Athletes Of The Week: Walter Lopez-Hernandez

Walter Lopez-Hernandez gravitated toward football during his sophomore of high school.

He was drawn to playing football after watching the 2017 North Duplin football team reach the state title game.

“My freshman year, I saw the football team go to states, and I thought it’d be really fun. A lot of my friends encouraged me, and I was in the weight room a lot, and I got really strong, and the coaches wanted to play.

“That’s when I decided to start playing.”

Over the past three seasons, Lopez-Hernandez carved out his own legacy at North Duplin. This season, as a savvy and spirited senior, he helped lead the Rebels through a season unlike any other.

Lopez-Hernandez plays on the offensive and defensive lines, and he prides himself on being a well-rounded person, and his friendly disposition and kindness are on full display with the football team.

Make no mistake, though – when it is time to play football, he’s all business.

“I like playing on the offensive and defensive line the same, but I’d say the defensive line is a little more fun,” Lopez-Hernandez said.

Lopez-Hernandez is a natural leader in many ways, but part of his knack for guiding those around him also stems from the fact that he has seen many others lead the team before him.

After being inspired by those who came before him, Lopez-Hernandez had to adapt quickly and learn on the fly.

That experience paid dividends, and Lopez-Hernandez has grown into a player that his coaches and teammates can always count on.

“It’s been a lot of fun, and I really enjoyed it,” Lopez-Hernandez said.

Despite the usual nature of this football season, Lopez-Hernandez said he will always cherish it. He also loves the friendships he has made with his teammates over the years.

Outside of football, Lopez-Hernandez is a member of Beta Club, and after high school, Lopez-Hernandez plans to join the marines.