501 Football 2023

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Brayden Hull - Poyen; Brooks Ward - Catholic High School; Cade Davis - Magnet Cove; Calan Cowdery - Mayflower; Caleb Schultz - Bismark; Caleb Turner - Bigelow; Cash Hays - Quitman; Chauncey Johnson - Lonoke; Donovyn Omolo - Conway; Eli Weaver - Greenbrier; Garrison Waldrop - Beebe; Gavin Reardon - Cabot; Grayson Wilson - CAC; Hays Buckley - Morrilton; Jace Garcia - Searcy; Jalen Dupree - Malvern; James Holder - Bald Knob; Josh Brooks - Lake Hamilton; Kade Williams - Conway Christian; Kendall Williams - Hot Springs; Kyler Hoover - Harding Academy; Luke Underwood - Perryville; Maddox Moore - Harmony Grove; Nik Franklin - Riverview; Ryan Enis - Vilonia; Skylar Purifoy - Hot Springs Lakeside; Tanner Holden - Benton; Zane Widener - Clinton

We also recognize the important role that bands, cheerleaders, dance and drill teams play during football season. Football in the South wouldn’t be the same without each of these groups! We join the thousands of fans, parents, coaches and players who are excited about the upcoming season — good luck to you all!

BRAYDEN HULL - POYEN

Unsatisfied with last season’s first-round playoff loss to eventual champion Hazen, Poyen has been hard at work this offseason to prove it belongs in the discussion for Class 2A state champion.

Fueled by the Indians’ trip to the Class 2A semifinals two years ago, senior wide receiver Brayden Hull leads his team with confidence this fall.

“Our goal every year is to make it to December and play in the Class 2A state championship game,” Hull said. “This year, we truly believe we will accomplish that because we’re getting better as a team every day.”

With experience and grit in his arsenal, the two-time All-Conference honoree understands the power of effective leadership on and off the field.

“This season, I want to be remembered as a great teammate and leader who people looked up to,” Hull said. “I’d like to win AllConference and All-State honors while leading Class 2A in receiving yards and touchdowns.”

Hull spent time at quarterback last season for Poyen and could see time under center again this fall.

“Last year was my first time playing quarterback in a while,” Hull said. “While it was difficult to learn a new position, I had to step up and overcome adversity.”

In addition to playing basketball, golf, and baseball and running track for Poyen High School, Hull has received multiple offers to continue his football career at the next level.

“My plans after high school are to play college football,” Hull said. “I’ve received offers from Lyon College and Hendrix College.”

CONGRATS FROM

BROOKS WARD - CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

The Catholic Rockets excelled in their move down to 6A in 2022, going undefeated in the regular season and making it the way to the state semifinals.

Receiver Brooks Ward contributed to Catholic’s success by hauling in 51 catches for 1,048 yards and 15 touchdowns, which earned him All-State honors.

“My favorite memory from last year was when we drove down the field against Little Rock Christian Academy at the end of the fourth quarter to score a game-winning touchdown in the playoffs,” he said.

Ward has a goal to play college baseball (he currently holds offers from Air Force and Arkansas State), but before he continues his playing days in college, Ward and the Rockets have unfinished business on the gridiron.

“Our team goal is to win a state championship,” Ward said. “We will be able to achieve this by working hard and always picking each other up and holding each

other accountable. Personally, my goals are to just improve from what I did last year and have fun while doing it. I’d like to have 1,500 total yards this year.”

Ward is crushing it in the classroom, too, for the Rockets. Heading into his senior season, he’s earned a 3.9 GPA and scored a 29 on the ACT. He serves as co-president of the pickleball club and will be running for president of the Mu Alpha Theta club this fall.

“I want to be remembered by how hard I worked and by my perseverance,” Ward said.

CONGRATS FROM

CADE DAVIS - MAGNET COVE

After finishing in the middle of the pack in the competitive Class 4-3A conference last season, Magnet Cove enters the fall with a chip on its shoulder.

Behind sturdy skill position players, steadfast senior leadership and an experienced defensive corps, strength is the Panthers’ biggest advantage this season.

“Our goals for this season began as soon as the final whistle sounded last season,” senior strong safety Cade Davis said. “From working hard in the weight room to pushing ourselves at summer camps and offseason practices, our guys are going to be ready to give it everything we have each time those stadium lights are on this season.”

“Cade made a lot of plays, defensively, for us last year,” Magnet Cove head coach Dean Adams said. “He is an extremely hard worker and a very unselfish player who is willing to help his team win any way that he can. As

a returning starter, we are expecting him to have a big senior year, defensively.”

After missing time due to injury last season, Davis aims to leave it all on the field every Friday night in his senior swan song.

“I want to be remembered as the kid who wasn’t afraid to sacrifice himself,” Davis said. “The kid who played assignment football, made plays and showed good sportsmanship. My goal this season is to be the best I can be to benefit my team. I want to be a leader that my teammates can look up to on and off the field.”

CONGRATS FROM

CALAN COWDERY - MAYFLOWER

The Mayflower Eagles finished 2022 a game below .500, and Calan Cowdery and his classmates have big goals to ascend past that mark this fall.

“Our goal this year is to make it into the playoffs,” Cowdery said.

Cowdery started every game at safety for the Eagles last fall. This year, he is expected to contribute more at running back, too.

“Calan is a very intelligent player,” Mayflower Head Coach Austin Emerson said. “He is someone who always executes our game plan as we lay it out. He is also a great open-field tackler. He is our guy in the secondary who helps out with coverage communication.

“Calan is a great student-athlete who never misses workouts. He plays travel soccer during the football season, so oftentimes he plays a game late Friday night and then the next morning is out-of-state for a weekend soccer tournament. He never misses organized team activities and is one of our hardest workers on the team.”

Cowdery also competes in track for the Eagles. He participates in National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Beta Club. He strives to make the most of his high school experience.

“It only happens once,” Cowdery said. “Don’t be lazy and enjoy it while you can.”

“Calan is one of our best personalities off the football field,” Emerson said. “There is never a dull moment with him around. He’s always smiling and having a great time. He brings up the spirit of all those around him.”

CONGRATS FROM

With back-to-back winning seasons, consecutive second-round playoff appearances and each of last season’s six victories coming via mercy rule, Bismarck has proven that its recent gridiron turnaround is no fluke.

Led by senior linebacker Caleb Shultz and supported by talented skill players, the Lions plan to build on their momentum to make a deep postseason run this fall.

“I want to be remembered as someone who always worked hard and was coachable,” Schultz said. “My goals are to work hard and to help my team as much as possible. Our team wants to win a state championship this year. By working together, learning and playing like we are taught, we believe in our ability to win.”

“Caleb is a solid all-around player who is going to show up for you when called upon,” Bismarck head coach D.J. Keithley said. “As a great tackler in the open field and someone who is consistently where he needs to be to

CALEB SCHULTZ - BISMARCK CALEB TURNER - BIGELOW

make a play, he is a great example on how to play the right way with your head and with sportsmanship.”

Looking to expand on last season’s success, Schultz’s versatility on the field opens the door for new possibilities for the team defensively this season.

“With Caleb’s growth in size and speed this offseason, I expect him to be our utility defensive player this season,” Keithley said. “In years past, he has played outside linebacker for us, but we believe he can help us out at safety and inside linebacker this season.”

CONGRATS FROM

After suffering a surprise first-round playoff exit last season, Bigelow is determined to regain its status as a 501 football powerhouse in 2023.

Three-year starter Caleb Turner anchors the line for the Panthers this season and projects to be a major piece of the puzzle, defensively, as the team chases its fourth consecutive Class 1-2A conference title.

“Caleb’s best qualities on the field are his physicality, toughness, aggressiveness, intelligence and high effort,” Bigelow head coach Luke Starks said. “Despite being a three-year starter on the offensive line, we expect him to play more defense for us and to be a leader on and off the field.”

Turner and his teammates haven’t lost a single Class 1-2A conference game throughout their senior high football careers. Continuing the 20-game streak this season won’t come without hard work.

“As a personal goal, I want to be a better

leader for our offensive line,” Turner said. “As a team, we’re stronger this year with lots of power. We still have work to do, but by playing our best football as a team, I believe that we will not only win the conference, but win the Class 2A state championship, too.”

While the team aims to bring the title home to Bigelow this season, Turner and the Panthers seek to extend another winning streak by defeating cross-county rival Perryville.

“Winning the Perry County rivalry against Perryville the past three years has been super cool,” Turner said. “It’s a tradition we plan to continue this season, too.”

CONGRATS FROM

CASH HAYS - QUITMAN

In their first year moving up to 3A, the Quitman Bulldogs continued their run of playoff success, earning a 3A state playoff berth and winning in the first round.

Cash Hays and his teammates are hungry for even more success in year two in 3A.

“Our team goals are always to be better than last year, and that's something we strive for as a team since we moved up to 3A football,” Hays said. “My goals are to be a better leader and become the best player I can be for my senior year so that people behind me can learn from what I do.”

Hays’ physical attributes and skills are hard to miss on the football field, and he’s garnered offers from Lyon College and Bethel University to continue his football career.

“He moves well for 6-foot-7 and 330 pounds, and he finishes blocks in the run game,” Quitman Coach DJ Marrs said. “He’s

a very hard worker in the classroom. He’s always the first to volunteer to help when there’s something we are involved in. He’s in a lot of clubs and does a lot for our school and community outside of Friday nights.”

Hays also competes in track for the Bulldogs. He is a member of Future Business Leaders of America, EAST and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He plans to attend college and pursue a degree in Business Administration or International Commerce.

“I want to be remembered as the guy who people trusted on the line,” Hays said.

CONGRATS FROM

CHAUNCEY JOHNSON - LONOKE

Chauncey Johnson boasts both the physical traits and the work ethic that will make him one of the top football prospects in the state this season. The Lonoke senior offensive/defensive lineman has committed to Oklahoma State, but he also held several other offers, including Missouri, Arkansas State, Murray State and Pittsburg State.

“Chauncey is blessed with tremendous tools and athleticism for a 6-foot-4, 285-pound athlete,” Lonoke Coach Chris Norton said. “He can bend and run, he's physical at the point of attack and he has a college-ready frame that will be able to add good weight once he gets to the next level. His potential is through the roof.

“Chauncey has a great personality and a diverse set of interests. He's involved in so many sports and activities at Lonoke — wrestling, track, choir, band — as well as being a positive influence in the school building.”

Johnson’s goals for the season are to give

up zero sacks on the offensive line and record five to 10 sacks on the defensive line.

“I want to be remembered as one of the best to step on the field each and every game,” Johnson said.

Johnson earned All-Conference honors for Lonoke last season.

“Lonoke is important to Chauncey, and he shows that through his actions daily,” Norton said. “The tools are undeniable. He's growing more comfortable in our system and with what we're asking him to do. I think he's going to be an elite offensive lineman for the Jackrabbits this fall.”

CONGRATS FROM

DONOVYN OMOLO - CONWAY

For the last two seasons, Donovyn Omolo has put up the numbers to prove he’s one of the best quarterbacks in the state. This fall, the senior has one last thing to prove.

“My biggest goal is for our team to win a state championship for Conway and our supporters,” Omolo said. “I’ve never really cared about stats and stuff like that. All I’ve ever wanted to do was just get to War Memorial and win. If we can do that, all the stats and awards will come with it. This city is hungry for a state championship and has high expectations for this team.”

The arrival this offseason of Buck James, who led Bryant to the past five consecutive 7A state championships, as the new head coach has only added to the expectations.

Last season as a junior, Omolo completed 224 passes for 2,858 yards and 27 passing touchdowns, as well as rushing 72 times for 276 yards and 10 scores.

WATCH WAMPUS CAT FOOTBALL

Just like Wampus Cat athletes, we go all in for Conway. Channel 5/585 has a proud tradition of covering local sports, and we’re excited to continue that legacy with the 2023 Wampus Cat football season. Watch home and road games live every Friday night this season with your Conway Corp video subscription.

“Donovyn is a great leader and competitor,” Conway Offensive Coordinator Mark Kelley said. “He has a great knowledge of the offense and different game situations. He helped lead our team to the semifinals last year, which was the third-straight year for Conway. He has been an amazing studentathlete and will do great things in whatever he pursues in the future.”

As of press time, Omolo holds offers to play collegiate football from Navy, Central Missouri, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Evangel University and Arkansas Baptist College, with many more expected.

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ELI WEAVER - GREENBRIER

2022 was a season of trials for Eli Weaver. After earning All-State honors as a sophomore in 2021 and helping lead the Greenbrier Panthers to a conference title and 12-1 record, Weaver was injured in the 2022 benefit game and missed his entire junior season.

“I’m ready to bounce back from my knee injury and show out this season,” said Weaver, who plays running back and linebacker for the Panthers. “I’ve been playing football since I was 7, and what drew me to football was just trying something new as a kid.”

“We expect Eli to be a great leader and to have a great season,” Greenbrier Head Coach Randy Tribble said. “Eli is so valuable because he makes more players valuable by his encouragement and leadership.”

Just as Weaver contributes on both sides of the ball, he’s as much a contributor off the field as he is on the field for the Panthers.

“His best qualities on the field are that he has an extremely high football IQ and great vision as a running back,” Tribble said. “He has great acceleration and hands. He makes defensive checks and is extremely helpful to young players.

His best qualities off the field are that he is an encourager and makes everyone feel part of the team. He gives back to the community by representing so well on the football field, basketball court, track and in the classroom. Teachers have said having Eli in class just makes the class better.”

CONGRATS FROM

GARRISON WALDROP - BEEBE

Hot off its first winning season in eight years, things are looking up for Beebe as the team turns the page to the 2023 season.

Leading the Badgers this season is senior lineman Garrison Waldrop. An All-Conference honoree last season, Waldrop amassed more than 45 tackles, including six tackles for loss and two sacks, earning the respect of both his coaching staff and his teammates.

“Garrison has grown each year in every area of his game,” Beebe Head Coach Chris Gunter said. “A bonafide ball player who has put in the work to master his technique and assignment, he has gained unbelievable confidence in the last year-and-a-half, and it shows on the field.”

Boasting one of the top defensive units in the highly-competitive Class 5A Central Conference last season, the Badgers are focused not only on repeating last season’s success, but also on reaching the playoffs for the first time since 2015.

“You should do everything in your power to be better than you were yesterday,” Waldrop said. “I want to be remembered as the guy who requires other teams to change up their entire game plan to handle. My goals this season are to be the best nose tackle in Class 5A, secure another winning season and lead my team to the playoffs.”

Outside of football, Waldrop is a five-time All-Region choir honoree and a three-time All-State choir honoree. Waldrop is involved with the International Thespian Society as well as Beebe High School’s choir and theater programs.

CONGRATS FROM

GAVIN REARDON - CABOT

The Cabot Panthers cracked into the Top 2 of the 7A Central in 2022, and Gavin Reardon will never forget the moment that ultimately got them to that point–hosting and defeating Conway in Week 6.

“It'd been like eight years of just nailbiting defeats,” Reardon said. “It felt like the whole state was watching. Going out there, dominating the way we did … it was euphoric.”

Reardon, a senior H-back/tight end for Cabot, will be a three-year starter for the Panthers this fall.

“Gavin is very physical, has excellent hands, is intelligent and has a good feel for route running,” Cabot Coach Scott Reed said. “He has excellent strength and tenacity, and he finishes blocks. Gavin will be an integral part of our plans for the fall. He is a weapon on offense and will play on special teams as well.”

Reardon recorded 19 catches for 180 yards and three touchdowns in 2022 and earned All-Conference honors.

“I want us to finish the season holding a first-place trophy at War Memorial,” Reardon said. “Growing up in Cabot, I've seen so many good teams play. Our town has a culture of great football. I've been so lucky to take part in that culture.”

Reardon is a member of National Honor Society, president of the Poet’s Society at Cabot High, and a member of the Cabot High School AP Academy. He also wrestles for the Panthers and serves on the Cabot Mayor's Youth Council.

CONGRATS FROM

GRAYSON WILSON - CENTRAL ARK. CHRISTIAN

Behind a new head coach and new offensive and defensive systems, Central Arkansas Christian looks ahead to 2023 as a season full of new possibilities.

Junior quarterback Grayson Wilson leads the offense for the new-look Mustangs this fall.

“Grayson is a great athlete with a big arm, good leadership and great command,” Central Arkansas Christian Head Coach Ryan Howard said. “Our expectations of him this season are to be a great leader on and off the field and throw for 69-percent completion, more than 2,000 yards passing and 20 touchdowns.”

One week at a time, Wilson and the Mustangs plan to rebuild the program’s football culture.

“Our team goals this season are not only to win conference, but also to make a deep run into the playoffs as well,” Wilson said. “I want to be remembered as part of the class that brought Central Arkansas Christian its first

state title since 2004. By taking the time in and out of practice to study and learn our new offense and defense, we look to turn things around this season.”

Wilson’s abilities have already garnered attention at the next level. The quarterback is committed to the University of Arkansas for the class of 2025.

“My favorite football memory is committing to play quarterback for the Arkansas Razorbacks,” Wilson said. “I’ve been attending Razorbacks games since I was four weeks old. One of my goals this season is to prepare myself, physically and mentally, to play quarterback at the collegiate and even the NFL level.”

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ELEVATE

HAYS BUCKLEY - SOUTH CONWAY COUNTY

Don’t let last season’s record fool you: Morrilton remains one of the toughest teams around the 501.

In their first season in the Class 5A Central Conference, the Devil Dogs finished .500, with three of their four conference losses coming by one score or less. A first-round playoff loss to eventual-champion Parkview fuels the fire as Morrilton approaches 2023 with a clean slate.

Led by senior linebacker Hays Buckley, Morrilton aims to transform from underdogs to top dogs.

“I have always seen football as the toughest sport when you combine the physical and mental aspects,” Buckley said. “I’m not the biggest linebacker on the field, so I have to make up for that with mental tactics and grit.”

“Hays has a great work ethic, knowledge of the game and leadership,” Morrilton Head Coach Cody McNabb said. “He is always prepared to play, and I love the way he goes about his business. If the team takes on Hays’ personality, then I know we will be in good shape.”

A recipient of multiple awards, including Farm Bureau Player of the Game, Colton’s Defensive Player of the Week and Integrity Insurance Player of the Week, Buckley shines under the Friday night lights.

“I want to be remembered as a great leader you could always count on,” Buckley said. “My goals this season are to lead the team in tackles and to be the best leader I can be. Our team achieves success this season by having the toughness a Devil Dog should have.”

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JACE GARCIA - SEARCY

In Coach Zak Clark’s first year at Searcy, the Lions earned another playoff berth out of the competitive 6A East. Jace Garcia garnered All-Conference honors as a junior at linebacker. This fall, Garcia has set high standards for his senior campaign.

“I want to be a stronger and better leader than last year,” Garcia said. “And I want to bring up my peers into stronger leadership roles as well. We are working to be a lot more competitive than previous years and fully show off the talent we have on our team. We’re achieving this by becoming strong as a team and gaining a strong drive to win at all costs.”

For Searcy, Garcia’s value to the team is present in many environments.

“Jace is very intelligent and an excellent tackler,” Clark said. “He’s a high-character kid who excels in the classroom with over a 3.9 GPA. Jace volunteers with our youth camp as well as many other activities. He’s a leader in

the classroom, on the football field and in school. I expect another great season from Jace.”

Garcia participates in Beta Club and French Honorary. He also volunteers his time with Special Olympics. As he prepares for college and pursuing education in the medical field, Garcia is ready to soak in the Friday night lights one last time.

“[I love] walking onto the field, hearing the band and looking up at everyone in the stands,” Garcia said. “Unless you’ve experienced it, it’s very hard to describe the feeling and energy that brings.”

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Winning back-to-back state titles isn’t easy, but Malvern believes it has the right pieces in place to repeat history. Behind senior running back Jalen Dupree and a senior-laden class, the Leopards enter 2023 as a top contender in Class 4A.

“We want another state championship,” Dupree said. “We know it won’t be easy, and we are working extra hard as a team to do it again. My goals are to be the best teammate I can be and to lead by example. I believe in my team.”

“Jalen is a true leader and a coach on the field,” Malvern Head Coach J.D. Plumlee said. “His teammates respect his leadership because he leads by example on and off the field. This season we expect him to lead us on the field, and the ball will be in his hands in crunch time.”

From multiple Player of the Year honors to State Championship MVP, Dupree’s list of

JALEN DUPREE - MALVERN JAMES HOLDER - BALD KNOB

accomplishments on the field is endless.

“I have so many favorite memories,” Dupree said. “From playing in the yard with my friends to winning the state title, I want to be remembered as someone who gave it all every play of every game for my team.”

With 17 football scholarship offers in tow, the sky’s the limit for Dupree once his senior season is complete.

“Place God first in all things you do,” Dupree said. “If you have a goal, focus and go for it. Work hard and do what it takes to be the best.”

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A first-round playoff exit left the Bald Knob Bulldogs hungry for more entering the 2023 season.

With goals of winning more games and returning to the Class 4A playoffs, Bald Knob senior quarterback and linebacker James Holder has taken the reins and put in the work in order to accomplish his team’s mission.

“I’ve always held a chip on my shoulder being smaller than most people,” Holder said. “At 5’10”, I’ve never been the most athletic. However, I’ve kept my head down and worked harder than anyone else in order to stand out.”

“James is an incredible leader and a great representation of what hard work looks like,” Bald Knob Head Coach Lonnie Roberson said. “He is always pushing himself and his teammates to be the very best on the field.”

As an All-Conference linebacker and the team’s leading tackler on defense, Holder believes that when it comes to the gridiron, only the strongest survive.

“Our goal is to be more physical than anyone we play,” Holder said. “By never taking a play off and pushing through our injuries, our game plan is to play blue collar smash-mouth football between the first whistle and the last.”

Off the field, Holder enjoys hunting, fishing, playing baseball, trap shooting and giving back to the community he calls home.

“I want to be remembered as someone who played with his heart and gave everything he had,” Holder said. “To future student-athletes, enjoy the game while you can. You’ll miss it when it’s gone.”

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JOSH BROOKS - LAKE HAMILTON

When it comes to achieving success at the Class 6A level, perennial powerhouse Lake Hamilton understands that outsmarting your opponent is just as important as out-muscling them.

Through a combination of mental toughness and brute strength, the Wolves are methodically planning their return to War Memorial Stadium, one game at a time.

“Our goal this season is to make another great playoff run and take the state title,” senior defensive tackle Josh Brooks said. “With our coaches pushing us to sharpen not only our skills, but also our minds, I think we have a good chance to do it.”

“Josh works harder than anyone else on the field,” Lake Hamilton Head Coach Tommy Gilleran said. “Off the field, he helps his peers in the classroom and is involved in band, too. My expectations for him this season are to receive both AllConference and All-State honors.”

As the Wolves’ only junior to start every game last season and one of the top tacklers in his class, Brooks takes pride in leading by example on and off the field.

“I want to be remembered as the guy who never took a break and helped his team any way he could, no matter what the challenge was,” Brooks said. “I view each practice as a chance to get better and prove myself. By leading my team on both sides of the ball this season, I hope to show college scouts how great I am and earn a spot playing football at the next level.”

CONGRATS FROM

KADE WILLIAMS - CONWAY CHRISTIAN

The Conway Christian Eagles bounced back in a big way in 2022, finishing 7-3 in the regular season and fighting their way back into the 2A playoffs. Kade Williams’ leadership and performance in the defensive secondary played a big part in the team’s return to success.

“Kade is extremely intelligent,” Conway Christian Coach Justin Kramer said. “He's consistent and always in position to make plays. He has a servant's heart. This year, I expect Kade to do what he has always done — be where he is supposed to be and lead our secondary. He started at safety last year and was a key member of one of the best statistical secondaries we have had at CCS. He was near the top of every statistical category, from tackles to interceptions.”

Williams’ production in his junior campaign earned him All-Conference honors and the Marvin Delph Award. In his senior

season, Williams plans to leave it all on the field.

“I’ve been playing the game my whole life … I come back to the game every year because of the brotherhood of the team,” Williams said. “We want to make a deep playoff run, and to achieve this, our team has been working hard in the weight room. My only personal goal is to play as best as I can and honor God on the field.”

Williams also competes in baseball and track for the Eagles. He’s a member of Drama Club, Quiz Bowl and Future Business Leaders of America.

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KENDALL WILLIAMS - HOT SPRINGS

Hot Springs flexed its muscle in 2022, finishing 5-2 in Class 5A South conference play and returning to the postseason. With their program on the rise, the Trojans are allin on making a statement across the 501 this fall.

“Everything starts in the weight room,” senior defensive end and linebacker Kendall Williams said. “In order to win conference, and even state, we have to get bigger and faster. Whether your role is to cheer, make plays or push the guy in front of you to be better, we’re holding everyone accountable this season.”

Earning All-Conference, All-State and Defensive Player of the Year honors last season, Williams leads the defense by example this fall.

“I want to be remembered as a guy that wanted to win so badly that he put his heart on the line every play to give his team the best chance to win,” Williams said. “My goals are to be an All-American and lead the state in sacks, tackles and tackles for loss.”

“Kendall is a leader and a fierce competitor,” Hot Springs Head Coach Darrell Burnett said. “He knows everyone’s assignments and is disciplined enough to understand his role within any scheme.”

Williams takes pride in the way his team has changed the football culture at Hot Springs.

“Hard work pays off,” Williams said. “The countless hours you spend when no one’s watching will come to light and show in your work. My favorite memories are seeing my school pour love and support into our team.”

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KYLER HOOVER - HARDING ACADEMY

For the fourth straight year, the Harding Academy Wildcats fought their way into the championship game at War Memorial Stadium. While they weren’t able to win for the fourth straight time, it was still quite the accomplishment for Kyler Hoover and his teammates.

“Kyler is a fierce competitor,” Harding Academy Head Coach Neil Evans said. “He’s a great route runner, and he brings toughness to the field. He lifts everyone around him and handles himself with class in all situations. He was a definite piece to us going to the finals last year, and we expect him to be our leading receiver this year.”

Hoover moved on from football during his younger years, but when he moved to Harding Academy, he picked it back up during the eighth grade and has been part of the Wildcats’ recent impressive run.

“I am usually the smallest guy on the field, so I have to be smart and competitive on

every play,” Hoover said. “Size matters, but the strength and size of the heart matters more. I know how to compete at a high level and overcome obstacles and be the best version of me that I can be for my team. I want to be remembered as someone with a lot of grit.”

Hoover has set goals to not have any dropped passes and to achieve more than 1,300 receiving yards and 20 touchdowns this fall. He also competes in baseball and basketball for the Wildcats and has committed to play baseball at Harding University.

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ENJOY ALL SEASON FROM THE BEST SEAT IN YOUR HOUSE.

LUKE UNDERWOOD - PERRYVILLE

Despite multiple injuries last season, Perryville showed promise in Class 2-3A conference play and came close to winning its first playoff game since 2005.

Led by senior running back and linebacker Luke Underwood, the Mustangs carry that momentum into 2023 with a dark horse mentality.

“Our goals this season are to stay healthy and execute on both sides of the ball,” Underwood said. “I’d like to see us win a playoff game, too. On the field, I want to be remembered as someone who worked hard, gave 100-percent effort and played to the best of his ability each game.”

“Luke is a smart, physical player who knows how to put himself in position to make plays,” Perryville Head Coach Allen Fairbanks said. “His size, athleticism and understanding of the game make him a key part of everything we do. He is a true team player.”

Expected to have an increased offensive role this season, Underwood is ready to lead his team to new heights.

“Last season, Luke was second on the team in tackles, but led us in tackles for loss and played a key role on offense at running back,” Fairbanks said. “This season, he will lead for us in many different ways, such as taking on a higher number of carries at running back while also being a versatile offensive player who we can move around to many different roles. As a returning starter at outside linebacker, he’ll also be expected to

MADDOX MOORE - HARMONY GROVE

Harmony Grove enjoyed its best season in program history last year, notching a ninegame winning streak, taking the Class 4-4A conference title and picking up a convincing postseason victory.

Motivated to repeat history as Class 4A contenders, the Cardinals take flight this fall in search of new heights.

“My goal this season is to simply be better than I was last year,” senior fullback and linebacker Maddox Moore said. “By putting in the work every day, we believe that we can win the conference championship again.”

Despite missing the Cardinals’ first four games with an MCL sprain, Moore returned from injury as a young man on a mission, earning All-Conference honors last fall.

“I want to be remembered as a leader who never gave up,” Moore said. “I believe in being coachable and always putting in 110-percent effort.”

Moore’s influence on the field has earned the respect of his coaches, teammates and classmates.

“Maddox is a leader on and off the field for our program,” Harmony Grove Head Coach Mike Guthrie said. “His leadership, perseverance, determination and work ethic make him a great contributor to our team.” Off the field, Moore boasts a 3.95 GPA with honors classes and can often be seen lending a helping hand to his peers.

“Maddox gets along with everyone,” Guthrie said. “When he’s not helping tutor other students, he is working to grow our little league and peewee football programs. He is a great example of a student-athlete for our program.”

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NIK FRANKLIN - RIVERVIEW

Nik Franklin is the kind of senior who coaches love to have on the team. He’s the type of student-athlete who is willing to put in the work every day.

Last fall as a junior, Franklin played both ways for the Riverview Raiders, rushing for more than 500 yards and playing linebacker, too.

“On the field, Nik’s best qualities are that he’s a hard worker, a leader and he loves football,” Riverview Head Coach Steve Williams said. “Off the field, he’s a leader in the classroom with a GPA of 3.5. He helps with youth programs. We expect him to have a very successful senior year carrying the payload at running back.”

Franklin earned All-Conference honors last year on the gridiron for the Raiders. He also plays basketball at Riverview. “I started playing football when I was 5 years old,” Franklin said. “I was always a big kid, so I just wanted

to join football, and ever since then, I loved it. Scoring my first ever touchdown was a special memory. It was special to me because I had special people there watching me and making them proud.”

Franklin has set personal goals to earn AllConference and All-State honors this season, and as a team, he and the Raiders are striving to make it past the first round for the first time since 2010. “I want to be remembered as the most dominant fullback,” Franklin said. “As a student-athlete, to be the athlete, the student part comes first.”

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For Vilonia’s Ryan Enis, it’s the simple goal that means the most for his senior season this fall.

“My goal is to start a game, and to stay as healthy as I can for as long as I can,” Enis said.

Enis has had a significant knee injury twice but has not wavered in his perseverance to get back on the field for the Eagles.

“Tearing my ACL hurt worse the second time, especially after finishing rehab and being cleared to play the first time,” Enis said. “It's a major injury that just destroys people psychologically, but I'm finally recovered and getting to play.”

With a full bill of health, Enis is ready to give it his best go at defensive end for Vilonia.

“Ryan is very disciplined and has overcome many obstacles during his football career,” Vilonia Head Coach Todd Langrell said. “He always knows his assignment and is always willing to sacrifice for the team. Ryan is an

RYAN ENIS - VILONIA SKYLAR PURIFOY - LAKESIDE

extremely hard worker. He is the guy who is the last to leave an opponent's dressing room to make sure it is clean. He represents himself and Vilonia schools with great pride. Our expectations for Ryan are to be a major contributor at defensive end and on special teams.”

Enis also competes on the Vilonia track team and is a member of the Beta Club. He also plays bass guitar for a local church’s youth services. He plans to attend college next fall and pursue a degree as an athletic trainer.

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With its uncharacteristic 2022 season in the rearview mirror, Lakeside moves forward into 2023 with a new head coach, experienced talent on both sides of the football and a new opportunity to make some noise across Class 5A.

As one of the Rams’ top threats in the red zone last season, senior wide receiver and tight end Skylar Purifoy returns as one of Lakeside’s biggest offensive weapons this fall.

“Skylar is a very respectful young man and a great leader for our program,” Lakeside Head Coach Garren Rockwell said. “At 6’5” and 215 pounds, he can jump! His abilities on the field make him a matchup problem for opposing defenses.”

Averaging nearly 13 yards per reception, Purifoy grabbed 38 passes for 482 yards and five touchdowns last fall. The speedy senior contributes on kickoff returns for the Rams as well.

“My expectations for Skylar this year are to be a tough player and leader for us on the field,” Rockwell said. “He’s a good kid with a bright future ahead of him.”

When he’s not leading the Rams to victory on the gridiron, Purifoy excels on the basketball court for Lakeside and is a positive influence on his classmates and in his Garland County community.

“Skylar is always willing to help a classmate and can make them laugh when they are having a bad day,” Rockwell said. “He has also volunteered in many of our community service projects on the football team and through his

Tanner Holden is willing to work for any advantage on the football field. Nowhere has that been clearer than in the weight room.

“I’ve taken pride in the trials of the weight room at Benton,” Holden said. “Throughout high school, I’ve gained 75 pounds to help me be the best I can be for my team. I think it’s easy to say from within this organization and from the outside that we’re poised to win a [championship], and that’s what I’ll stick by. We were 11 seconds from the big game last season, and I think we’ve only gotten better since. If we can keep practicing like a championship team, good things will happen in December.”

Holden, a two-year letterman for the Panthers, earned the team’s 12th man award last season for his versatility (Holden played snaps at every offensive line position and at tight end).

“Tanner is very respected by his team because he is a great competitor on the field and in the weight room,” Benton Head Coach Brad Harris said. “He is one of our team leaders in our program, on the field, in the classroom and in the locker room. Tanner always leads as an example; not many players are going to outwork him.”

Holden attended Arkansas Boys State this summer, where he was elected as one of the state’s two Boys Nation delegates. He tends livestock at home and serves as a youth elder and volunteer sound technician at his church.

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ZANE WIDENER - CLINTON

Zane Widener has given the Clinton Yellowjackets big-time production on both sides of the ball the last two seasons, and 2023 shouldn’t be any different.

Widener tied the school record for most touchdowns in one game (six) and led the team in rushing and tackles last season.

“Zane is a great running back with good vision for the endzone,” Clinton Head Coach Chris Dufrene said. “He also blocks well for his teammates. I expect Zane to have an amazing senior year, be a three-time AllConference and two-time All-State player. Zane is a three-sport athlete and shows younger athletes they can play multiple sports and be very successful.”

Widener started playing football in the third grade and was drawn to the sport by the ambiance of Friday nights.

“It was always the crowd and the environment,” Widener said. “The fireworks after a touchdown and the student section chants drew me to the sport.”

Widener has set big goals for this fall, including more than 1,000 yards rushing, 75 tackles, beating the school record for touchdowns in a single game, earning AllConference and All-State again, winning the Battle of the Little Red against rival Heber Springs (Clinton hasn’t lost to the Panthers since 2015) and making it back to the state playoffs.

“Zane is a born leader on or off the field,” Dufrene said. “He always has a good attitude. He participates in lots of areas, including Future Farmers of America, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and his youth group at First Baptist Church.”

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