Ada’s Jake Matthews
Ada High School football has a history that few programs can match. With 19 state championships to its name, the tradition is impossible to ignore. As senior Jake Matthews prepares for his final season in a Cougar uniform, he appreciates being part of that history and hopes this year’s team can add another chapter to it.
“My favorite thing about Ada has got to be the history of the school,” Matthews said. “How it has won 19 state championships in its past. Hopefully our team this season will make it 20.”
Matthews competes in both football and track, but the lessons he has gained from athletics reach far beyond competition. Through sports, he has learned how to connect with people, overcome adversity, and become someone younger athletes can depend on.
“The sport has taught me how to socialize, how to be friendly, and how to work when things get hard,” Matthews said.
One game in particular stands above the rest when Matthews reflects on his high school career. During his junior season, Ada found itself trailing Sallisaw 20-0. Instead of accepting defeat, the Cougars fought their way back and completed a remarkable comeback victory.
That game remains Matthews’ favorite memory because it represented everything he loves about football. It required belief, perseverance, and a team willing to keep pushing when things looked bleak.
The people around him have played a major role in shaping his experience at Ada. Coach Nail, who serves as both a science teacher and offensive line coach, has been one of the most influential figures in his high school journey.
“He’s been really supportive of me and my brother,” Matthews said.
That support was especially meaningful when Matthews and his brother first arrived in Ada. Moving into a new environment can be difficult, but two upperclassmen helped make the transition easier.
Matthews credits former Ada standouts Ashden Rowell and Dawson Matthews for welcoming them from day one.
“They welcomed me and my brother to Ada when we didn’t know anybody,” Matthews said. “They both helped me become a better football player and friend.”
Their kindness left a lasting impression. Today, Matthews tries to provide the same encouragement to younger players entering the program.
“Be the guy younger you needed,” he said.
That philosophy guides the way he approaches leadership. Whether it is helping a younger teammate, offering support, or simply being someone others can talk to, Matthews wants to make a positive impact on those around him.
His support for Ada athletics extends beyond football and track. Matthews regularly attends basketball, baseball, and wrestling events, believing that supporting fellow student-athletes is an important part of school pride.
As his senior year begins, Matthews is focused on helping his team succeed while continuing to invest in the people around him. Long after the final whistle, those relationships may be what he remembers most.
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