November 11, 2025 - Canyon Lake High School Linebacker and Track Coach Brian Hooper began his career as a Marine out of high school. With the lessons he learned from his time in the service, Hooper uses his educator role as an opportunity to not only connect real experiences to history and coaching, but to teach the importance of honoring those who have played a role in the creation of history.
“I try to apply my experience in the military to my history lessons, stressing the importance of worldly events and how fortunate it is that my students can sit in a classroom, when overseas many do not get the same opportunity,” explains Hooper.
On the field, Hooper instills military values of teamwork and complacency to not only encourage his athletes to work together, but to never stop training to be their best.
With these experiences and lessons learned in the military, brings a new meaning and reality to November 11 for Hooper, which he applies in the classroom every Veteran’s day.
“I always look at those who served before me, honoring the veterans who went to war and fought for our freedoms,” says Hooper. “They went through more than I ever did during my service, so I make sure to show my appreciation to them and their families.”
Hooper dedicates instructional time to honoring the students with active duty and veteran family members in his classroom. Canyon Lake High School also hosts an annual Veterans Day assembly and lunch with guest speakers and a presentation over the foundation of the day.
“It is important to take the time to remember those that have served and the sacrifices that have been made,” says Hooper. “Although Veteran’s Day comes once a year, it is easy to forget the meaning of the holiday.”
By sharing his unwavering appreciation for those who have served and supported our military, while teaching students valuable lessons of sacrifice and perseverance, Coach Hooper has become a representation of how educators can inspire young students on their paths to success.
Thank you Coach Hooper for being a role model for the Military Path to Success
Photo Descriptions
- Canyon Lake High School Coach Brian Hooper teaching.
- Canyon Lake High School Coach Brian Hooper on the football field after a game.
- Throwback photo of Canyon Lake High School Coach Brian Hooper while in the Marines during a deployment.