Role models can be an important part of the development of young people. That is especially true for high school student-athletes. Those that they look up to impact who they become as a person and as an athlete. Damein Lobato says that there are two people in his life that have had the most influence.

“My parents have made a big impact on my life,” he said. “They grew up a lot different and tougher than I have. I hope to be just as good of a role model for others as they have been for me.”

Lobato attends Cherokee High School, where he is a senior and a multisport athlete for the Chiefs. He is a member of the football, basketball, and track teams, all of which he has played since he was in elementary school. 

Putting in a lot of work to get to where he is today, Lobato says that being successful is about more than winning and losing. It is also about how you work hard to improve yourself.

“There are a few different things that make me feel successful as a student-athlete,” he said. “I keep my grades up, I work hard to stay in shape, I am in the weight room, and I just love the sports that I am playing.”

While as a student at Cherokee, Lobato says that he would have a difficult time select one teacher as his favorite. This is the case because each one has helped him learn something besides what is in the textbook. 

“I do not think I have one favorite teacher,” Damein said. “All of my teachers have taught me valuable lessons and to not quit once I have started something.”

Throughout his high school career, Lobato has made some great memories with his teammates. He says that one of those moments happened this past football season.

“My senior football season was one that I will never forget,” he stated. “We ended with an 8-2 record and we made it to the playoffs. Unfortunately, we lost a close first-round game to Balko-Forgan, but it was still a great season.