For Justin Montgomery, football wasn’t a family tradition, but a personal journey that began with a suggestion from a middle school coach. “I got started in football because a coach in middle school said I should come out, and I thought I would give it a shot,” Justin recalled. That simple decision turned into a high school football career, where he’s become a crucial leader on the field at Oklahoma Bible Academy.

Despite not having any early inspiration to play, Justin says that two coaches were pivotal in his development. “My defensive line coach, Coach Cortez, really encouraged me to get better and instilled a love for the game. Coach Boyd, my offensive line coach, made me fall in love with football again my senior year,” he shared. His dedication to the game now reflects in the way he prepares. “I try to get a little better every day,” Justin said, focusing on consistency and competition during practice.

Justin’s team has also formed a unique bond this season, which he describes as much closer than in previous years. “We have a ping-pong table in the locker room and a massive tournament going on. It’s a lot of fun. You can tell that every guy wants to be good.” That camaraderie showed itself in their third game of the season against Casady, where the team came back from a halftime deficit to win 33-12. “We really came together as a team. It showed that we can do great things when we do it together.” Influential figures have shaped Justin’s football career: “I would like to thank God; without Him, I am nothing. I would also like to thank my parents for supporting me. Finally, I want to thank all of my coaches; they poured into my life so much.” 

As Justin prepares for his post-high school life, football will remain a cherished part of his past. “After my senior year of football, I am done playing. I have no plans of furthering my athletic career,” he admits. Instead, Justin is focused on becoming a doctor, and as he puts it, “hopefully being close to getting married.”