“Dedication” might be a good word to describe Coalgate senior football player Bryson Stowe. “Bryson is one of our Steak Eaters,” said coach Zac Cater. “That’s a title we give to the guys who don’t miss any summer pride workouts and Bryson has done that for three years now.” Versatile might be another word to describe Stowe who plays running back, wide receiver, cornerback and safety depending on where he’s needed. “Bryson is a good leader on and off the field,” said Cater. “He always does the right thing and as a senior, helps keep the younger kids accountable as well as himself and he was voted a team captain this year by his peers.” Bryson got his start in football at early age. “My dad loved football, so he got me into it when I was little, and I really fell in love with the game around the fifth or sixth grade. I like to play wide receiver and safety best since I’ve played safety all my life and I feel comfortable there. This is my first year to play wide receiver and so far, it’s been a lot of fun.” In his career Bryson has rushed for 400 yards and had 350 yards receiving with four touchdowns. On defense he’s recorded 80 tackles including 10 for loss along with five sacks, three forced fumbles and two interceptions. Along with football, Stowe is a state qualifier in powerlifting and in the 200-meter dash in track. Among the guys he feels has had a big influence on his football career is Tristan Trevathan. “He’s a year older than me and I admired how he always seemed to make the big play when we needed it.” Bryson created a highlight for himself earlier this season when he rushed and received for a combined 100 yards in the season opener against Dickson and as a senior and team captain, he knows he has a special responsibility to be a team leader. “I think a team leader needs to be vocal and get on someone if they’re doing something wrong while setting a good example with your own play.” Bryson says he hopes to play football at the next level next year and eventually get into coaching.
