Gaffney's Mike Wood combines sure hands with a team-first attitude. Photo by LARRY HILLIARD A t what moment did Gaffney’s Mike Wood realize he had the skill set to play and excel at wide receiver?

When the coaches invariably remark during their weekly film review session, “Mike Wood is always open.”

“The coaches just started to say that,” a smiling Wood said.

Wood attributes his ability to get open, in part, to his size - or, more appropriately, lack of it. Wood, who views the world through a glass half full perspective, sees his 5-foot-8, 150- lb. frame as an asset.

“I think it helps me that I’m small. Most (tacklers) try to go over me, but I just go under them.”

Wood also concedes defensive coaches game plan to stop the Indians’ other talented receivers, Quinshad Davis and Khris Brown, leaving him matched against less skilled defensive backs.

“They just leave me out of it,” he said. “Quinshad and Khris are both freaks of nature. I just try to show them that Khris and Quinshad aren’t the only ones who can do big things.”

Wood did more than his share of “big things” last season when he caught 17 passes, including five for touchdowns. His biggest TD grab came in the hardfought playoff victory over Summerville.

Woods developed his sure and strong hands through hours of playing backyard catch with his younger brother, Josh.

“That’s all I do in the offseason because I miss football so much.”

He’s had a fast start this season with six catches for 30 yards in three games.

Wood’s biggest contribution, however, doesn’t show up on a statsheet.

The Gaffney coaches insist that Wood’s enthusiasm and infectious positive personality have a ripple effect on the team.

“He’s very unselfish,” Gaffney offensive coordinator Donnie Littlejohn said. “He’ll do anything to help the team. He’s the type of player that you want. He’s the ultimate team player.”

Wood’s position coach, Tom Owens, also speaks glowingly of the senior wide receiver.

“Mike brings a lot of leadership for our team and our receivers,” Owens said. “He’s a very coachable young man with a great attitude and that has rubbed off on our other (wideouts) Quinshad (Davis), Khris (Brown) and Ryan (Frock).”

Wood said he’s had a likable personality since he can remember.

“My mom said I used to lay in bed and just laugh,” Wood said. “I try to keep things positive. I don’t like to think (negatively).”

Wood, of course, is optimistic the Indians can rebound from a tough start and have a successful season.

“We just haven’t come together as a team yet,” he said. “When we do, we can do great things.”

Wood hopes the team’s turnaround begins today at Union County.

“I lived in Union until I was four years old. “My mom’s whole side of the family lives in Union. I want to do big things in Union.”