For decades the Ada Cougars were the dominant football program in Oklahoma. With 19 titles to their credit, the expectations in Ada are always high. Their last title came in 1996, but that doesn’t mean there is less pressure on the kids today. Quarterback Carter Freeland is just one of the guys trying to make history this season under first year head coach Brad O’Steen. Freeland has played football for five years and is in his junior season. Coach O’Steen called Freeland, “a smart player with good leadership skills and a hard worker.” Freeland loves playing with this team and his teammates.
“I love being able to compete with my buddies,” said Freeland. “What I love most about the team is the bond we have together and the attitude to get better every day. We all share the same passion and drive.”
Coach O’Steen put his team to the test early in the season with three straight games against larger schools from Class 5A. For Freeland, seeing the larger schools and leaning on what he has learned over the summer has helped him early on.
“The areas of my game I have improved most on is the ability to move in the pocket under pressure and still keep my eyes down field, and the ability to run and not force any footballs,” said Freeland.
In their win over Durant, Freeland threw for over 180-yards and a score.
As a student-athlete, Freeland splits time between the Forensics Club, Spanish Club and Japanese Club. After his senior season, Freeland would like to attend college and work towards a degree.
“My plans after I graduate is to go to college and earn a degree in engineering,” said Freeland.
