Two Coaches Invested in Gracemont Football

The head coach and assistant coach are both volunteering their time and efforts to develop a strong, successful Gracemont Lions football program.

Thursday, July 28th 2011, 5:48 pm

By: News On 6

Two Coaches Invested in Gracemont Football

Originally Published: Sep 24, 2010 1:3 PM CDT

Jessica Coody
Oklahoma Sports Mobile Journalist

GRACEMONT, Oklahoma -- Times have been hard for the public school system, and it’s been no different for the schools in Gracemont.

“This is kind of a bad time to be starting any new programs,” Superintendent Mike Jones said. “Money’s tight all over.”

The school board looked at the addition of a new football program as an opportunity to increase interest and enrollment in Gracemont and encourage the current student athletes to achieve more.

Jeremy Scott, who had been fighting for a football program for years, was more than ready to take on the head coach responsibilities?free of charge.

Coach Scott looked beyond the financial obstacle in his path. He looked beyond the history, or lack thereof, of football in Gracemont. He looked beyond what the naysayers were saying in opposition of a football program.

What the Lions’ head coach didn’t look beyond was the chance to change the lives of the boys on his team.

“It’s not about the money, it’s about the kids,” Scott said. “Keeping them interested, keeping them active in sports, like I said, it’s something they can take pride in their community, and of course give back to our school.”

A few of his players had never even touched a football, but despite the challenges, Scott said his team is adapting under pressure.

“They had just been basically, for the most part, overwhelmed,” Scott said. “They’ve adjusted really well. They pick it up so quick.”

The team has also looked to Assistant Coach Tyler Harrison, who attends Oklahoma State and volunteers his time.

“Gracemont has always been very supportive. It’s just a regular small town,” Harrison said. “These people here are good people?they’ll give you the shirt off their backs. That’s how Gracemont’s always been. That’s what makes me proud to be a part of this town.”