By Blake Chadwick
The Northwest Grizzlies have been so close to the pinnacle – a state championship – but just haven’t gotten over that hump. This year – again – the Grizzlies are an early favorite to win 5A and run through the City League.
Senior wide receiver Michael Lopez has been leading the way all offseason, on and off the field for the Grizzlies.
“The thing I’m most excited about this upcoming season is being able to show the growth of our team and how we’ve had a great offseason grinding together and pushing each other to be our best. We have guys who’ve stepped up in a big way,” Lopez said.
Coach Steve Martin, his assistants and their new strength program have set the Grizzlies apart with their rigorous workouts.
“(Strength) coach (Rashad) Daniels will make you rethink if you love the sport and will work you till you’re on the ground, not wanting to get up,” Lopez said.
Lopez is coming off a year where he only played seven games but totaled 717 receiving yards, 34 receptions and 10 touchdowns, earning him first-team All-League and honorable mention All-State selections.
With hopes of becoming a 1,000-plus yard receiver and a first-team All-State selection, Lopez has been getting a lot of extra reps attending numerous camps, where he has been fine-tuning his hands, footwork and route running. And to top it all off, he has also added some weight to his frame, which has increased his athleticism as well as his stock for college coaches to keep an eye on.
Like all seniors, Lopez has a chip on his shoulder, but his is even bigger due to his size. He has always had his foot on the pedal, but now he plans on taking every one of his teammates with him.
