Weatherford High School junior Andrew Willard understands that success on the football field begins long before kickoff. As a right guard and defensive tackle, Willard values the preparation, accountability and commitment required to help his team compete each week.
“My coaches inspire me. They are always pushing for our best and it makes it a lot easier to wanna give full effort,” Willard said.
Playing on both sides of the line has given Willard an appreciation for the technical details of football. At right guard, he must work to reach a defender aligned in a 5-technique, while defensive tackle presents a different challenge: preventing offensive linemen from reaching him and creating running lanes.
“The hard work it takes and the disciple it takes to play the sport I play,” Willard said of the lessons athletics has taught him.
Willard said the shared commitment inside the locker room stands out most about his teammates. “That just about all of us are really dedicated to winning and doing what it takes to win,” he said.
One of Willard’s favorite football memories came when he earned his first victory as a starter against Lawton MacArthur. He also remembers an unusual play from his freshman season, when a Pauls Valley running back hurdled one of Weatherford’s defenders.
Before games, Willard prepares himself mentally by reviewing his responsibilities and listening to music. “Coach Higbee usually had us take a linemen test to make sure we know are blocking assignments and I listen to music,” Willard said.
He credits former teammate Jordon Martinez for making a lasting impact, particularly through Martinez’s effort on the defensive line during Willard’s freshman and sophomore seasons.
Away from football, Willard enjoys fishing and lists math as his favorite school subject. His favorite teacher was Mrs. Moses during his eighth-grade year. He also appreciates the relationships formed during the season, saying his favorite part of being on the team is “The relationship we build through out the year.”
In the community, Willard supports FBC Cordell, which is connected to his original school. When he has time, he also enjoys exploring local places, including an old abandoned school that he said was fun to explore.
