Cushing, Okla.) Cushing Lions Club enjoyed a visit from CHS Football Coach Barret Shupe at their weekly meeting on Tuesday. Lion Terry Brannon introduced Shupe saying, “Everything rises and falls with good leadership.”
The season started off a little rocky with the Tigers, but it was “good leadership” from Shupe and his coaching staff and hard work from the players that led the team to the first state championship game in 53 years, culminating in a second place win and a coveted Silver Ball for the trophy case.
Shupe admitted, although it may have been a little disappointing that night, in the light of a new day it was something to be extremely proud of. “It’s not gold, but it means a lot,” Shupe said.
According to Shupe, much of their success was attributed to “staying firm” to what they were already doing along with a little change in attitude. That change came after the disappointing loss to Heritage Hall. Shupe said the following Monday they showed the team a video “Would You Follow You?” and emphasized the need to “look after each other” and to not lose hope but just “be the best we can be.”
Shupe said he told the guys to go out there and “blow up the bracket” – which they proceeded to do.
“It was amazing to watch their confidence and growth increase,” he told the Lions.
The game against Marlow was one of Shupe’s personal favorites. Shupe said he “riled up” the team with reports of the folks back in his wife’s hometown questioning the Tigers ability to beat the Marlow Outlaws. The gentle jabs help continue the team’s drive and winning attitude. The Tigers defeated the Outlaws 41 – 7.
With a few big wins under their belt and a new-found confidence, the Cushing Tigers went on to beat top-ranked contender, the Kingfisher Yellowjackets, in the last round of the playoffs. The evening culminated with a steak dinner at Freddie Paul’s. “That was a special moment,” Shupe reflected.
From police escorts to fans filling the stands, Shupe said the show of support was of utmost importance to the players as well as the coaching staff.
“I think the experience we had in a small town was better than those from a large community,” Shupe said. “It’s like we’re all family here.”
As for next year, Shupe remains steadfast in his belief the Tigers can continue the momentum. Ultimately, however, his goal as a coach is to not only instill a winning attitude and confidence, but to see his players make a positive impact on society.
And that attitude is nothing but pure gold.
Cushing Lions Club meets each Tuesday at noon at the Lions Den in downtown Cushing.
***
