Ross Copeland was an instrumental part of the successful athletic programs of Big Piney High School in the late 1970s. As a participant in both basketball and football, Copeland earned a total of eight letter and was a member of the Big Piney High School Letterman’s Club all four years.
As basketball player, Ross Copeland received the Jesse Gault Memorial Award as the most promising underclassman. That award turned out correct as Copeland earned All-Conference honors during both his junior and senior years.
Ross’ football leadership and talents are also evident in his accolades during his four years. He received all-conference honorable mention as a sophomore and improved on that honor by being selected to the All-Conference as both a junior and a senior. Coaches across the state of Wyoming recognized his abilities and named him to the All State Team as a senior. His teammates and coaches also recognized his importance to the team by naming him one of the Co-Captains of the Punchers in both his junior and senior seasons.
As a senior and co-captain, Ross Copeland helped lead a talented Puncher team to an undefeated season and state championship trophy. His play earned him a spot on the south team at the annual Shrine Bowl. Upon graduation, Copeland extended his playing days for an additional year at Westminster College in Salt Lake City.