By Chris Chandler

Idabel senior, or, rather, Idabel Class of 2021 graduate Armonie Wise is accustomed to throwing things around. Whether it’s an opposing offensive or defensive lineman on the football field or a shot-put or disc in track and field, the two-way starter/two-event state track meet qualifier wreaked havoc for the Idabel Warriors during his senior year.

Head Idabel football coach Scott Pratt compliments the physical nature, quickness, and strength of Wise.

“He’s super strong, but also really an explosive young man.”

Wise used that combination of strength and quickness to garner points and medals for the Idabel Warrior track team this spring. Wise won the third place bronze medal in discus and placed seventh in shot put competition at the Class 4A state championships. Being on the podium was not the most important aspect for Wise, however.

“It was good knowing I had competed a full four years as a Idabel Warrior (and attended) the best school in Oklahoma. So it felt good knowing I was gonna have that Warrior symbol on my chest for my last meet of high school,” proclaimed Wise. “Win or lose, I had already won just by being a Idabel Warrior.”

Wise looks back on his high school athletic career with a nod to his teammates and coaches rather than his individual accomplishments.

“My favorite sports memories are being a part of the (football) team when we won district (3A-8) my freshman year and winning state in powerlifting along with getting Coach (TJ) Langley his first powerlifting plaque.”

Pratt describes Wise as a friendly and calming influence on other players despite his aggressiveness and physicality on the field.

“Monnie is a great kid. He’s a fun, easy-going young man.”

Though Armonie has received a full scholarship to play football at Langston University, he views athletics as a means and not as an end in and of itself.

“There’s more to life than sports. Sports are just a tool to help with life.”

Coach Pratt sums up his thoughts on the recent graduate with a look ahead.

“He has a great future ahead of him whatever career path he chooses.”

Armonie Wise will take lessons from his days as a Warrior with him into that future, among them the value of hard work and practice.

“I’ve learned that ‘if you don’t grind, you don’t shine.’ “

Armonie Wise knows how to grind, and as a result, he shines a bright light on Idabel athletics.