Fairview High School’s Ridge Cottrill
Fairview High School senior Ridge Cottrill has built his reputation as a dependable and disciplined varsity athlete, embracing every role asked of him while anchoring the defense as a middle linebacker.
Cottrill, who is entering his final year as a 12th grader, said his journey has been shaped by strong influences at home and on the field. He credits his mother, Lacey Cottrill, for teaching him perseverance and passion through life’s challenges. He also points to coach Zach Nelson as a key figure in developing his work ethic and discipline during practices and strength training.
“I have had many different role models,” Cottrill said. “But those two have inspired me the most.”
On the field, Cottrill’s versatility stands out. While he fills multiple positions when needed, middle linebacker remains his primary role — and one of the most demanding. The position requires a combination of strength, speed and quick decision-making.
“It requires being strong enough to take on offensive linemen to stop the run game while being fast enough to cover receivers,” he said. “The hardest part is thinking fast enough to know what play is coming and being able to react in time.”
Despite the challenges, Cottrill thrives in high-pressure moments. One of his most memorable experiences came during a district championship game that was interrupted by a power outage. After a blown transformer shut down the stadium in Cashion, the game resumed hours later in Crescent, where Fairview secured an overtime victory.
He also recalls a standout personal moment from his freshman year, when he played in the state championship game alongside two of his older brothers and recorded three tackles.
Off the field, Cottrill values the strong sense of community surrounding the program. He said the support from fans and the bond among teammates create a unique atmosphere.
“The team upholding this standard makes us better as a group and as individuals,” he said. “We are a family.”
That mindset extends beyond athletics. Cottrill is active in basketball, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, National Honor Society and Oklahoma Honor Society. He also attends Mennonite Brethren Church and works at both the Royal Theatre and the city pool.
In the classroom, math is his favorite subject because of its constant challenges, and he credits seventh grade teacher Emily Nelson for making learning engaging and enjoyable.
When he is not competing or studying, Cottrill enjoys fishing, describing time outdoors as both calming and rewarding.
As he prepares for his senior season, Cottrill carries a simple philosophy shaped by years of competition.
“There is no trying,” he said. “You either do it or you don’t.”
