Trooper Wright returns to the football field, overcoming the loss of his arm and inspiring many at Morehead High School and beyond.EDEN, N.C. — For Morehead High School senior Trooper Wright, every stretch, every pass, and every drill under the Friday night lights is a gift he once thought he’d never experience again.Just last year, an accident changed his life forever, costing him his left arm. But on Friday night, Wright suited up with his teammates — proving that his love for football runs deeper than any s...
Trooper Wright returns to the football field, overcoming the loss of his arm and inspiring many at Morehead High School and beyond.
EDEN, N.C. — For Morehead High School senior Trooper Wright, every stretch, every pass, and every drill under the Friday night lights is a gift he once thought he’d never experience again.
Just last year, an accident changed his life forever, costing him his left arm. But on Friday night, Wright suited up with his teammates — proving that his love for football runs deeper than any setback.
“Going back to when I was in the hospital, not knowing for sure if I was gonna be out here... I’m just super thankful to God that he’s put me in this position now to be back out here and be with my team again,” Wright said.
The physical recovery was only part of the journey. Wright admits the toughest battles were in his mind.
“I’ll say the mental hurdles have been the toughest — just a lot of doubt in my mind of whether or not I could get back out here,” he said.
But his coach never doubted Wright’s resilience.
“He’s not looking at it as any type of disability or setback. He is the definition of grit and determination. If you look that up in the dictionary, you’ll see him,” said Morehead’s coach, Tony McCants
For Wright, stepping onto the field again wasn’t just about football — it was about the support system that carried him there. His family watched from the stands, overcome with emotion.
“He doesn’t understand it, but just being on the field has been such an inspiration to so many people. He’s made it back, and I have no expectations about his performance — we’re just happy that he’s here,” his dad, Darren Wright, said, fighting back tears.
While football is often measured in wins and losses, Wright’s return was bigger than the scoreboard.
“It’s been a really tough journey, and it’s just surreal to be back out here,” Wright said.
On this night in Eden, the real victory belonged to Trooper Wright — proving that determination, faith, and family can overcome any obstacle.