In football, talent will take you far—but determination, preparation, and leadership take you farther. Wetumka junior Dwayne Lowe isn’t just preparing for a standout season on the field; he’s preparing to be the kind of teammate others can count on when the game is on the line. “Some of my personal goals would be to have a successful season this upcoming year, to be a positive role model for my teammates, and to improve my personal stats on the field,” Lowe said. “Also, to improve film study and preparation for upcoming teams.”
The Chieftains are shifting into a new gear this year, with a stronger emphasis on accountability and growth. “Our team has been showing dedication in the weight room, studying a new playbook, and learning to work with and for each other,” Lowe said. That shared focus is already paying off. “I believe our biggest improvement from last year is maturity and discipline. We have shown more dedication to the weight room and working on new plays.”
With an eye on redemption, Wetumka has clear goals. “We’re improving our record from last season and getting back to the basics of the game,” he said. “That means getting in the weight room often, conditioning, studying, and running new plays.”
Lowe, who plays running back and linebacker, isn’t just focused on one side of the ball. “I feel the team’s biggest strength would be our run game, but our passing is improving every day and defense has really been working hard learning what keys to read and concepts of team and individual tackling,” he said. His approach is cerebral and detailed: “My reads start during the week while watching film. Seeing their strengths and weaknesses as well as watching tendencies.”
His preparation extends beyond just watching tape. “Physically, I make sure I do tons of stretching, also working on the basic of taking a handoff, covering the ends of the ball, and making sure I get it secure every take. Also, tons of catches, and securing the ball ready to run after catch.”
Lowe’s mindset is built around toughness and excellence. “Defensively, I want to step on the field with the mindset to stop anybody who has the ball,” he said. “Offensively, I want the mindset of being consistent and effective. Overall, I want to outwork, out-hustle, and outsmart every team.”
Dwayne is a junior who plays football, powerlifting, and baseball. He’s also a member of NHS and FCA, and he lives by one goal: “No matter what you want, you can achieve it—as long as you work hard enough, smart enough, and consistent enough toward this goal.”
