Greenbrier East senior linebacker Jarett McHale does everything the right way at Spartan Stadium. Whether it’s the workouts, the practices or the games every Friday, McHale shows up, works his hardest and leaves it all at the facilities.
Known as a great student, an overachiever in everything he does, and a teacher to his younger teammates, McHale still saves some time to excel within the sidelines as well.
As generous as McHale is off of the field, he wants to be remembered as a strong and mean player on it as evidenced by his plethora of tackles, his interception and his fumble recovery so far this season.
“I want to be remembered as a tough dude, someone who doesn’t take any crap from anyone, and someone who goes out there and has fun every time he’s out on the field,” McHale said.
However, Coach Ray Lee’s opinion of his linebacker ranges from all sorts of praise and positivity.
“Jarett understands the role of being a leader and loves the game of football,” Lee said.
“He shows great leadership both on and off the field. He devotes time to becoming an excellent student and is very committed to perfecting his craft,” Lee stated.
McHale admits he was not a know-it-all football-wise for a long time, but the knowledge the 6’0”, 195-pounder has gained from his high school coaches has been invaluable.
“I’ve just learned a lot of things I didn’t know were there to learn. Just the things Coach Baker is teaching me on defense, and the other coaches teaching me up on a daily basis,” McHale said gratefully.
With the Spartans sitting at 6-2 on the season, McHale is a huge part of that, and he believes this year has helped him grow a lot.
“I felt like I’ve had a really good senior year, and I have improved a lot from last year mentally and physically,” McHale said.
“I really just go out there and play. I use what I’ve been taught, follow my eyes and the flow of the offense and just go and make a play,” he continued.
McHale’s family life is busy, but that does not stop them from coming to the games and showing support, while also putting his mind at ease.
“Family support is very important to me. Before every game I always look to see if my mom’s in the stands and that she made it there safely,” McHale said.
When asked how far the Spartans can advance this year, the son of Patrick and Amber was not about to jinx himself and his teammates.
“I don’t want to look too far ahead because we have one of our most important games coming up, and another game the following week that determines where we end the season at, but we are definitely going to get a home playoff game or two,” he said confidently.
When McHale exhausts his eligibility in the team’s final game, it will be an emotional moment not only for him but Coach Lee as well.
“What a great inspirational leader to have on our team. His senior leadership will be missed. Many blessings to Jarett in achieving his goals. We are very thankful and blessed to have Jarett and his family a part of the Spartan football family,” Lee said.
McHale plans to attend WVU next fall.
