The ultimate goal for student athletes is to make it to the state playoffs. Being part of a program that accomplishes this feat in one sport is an honor but getting there multiple times, in multiple sports is a rare honor. Carter Lance, a senior at McAlester High School has achieved the goal of competing at state in football, track, and powerlifting.

Carter and his MHS football team have made the state finals twice. He has gone three times with track and is hopeful to make it four after this season. Carter has also competed at state for powerlifting three times. “It’s been a blessing to be able to be there,” he said.

“Sports have taught me many things I use in my daily life. Responsibility, integrity, confidence, self-control, and hard work are just a few. My favorite part of being on a team are the relationships that grow from it. I have met my best friends through sports and have built lifelong friendships,” he says.

Carter began playing sports at an early age and has never looked back. “I am passionate about sports because it is what I love doing. I will always give everything I have to do my best,” he said.

The professional athlete Carter looks up to is NFL quarterback Kirk Cousins. “He isn’t just an amazing athlete. He isalso a real, heartfelt, genuine man. He is a great father to his kids and a great husband to his wife. He also gives it all to God which isn’t something you see at the professional level,” says Carter. 

Having role models with strong Christian values is important to Carter as he is active in his church outside of school and sports. “The best advice I have ever been given is to give it all to God!” he said.

Coach Stone is his favorite teacher. “He was my AP pre-calculus teacher and one of my football coaches. Coach Stoneis a great guy who wants nothing but the best for his students and players. If you ever need anything he is right there to help,” says Carter.

The person who Carter most admires is Blake VanDorpe. “He is the best and most genuine man I know. He has helped and guided me through a lot, and I can’t appreciate him enough,” says Carter. “The teammate who has left the biggest impression on me is Eli Pemberton. Me and him have been through it all the last four years.” 

Carter wants to shoutout to his family, friends, girlfriend, and her family. These people have been there for him his senior year and have all played a part in getting him through it, he says.