Clayton Cooper an MVP Offensive Player In Football & Elite Defender in Basketball

Clayton Cooper has made a huge impact on La Grange athletics ever since his parents moved here last year as LGISD coaches.

This year, his senior season, he’s taken it to another level.

Last week he won the Offensive MVP award on the 114A All-District football team after throwing for 1,919 yards and running for 1,102 this season.

In basketball he’s a starter on the Leps team that has jumped out to a 11-4 mark this season.

And while Clayton’s made his mark offensively in football, in basketball it’s his defense that shines.

“He brings a linebacker’s mentality to the court,” said La Grange boys basketball coach Trent Collier. “He flies around, and it creates stuff for us. He does a great job rebounding, is a capable shooter, but defensively he’s our guy. We ask him to guard the other team’s best player every night, and he does a great job of that.”

We’re proud to honor Clayton Cooper as this week’s Fayette County Athlete of the Week. We caught up with him moments after Tuesday’s win over Lexington. Here’s our interview with him:

Talk about the game tonight and why you feel like you led these guys wire-towire?

“A couple of games this year we struggled to really have our feet under us and really play as a whole. Tonight we showcased that and really got it done, and we picked up the slack whenever they started to come back.”

Talk about being named football Offensive MVP of the district and what that meant to you?

“It’s my senior season, and it was a tremendous honor. I couldn’t be happier with it.”

If you were writing the scouting report about you as a football player and a basketball player, how would you describe yourself?

“In basketball, I’m not the most skilled person but I like to get out there and play hard. I’m a defensive player and just like to get out there and hustle ... In football I’m not a normal quarterback. I’m more of a dual- threat, and I just play hard.”

Your nickname is ‘Crash’ What do you think about that?

“I’ve grown to like it. It’s from when I was little. I couldn’t run across the living room rug without falling. My parents called me that, and it’s started sticking here.”

Favorite pro sports team and pro sports athlete?

“I’m going to have to go with the Saints because of Drew Brees. I like his mentality, his walk with God. That led me to the Saints, and he’s my favorite player.”

What’s at the top of your Christmas list?

“I want to get a new truck. I’m still trying to sell my old one.”

What is the best Christmas Movie?

“Home Alone – the original.”

Where is your favorite place to eat in La Grange and what is your go-to order there?

“I’m going to have to go with Back Porch BBQ. They have loaded brisket fries that are phenomenal.”

Finally, what are your goals for this basketball season?

“It’s still early in the season. We are still trying to figure out our team. I just want to go deep in the playoffs.”