By the time Cole Rolland helped Checotah High School reach the Class 3A semifinals as a freshman, he had already experienced something many athletes spend years chasing — meaningful football in November. That run remains one of the moments he is most proud of, not just because of the wins, but because it showed him what Checotah football could be at its best.
Now entering his junior year, Rolland continues to build on that foundation as a multi-sport athlete competing in football, basketball and track. The demands of three sports require consistency, discipline and mental toughness, qualities he says football has helped sharpen more than anything.
“Football has taught me teamwork and discipline,” Rolland said. “It helps me outside of sports in my day-to-day life.”
Those lessons have extended well beyond the field. Whether in the classroom, competition or daily life, Rolland has learned the value of staying steady, working with others and responding well to adversity. That mindset has helped him become not only a better athlete, but a more grounded person.
Rolland credits much of that growth to the people who believed in him early. Among those influences, head coach Zac Ross stands out.
“I would have to say Coach Ross,” Rolland said. “He has always had confidence in me and has taught me a lot more than just football.”
A former teammate also played a key role during Rolland’s transition into high school athletics. Elijah Thomas helped provide the confidence every young player needs when adjusting to varsity competition.
“Elijah Thomas had the biggest impact on me when I was a freshman,” Rolland said. “He gave me confidence and encouraged me to be a better player.”
Away from athletics, Rolland stays involved in his community as a member of the National Honor Society and through his church, Checotah First Baptist Church. That connection to community is part of what makes Checotah special to him.
“My favorite thing about my hometown is everyone here is really friendly and supportive and easy to get along with,” Rolland said. “I couldn’t ask for a better hometown.”
The advice that continues to guide him is simple but powerful: don’t dwell on mistakes.
“Don’t think about the past — focus on what’s next,” Rolland said. “If I make a bad play, I don’t think about it. I focus on the next play.”
That perspective, both in sports and life, is rooted in the example set by the person Rolland credits most.
“My dad has helped me get to where I am today,” Rolland said. “He’s always been there for me no matter the circumstance.”
