Louisiana Gridiron Football Jan 2019 by Gridiron Football

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Louisiana Gridiron Football Inaugural All-Star Bowl Game Jan 2019 Vol 5 Issue 1 $7.99

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Louisiana Gridiron Football All-Star Bowl Game Comments Coach James Taylor

Best All-Star game in Louisiana!!!

Coach Trey Langley

The best bowl game in the boot

General Trass Defensive Coordinator

Former NFL Offensive Lineman

Coach Ben Hall Coach it was awesome! Truly amazing memories & life long lasting/ Coaching TCA OL Coach relationships formed in this game! True Men of Character on that staff!!! Coach Dennis Dunn Pineville Head Coach

One of the best run bowl games I have ever been part of!

NAIA Coach This game was fun to watch, I have never seen so much talent in one local All- Star Bowl game. DI Coach

I was impressed at how much talent was on that field.

Michael Purser The inaugural LGF game was awesome, and a great experience for so Parent of Player many talented athletes. As a parent, I want to share my appreciation for every one at LGF and all of the hard work to make that experience happen. No small endeavor, indeed!!

STAFF Owner/Publisher/CEO Coach Andy Bryson

Editor

Kristen Bryson

Dir. Of Ad Sales And Business Development

Richard Hebert Head Football Scout Josh Sibley H/S Football Scout Fred Washington Photographer Jason Saucier Sideline Reporters Daila Weeks Kadaja Cryer Matt Guth Tyran Bates NFL Writer Kevin Empey

Sitting: Coach Andy Bryson, Standing Left to Right: Richard Hebert, Josh Sibley, Jason Saucier.

@lagridfootball

@louisianagridironfootball 5

January 2019

Contents 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 29 30 31 32 34 35 36 6

Freddie Mango Landon Moon Ben West Antonio Blanch Jr Adrian Bickham Kameron Booker Reece Aultman Lucas McWilliams Gage Rapp Austyn Benoit Charlie Norman Ryan McKenzie Mitchell Lege Louisiana Gridiron Football Inaugural Bowl Game Is A Huge Success Tyren Henderson Tayte Langley Grant Jenny Chaynery Paul Johnson Chris Doyle Joshua Jones Zane Blanchard

37 38 39 40 41 42 43

Adam Blanchard Thomas Bigner Olonzo Jackson Joseph Hearvey Kelvin Smith Offensive Stats For The LGF All-Star Game Defensive Stats For The LGF All-Star Game

SOPHOMORE QUARTERBACK ASCENSION EPISCOPAL BLUE GATORS

Diamond In The Rough O U R G O A L AT L G F I S T O H E L P T H E U N D E R R AT E D

BECOME RECRUITED We highlight the best junior and senior athletes Louisiana has to offer. D.I.T.R. articles showcase the talent and ability of these players.

coaches, that is a desirable trait for a player to possess. During the interview, Freddie was very respectful and he credits that to football. “Football has taught me life lessons, being there for people, helping them out however I can. It also taught me to be respectful to not only my coaches but to everyone”. Through the interview, it was easy to see how football had been a positive influence on this young man.

Freddie Mango Delta Charter

By: Matt Guth

F M

reddie ango is a senior running back at Delta Charter who had 28 yards on 5 attempts during the Louisiana Gridiron Football All-Star Bowl Game. In my interview with him, I noticed the way he was answering my questions as if he is for the team. What I mean by that is he’s a genuine team player. “Gettin’ it out the mud” is the motto Freddie uses. To Mango, this means doing whatever you can to help others down the road. He enjoyed being part of the rebuilding process because he wants to leave it better than he found it. To

Freddie, as most high school seniors, hopes to play at the next level. When asked what he could bring to a college program, his first answer was “good character” and to me that was impressive. Of course, he can bring his physical abilities but instead of going that route he decided to show what kind of person he is when he’s not in pads. That spoke volumes. He followed up his answer by saying that he’s an all-around athlete. His response to the next question was rather surprising. I asked Freddie to recall a situation where he had to make a quick decision. Freddie answered with, “During a game, I hurt my hamstring and I really wanted to go back in and play to help my team, but I didn’t want to further injury myself and miss more games in the process”. His answer impressed me because he knows how much his body can endure before a long-term problem develops. This indicates that Freddie is not only good at what he does, he is also smart about what he does. Taking yourself out of a game, no matter what the score, is always tough. As players, we feel like we can put our bodies through anything until we wake up the next morning. Having already talked about his greatest strength, I decided to ask him his greatest weakness and he told me it’s his frustration. Needing to clarify, he said, “Sometimes when I can’t get into my rhythm, I want to blame other people, but I know I can’t because it’s my job to find my rhythm.” With many athletes this is a rather common weakness, but it is impressive that Freddie is able to recognize it and that he is willing to work on it. Freddie is someone who not only impresses with his football abilities but with his actions as well

Landon told me that this is his favorite route because he gets to throw the ball down field for his receiver to get it. He loves scoring on the deep ball. After he shared his greatest strength, he told me that his greatest weakness is knowing when to throw the ball away. “I just want to make something happen”, Landon explained. Sitting back and thinking about this, quarterbacks always need to be able to determine when to end the play in order to avoid sacks or even a fumble, however Landon shows that he is willing to do whatever he can to put his team in the best position to score.

Landon Moon Logansport

By: Matt Guth

ogansport’s quarterback, Landon Moon, is a guy who understands his strengths and his weaknesses. Getting a little more in depth, he told me he thinks his greatest strength is his deep ball. Once he told me that, I knew this kid is an “air raid” type of quarterback. I asked him what was his favorite route for his receivers to run. His answer was the post route.

He has been in the quarterback position since the 1st or 2nd grade and Moon knows that this game never lasts forever. I asked him what he has learned from playing the quarterback position for so many years that he can apply to his daily life. Moon answered, “Being a leader and a hard worker”. In times of stress during the games, I asked him how he has been able to perform under less than ideal situations. Moon answered, “Being patient, and staying positive”. Being a quarterback has its fair share of mishaps and having a short-term memory can keep your head in the game. Playing scared is a situation Moon avoids in a game. He says, “Playing scared is never good; you’ll end up messing things up more”. It’s clear to see that Moon knows that going out and playing to the best of his ability, no matter the situation, is the only way to achieve success. One of my last questions for him was whether he would prefer to be a part of the rebuilding process or the rewards process. Moon thought about the question as if I were trying trick him and he said, “Honestly, I would like to be part of the rewards process, I really would; but, I think I would pick being part of the rebuilding process. Just so I can lay the foundation for younger kids to come”. I was glad he was honest with me because it is a hard question to answer if any player had the choice. It would be easier to pick the rewards process, but it would be a lot more humbling to build the program to bigger and better things that remain even after your time is up. Moon expressed his enjoyment he had in participating in the bowl game, “It was really fun to play one last high school football game”. Landon Moon is an experienced player at the quarterback position. He’s started on varsity since his sophomore year of high school, so he is no stranger to the situations that most quarterbacks commonly faced. He’s a guy who is willing to compete no matter what the odds.

gain some hard nose yards, West is up to the task. West went 12 for 23 with 1 interception but had 3 touchdowns while throwing for 192 yards and rushing for another 52 yards to cap off the night.

Ben West Pineville

MVP

of the Red Team for the Louisiana Gridiron Football All-Star bowl game was the Pineville Rebel’s quarterback, Ben West. Watching this guy in person at the game reminded me of Tim Tebow. The reason I make that comparison is because he is all for the team no matter what the situation is. Whether it is a deep ball down the sideline or a QB sneak or tucking it up field to

Ben is a gritty guy; he’ll do whatever he needs to do to gain yards. His height is something he sees as a weakness and West knows there is not much changing that. To compensate for his height, he uses his feet. West is a “dual threat” quarterback. He is able to utilize his feet to get out of many situations. Being in a run pass option offense (RPO), you have to be able to make things happen in a short amount of time. A mobile quarterback is definitely desirable to college coaches for the sheer fact that he is an all-around athlete. West told me that he is no stranger to playing other positions besides quarterback. West also told me that his head coach, Dennis Dunn, can see him at the running back position. Coach Dunn thinks West will fit well at that position because he has an impressive football IQ. Having played quarterback in high school, it’s easy for him to observe defensive motions and find the holes. Ben West is a smart kid; not only academically but on the field as well. On the field, he has a cool hand. He knows that if he starts to panic only bad decisions will be the result. West sticks to what he knows and doesn’t make drastic decisions that would end up costing the team. West would rather be part of the rebuilding process as opposed to rewards process. The reason for his answer was that he wanted to leave a legacy. He believes building a foundation and setting the standard is more gratifying than reaping the rewards based on what others have built. Being on a platform is nothing unusual for West. He uses his platform to exhibit positive behaviors that kids in the stands can look up to. Humble is a word West would use to describe himself. After my interview with West, it’s easy to see that this guy is a player worth having on any team. He is smart both on and off the field; a quick learner and he is open to playing any position to help the team. In the coaching world, that’s an ideal player.

H S F

igh chool ootball not only teaches individuals how to work together towards a common goal, it teaches certain things that we can apply in our lives even after we hang up the pads. Antonio Blanch Jr, a linebacker at Bastrop High School in Bastrop Louisiana, gives football the credit for making him the man he is today. “Football taught me how to work when no one was looking”, Brown knew that to see progress on Friday nights, he would have to put in extra work. Antonio described himself as a “selfless player”. Needing more clarification on what he meant, he told me how he has played whatever position he was put at and respected all of his coaches.

Antonio Blanch Jr Bastrop

By: Matt Guth

Athletes like him are hard to come by because they understand that this game is bigger than themselves. It shows that football has helped Blanch in handling things in a mature manner which is great to see. On top of that, knowing that he is coachable and willing to carry out assignments without trouble is another key trait that will take him far in life. There’s no question that Blanch loves the sport of football. Blanch’s favorite moment was on a punt return, “I went for the kick but I missed, so I got up and saw our returner catch and then fumble the ball. One of our other players picked it up and started running. So I looked to go make a block, and I don’t know how but I blocked so many people in that small amount of time. It was awesome”. He’s a type of guy that any coach would love to have just for the sheer fact that he’s all about the team and not for himself. During the bowl game, Brown accounted for 9 tackles in which 6 were solos and 3 were assists. The best part about this kid is that he naturally loves this game. He’s not in love with what this game can do for him or how far it can take him, but he just loves the game. Brown even told me that he has aspirations of coaching after his playing career is over. “Yeah, I can see myself being coach, probably a linebacker coach.” This kid is someone that should not be overlooked but highly considered.

he former Varnado High School player and new signee for Rice University, Adrian Bickham, is one who is not afraid of work. Bickham finished the bowl game with some satisfying stats. Bickham had 3 solo tackles and 1 assisted tackle. He knows Rice University will test him both on the field for football and off the field in the classroom. He welcomes the challenge simply because he wants to face the best to be the best. When I asked him what was the reason for his success, he simply told me, “my work ethic”. He knew if he wanted to get anywhere he would have to devote much of his time to hard work. Adrian told me he stayed in the weight room, sometimes he would want to lift even after a game if he wasn’t too sore. Personally, I was astonished because he played both ways and he probably stayed on the field for most of the game and he had the energy to even think about working out after all that. Since he did play on both sides of the ball, I asked him which position he enjoyed playing the most and he said, “defense, OLB and DE.” The reason why he likes being on that side of the ball is because he enjoys people trying to get past him. Adrian enjoys being that force that stops the offense from marching down the field. Since he already signed with Rice, I asked him what is he most looking forward to when he enrolls and he told me the competition. He knows that there are other guys there so he is ready to roll up his sleeves and get to work. The reason why Adrian was so attracted to Rice was that he wanted to be a part of the rebuilding process. Now Adrian is no stranger to the rebuilding By: Matt Guth process with his high school slowly making a deeper run into the playoffs every year he was there. He wants to leave a legacy. That’s his goal going into this new chapter of his life. After his time with football is up, he wants to be a mechanical engineer and work on planes. He likes being held accountable and making sure people can trust him to do the job right.

Adrian Bickham Varnado

Committed

Adrian knows knowledge is power, and he applies it to both on and off the field. He has the mentality of “work smarter not harder” and that is what he thinks separates him from everyone else. That mentality is something that will not only help him on the football field but in life as well. 13

ometimes it’s not about the size of a player, but it’s about his heart. Kameron Booker is a senior running back at Jonesboro-Hodge High School in Jonesboro, Louisiana. On paper, he does not seem like an efficient running back due to his size but looking at his game film will make you forget about his limitations and think about his potential. When I asked how he was able to make so many guys miss and break through tackles he told me it was because of his foot work. This kid is humble; he refuses to let his talents define him. A down to earth player who lets his feet do the talking, Booker is a player with untapped potential in the making.

Kameron Booker Jonesboro-Hodge

By: Matt Guth

At the bowl game, Booker ended the night by averaging 6.5 yards on 4 attempts with a total of 26 yards. I asked him what separates him from the rest in the state both on and off the field he told me discipline. In the coaching world, that’s the ideal player you want. A disciplined player is the one a coach can trust not only to run the play correctly but to do what’s right off the field. He’s the type of player who does what he is told, nothing more and nothing less. Having a disciplined running back on any team is the one who will grind for every yard whenever he touches the field. His sense of motivation comes from his parents always pushing him to be better than he was the day before. To get another sense of motivation before a game, Booker watches highlights of former Neville High School and current Texas Christian University wide receiver KaVontae Turpin. Kameron understands what he needs to work on but he never stops working on what he’s best at and that’s speed. He runs the 4×1, 4×2, 100 and 200 meter in track. Running a 4.47 in the 40 shows the raw speed this kid from Jonesboro has. His ability to cut through defenses like a hot knife cutting butter is a sight to see. Kameron is hard worker. This is especially good for the type of work he wants to get into after football, which is working in construction and building homes. Kameron is the hard hat type player who understands that without hard work, nothing can be accomplished.

time, heaviest bench or heaviest squat; they are known for one thing and one thing only and that’s accuracy. Reece had that element even coming so late to football. During his senior season, he did not have many field goal opportunities due to West Monroe’s powerhouse of a team, but that did not hinder him in taking every single field goal with efficiency.

Reece Aultman West Monroe

By: Matt Guth

ickers, whether you love them or hate them, you need them. Usually, kickers come from their high school soccer team to see if they can hack it on Friday nights or when the football team needs a kicker. West Monroe High School senior kicker Reece Aultman was just such an individual. He was a soccer playing high school kid who slowly migrated to the Friday night lights for the West Monroe Rebels. Reece, at 5’11, 170-pounds, did not play football until his junior year, but he has made an impact for the Rebels during his time there. In the world of kickers, they are not known for having the fastest 40

During his senior season, he was 8 for 8 on field goals with a career long of 39 yards in the state championship. Now in the realm of high school kickers, that’s some serious trust among the coaches to let him go in and try to come away with some points especially during the state championship game where any sort of points matter. The coaches showing trust in their kicker’s consistency to come away with 3 points in a 5A state championship in the Superdome is something that should be praised. Since kickers really do not compete with another player during the game, their biggest competitor is themselves; more specifically, their mental game. A kicker’s mental game will dictate what kind of day it’ll be. It can either be high fives and the coaches’ nod for a job well done or it can be the head hung low all the way back to their kicking net. For Reece he kept it simple, staying loose and having faith within himself knowing he is capable of getting those 3 points every time he lines up. Throughout his entire kicking career, he has had the support of his parents. The kicking game can be tough. Simple mechanics can become confusing and it seems like nothing you do is producing what you want. Reece’s parents were there through the thick and thin to not only to support him but to encourage him to not be complacent but to strive for greatness. That’s probably why he’s never missed a field goal his senior year. Off the field, Reece is always looking to better himself and by networking with others. Reece is able to learn things from talking to other individuals and is able to come up with his own way of doing things that works well for him. He hopes to one day be a part of sports but not in the coaching field, rather in the business side of things such as an athletic director. During my time talking to Reece, I can see him doing well in that field. He’s driven on and off the field, a guy who will never take being average as acceptable.

ucas McWilliams is a guard at Rospine High School. During the bowl game, he played at tight end. To begin our interview, I asked him what position he liked playing the most and he told me, “I’d rather play guard or tackle”. The game of football has always been a part of his life since the age of 7. Since he’s been around the game for so long, I asked him what he has learned from playing football that he can apply to his daily life. Lucas replied, “Football helped me to work as a team, and it helped me push myself ”. As our interview progressed, I asked him what he would bring to a college program and he answered, “Versatility. I can play more than one position”. Having a player who can be placed at different positions is ideal for any coach. One of Lucas’s greatest strengths is his academic performance and his ability to take tests well.

Lucas McWilliams Rosepine

By: Matt Guth

As we talked, I noticed he was a somewhat quiet guy. However, once I was able to relate to him on certain things, he opened up more and his personality emerged. Lucas would describe himself as a coachable player and a quick learner who is willing to work hard in whatever position he’s placed and whenever he’s needed on the field. One of his notable responsibilities on the team is making sure everyone on the offensive line picks up the correct assignments. I know we don’t give the guys who battle in the trenches enough credit, but he has the ability to read and understand how the defense is set up. Lucas McWilliams’s quiet demeanor certainly won’t hinder his ability to be coachable and follow assignments given to him by his coaches.

age Rapp is a 5’11, 180-pound receiver from Sulphur High School. Academics are an essential component for playing any sport for any school. Gage believes football has helped him stay on top of academics throughout his career. Gage knows that if he underperforms in the classroom, he will have little chance of playing on the field. Dependable is a word Gage would use to describe himself. Gage is that “go to guy” a coach needs in tough situations. As our interview progressed, he expressed to me that he is a hard worker. His hard work mentality is an attribute he believes he can take to a college program. “I’m not a lazy guy. There’s always work to be done”. A guy who is willing to work hard to perfect his craft is a great asset to any team. Gage would like to be part of the rebuilding process. Gage says, “I like starting something new. I like being that force of change for something better”. Building the foundation is never easy.

Gage Rapp Sulphur

By: Matt Guth

However, watching your team achieve greater things after you leave is a satisfying feeling knowing you started that change. Hands, speed, and route running are elements that Gage sees as being his greatest strengths. On the other side of things, Gage believes that his height can hold him back. I asked him how he compensates for his lack of height and he replied, “My ability, I’m a pretty athletic guy”. Lastly, I asked Gage to describe a time when he had to make a quick decision during a game. He replied, “The defense was in man coverage. I was able to get past my guy, and I dove to make the catch”. A player who is willing to go out and get the ball is an offensive coordinator’s dream. Gage is a dependable receiver who knows what he good at and knows how to compensate for his lack of height.

ormer Welsh High School quarterback, defensive back, wide receiver, and running back, Austyn Benoit, is a player who knows his way around the field on both sides of the ball. Austyn told me that one of his strengths is his versatility. “I’ve played many positions on the field in high school”. During his sophomore and junior years, he was a wide receiver and a defensive back. During the state championship game his junior year, he lined up in the running back position. For his senior season, he served as the team’s quarterback. His versatility can make him a key piece of the game puzzle for any team. Austyn’s ability to play multiple positions can add more variety to a team. Utility players are definitely a coach’s favorite.

Austyn Benoit Welsh

By: Matt Guth

Playing football can teach you more than just X’s and O’s. Austyn believes that football has given him the opportunity to connect with a variety of people, as well as, shown him how to work with others toward a common goal. Austyn’s ability to work with people to achieve a common goal is a trait he will be able to use long after his playing days are over. Austyn is a dependable and committed player who is willing to give 100% every time he’s on the field. Austyn is an experienced player. He’s seen both sides of the ball at various positions. He is definitely a “plug in” type of player. By that I mean, a coach can plug him in anywhere on the field and he will be able to perform to his utmost ability at that position because he has probably played that position before. Austyn, in my opinion, is a great athlete for the sheer fact that he can be utilized at more than one position. Having guys like that on a team, creates a greater chance of success down the road

harlie Norman is a 5’8, 185-pound running back from the state’s well-known powerhouse, West Monroe High School. Since the age of five, football has been a part of Norman’s life. He told me that his biggest motivation is his mother. “My mom has always been there for me”. No matter who Norman is playing for, he always plays to his fullest ability for his mother. During our interview, I asked Charlie what he can bring to a college program. He replied, “I have a great work ethic and I’m passionate”. I asked him if he could further elaborate on his statement. “I’m willing to work hard. To play the game at the next level, you have to love it because it gets tough”. As a former my player myself, I can completely relate to his statement. Many athletes want to play at the next level, but they don’t last long due to their lack of passion for the game.

Charlie Norman West Monroe

By: Matt Guth

The running back position is stressful and requires quick decision-making. I asked Norman how he handles those elements of the game. Norman replied, “I slow the game down. I see where I need to go, and I go do it”. A player’s ability to see where he needs to go before the snap is a valuable trait. Norman is a guy who comes from a winning program filled with tradition. Charlie is a competitor and works to be the best. He wants to compete and use his talents at the next level.

‘Dominant was the word that Ryan would use to describe himself. “I play offensive line. You have to be dominant; you have to have that kind of mindset. It’s a physical position”. McKenzie couldn’t be anymore right about his statement. The guys in the trenches don’t get the praise or recognition they deserve. Ryan believes that he can bring a dominant mentality and leadership to a college program. To play offensive line at the next level, you need that mental toughness to stay in the game on any Saturday. Having a high motor and physicality is something he believes is his strong suit. An individual with high motor combined with a dominant mentality has the makings of a player with potential.

Ryan McKenzie Welsh

By: Matt Guth

yan McKenzie is a 6’4, 304-pound offensive lineman from Welsh High School. Ryan told me that being a student athlete helped him handle the academic aspect of things. “I would push harder in academics”. Ryan clearly shows that academics are equally as important as his on field performance. As we talked, he explained how he handles pressure situations. “I just try to stay calm”. As simple as that sounds, that’s honestly how you prevent making mistakes that cost your team the game.

As our interview continued, I asked him if he would rather be a part of the rebuilding process or the rewards process. “Oh, man, that’s a tough one. I think I would rather be a part of the rebuilding process because you get the most out of yourself. Just out there grinding on the field, working towards change in the future”. Having a guy on your team who is willing to stay committed towards the bigger picture even if he won’t be in it, is a great player to have on any team. He believes, however, that his weakness is “being too hard on himself ”. As a former player, I was very hard on myself as well. I wouldn’t say that being too hard on yourself is a bad thing unless it starts to affect your performance and your ability to move on from that play. When players tell me that they’re hard on themselves, it shows me that they care about their craft and they don’t want to grow stagnant in their performance. Lastly, I asked Ryan to describe a time where he had to make a quick decision. “It was the state championship and we were running a pass play. Next thing I know, my quarterback starts running, so I lead, and I made a good block”. As an offensive lineman, keeping your head on a swivel is a necessity. Whether it’s a run play or a pass play, anything can happen. It’s important to be aware of what’s going on, so you can have a better chance of moving the chains. Ryan is a smart guy. He knows that he has to work on his craft to be a successful player. He does this by staying committed both on the field and in the classroom.

ootball has been a part of Mitchell’s life since he was four years old. The Iota defensive back was a member of the team that finished in the state semi-finals. During Mitchell’s four years at Iota, he was part of their rebuilding process. His freshman and sophomore years saw the team finish 1-9 and 2-8. During his junior and senior years, he saw the rebuilding process begin to pay off. In his last two years at Iota, the team finished 9-3 and 13-1. Because of this drastic improvement, I asked him how he felt about being a part of this transition. He replied, “It was great. I like seeing hard work pay off ”.

Mitchell Lege Iota

By: Matt Guth

I asked him if he would rather be a part of the rebuilding or the rewards process. “Oh, most definitely the rebuilding process.” That kind of attitude is something a coach loves to have on the sideline. One of his strengths that he expressed to me is his “high motor”. Despite his high motor he thinks his weight holds him back. “I love to work out. It doesn’t look like it, but I love getting stronger. I just want to get bigger in size”. Of course, size is a desirable factor to coaches. However, with Mitchell’s work ethic and determination, I believe that those can compensate for his lack of size. Other strengths that Mitchell believes he can bring to a college program are his dependability, football IQ, and his willingness to be a hard nose player. “I just know where to be on the field, watching film is the key to that”. A young player who is willing to get in the film room more often than not has the makings of a solid player. He believes his dependability is an asset he can bring to a college program because, “I’m where I need to be wherever the coach needs me to be”. A player who is willing to be as committed as Mitchell can be a great addition to any team. For what he may lack in size, he makes up for in his commitment, football IQ and work ethic.

Louisiana Gridiron Football Inaugural Bowl Game Is A Huge Success By Coach Andy Bryson

hile most people were recovering from their Christmas feast, players from across the state of Louisiana were reporting to Pineville, Louisiana for the inaugural LGF All-Star Bowl Game. 82 young men engulfed the hotel lobby as they reported and checked in for the week. Before their arrival, I had told the personnel from the hotel about some of these young men and how huge these guys are, the Country Inn and Suites assured me they could handle it. When thee guys came through the front door, there was no sign of doubt on the managerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s face. 22

While I’m sure any rational person would be wondering “how are we going to feed these guys?”, the manager of the Country Inn & Suites had told me that she had hosted baseball tournaments and other college football teams that had been in town to play the Louisiana College Wildcats. She and her whole staff was amazing the whole week long and the players were very impressed. Another thing I’m sure many people would think of upon seeing this many 17-19 year olds together, what kind of trouble are they going to get into? However by the end of the week, the entire hotel staff and everyone involved in the Bowl Game was so impressed with the behavior of all these young men. Not only was there not one altercation but the level of respect that these young men showed to everyone was astounding. It is tribute to their parents and coaches how well mannered and polite these men are at such a young age. Before the week started, the coaches and I prayed for the safety and well being of these young men.

Next Trey Langley, former LSU Tiger and Washington Redskin Offensive Lineman, spoke to the players about the opportunity that this type of game is. He also spoke about his experiences while at LSU and playing for the Redskins. Finally we did a draft rather than have a North vs South game. The Two Head Coaches, Dennis Dunn and Jason McClendon, drafted each player for their team. I wanted to build a team chemistry since we only had three days before the game. On Thursday, after a good breakfast provided by the hotel, practice at Louisiana College was canceled due to severe weather. The Country Inn & Suites has a huge conference center that holds upward of 500 people was turned into an temporary “indoor practice facility”. We moved the afternoon practice back to 3pm to give the weather time to pass. We were able to resume practice at Louisiana College Wildcat Stadium that evening. After dinner that evening, and watching the weather forecast, I decided to move the game up 24 hours to Friday night instead of playing it Saturday at 1pm. The Cotton Bowl had just been canceled a week earlier due to lightning. So either way, I did not want the players playing in the rain and risking injuries or to have to cancel our first Bowl Game.

The week started off with the welcoming of players by the Mayor’s office represented by Doug Gann, who wished the players a warm welcome to Pineville, La. Then the head coach of Louisiana College, Justin Charles, welcomed the players to his campus. Coach Charles also spoke to each player about what coaches like himself look for in a potential players. This was very helpful be- Needless to say, Friday was a very busy day. After breakcause as much as I tell players what coaches are looking fast, everyone was able to practice at Wildcat Stadium for, it just connects on a deeper level when the informa- in the morning before taking the afternoon to rest. The tion comes from a college coach.

P3 Quarterback Academy (985) 232-9759

two coaches took the players through a walk through in the conference center that afternoon. At 4:30, we started taking the players over to Wildcat Stadium for the 7 pm kickoff. As terrible as the weather had been all week long, the weather on Friday was clear and cold. After getting warmed up the players were all announced by name in the stadium. Family and friends for all the players had driven from all around the state to cheer on their favorite players. Despite having to move the game at the last minute, we were blown away by the support these players received not only by their families but by the Pineville community as a whole. In a game full of stars, it could have been easy for many of them to get lost in the shuffle. However, as the old Chinese proverb saying goes, “Iron sharpens Iron.”

On Offense, Ben West passed for 191 yards, 3 passing TD’s, and ran for another 52 yards for the Red Team “Most Outstanding Player” award. Running Back Josh Jones had 14 carries for 111 yards averaging 7.9 yards per carry for the Blue team’s “Most Outstanding Player” award. Running Back Freddie Mango had 12 carries for 100 yards for 1 TD with 8.3 yards per carry. plus 5 receptions for 28 yards. Wide Receiver, Dorian Harris, showed his speed with speed with a 63 yard reception for a TD. On Defense, Tayte Langley led all defenders in tackles with 14. Rice University signee, Adrian Bickham, led in sacks with 2.5 sacks for 24 loss of yards and 4 tackles. I think cornerback Byron Lockhart had the most exciting play of the nigh with an 86 yard pick six. While this is just a snapshot of the stats, the rest of the stats can be found on page 42-43.

Since the 2018 Game was a huge success, we have begun the planning stages for the 2019 Louisiana Gridiron Football All-Star Bowl Game. The LGF All-Star Bowl Game will be played on December 28th this year. As we continue to get details for the game, we will release them. We will begin sending out invites to the game in May. If you are interested in finding out more about the 2019 game and would like to be considered for a spot in the game, please email LouisianaGridironFootball@Gmail.com

2018 LGF All-Star Bowl Roster Red Team

Blue Team

1 QB Ben West Pineville 6’ 175 3 QB Kam Aucoin Iota 6’2” 195 5 RB Charlie Norman West Monroe 5’8” 185 7 RB Kameron Booker Jonesboro-Hodge 5’10” 165 9 RB Seth Shirley Rosepine 6’ 180 11 RB Jarius Boyd Franklin 6’1” 215 13 WR Brandon Quinney ASH 6’3” 170 15 WR Gage Rapp Sulphur 5’11” 170 17 WR Dorian Harris U-High 5’8” 180 19 WR Jarred Simpson Vidalia 6’1” 191 21 WR Clayton Howard West Feliciana 5’8” 160 23 TE Adam Purser Opelousas Catholic 6’4” 245 25 TE Joel Buckles Westminster 6’6” 220 27 OL Juwan Felix Iota 6’3” 285 29 OL AJ Gillie Nat. Central 6’4” 275 31 OL Chris Doyle Ouachita 6’ 265 33 OL Brett Pope Leesville 6’4” 300 35 OL Aaron McDaniel Oakdale 6’3” 310 37 LB Tayte Langley Iota H/S 6’3” 240 39 OL Zane Blanchard Assumption 6’2” 250 41 DL Adrian Bickham Varnado 6’4” 210 43 DL James Monroe Opelousas Cath. 6’3” 240 45 DL Deion McNeal Bastrop 6’2” 245 47 DL Tron Clark Patterson 6’4” 260 49 DL Fredrick Threats General Trass 6’3” 180 51 LB Brock Bullara Cath.-Point Coupee 6’ 180 53 LB Larry Scott Ferriday 6’ 210 55 K Reece Aultman West Monroe 5’11” 170 57 LB Chad Sam Northwest 6’ 210 59 DB Leland Jones U-High 6’2” 205 61 DB Colby Wiersema Sam Houston 6’1” 195 63 DB Tyson Ford Newman 5’8” 180 65 DB Olonzo Jackson West Feliciana 6’ 165 67 DB Khiry Morrison West Feliciana 6’1 200 69 DB Phillip Jackson Bastrop 5’7” 180 71 DB Tyren Henderson Baker 5’11” 150 73 DB Logan Roy Kaplan 6’2” 200 75 DB Karson Moore Cath-Point Coupee 6’1” 165 77 LB Kylur Tedder Many 6’1” 225 79 K Cayden Reynolds ASH 5’11” 157

2 QB Landon Moon Logansport 6’2” 190 4 QB Adam Blanchard St. John 6’ 185 6 RB Tresmin Brown Logansport 5’11” 184 8 RB Freddie Mango Delta Charter 6’1” 205 10 RB Jhalen Brown Ascension Episcopal 6’1” 205 12 RB Joshua Jones Berwick 5’9” 185 14 WR Chaynery Johnson Iota 5’8” 160 16 WR Jaquez Jones Capt Shreve 6’3” 175 18 WR Devin Thierry Opelousas Cath. 6’1” 200 20 WR Legend Denler Benton 5’9” 155 22 WR Majayreon Steward General Trass 5’8” 165 26 TE Lucas McWilliams Rosepine 6’6” 230 28 OL Grant Jenny Holy Cross 6’3” 255 30 OL Dillion Gray Lakeside 6’3” 275 32 OL Deandre Richard Brusly 6’3” 300 34 OL Joe Hearvey Assumption 6’5” 280 36 OL Dalton Clark Capt Shreve 6’3” 300 38 OL Ryan McKenzie Welsh 6’4” 304 40 OL Kelvin Smith TCA 6’2” 300 42 DL Joshua Ratcliff Assumption 6’1” 255 44 DL Thomas Bigner Jena 6’4” 275 46 DL Debin Charles LCA 6’1” 260 48 LB Chris Sehring St. Micheal 6’3” 225 50 LB Mark Coppola U-High 6’1” 225 52 LB Aaron Beinfield E.D. White 6’2” 230 56 LB Liam Rowan Newman 6’1” 220 58 BD Byron “BJ” Lockhart Walker 5’10” 185 60 DB Trey Eddins Jr. Sterlington 6’1” 180 62 DB Seth Ducote Rosepine 6’1” 190 64 DB Ronnie Gray Carver Collegiate 5’11” 175 66 DB Mitchell Lege Iota 6’1” 157 68 DB Malik Davis Sterlington 5’10” 185 70 DB Austyn Benoit Welsh 6’ 185 72 DB Jovon Moore General Trass 5’8” 150 74 DB Calvin Watson Walker 5’10” 160 76 OL Cade Foster Buckeye 6’3” 290 78 WR Kelvyon Williams Hunnington 5’11” 172 80 K Nolan Heitmeier Holy Cross 5’9” 155 82 LB Antonio “TJ” Blanch Bastrop 6’1” 200

yren Henderson is a 5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;11, 148lbs senior quarterback and cornerback for Baker High School in Baker, Louisiana that runs a 4.5 in the 40-yard dash. For the Louisiana Gridiron Football AllStar Bowl, Tyren played Defensive Back. He recorded a tackle in the game. How long have you been playing football and what do you love about football? I have been playing football since I was ten years old and what I love about football is the brotherhood part, the love I get from my teammates is just unexplainable. What are somethings that football has taught you? Football taught me how to play with others to achieve the same common goal. Who are your biggest motivators? My parents and my coaches because they see greatness in me, and they always push me to be the best that I can be. Do you play any other sports? I play basketball and I run track.

Tyren Henderson Baker By Tyran Bates

What did you think about the Louisiana Gridiron Football bowl game you played in recently? It was an excellent experience that I never had before. It was really fun to be apart of the bowl game and I really enjoyed myself.

What is your greatest strength and your greatest weakness? My ability to come downhill, run sideline to sideline, read the offensive, and really being able to instinctively make plays on defense is my biggest strength. Because Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m good at reading the offensive I have a tendency over read the plays, which cause me to make mistakes by over reading the plays at times. Who is your biggest motivator? My father, he is one of the biggest reasons why I got into football, and he always wants me to be the best. He played offensive line for LSU and in the NFL for the Washington Redskins. What has football taught you about yourself as a person? Playing football has taught me to be a leader by example and not by words.

Tayte Langley Iota

By Tyran Bates

ayte Langley is a senior linebacker and defensive end at Iota High School in Iota, Louisiana. Tayte has been passionate about football since he started playing at the age of nine. During his senior year he has recorded over 140 total tackles, 24 tackles for loss, 5 sacks, 3 pass breakups, and 1 interception. In the Louisiana Gridiron Football bowl game he registered 14 total tackles leading both teams in tackles.

How do you prepare physically and mentally for a game? Practicing on Monday and Tuesdays, working out afterwards, and watching game film for an hour each day on the opposing teams offensive line and running backs until game day. What do your coaches say about you? My coaches say that I am a hard worker on and off the field; I buy into the system very well, all in all my coaches say great things about me.

Why should colleges recruit you? I am a country kid looking for a place to call home to play football and I have the necessities When did you start playing football and when did you begin to to get the job done. like playing football? I started playing football when I was 9 years old. I played tackle How have you improved since your freshman football instead of flag football at the beginning. I enjoyed playing year of high school? football really at the start and it wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t too long afterwards is when I have been using my time to getting bigger, faster, and stronger. I have learned about readI started to have a real passion for football at the age of 9. ing plays and I have developed and improve my natural instincts.

What did you think about the Louisiana Gridiron Football bowl game you played in recently? It was great you know, staying at the hotel, meeting new people, players, and coaches from all over. Overall it was an awesome experience.

rant Jenny is a 6â&#x20AC;&#x2122;3, 265lbs senior offensive lineman that plays guard and center for Holy Cross High School in New Orleans, Louisiana. Grant can bench press 265, squat 375, and cling 255. Grant is an excellent student athlete with a 4.2 GPA and scored a 26 on his ACT. When did you start playing football? I started playing football when I was five years old at Harahan playground. What are somethings that football has taught you? Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve learned how to play with a team, that everybody matters; I mean we all have the same common goal in the end. Who are some of your biggest influences? My parents are because they inspire me to continue improving my work ethic and drive. What is your greatest strength on the football field? My football IQ because I had to help with formations on the plays we were running and making sure everyone is where they need to be.

Grant Jenny Holy Cross

By Tyran Bates

Do you have college offers? Yes I do, I have offers from LC, Wabash, Hendrix, Arkansas Monticello, Rhodes, and Texas Wesleyan. What did you think about the Louisiana Gridiron Football bowl game you played in recently? I loved it I thought it was a lot of fun. There were so many people from New Orleans that were down there and plenty of others from all over the state. I was glad that I was a part of this bowl game.

haynery Paul Johnson is a 5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;8, 173lbs senior wide receiver from Iota High School in Iota, Louisiana. Johnson is an excellent student athlete with a 3.9 GPA who scored a 22 on his ACT. Johnson runs a 4.6 in the 40-yard dash, his shuttle is 4.85, his bench press is 205, his squat is 395, and his cling is 225. What is something you have learned while playing football? I have learned that working, as a team is a lot more important than individual stats. I also learn that working hard beats talent most of the time. What style of play best describes you? I would have to say fast and aggressive, because I like to make plays so I do whatever is necessary to get open and do whatever it takes to put my team in a positive situation. Who are some of your biggest influences? I would have to say my dad because he works hard for my family and Lance Moore because he has always been one of my favorites and I try to resemble my game based off of him.

Chaynery Johnson Iota

By Tyran Bates

What made you decide to play wide receiver? My dad was a wide receiver in high school so that always motivated me to play. What is a part of your game that you are trying to improve? I need to work on my jumping and vertical so that I can go up and get the jump balls. What did you think about the Louisiana Gridiron Football bowl game you played in recently? I think it was very organized, it was fun to play in, it was great competition, and it gave us great exposure.

When did you start playing football and when did you begin to like playing football? I started playing football when I was four and it’s been my love ever since. What style of play best describes you? I like to get dirty get nasty. Really I just want to be the player that helps my team win. Do you have any role models? My only real role model is my dad because he has gone through a lot in his life, and he has shown me that I can do anything I want with me life. Are there any other hobbies you enjoy besides football? Basketball, in general I just like to be active that includes baseball and soccer too. What made you decide to play on the O-line? I was always big as a kid and when they put me on the line I was good at what I was doing, and I ended up loving it, so I have been sticking with it ever since.

Chris Doyle Ouachita Parish

By Tyran Bates

hris Doyle is a 6’0”, 275lbs football player at Ouachita Parish High School in Monroe, Louisiana that plays center, guard, and fullback. Doyle can bench 315 and squat 450.

What areas of your game have you been working on trying to improve? Keeping low pad or staying low, overall I’m just working on trying to get better leverage when I’m blocking. Why should colleges recruit you? I’m a hard worker, a good team player, a leader, and overall I’m a real good football player. How have you improved since your freshman year of high school? I have gotten way better in my technique, better footwork, and I know a lot about the game of football like formations and how the defenses are set up. I just have more knowledge of the game and better technique. What did you think about the Louisiana Gridiron Football bowl game you played in recently? Man it was a great game, it was very exciting the crowd was into it and I just had a great time.

When did you start playing football and why do you playing football? I never thought about doing anything else but football. I was playing my video games and I always wanted my name on the bottom of the players like the ones in the NFL do. I just use the talent that God gave me thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what I have been doing ever since. What are some of your accolades? I rushed for the Louisiana state record with 617 yards and 9 touchdowns in one game. A couple of weeks before I broke the school record for the most rushing yards in a game with 417 yards. I was 1st team all-district and most valuable player.

Joshua Jones Berwick

By Tyran Bates

J J

osh ones is a 5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;9 185lbs first team all-district senior running back from Berwick High School in Berwick, Louisiana. Josh finished the game with 112 rushing yards on 14 carries with a 7.9 average per carry leading both teams. Josh runs a 4.52 in the 40-yard dash and has a 3.3 GPA. What are somethings that football has taught you? Football has taught me that anything you want in life is not given; you have to work for it. Nothing is easy and nothing is going to be handed to you.

What made you decide to play running back? It started when I was playing pop warner its funny because I was playing on the offensive line, I was thinking that the people who I was blocking for I could do that. I just wanted to know what its like to have the ball in my hands, and eventually I started to enjoy playing running back. What have you been focusing on trying to get better at? I have been focusing on things I am good and bad at. I have been working on my vision, speed, footwork, and just trying to become a better all around running back. What did you think about the Louisiana Gridiron Football bowl game you played in recently? It was very exciting that I was invited, because with all of the other players around the state I have never considered myself as one of the best; I have kind of underestimated myself. Knowing that I can play with the best is a great feeling and I had a lot of fun being there and participating.

When did you start playing football and when did you begin to like playing football? I started playing at 4 years and I was 6 when I started to like playing football. That was when I really got into football. Who is your biggest motivator? My mother because from a young age she was able to help me back up whenever I would fail, and I just wanna make her proud whenever I play. What has football taught you about yourself as a person? It has definitely taught that maybe I shouldn’t be such a perfectionist and that sometime s people mess up. That being a leader isn’t just telling people what to do and that it’s about being up front and honest with everyone.

Zane Blanchard Assumption

By Tyran Bates

ane Blanchard is a 6’2 250lbs senior left tackle and center at Assumption High School in Napoleonville, Louisiana. Blanchard can bench press 265 and run a 5.2 in the 40-yard dash. His peers consider him an excellent student who prides himself on giving his best effort on and off the football field. Blanchard also played in the Louisiana Gridiron Football bowl game on the offensive line.

How do you prepare physically and mentally for a game? I make sure I take care of myself by eating right and drinking plenty of water. I go through all my plays, scenarios, footwork, and I pray. Why should colleges recruit you? I have a 3.5 GPA, I tend to stay out of trouble, and I work diligently at my craft on and off the field. I’m always making sure I’m doing whatever I can to get the job done. How have you improved since your freshman year of high school? I was very raw and aggressive at first, but every year I became more defined. My technique got better, my physical health got better, and I started to learn how to work out. I became a better football player and person which each year. What did you think about the Louisiana Gridiron Football bowl game you played in recently? I had a great time; the game itself was a great experience. Everybody benefited from this game; it was great to bring all of these players together. I thought it was run very well, I mean all together it was a pretty fun experience.

When did you start playing football and when did you begin to like playing football? I started when I was nine and I liked it from the start. What is your greatest strength and your greatest weakness? I can extend plays with my feet outside the pocket would be my greatest strength. Although staying in the pocket and stepping up in the pocket would be an area that I need to work on. Who is your biggest motivator? My friend that goes Northwestern, he graduated from my school when I was a freshman. He is one of the hardest working people I know and he helps to motivate me a lot. What has playing quarterback taught you about yourself? That I can lead a group of people to the same common goal and that I can get everybody to believe in the same thing. How do you prepare physically and mentally for a game? Watching a ton of film and listening to music to get focused.

Adam Blanchard St John

By Tyran Bates

dam Blanchard is a 5’10 175lbs senior quarterback at St. John High School in Plaquemine, Louisiana. Blanchard runs a 4.80 in the 40-yard dash, can bench 205, and can squat 335. Blanchard was 6-14 for 41 yards passing and 17 yards rushing with a touchdown in the Louisiana Gridiron Football bowl game.

What do your coaches say about you? That I am a born leader, although some coaches say that I need to be more vocal, they say that I lead by example more than vocally. Why should colleges recruit you? Because I have a lot of work ethic, I will do anything, and I will give you everything I got no matter what. How have you improved since your freshman year of high school? My arm got a lot stronger, I got a lot stronger, I got really faster, and my new coaches helped me out a lot. What did you think about the Louisiana Gridiron Football bowl game you played in recently? It was a really great experience; they had a lot of great coaches and a lot of great players. I’m glad we got to play in front of a lot of new people, it was all in all a great atmosphere, and it was a fun game that was played. I’m really glad I did it. 37

When did you start playing football and when did you begin to like playing football? I started playing football my 6th grade year of junior high, and I’ve played every year since then. I really fell in love with football my 6th grade year. Who is your biggest motivator? My head coach is my biggest motivator because he pushes every single one of us. He pushes us to be good in football, our grades, and everything all around. What has football taught you about yourself as a person? Football has changed me a lot; my head coach has been getting us ready for real life through football. My head coach is teaching us to be men, to be responsible, and to have a great attitude. How do you prepare physically and mentally for a game? Physically I drink a lot of water and get plenty of rest. Mentally the day of the game I wake up already in the mindset to get ready. And before the game I plug in headphones and listen to music clear my mind and really just get my mind on the game. I clear out all of the distractions.

Thomas Bigner Jena

By Tyran Bates

homas Bigner is a 6’4 270lbs senior defensive end and defensive tackle at Jena High School in Jena, Louisiana that runs a 4.9 in a 40-yard dash, can bench press 225, and squat 475. In the Louisiana Gridiron Football bowl game he recorded 2 tackles.

Why should colleges recruit you? I am a hard worker, and I am willing to do whatever it takes to make sure that our team wins and to help us get better. How have you improved since your freshman year of high school? I’ve gotten a lot stronger, I have gotten faster and really I just play technique a lot better than I did my freshman year. What did you think about the Louisiana Gridiron Football bowl game you played in recently? It was great to meet all of these players and coaches who have been successful. The humbleness that everybody has in them, the willingness to work with you is really impressive. Overall it was a great experience and I would love for anyone to do it.

How long have you been playing football and what do you love about football? I started playing football when I was five years old. When I started playing peewee football, that’s when I realized I was good. Football has emotions, time, and work but it has a ton of rewards and it makes me happy. What has football taught you about yourself as a person? Football has taught me that if you work hard then you can get the results you want, and it has showed me that I am a competitive person. Football brings out the best in me, and I just feel natural when I’m playing football. Who are some of your biggest influences? My friends because we all grew up in a hard area; we push each other to try and do things that no one thinks we can do. My family also motivates and supports me. What are some of your accolades? I made all-district cornerback with 4 interceptions and 49 tackles.

Olonzo Jackson West Feliciana

By Tyran Bates

lonzo Jackson is a 6’0, 165 lb senior all-district cornerback for West Feliciana High School in St. Francisville, Louisiana. Jackson runs a 4.49 in the 40-yard dash and can squat 315. Jackson ended the Louisiana Gridiron Football bowl game with a tackle and a pass breakup.

What made you decide to play defensive back? I just love the position. I take pride in the position; you have to be smart and there is a lot of technique in the position that you have to learn to perfect your craft. I just love competing against other dudes and shutting them down. What did you think about the Louisiana Gridiron Football bowl game you played in recently? I made a lot of friends. I met a lot of people on the field who can play. They were very good. It was a very good college style experience.

oseph Hearvey is a 6’5 280lbs offensive lineman at Assumption High School in Napoleonville, Louisiana. Joe played Tight End and Offensive line while in high school. How long have you been playing football and what do you love about football? I have been playing football since I was twelve years old. I like it because it’s a physical sport, and I am a physical dude. Its fun. What is something you have learned while playing football? I have learned about teamwork. You need a team to achieve goals, and it has turned me into a hardworking man that never quits. Who is your biggest motivator? My mom and dad because they motivate me a lot, especially given where our family comes from. Are there any other hobbies you enjoy besides football? I enjoy playing video games and playing basketball.

Joesph Hearvey Assumption

By Tyran Bates

What part of your game have you been working on trying to improve? I’m trying to get better at run blocking and I’m trying to improve my technique. What did you think about the Louisiana Gridiron Football bowl game you played in recently? It was fun. It was my first time playing in a bowl game, and I got to meet new players and coaches. The bowl game was a great experience and I had fun.

elvin Smith is a 6’2, 300-pound offensive lineman for the Church Academy in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Despite his team’s winless season, Smith’s impressive performance set him apart from other players in the state. I asked how he maintained his performance and Smith replied, “I just kept my head up; yeah it was hard because I want to win but I can only do my job”. I admired his response because when things start going south for a team, players tend to become less committed to the team. It’s hard giving your all when you know it’s only for pride at the end of the day. Kelvin finished the bowl game with a total of 2 tackles which included for 1 solo and 1 assist. As our interview progressed, I asked him what he could bring to a college program. He replied, “Excitement, commitment, and leadership. I’m a vocal guy.” Kelvin went on to explain “excitement” meant that he is a supportive teammate. Every athlete has his strengths and weaknesses. Kelvin believes his strengths include being a leader and being a determined player.

Kelvin Smith The Church Academy

By Matt Guth

Determination is a trait Kelvin has demonstrated very well by having a successful career despite his team’s record. His on field performance, driven by determination, shows that he’s a player who can achieve his goals. After four years of high school football, I asked Kelvin how he can apply what he has learned on the field to his everyday life. He responded by saying, “It helped me in how I handle life’s decisions”. Playing football not only comes with great praise, but also numerous pressure situations. Smith told me that he handles stressful situations by focusing on what he needs to do. Being accountable was another responsibility he had in high school. “A lot of people held me accountable on the field”. Kelvin Smith is a player who can rise to any occasion no matter the circumstances.

Stats For The Louisiana Gridiro Most Outstanding Player: Blue Team Josh Jones Red Team Ben West

Blue Team

Head Coach Jason McClendon

Passing C-A-I Yards TD Long Adam Blanchard 6-14-1 41 1 23 Landon Moon 4-11-0 46 1 26 Totals 10-25-1 87 2 26

Sack 1 3 4

Rushing No Net TD Josh Jones 14 111 0 Freddie Mango 12 100 1 Tresmin Brown 10 71 1 Byron Lockhart 1 60 0 Adam Blanchard 3 11 0 Landon Moon 7 -30 0 Totals 53 347 3

Long Avg 21 7.9 35 8.3 36 7.1 60 60 12 3.7 4 -4.3 60 6.5

Receiving No Yards TD Long Freddie Mango 5 28 0 10 Kelvyon Williams 2 1 0 2 Delvin Thierry 1 26 0 26 Ja Jones 1 23 1 23 Legend Denler 1 9 1 9 Totals 10 87 2 26 Punting No Yrds Avg. Long In20 TB Mitchell Lege 4 178 44.5 50 2 0

Red Team Passing Ben West Kam Aucoin Gage Rapp Totals

Head Coach Dennis Dunn C-A-I 12-23-1 5-9-1 0-1-1 17-33-3

Yards 191 23 0 214

TD 3 0 0 3

Long 63 12 0 63

Sack 0 0 0 0

Rushing No. Net TD Long Avg Jarius Boyd 8 52 0 22 6.5 Ben West 6 52 0 19 8.7 Charlie Norman 6 41 1 11 6.8 Seth Shirley 9 30 0 11 3.3 Kameron Booker 4 26 0 12 6.5 Brandon Quinney 1 -1 0 0 -1.0 Kam Aucoin 3 -21 0 0 -7.0 Totals 38 179 1 22 4.7 Receiving No. Yards TD Long Gage Rapp 7 40 1 15 Jarred Simpson 4 66 1 25 Dorian Harris 2 71 1 63 Charlie Norman 2 13 0 8 Adam Purser 1 12 0 12 Kameron Booker 1 12 0 12 Totals 17 214 3 63

Punt Kickoff Interception Returns No Yrds Lg No Yrds Lg No Yrd Lg Malik Davis 1 12 12 0 0 0 0 0 0 Ja Jones 0 0 0 1 25 25 0 0 0 Chris Sehring 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 39 39 Trey Eddins Jr 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 Byron Lockhart 0 0 0 1 31 31 2 86 86 Mitchell Lege 0 0 0 1 5 5 0 0 0 Totals 1 12 12 4 61 31 3 125 86

Punting No. Yards Avg. Long In 20 TB Reece Aultman 5 163 32.6 50 0 0

Field Goals Att-Made Long - - -

Field Goals Cayden Reynolds

Kickoffs Nolan Heitmeier

Kickoffs No Yards Avg TB Reece Aultman 3 78 26 0 Cayden Reynolds 3 174 58 1

No 6

Yards Ave TB 254 42.3 0

Punt Returns No Yards Long Dorian Harris 0 0 0 Charlie Norman 0 0 Chad Sam 0 0 0 Totals 0 0 0

Kickoff Interceptions No Yards Lg No Yards Lg 5 83 30 0 0 0 1 14 14 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 3 6 97 30 1 3 3

Att.-Made 1-1

Long 37

on Football All-Star Bowl Game Coaches:

Dennis Dunn Dayne Reeves Darin Moore Trey Langley Adam White

Jason McClendon Tyler Lewis Jonathan Collins Chris Hughs James Taylor Ben Hall Ray Aucoin John Compton

# BLUE TEam 82 42 66 48 56 50 70 46 58 60 52 44 72 40 74 80 64 62 16 38 12

T.J. Blanch Joshua Ratcliff Mitchell Lege Chris Sehring Liam Rowan Mark Coppola Austyn Benoit Devin Charles Byron Lockhart Trey Eddins Jr. Aaron Beinfield Thomas Bigner Javon Moore Kelvin Smith Calvin Watson Nolan Heitmeier Ronnie Gray Seth Ducote Ja. Jones Ryan McKenzie Jo. Jones

RED TEAM

37 Tayte Langley 57 Chad Sam 53 Larry Scott 43 James Monroe 67 Khiry Morrison 45 Deion McNeal 77 K. Tedder 41 Adrian Bickham 63 Tyson Ford 47 Tron Clark 69 Phillip Jackson 73 Logan Roy 49 Fredrick Threats 65 Olonzo Jackson 23 Adam Purser 75 Karson Moore 1 Ben West 51 Brock Bullara 61 Colby Wiesema 39 Zane Blanchard 19 Jarred Simpson 59 Leland Jones 71 Tyren Henderson 17 Dorian Harris

Special Thanks To:

Doug Gann and Rich Dupree from the city of Pineville for doing the play-by-play

Defensive Stats Solo Ast Total Sack-Yrd 6 2 4 4 0 3 2 0 3 3 1 2 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0

3 6 3 3 6 2 3 4 0 0 2 0 1 1 2 0 0 1 1 1 1

9 8 7 7 6 5 5 4 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

TFL-Yrd

Int-Yrd

BrUp

4 4 5 3 3 1 1 3 1 0 3 1 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0

10 7 4 3 3 5 5 1 3 4 0 2 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 0

14 11 9 6 6 6 6 4 4 4 3 3 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0

- - - 1.0-9 - - - 2.5-24 - 0.5-4 - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

- 2.5-4 - 1.0-9 - 1.5-1 - 2.5-24 0.5-0 0.5-4 - 1.0-1 0.5-1 - - - - - - - - - - -

- 1-3 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

1 2 1 1 1 1

0.5-2 1.5-3 0.5-5 1.0-2 - - - - - - - - - 1.5-6 - - 1.0-1 - - - -

- - - 1-39 - - - - 2-86 - - - - - - - - - - - -

1 1 1 2 -