501 Football 2020

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501 Football Publishers

Donna Spears Sonja J. Keith

Editor

Stefanie Brazile

Art Director

Nick Walker

Associate Editor

Levi Gilbert Sonja Keith Jeremy Higginbotham

Photo Director

Contributors

Distribution Mgr.

Mike Kemp

Office Manager

Tracey Wilkinson

Levi Gilbert Mark Oliver Tom Keith

To subscribe or order back issues of 501 LIFE, visit 501lifemag.com.

The subscription rate is $20 for one year (12 issues).

Make the Jump Media, LLC 920 Locust Ave, Suite 104 Conway, AR 72034 501.327.1501 info@501lifemag.com

Welcome to 501 FOOTBALL Welcome to 501 Football, a special publication of 501 LIFE that celebrates football in Central Arkansas.

This is the season that everyone feared may not happen because of the pandemic. Even though some games were cut from the schedule, on Friday nights all over Central Arkansas you’ll see stadium lights spotlighting fierce competitions.

We are proud to present our 10th 501 Football

Team! Nominated by their coaches, these players are extra special because of their character, willingness to help others and their outstanding sportsmanship.

(501 LIFE would like to thank Conway Christian High School for providing the location for this year’s team photo shoot.) Our talented writers have put together bios on each player that you’ll enjoy reading in the pages that follow and on our website – 501lifemag.com.

Our staff also recognizes the important role that cheerleaders, dance teams and bands play during football season. We join the hundreds of fans, parents, coaches, players and others who are excited about the season we nearly missed – good luck!

We’re ready for some football!

On the cover

This year’s cover features a member of the 501 Football Team from four counties – Conway, Faulkner, Pulaski and Grant – that are featured in this year’s print edition.

Top photo is Jaxson Carter (Poyen) and (L-R ) across the bottom: Jackson Moll (Morrilton), Bryce Bohanon (Conway) and Palmer Gilbrech (Central Arkansas Christian). (Mike Kemp photos and Jeremy Higginbotham design)

501 FOOTBALL (an annual issue) and 501 LIFE (a monthly magazine) are published by 501 Advertising and Publishing (located at 920 Locust Ave, Suite 104, Conway, AR, 72034, 501.327.1501). The contents are copyrighted and materials presented may not be copied or reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publishers. Articles should not be considered specific advice, as individual circumstances vary. Products and services advertised are not necessarily endorsed by 501 FOOTBALL. 501 FOOTBALL is produced on recycled paper.

Special thanks!

501 LIFE would like to thank this year’s sponsors for the 501 Football Team: Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank.

4 I 501 LIFE Football 2020

Conway’s Bryce Bohanon is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team. (Justin King photo)

Bec aus e w e tack l e c h a lle nges Together.

This has been a year for the record books. Families, students, teachers, schools – 2020 has brought us all face-to-face with some tough opponents. Fortunately, Arkansans know how to come together.

How to be flexible. How to move forward. That teamwork is one of the things we love best about our home state, now more than ever. When it comes to Arkansas, everyone cheers for home.

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501 FOOTBALL TEAM ROSTER

Braxton Allen (Malvern)

Chase Blanton (Clinton)

Bryce Bohanon (Conway)

Garrett Brown (Benton)

Jaxson Carter (Poyen)

Xavier Credit (Mayflower)

Tyler Gee (Cabot)

Palmer Gilbrech (Central Arkansas Christian)

Austin Haynes (Quitman)

Brock Hohenstein (Searcy)

Brayden Jones (Bigelow)

Blake Kennedy (Perryville)

Darren McClinton (England)

Jackson Moll (Morrilton)

Houston Motes (Maumelle)

Steven Roberson (Bismarck)

Gannon Roberts (Beebe)

Will Ross (Hot Springs Lakeside)

Caden Sipe (Harding Academy)

Robert Taylor (Conway Christian)

6 I 501 LIFE Football 2020

10th Annual 501 Football Team The 501 LIFE staff is proud to present the members of the 2020 edition of the 501 Football Team.

This year’s honorees mark the 10th edition of the 501 Football Team. Sponsors for this year’s team are Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank.

“Among all the uncertainty about whether or not we would even have a high school football season this fall, we felt it was really important to still have a 501 Football Team regardless,” said Levi Gilbert, 501 LIFE associate editor. “It’s so important to have some sense of normalcy right now, and continuing the 501 Football Team felt like the right thing to do no matter how the season may or may not play out.”

The team features 24 student-athletes — the best the 501 has to offer both on and off the field.

Every county in the 501 is represented.

“Of the 24 student-athletes on the team, all but one are seniors,” Gilbert said. “This season especially, we are honored to be able to celebrate seniors in this way.”

2020 team members include: Braxton Allen (Malvern), Chase Blanton (Clinton), Bryce Bohanon (Conway), Garrett Brown (Benton), Jaxson

Luke Trubiano (Vilonia)

Layne Warrick (Lake Hamilton)

Carter (Poyen), Xavier Credit (Mayflower), Tyler Gee (Cabot), Palmer Gilbrech (Central Arkansas Christian), Austin Haynes (Quitman), Brock Hohenstein (Searcy), Brayden Jones (Bigelow), Blake Kennedy (Perryville), Darren McClinton (England), Jackson Moll (Morrilton), Houston Motes (Maumelle), Steven Roberson (Bismarck), Gannon Roberts (Beebe), Will Ross (Hot Springs Lakeside), Caden Sipe (Harding Academy), Robert Taylor (Conway Christian), Luke Trubiano (Vilonia), Layne Warrick (Lake Hamilton), Ashton White (Greenbrier) and Jack Wurz (Fountain

Ashton White (Greenbrier)

Jack Wurz (Fountain Lake)

Lake).

Players were nominated by their respective coaches and selected by the 501 LIFE staff. Nominations were weighted equally between on- and off-the-field attributes.

The team met at Conway Christian School’s field for a photo shoot. In addition to being recognized in this edition of 501 Football 2020, each player will be featured individually throughout the fall online at 501lifemag.com and in 501 Sports Extra, 501’s sports e-newsletter. (To sign up, visit 501lifemag.com or email info@501lifemag.com.)

Football 2020 501lifemag.com I 7

Braxton Allen - Malvern Leopards lean on experience After tasting the playoffs a year ago, Malvern is out to prove that last season’s success was no fluke.

Leopard senior Braxton Allen, who led the team to the playoffs last season as the team’s starting quarterback, shifts to receiver this fall to bolster the offense.

“I’m excited for my move to wide receiver,” Allen said. “With the rise of our sophomore sensation quarterback, Cedric Simmons, it was better for me to transfer from quarterback to outside wide receiver.

Throughout the offseason and summer, I’ve been working at the position, and I’m ready to play.”

Training for the upcoming season amid a COVID-19 landscape has required adaptation from Allen and the Leopards.

“It has definitely been difficult,” Allen said. “COVID-19 has caused us to not have team camps or 7-on-

7s, and those two camps are crucial for getting us ready for the season. Not much has changed on the practice field, however. With social distancing and following guidelines, we still get our lifts in and get after it every single day. We don’t take a day for granted.”

According to Allen, his team’s experience will position the Leopards to compete for a playoff position in the difficult Class 7-4A conference.

“One of the biggest things for us this season is that we have a lot more upperclassmen,” Allen said.

“Last season, we only had a handful of seniors. This year we’re loaded with juniors and seniors. My personal goal this season is to become a better leader for our team. We have a good group of seniors, but we don’t lead like we should. This year, I need to step it up a notch. Our team goal this year is to win a whole lot of football games and have fun doing it.”

Malvern High School’s Braxton Allen is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored

by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo)

Braxton Allen’s feature proudly brought to you by

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Chase Blanton - Clinton

Yellowjackets embrace move to Class 4A After amassing 10 wins a season ago, Clinton transitions to Class 4A with one goal in mind — to keep on winning.

Yellowjackets senior lineman Chase Blanton is ready for the challenge.

“I am excited for my final year to compete against new and strong teams and the challenge they present to me,” Blanton said. “We’re returning almost all our offensive line from last year and some great new players have moved up. My main goal is to go out there and do all I can to help our team succeed, and if I go out each week with that mindset, I believe the results will speak for themselves.”

According to Blanton, Clinton’s bread and butter this season will be a simple recipe — pride.

“Our coaches have instilled a confidence and

pride in each of us for our team,” Blanton said.

“Over the years, our team has seen success under the leadership of our coaches, and we believe they will once again motivate us to a successful season.”

In his final season with the team, the all-conference senior believes in treating each game like it could be his last.

“Just like any other year, we’re preparing to make a solid run into the postseason,” Blanton said. “We understand that with all the uncertainty of COVID-19, we might not have a next Friday to take the field. Now, more than ever, we realize the significance of every play and leaving it all on the field each week. We want to bring home a win every week and bring home the conference title. We want to go deep into the postseason and ultimately play for the state title.”

Clinton High School’s Chase Blanton is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored

by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo)

8 I 501 LIFE Football 2020

Bryce Bohanon - Conway Bohanon does it all for Wampus Cats If there’s something Bryce Bohanon can’t do on the football field, Wampus Cat fans have yet to see it.

The electric senior has been lighting up Friday nights since his sophomore season.

On any given down, you could see him line up at receiver, running back, quarterback or return punts or kickoffs.

“My focus is to always work hard, be a team player and always try to be a leader in any situation,” Bohanon said.

Last year as a junior, Bohanon recorded 746 receiving yards and 281 rushing yards, scoring nine total touchdowns and earning all-state honors.

“Bryce brings leadership and mental and physical toughness,” said Conway Head Coach Keith Fimple.

“He begs for the ball at crucial times. He has made one B since ninth grade. He’s a hard worker and the definition of a student-athlete. This year, the sky is

the limit for him.”

This fall, Bohanon brings championship experience to the gridiron after having helped lead the basketball Wampus Cats to a state championship in the spring. His athletic spirit was forged through his relationship with his father.

“My whole life I’ve heard about how good my dad was at football, and I’ve always been so competitive with everything I’ve done, and I always wanted to be better than him someday,” Bohanon said.

“Now it’s just something that I love. My dad suffered a stroke at the beginning of my ninth-grade year, and because of that, I haven’t been able to talk with him about football or other things in my life. It is really great to have people who care enough to bring him to games so he can still watch me and my sister play.

Him being able to come makes it easier to achieve my goals.”

Conway High School’s Bryce Bohanon is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo)

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Football 2020 501lifemag.com I 9

Garrett Brown - Benton

Benton sets sights on War Memorial Stadium Garrett Brown and the Benton Panthers have unfinished business.

After dropping the Class 6A title game by one point to Searcy, the Panthers return hungry for redemption in 2020.

“I just want to win and get back to the state championship game so we can finish things,” Brown said. “Our team goals are the same as mine — win games, especially the big ones.”

Tasked with replacing its receiving corps this season, the senior quarterback believes there’s still much work to do before the team can compete for a state championship.

“COVID-19 has given us less reps than usual, but also more rest than usual, so it goes both

ways,” Brown said. “We have a lot of young guys still learning their positions. I want to see what this team can do because I feel like we have a ton of skill and can put a lot of points on the scoreboard. I just found out that I’m close to breaking the school passing record, so that would be cool, too.”

“As a three-year starter, Garrett has thrown for more than 5,200 yards in his career, and he is set to shatter our career passing record this year of just over 5,500 yards. We are looking for him to have a great senior year,” said Benton head coach Brad Harris.

“Our receivers this year are young but athletic, so we will be looking for Garrett to really help those guys with our offense. It should be an exciting year.”

Benton High School’s Garrett Brown is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored

by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo)

Jaxson Carter - Poyen Carter, Indians eye playoff return The bad taste of a one-point first-round playoff loss still resonates with Poyen senior quarterback Jaxson Carter and serves as the team’s motivation to go farther than ever before in 2020.

“One of our team goals this season is to go undefeated in conference play to get a really good spot going into the playoffs,” Carter said.

After playing through multiple injuries last season, Carter returns healthy and ready to lead his teammates to victory on the field.

“One of my personal goals this season is to have 1,000 passing and rushing yards this season,” Carter said. “I’m really excited about getting to go out on the field one more time with all the friends I’ve been playing with since I was little.”

The dual-threat quarterback has been laser-

focused on leading by example and maintaining a normal workout and practice schedule, while also utilizing social distancing, to prepare for the upcoming season.

“COVID-19 didn’t allow us to go to all the team camps and 7-on-7s we would normally go to,” Carter said. “We are just trying to keep things as normal as we can and get as much work in as possible during the short time that we’ve had.”

“Jaxson is a leader,” said Poyen Head Coach Vick Barrett. “He isn’t afraid to push his teammates to get the best out of them. He does the right things and leads by example. When your quarterback does that, it inspires the players around him to play harder and tougher. He is a good student and a great kid.”

Poyen High School’s Jaxson Carter is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored

by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo)

Jaxon Carter’s feature proudly brought to you by 10 I 501 LIFE Football 2020

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Xavier Credit - Mayf lower

Credit leading in the trenches for Mayflower The Mayflower Eagles enter 2020 looking to turn things around after a disappointing 2019 season. After winning 10 games in 2018, the Eagles dropped to two wins last fall. Senior Xavier Credit started on the offensive line both years and will be key in the turn-around.

“Xavier will be a two-way starter for us this year, as he was last year,” said Mayflower Coach Austin Emerson. “He never came off of the field, and he was one of our leaders up front in the trenches.”

Credit revels in the simple joys of football, like just hanging out with his teammates on long bus rides. “Football is a big thing to my family,” he said.

He approaches games and practice with a persistent and resilient attitude that is often required

to find success in the grind of the offensive and defensive lines.

“It’s not always easy, but you just push through it,” Credit said. “It will be worth it in the end. I just want to be the best I can be as a leader and a great teammate.”

“Xavier is tough on the field and always goes 100 percent,” Emerson said. “But he’s also always smiling and having a good time. He works hard in the classroom and in the weight room. He gets along with everyone in the school. I have not seen him have many bad days. Xavier is a very humble kid and is great to be around.”

When he’s not working on the football field for the Mayflower Eagles, he can usually be found out hunting or fishing.

Mayflower High School’s Xavier Credit is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo)

Football 2020 501lifemag.com I 11

Tyler Gee - Cabot

Gee, Panthers ready to ‘shock’ Class 7A Tyler Gee and the Cabot Panthers are all-in for the Class 7A state championship this year.

In the team’s second season under head coach Scott Reed’s spread offense, the senior quarterback believes his team is ready to claim its first state title in two decades.

“This year, we have a totally new offensive line, and our defense has switched some things up as well,” Gee said. “We have been watching film, working out and getting bigger, faster and stronger as a team. We will really shock a lot of people in the 7A this year.”

With more than 2,300 yards and 25 touchdowns through the air a year ago, Gee thrives in the team’s pass-heavy offense and projects to give opposing defenses fits in the mighty Class 7A Central confer-

ence this fall.

“My personal goal this year is to be a Landers Award finalist and break last year’s season stats,” Gee said. “Our team goal is to grow as players within the game so that we can win a state championship.”

“Tyler is an excellent passer and leader,” Reed said. “He’s a returning all-state player who has worked very hard in preparation for the upcoming season, and I expect him to have an outstanding senior year.”

“It’s my senior year,” Gee said. “I am very excited to go through this year with my other seniors and just how sentimental it’s going to be to finish my high school career with people I have been playing football with since I was playing pee wee.”

Cabot High School’s Tyler Gee is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo)

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Arkansas Palmer Gilbrech - Central Christian

Gilbrech, Mustangs aim for 2-4A title repeat In 2019, Palmer Gilbrech helped lead the Central Arkansas Christian Mustangs to a share of the 2-4A title as the starting quarterback. Gilbrech completed 61 percent of his passes, throwing for 2,300 yards and 21 touchdowns. He also rushed for another two scores. All of this helped him earn all-conference honors.

“He’s a leader and calm under pressure,” said CAC Coach Tommy Shoemaker. “I expect him to have an outstanding year. We are counting on him.”

Gilbrech’s senior season will bring more responsibilities and expectations as the Mustangs will look to repeat as conference champs. He’ll also have to do it with a lot of new targets at receiver. CAC’s top four leading receivers from 2019 all graduated.

“I just want to help my team win as many games as possible,” Gilbrech said. “I’ve been welcomed into a great school at CAC with great teammates that

have made things easy for me. I want to be someone who helps make my teammates a better player.”

Off the field, Gilbrech stays active for CAC. He’s a member of Beta Club and Mu Alpha Theta. He also volunteers with Mustang Missions, which hosts several service projects throughout the school year.

“He’s high character and great in the classroom,” Shoemaker said. “He is just a good and kind person — very likable. And he’s an ideal student-athlete.”

Gilbrech plans on also playing basketball this year for the Mustangs, and after high school, he plans to pursue an accounting degree. But before all that, he’s putting in the work one day at a time.

“I admire people who don’t worry what other people think about them and have a positive mindset,” Gilbrech said. “I’m focused on improving myself as a player and a person.”

Central Arkansas Christian High School’s Palmer Gilbrech is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo)

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Football 2020 501lifemag.com I 13

Austin Haynes - Quitman

Pushing Bulldogs to ‘be the best’ Austin Haynes will be a player for college coaches to keep an eye on this fall. The senior brings size and agility to both sides of the line of scrimmage for Quitman.

“He will be a three-year starter, and he allows us to do a lot in our pass game with him at left tackle,” said Quitman Head Coach DJ Marrs. “When he comes to the sideline, he knows what the defensive line is doing, and most of the time he comes straight to me and tells me what plays he likes and doesn’t.

That can sometimes be a pain for coaches, but he is genuinely breaking it down and understands what we want to do. Most of the time, he’s dead on.”

Haynes graded out as the Bulldogs’ best offensive lineman in 2019. This year, his goals are to record 40 pancake blocks and not allow any sacks.

“As a team, we plan to win our conference and be the best team Quitman has ever seen,” Haynes said. “I want to be remembered as one of the best defensive/offensive linemen in Quitman history.”

Haynes also plays baseball for the Quitman Bulldogs. The senior plans to continue playing football in college and pursue a coaching degree.

“He is smart, athletic and has that ‘nastiness’ that pushes him to finish blocks the way you want an offensive lineman to,” Marrs said. “He will also help us a lot on the defensive line with his speed and great technique.

At the end of the season, he should be on the radars of several schools with his size, ability and great grades.

“He is the second oldest of his five brothers and sisters. He understands selflessness and isn’t scared to be the guy who steps up first to help out.”

Quitman High School’s Austin Haynes is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo)

Brock Hohenstein - Searcy

Hohenstein, Lions defending 6A championship How do you follow up a championship season?

For Searcy’s Brock Hohenstein, the motivation is pretty simple — defend the championship and make personal gains.

“I’m just focused on getting faster and stronger,” Hohenstein said. “If you slack too much, you won’t make it on the field.”

A year ago, Hohenstein put up a solid junior campaign with 57 tackles, six tackles for a loss and four sacks on the defensive line, earning 2019 allconference honors in the 6A East.

“Brock had a great season doing his job on the defensive line,” said Mark Kelley, Searcy’s former head coach. “He helped to open other guys up to make plays. Brock plays with an extremely high

motor and is physical. He works hard in everything that he does and does a great job of setting an example. He’s a leader of the team and defense as well as being an all-state caliber player. He’s a great young man that works for everything that he has gotten.”

As a senior, Hohenstein will anchor a defensive line focused on helping the Lions defend their championship status. The Lions defeated Benton, 28-27, in the 6A state championship last fall for the school’s first championship since 1933.

Hohenstein gives back to the Searcy community through volunteering in the Lion Serve Day each summer and attends First Assembly of God Church in Searcy.

Searcy High School’s Brock Hohenstein is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank.

14 I 501 LIFE Football 2020

Brayden Jones - Bigelow

Jones, new-look Panthers excited for 2020 Despite a winless campaign in 2019, there’s a lot to be excited about when it comes to Bigelow Panthers football this season.

With a clean slate and a new look on offense and defense, the Panthers are committed to earning their first playoff appearance in six years through dedication in the weight room and focus on the field.

“COVID-19 hasn’t had much of an impact on me or the upcoming season,” said senior Brayden Jones. “We’ve been practicing like normal, but with social distancing. As a team, we’ve been lifting weights and going through our offense and defense Monday through Thursday at practice. This season, our team is going to be running a hurry-up offense, and we’ve made some position changes on defense.

I’m excited to run our new offense this season.”

Jones plans to be a pivotal part of the Panthers’ game plan this season, contributing as a wide receiver and running back on offense and playing safety on defense.

“My personal goals for this season are to be a leader and help win games,” Jones said. “The team goals this season are to win every game and make it to the playoffs.”

“Brayden is a hard worker, a dependable leader and respectful,” said Bigelow Head Coach Luke Starks. “Last season, he was second on the team in rushing yards, third on the team in total tackles and was named Bigelow High School’s Male Athlete of the Year. His classmates look up to him.”

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Bigelow High School’s Brayden Jones is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo)

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Football 2020 501lifemag.com I 15

Blake Kennedy - Perryville Team chemistry drives Mustangs Perryville impressed in 2019, transforming from a two-win team into a six-win playoff team.

The Mustangs’ key to success? Chemistry.

“Two years ago, we were a 2-8 team that didn’t like each other,” said senior halfback/linebacker Blake Kennedy. “Everything changed last year — we grew closer as a team and discovered that we were stronger together. That is what fans can expect to see again this year. We have a lot of faith in each other, and I think it will help us be a solid team this year.”

This season, the Mustangs have added new offensive weapons to its arsenal and set their sights on returning to the Class 3A playoffs.

“Our goal this season is to be the best team that we can be,” Kennedy said. “We have a new running back from Oklahoma and a new wide receiver, too.

We have to come to practice, do our work and leave it all on the field every Friday night. If we do that

this season, we will take the win home every time.”

Led by Kennedy, the Mustang defense projects to be one of the toughest in the Class 4-3A conference.

“Blake will continue to anchor our defense at inside linebacker,” said head coach Chris Norton.

“I would expect him to return to all-conference form, have an opportunity to earn all-state honors and have the opportunity to continue playing at the collegiate level.”

With COVID-19 impacting many teams across the state, Kennedy says that he and his football brothers are happy to have the opportunity to play this season.

“Friday nights are what it’s all about,” Kennedy said. “I’m excited to be playing my senior year with this team. I can’t wait to spend as much time as I can with my team this year.”

Perryville High School’s Blake Kennedy is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo)

Darren McClinton - England McClinton, senior-laden Lions moving forward With a new coaching staff and a new offensive scheme, the England Lions will be a must-see team this fall.

Led by senior running back, receiver and safety Darren McClinton, the Lions aim to use their senior leadership to guide them back to the Class 2A playoffs.

“We have a new head coach and two new assistant coaches that are doing everything they can to prepare us for this season,” McClinton said. We are also running a new offense. One thing I’m excited for this year is that all the seniors are on the same page. We want to make this season the best we can by pushing our younger guys to the best of their ability.”

Like many schools in the 501, the Lions have faced their share of challenges with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

“COVID-19 has impacted a lot of this upcoming season,” McClinton said. “It has given us very little time to prepare or get to where we want to be in the weight room and on the field. Despite not doing any 7-on-7 or team camps, the team has been preparing as hard as it can and is still physical on the defensive side.”

According to McClinton, leadership will be the defining factor in England’s success this season.

“My goal this season is just to be a leader,” McClinton said. “I know that if I lead my team, they will follow, no matter how hard the task is. Our team goal is to win conference and move forward in the playoffs.”

“Darren was one of our top offensive players last season,” said England Head Coach Andrew Roberson. “He is an extremely hard worker and will do what it takes in order to win on and off the field.”

England High School’s Darren McClinton is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo)

16 I 501 LIFE Football 2020

Jackson Moll - Morrilton Moll leads Morrilton ground game Every time Jackson Moll has fallen, he’s gotten right back up.

Moll, a senior running back for Morrilton, broke his collarbone as a sophomore, and then broke his wrist last fall as a junior.

“He was one of our best players until he broke his wrist,” said Morrilton Head Coach Cody McNabb. “He came back in the playoffs and helped us. He is one of the most resilient players I have ever coached. He could be one of the best players in the conference.”

In six games last fall, Moll rushed for 313 yards and seven touchdowns before his wrist injury shortened his regular season.

The Devil Dogs made it all the way to the 5A semifinals, where they fell to eventual state champion Pulaski Academy.

“Our team goal is to keep improving ourselves as people

and as players week by week to help us in our futures and our road to the state title,” Moll said. “My personal goals for this season are to stay healthy the whole season and to live in the moment for my last go-around as a senior. There will be struggles along the way, but as long as you focus on the process and not the outcome, success will come in time.”

Moll is a multi-sport athlete for the Devil Dogs. He runs the 100m and 200m on the track team, as well as participating in the long jump. He also started playing soccer last year for Morrilton.

“I would just like to show my appreciation and give a huge thank you to everyone who has shown love and support to me and my team, and especially my coaches for spending countless hours to be a part of mine and my teammates’ lives in and out of football,” Moll said.

Morrilton High School’s Jackson Moll is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo)

Houston Motes - Maumelle Hornets contending in 5A Central After winning four games in 2018, the Maumelle Hornets doubled up in the win column with an 8-3 record last fall. It was the everyday hard-working mentality of players like Houston Motes that helped the Hornets finish third in the 5A Central.

“Houston's work ethic and attitude have been a huge part of our team culture changing for the better,” said Maumelle Head Coach Kirk Horton. “He is a physical kid with a

motor.”

Last fall, Motes started every game at tight end and also played some on the defensive line, in addition to handling deep snapping duties for the Hornets.

Maumelle lost just two games during the regular season, both of which were to fellow 5A Central foes — Pulaski Academy and Little Rock Christian. Both of those teams ended up in the 5A state championship

game. Maumelle fell in the first round of the playoffs to Texarkana, 24-21.

In his senior season, Motes will continue to serve as the long snapper and is likely to start on both sides of the ball. Motes is just as important to the Hornets off the field.

“He is a high character person who genuinely cares for people,” Horton said. “He volunteers with our middle school and youth programs. He is respectful and hard-working.”

Maumelle High School’s Houston Motes is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank.

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Football 2020 501lifemag.com I 17

Steven Roberson - Bismarck Defense ‘key’ for Bismarck in 2020 Bismarck hasn’t reached the Class 3A playoffs since 2014. Behind a new defensive scheme, however, the Lions are dedicated to changing the status quo in 2020.

“This year, we have a new defensive coach that has been helping us tremendously,” said senior running back and linebacker Steven Roberson. “Due to COVID-19, we were worried that we might not have a season this year, but we’ve been working out and practicing five days a week, and our offensive line has gotten bigger than it has been in a long time.

I’m excited for our chance at reaching the playoffs this year.”

One of five senior leaders for the Lions this season, Roberson understands that in order for his team

to experience the playoffs for the first time in their high school careers, he must lead by example.

“Making the playoffs is our biggest team goal this year,” Roberson said. “To help us get there, I have set multiple personal goals — to not miss any of my blocks, to run for around 12 touchdowns, to get four-to-five interceptions and to return a kickoff for a touchdown.”

“Steven is a constant example of hard work on the field and in the weight room,” said Bismarck Head Coach D.J. Keithley. “He is always encouraging and motivating his teammates to get involved and to do things the right way. I expect him to be a leader on both sides of the ball this season, both verbally and by example.”

Bismarck High School’s Steven Roberson is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank.

Gannon Roberts - Beebe

Roberts, Beebe building toward playoff berth Gannon Roberts moved to Arkansas a year ago and immersed himself in Beebe Badger football.

“Gannon moved to Beebe from Oklahoma last year and fit right in with our program, school and community,” said Chris Gunter, second-year head coach at Beebe. “The way he came out and earned the respect of his peers was impressive. We think Gannon is going to play a vital role in getting our program headed in the right direction.”

Roberts split snaps at quarterback last fall as a sophomore, leading the team with almost 800 passing yards and five touchdowns. He also rushed for more than 200 yards. This fall as a junior, he’ll be expected to carry a heavier workload.

“We have very high expectations for Gannon,” Gunter said. “We expect him to show growth in every aspect. Gannon has been working hard in

the offseason, but his leadership is what we are looking forward to most out of his junior season.”

Gannon grew up in a football family and was inspired by his older brother, Mason, who now plays Division II football.

“My brother Mason has had his football season postponed, then shortened with no nonconference and no postseason games. Now it will more than likely be canceled. It’s hard to watch someone prepare so hard and not get to play, especially because he loves the game so much.”

Roberts is singularly focused on helping the Badgers get back to the playoffs for the first time since 2015.

“Gannon’s effort is unmatched,” Gunter said. “He provides great effort at all times, no matter how small the task is. His attention to detail and desire to be a great teammate is what really separates this kid from the others.”

Beebe High School’s Gannon Roberts is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo)

18 I 501 LIFE Football 2020

Will Ross

Hot Springs Lakeside Rams ready for conference repeat

Hot Springs Lakeside captured its first 5A South crown in four years last season, but a shutout loss in the first round of the playoffs put the brakes on a promising season and left the team wondering what could have been.

Led by senior quarterback Will Ross, the Rams return in 2020 with strong motivation for a redo.

“I’m excited for the opportunity to play my senior year of high school football and make new memories with my team that are like family to me,” Ross said. “A goal for our team is to win the 5A South conference again and compete for a state championship in the playoffs.”

According to Ross, the Rams’ most potent weapon this season is their football IQ. “Lakeside has never been the biggest, fastest, nor strongest team in our conference,” Ross said. “The 5A South is also a great conference. In order to be successful, we have to give great effort, be coachable and be smarter than the team we are playing against in order to beat them.”

With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic looking to play spoiler across the 501 this season, Ross says his team is committed to doing whatever it takes to play football this fall.

“It was difficult to not be able to practice with my coaches and teammates over the spring and first half of the summer,” Ross said. “It required a lot of self-discipline and motivation during the months without team practices. We are taking every precaution we can to have our season. We are doing all the right things in practice. It’s hard to change some things because we’ve done them for so long, but we have to adapt. We have to be willing to change to continue playing football.”

Hot Springs Lakeside High School’s Will Ross is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo)

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Caden Sipe - Harding Academy Sipe ‘undisputed leader’ for Harding Caden Sipe and the Harding Academy Wildcats etched their names in the Arkansas high school football history books in 2019, earning a perfect 15-0 record and a 3A state championship.

For his part, Sipe was simply amazing at quarterback in his junior campaign, compiling 3,868 passing yards, completing 71 percent of his passes and racking up 59 passing touchdowns and nine rushing touchdowns.

“He was the centerpiece in orchestrating the most prolific offense in Harding Academy history,” said Wildcat Head Coach Neil Evans. “He has the ability to extend the play with his legs, does well in big games, knows how to play situational football and manage the game, throws a really accurate deep ball and has different launch angles with his release that enables him to make a number of throws either on the run or with pressure in his face. We expect him to have another all-state performance.”

Sipe was named the 3A Player of the Year by the Little Rock Touchdown Club. He injured his ankle early in the 3A state championship against Osceola and still managed to pass for 366 yards and three scores.

“I want to be remembered as a great teammate,” Sipe said. “That is not something that everyone can witness all the time, but my teammates will always remember if I was a great teammate or not. Talent will take you far but being a better person and teammate will take you much further.”

Sipe, a senior, also plays basketball for the Wildcats.

“His character is unmatched,” Evans said.

“Words do not do his character justice. He’s the undisputed leader of our entire team, and he carries the footballs to and from practice along with the water. He can always be seen leaving practice with his hands and arms full of equipment.”

Harding Academy’s Caden Sipe is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo)

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Robert Taylor - Conway Christian Conway Christian ready to bounce back in 2020 2019 was uncharacteristic for Conway Christian, as the Eagles missed the playoffs for the first time in over a decade. Coach Justin Kramer will look to players like Robert Taylor to help shift those fortunes this fall.

“I expect Robert to be one of our leaders,” Kramer said. “He will be a three-year starter at defensive end as he has progressed from all-conference honorable mention as a sophomore to all-conference as a junior and no doubt all-state capable as a senior.

We just need him to be him.

“Robert plays with high intensity and nonstop effort. He consistently makes plays on the opposite side of the field due to relentless pursuit.”

Taylor has also made an impact off the field for the Eagles, volunteering his time and effort in the Conway community.

“Robert is willing to do anything asked of him

and has helped serve through MobilePack as well as multiple off-campus service projects through the school,” Kramer said. “He is a very humble guy with a quiet demeanor. He is consistent in his character and the way he treats his classmates.”

Taylor is branching out for his senior year. He’ll be joining the Eagles basketball team after football concludes. He’s also active in Drama Club at Conway Christian.

Among all of the changes since March due to COVID-19, Taylor has found new perspective for his senior year after testing positive for the virus during the summer.

“Take these years seriously and have fun, but don’t take them for granted,” Taylor said. “I want to be remembered as someone the younger players could look up to and have someone to push them to be great.”

Conway Christian School’s Robert Taylor is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo)

Football 2020 501lifemag.com I 21

Luke Trubiano - Vilonia

Trubiano ready to step into leadership for Vilonia The Vilonia Eagles made huge strides in 2019, leapfrogging several 5A West teams to go from consistently missing the playoffs to earning the No. 2 seed. The jump was due in large part to committed players like Luke Trubiano.

“Last year, Luke played a role of back-up Sam (strongside) linebacker and special teams,” said Vilonia Head Coach Todd Langrell. “Also, and maybe more importantly, Luke was always in on scout defense to give us the best look possible. Luke is truly a selfless person.”

“I have great expectations of Luke for this season, but the one at the forefront is to be a leader. I know he will go full speed all the time and give 100 percent. This team needs a senior leader, and I think he can fill that role.”

Trubiano’s maturity can be traced to growing up around military service members.

“My mom and dad were both deployed overseas,” Trubiano said. “I had to grow up really early in life. Because of them, I am the person I am today.”

After making the culture shift last year, the focus becomes even clearer this year for the senior linebacker and his teammates.

“Our goal this year is to win the conference championship for Vilonia,” Trubiano said.

Trubiano also throws discus and shot put for the Eagles track team. After high school, he plans to attend college and pursue becoming a paramedic.

“Luke is a Vilonia boy,” Langrell said. “He is always supporting Vilonia businesses, especially from the local tackle shop. Luke is often considered our chauffeur; he will get anyone to practice or school that needs a ride. Luke will do anything for the team to succeed. The world would be a better place if we had more Luke Trubianos in it.”

Vilonia High School’s Luke Trubiano is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored

by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo)

Layne Warrick - Lake Hamilton Wolves targeting Class 6A title Following a close loss in the Class 6A quarterfinals last season, Lake Hamilton is out to prove that it has what it takes to compete for a state championship in 2020.

Boasting one of the top defensive units in Class 6A last season, the Wolves’ path to victory involves outmuscling opponents on the gridiron every Friday night.

“We have a different defensive coordinator and lots of young starters this season,” said senior quarterback Layne Warrick. “Our team goal this year is to take it one game at a time. I’m excited about finishing the season.”

Despite limitations from the COVID-19 pandemic, Warrick says his team has adapted well to the challenge.

“COVID-19 has definitely cut our preparation time short,” Warrick said. “We are preparing for the season by watching lots of film and conditioning.”

Despite a collarbone injury to Warrick in a

preseason scrimmage, the team has confidence in backup quarterbacks J.T. Bardwell and Grant Bearden to achieve the team’s goals while Warrick is off the field.

“Layne being hurt does hurt us offensively, because of what he brings to the game,” said head coach Tommy Gilleran. “However, our running backs and defensive backs are our strongest assets going into the season, and as long as our offensive and defensive linemen keep improving, we’ll be able to make a deep run into the postseason.”

Warrick is expected to return later this season and provide a dual-threat boost to Lake Hamilton’s offense.

“Layne is a quiet leader with a hard-working attitude,” Gilleran said. “He is a friend to everyone and is always very positive. My expectations for him this year are to take his team to the state championship game.”

Lake Hamilton High School’s Layne Warrick is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo)

22 I 501 LIFE Football 2020

Wampus Cats voice changing

Gilbert stands on the shoulders of 30-year veteran

Jeff Matthews (left) interacts with Levi Gilbert in the press box as they offer play-by-play announcing of Wampus Cat football to viewers on Conway Corp Channel 5/585 and online at conwaycorp.com/wc2go. (Lanette Rogers photo)

At the start of the high school football season, Conway Corp announced that viewers would hear a new voice doing play-by-play duties for its 20th season of broadcast coverage of Wampus Cat football.

Jeff Matthews was a familiar voice after 19 years of announcing the Conway High School games. Matthews has a total of 30 years of experience calling high school football, according to a statement on his Facebook page. “I’m making the move out of the booth on Friday nights and will host pregame and halftime shows for our coverage of the Wampus Cats on Conway Corp,” said Matthews.

“Levi Gilbert slides into the play-by-play role and we welcome Tim Roach as our new analyst – exciting times!”

Together, the three make up the broadcast team with Matthews taking on a different role that gives him the opportunity to profile players as host of the pregame and halftime shows. Matthews is the public relations/production specialist for Conway Corp.

“I’m really looking forward to this season,” Matthews said. “It will be a new chapter for me and I’m excited to tell more stories of Wampus Cat student athletes. I’m confident in handing the play-by-play reins over to Levi. I’ve seen his commitment to research and attention to detail for years.”

Gilbert is a play-by-play commentator for Conway Corp, a learning consultant for Acxiom Corporation and an associate editor for 501 LIFE. He plays an essential role in the magazine’s annual 501 Football edition as well as monthly print and online publications. The father of three is married to Brittany Gilbert.

“501 LIFE would like to congratulate our friend, Jeff Matthews, on his 19 years of broadcasting Wampus Cat football. He has delivered an outstanding job,” said 501 LIFE Co-publisher/Editor Sonja J. Keith. “We also want to congratulate Levi on his new role in the broadcast booth. Levi has been a member of the 501 Team since almost the beginning of the monthly magazine. He is extremely talented, and we greatly appreciate all of his contributions.”

In response to the change in roles, Gilbert has been public about his admiration of Matthews as a friend and mentor. On his Facebook page he wrote, “You have been the definition of selfless in our friendship. Time after time, you have

Jeff Matthews (from left), Levi Gilbert and Tim Roach are the broadcast team of Conway High School games for Conway Corp.

opened doors for me and supported me … I think that’s truly rare and you should be honored for that.”

Gilbert went on to congratulate Matthews for building a great broadcast over the past 19 years and said he was sure many people would miss having him tell the story of Conway football and basketball each season.

It was also announced that the new analyst is Tim Roach. Matthews said, “Fans will recognize Tim’s voice from the work he has done announcing in stadiums and arenas in Conway and his passion for the Wampus Cats will be fun to hear every week!”

Conway Regional Health System is returning as the presenting sponsor for the season. All varsity football games, home and away, will be broadcast live on Conway Corp Channel 5/585 and online at conwaycorp.com/wc2go.

Football 2020 501lifemag.com I 23

Ashton White - Greenbrier White ready to lead Panthers back to playoffs Ashton White takes advantage of the time he’s given on the gridiron.

In 2019, he tore ligaments in his ankle during fall camp and missed six games after surgery. But he made the most of the four games he saw the field, earning 5A West all-conference honors at center for the second year in a row.

“Ashton’s a very quick, athletic player,” said Greenbrier Head Coach Randy Tribble. “He understands our offense and what all the linemen have to do, so he can help the younger players. He works very hard and is intense in his preparation and workouts. He’s an encourager.”

“I believe he will be one of the best offensive linemen in our conference. I believe he will be a great leader for our team and for our offensive linemen. He will also help us be better by the ways he helps the younger, less experienced players.”

For White, the 2020 goal is very clear

for the senior.

“I want for us to go back to the playoffs this year after falling short due to injuries last year,” White said.

Perhaps the best indicator of White’s character is his approach to the game on the other nights besides Fridays.

“Don’t complain so much about practice,” White said. “It’s not always fun, but it’s part of the game, and the more you complain, the more it will bring down yourself and your team.”

The senior Greenbrier Panther plans to study mechanical engineering or physical therapy after high school but is undecided on which college he’ll be pursuing.

“The main thing that inspires me is my faith in Christ,” White said. “Holding fast to my salvation and knowing that God has a sovereign plan for my life motivates me to keep working.”

Greenbrier High School’s Ashton White is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo)

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Jack Wurz - Fountain Lake Cobras set to strike back in 2020 To say the Fountain Lake Cobras were challenged last season would be an understatement.

From losing its head coach two weeks before the season started to dwindling participation and increased injuries, the Cobras learned a lot in last year’s 2-8 campaign.

With interim head coach Kenny Shelton being promoted to head coach, a brand-new coaching staff and a nearly doubled player base, Fountain Lake returns with the confidence and rejuvenation necessary to make a playoff push in 2020.

“The biggest thing for our team this season is a new, exciting coaching staff,” said senior quarterback/cornerback Jack Wurz. “As a team, I think the coaches have put us in a good position to surprise a lot of people. My personal goal this season is to help my team make the playoffs, and our team goal is to

make a run in the playoffs.”

After a positive COVID-19 case cancelled the team’s season opener against Hot Springs, Wurz and the Cobras have stepped up to keep their chance at redemption alive this season.

“COVID-19 has forced me to find new avenues to get in workouts — weights and throwing,” Wurz said. “Once we were allowed to practice, everyone on the team — players and coaches — went all in.

As a team, we have had a lot of players step up in the weight room and on the field.”

“Jack is a great leader who is as tough as nails,” said head coach Kenny Shelton. “He is very smart with a high football IQ and is like having another coach on the field. I expect Jack to have a great year at quarterback and hopefully lead us to the playoffs.”

Fountain Lake High School’s Jack Wurz is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored by Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo)

Football 2020 501lifemag.com I 25

Play ball

UCA football continues despite pandemic

Breylin Smith is a Conway High graduate and the UCA quarterback. (Photo courtesy of UCA Sports Information)

by Mark Oliver

When the Southland Conference postponed fall sports to the spring semester of 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the University of Central Arkansas took its football program in a different direction, becoming one of only a few Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) teams to continue competing in 2020.

For the Bears, the decision to play was not a difficult one.

“When the Southland Conference made its decision, we started looking at the Big 12, Conference USA and Sunbelt conferences, who are also in our regional footprint,” said UCA Athletic Director Dr. Brad Teague. “If they could play, why couldn’t we? I encouraged our Southland Conference athletic directors to continue with that same mindset but it didn’t work out. We were more worried about spring football because of the nature of the sport and how taxing it is on the student athletes to turn around and do it all again three months later in the fall. We decided to continue playing this fall because we felt like it was the best thing for our student athletes and program.”

Faced with the challenge of finding a full slate of opponents to play against this fall, UCA took an outside-the-box approach to fielding a 10game season.

“With only 14 FCS teams competing, we’ve had to schedule more FBS 26 I 501 LIFE Football 2020

Breylin Smith hands off to running back Kierre Crossley. (Photo courtesy of UCA Sports Information)

teams than we normally do,” Teague said. “This year we’ll play against three — University of Alabama at Birmingham, University of Louisiana at Lafayette

and Arkansas State University. We’ll also be the only game of the season for the top-ranked FCS team, North Dakota State. All four of those games give us a lift that we’re willing to play anyone just to get a schedule. It’s great for our program.”

On Aug. 29, the Bears grabbed the national spotlight in their season opener, facing Austin Peay State University in the first Division I FCS college football game since the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Live on ESPN, the Bears defeated the Governors on a touchdown pass with 34 seconds left to win, 24-17.

“Our first game couldn’t have been scripted any better for us,” Teague said. “It was a great game. Five days later, we played in the first Division I FBS [Football Bowl Subdivision] college football game in the country against the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Those two weeks were incredible for our brand. Coach Brown and I were on every single national show talking about the return of football. We got credit for being the team that galvanized the return of NCAA football. That was exciting for us and gave us a lot of national exposure.”

Because UCA opted out of the Southland Conference’s postponed football schedule, the Bears will be unable to play for the Southland Conference championship this season. According to Teague, however, the purple and gray are playing for something bigger this fall.

“We’re playing to be a nationally-recognized program — one that’s willing to go against the norms and has the means and the resources to do it,” Teague said. “We’re proud to have a 10game schedule this fall and we’re proud to have the spring off so that we can have another fall football season in 2021.”

By the numbers, the Bears have managed to keep the impact of COVID-19 relatively low within the program.

“Due to our partnership with Conway Regional Health System, the access to timely COVID-19 test results was the only way for us to continue to do what we’ve done,” Teague said.

“We’ve been very appreciative of that. Since June 16, we have performed 1,350 tests with only 19 positive results and never more than four in one week. That’s a 1.4-percent ratio. Our athletic program, as a whole, has a 3 percent positive rate. So far, we’ve done very well and we anticipate to continue moving forward.”

With no end to the COVID-19 pandemic in sight, Teague says his program is committed to playing as long as it can.

“We knew there would be some scrutiny [with our decision], but things have gone very well for us so far,” Teague said. “We plan to play as long as we don’t run into a situation where we can’t field a single position. If there are too many players who play a single position that test positive, that would be a reason for us to postpone. We have had a very limited positivity rate on our football program and that’s a testament to our student athletes and coaches. They are wearing masks, washing hands, social distancing and not touching their faces. Their motivation to play has inspired them to follow our protocols and they have done a great job.”

For more information on UCA football this season, visit ucasports.com.

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