Best Preps 2024 from Longview News-Journal

MALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR TAYLOR TATUM Longview High School

FEMALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

EWOMA UGBINI Pine Tree High School

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Running circles around the competition

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TENTH ANNUAL BEST PREPS LONGVIEW

STORY BY JACK STALLARD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER SCOTT

Every student-athlete in East Texas puts in a certain number of practice and workout hours each week honing their crafts for athletic competition.

To make sure they remain eligible in their chosen sport or activity, those athletes must also make sure work is completed – usually at a high level – in the classroom.

A good number of those kids don’t stop there.

The communities they live in mean a lot to them, so they find time between practice, competition and studying to volunteer and serve their neighbors in hopes of making those communities stronger.

These young people should be recognized and applauded for their efforts, and 10 years ago the Longview News-Journal introduced Best Preps to do just that.

ETVarsity Best Preps, celebrating its 10th year in 2024, honors student-athletes who have excelled at a high level in all areas.

Coaches from participating schools were asked to submit nominations based on the student-athlete’s contributions to varsity athletics as well as their work in the classroom and in the community.

These athletes were required to have a GPA of 3.0 or better and to have verifiable community service or volunteer credentials of 10 or more hours in the current year.

Presenting sponsor for the event is Baylor, Scott & White Texas Spine & Joint.

Other major sponsors included CHRISTUS Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute (Male and Female Athlete of the Year), East Texas Professional Credit Union (Red Carpet Sponsor), Longview Regional (Photo booth Sponsor), Whataburger (Balloon Sponsor), Azalea Catering (Marquee Sponsor), Chick-fil-A (Stage Sponsor)

and SIG/Ramey Insurance (Dessert Sponsor).

Specialty Awards sponsors are Baylor, Scott & White Texas Spine & Joint (Heart and Desire and Sportsmanship), Jucys Taco (Going the Extra Mile), Kilgore College (Outstanding Academic Achievement), East Texas Professional Credit Union (Community Excellence), M. Roberts Media (Coach of the Year), SIG/ Ramey Insurance (Inspiration) and ETX View Magazine (Athletic Director of the Year).

Sponsors for sports awards are Eastman Credit Union (Football and Cheerleading), Whataburger (Volleyball and Softball), Azalea Catering (Cross Country Boys), Longview News-Journal (Cross Country Girls, Soccer Boys, Tennis Boys, Swimming Girls and Student Athletic Trainer), East Texas Professional Credit Union (Powerlifting Boys and Girls), M. Roberts Digital (Basketball Boys, Golf Boys, Tennis Girls, Bass Fishing), ETX View Magazine (Basketball Girls, Golf Girls, Swimming Boys, Drill Team), McDaniel’s Quality Body Works (Baseball), Longview Regional (Track and Field Boys and Girls), Chick-fil-A (Soccer Girls).

The following high schools participated in this year’s program: Longview; Pine Tree; Spring Hill; Marshall; Hallsville; White Oak; Kilgore; Gilmer; New Diana; Gladewater; Ore City; Carthage; Tatum; Trinity School of Texas; St. Mary’s; Sabine; West Rusk; Daingerfield; and Beckville.

Congratulations to our honored student-athletes and coaches. We are proud to recognize your hard work in all areas, and we thank you for providing a shining example to others in the community through your hard work, dedication and desire to help others.

And, finally, a special thanks to our ETVarsity Best Preps sponsors for continuing to support the young people of East Texas.

Jeb Blount, a former Longview High School multiple-sport standout who earned Hall of Fame honors at the college level and a Super Bowl ring in the National Football League, was the keynote speaker at the annual ETVarsity Best Preps Awards ceremony in Longview.

The event was held April 23 at Maude Cobb Convention Center in Longview.

Blount was a three-year Longview varsity basketball starter and a two-year starter at quarterback for the Lobos.

As a junior at Longview, he passed for 211 yards and a touchdown and was 15-for-20 on extra points and 3-for-5 on field goal attempts.

During his senior year, he passed for 974 yards and seven touchdowns, rushed for 245 yards and three scores, averaged 38.1 yards per punt and kicked two field goals. He averaged 15.7 points per game on the basketball court.

He signed to play football at the University of Tulsa, and helped lead Tulsa to three straight Missouri Valley Conference titles and a 15-1 record in conference play during his sophomore, junior and senior seasons.

Blount led Tulsa in passing in 1974 and 1975, throwing for 1,831 yards and 15 touchdowns in 1974 and earning conference Offensive Player of the Year honors.

He finished his Tulsa career having completed 320 of 588 passes for 4,372 yards and 35 touchdowns, and was inducted into the Tulsa Athletic Hall of Fame as part of the 2021 class.

Blount was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the second round of the 1976 NFL Draft (50th overall), and earned a Super Bowl ring when the Raiders defeated the Minnesota Vikings, 32-14, later that season.

He was waived prior to the 1977 season and was claimed by several teams, but the NFL awarded the

KEYNOTE SPEAKER JEB BLOUNT SHARES INSPIRING MESSAGE AT BEST PREPS BANQUET

STORY BY JACK STALLARD PHOTOGRAPHY BY LES HASSELL

Tampa Bay Buccaneers his rights.

He started four games and played in five for Tampa Bay, passing for 522 yards.

At the banquet, Blount shared an inspiring message with the studentathletes. He had already personally met many of them, as Blount attended the News-Journal’s inaugural Best Preps Spring Photo Shoot in March. Along with shaking hands and taking photos, Blount allowed the studentathletes to try on his Super Bowl ring.

CONGRATS

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE NOMINEES AND WINNERS

EASTMAN CREDIT UNION AWARD FOR FOOTBALL

J'Koby Williams

BECKVILLE HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

J'Koby Williams is an exceptional football player. He is a 3 star athlete committed to play power 5 football at Texas Tech. But more importantly he is one of the most hard working and humble athletes I have ever coached in 21 years. This young man embodies the words team and family. J'Koby would do whatever necessary to help his team succeed, no matter what is able to achieve or not. The kid cares more about others than himself. Incredible athlete, even better human being.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

WHATABURGER AWARD FOR VOLLEYBALL

Lauren

Pyle

HALLSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Lauren Pyle is the Hallsville Volleyball Best Preps nominee because Lauren, who is extremely talented on the volleyball court, exudes special gifts when working with children and people. Lauren, our captain for 2 years, is the type of person who shakes hands with every referee and coach before and AFTER games. She spends her time in the summers at a Daycare at Alpine Church of Christ when she can fit it in around workouts for volleyball and soccer practices. When asked what she wants to do when she grows up, she says "I'm not sure on the profession, but I want to work with children". Lauren displays leadership amongst her peers and fellow athletes by her clear communication, everyday effort and her performances in the classroom and court. She is a natural leader and caregiver. She corrects when needed and does so in an excellent way. In my opinion, Lauren would be a terrific coach. She cares about her teammates, pushes them to be better, and makes her team better by how much she pushes herself in practice every day. Lauren will be missed greatly, and it will be hard to replace her and her amazing character.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

Presented

AZALEA CATERING AWARD FOR BOYS CROSS COUNTRY

Brady Meyer SPRING HILL HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

Brady is the consummate worker! He is training for cross country basically year around. While others treat it as something to do just in the fall Brady is putting in miles 12 months out of the year. He is an encouraging teammate and a positive kid who is easy to be around every single day. He spends extra time helping with the junior high kids in the program as well. I couldn't ask for an easier kid to coach.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

Presented by

LONGVIEW NEWS-JOURNAL AWARD FOR GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

Natalia Mata WEST RUSK HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Natalia is everything we hope for in a student athlete at a small school. Not only is she a high achiever and a leader, she is involved in so many of the good things going on at our campus. She is a key team member on the track and cross country teams, supports the volleyball coaches in the everyday running of the program, and leads, in word and deed, every member of our girls' athletics program. It is not uncommon on a Friday to see Natalia running from a cross country meet to a volleyball game to leading our marching band on the field. She does it all with pride, skill, and grace.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

Presented by

EAST TEXAS PROFESSIONAL CREDIT UNION AWARD FOR BOYS POWERLIFTING Preston Armstrong

PINE TREE HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

Preston is the most respected student-athlete we have by his peers, coaches, teachers and community members. He has shown over and over that he is willing to do anything and everything to help others become the best version of themselves. The biggest thing I see is his servant heart. He loves to serve and build other people up. Preston has made me a better coach in the last 6 years I have seen him grow from JH to being a senior now. I am thankful for the opportunity to coach and teach him.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

EAST TEXAS PROFESSIONAL CREDIT UNION AWARD FOR GIRLS POWERLIFTING

Kooper Bogenschutz

SABINE HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

While she is student athlete here at SHS, she has personified many qualities that I have no doubt that he will one day be a successful individual and make a contribution to society. She has surpassed many of her goals and has accomplished many daunting tasks with great initiative and with a very positive attitude. Her self-motivation and tenacity has allowed her to be a successful lifter on the platform. She has all the qualities that you are looking for in a lifter as a powerlifting coach. She is absolutely fearless when it comes to lifting the weight on the bar.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

M. ROBERTS DIGITAL AWARD FOR BOYS BASKETBALL

JaCorie Bradley

TATUM HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

First, I believe we are in the kid growing business. JaCorie's growth as a young man and leader has improved exponentially in the two years he has been my point guard. His Father was my point guard in 2003. I celebrated his first birthday with him. I remember when his Mother passed away and I watch him deal with that loss as a young man. He plays with great passion and has been our district MVP for two years, but it is his growth as a leader that has been a joy to be a part of in his life. He is the natural leader because he is our best player but he has also learned to show his teammates compassion and support when things do not go well. I believe he will be one of our greatest examples when his career here is over.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

Presented by

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Kyla Lincoln is an overall athlete who represents Gladewater ISD to the best of her abilities every chance that she gets. She has been a varsity athlete in basketball since her sophomore year receiving several accolades throughout her time here at Gladewater ISD. For this past basketball season, she received district honors of academic alldistrict and defensive MVP. Kyla is a fierce competitor who does not back down from a challenge or adversity.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

Presented by

MCDANIEL'S QUALITY BODY WORKS AWARD FOR BASEBALL

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

Sawyer is a 4 year starter for the Hallsville Bobcat Baseball team.

He was part of our 2021 State Tournament Team. As a freshman he was selected as the District Defensive Player of the year.

Sophomore year was selected as a First Team All District Shortstop. His Junior year was selected as the Offensive Player of the Year for the district. Sawyer will attend Tyler Junior College to play Baseball.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

WHATABURGER AWARD FOR SOFTBALL Addison McClanahan WHITE OAK HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Addison is a natural born leader. Since the first day that she stepped onto my field as a freshman I knew that she would help shape and push those around her. When it comes time for practice or time to compete this kid is a GAMER. There are times in practice when she makes a mistake that she looks at me and says, "give me another one Coach." This kid strives to do right. Addison does a very good job of leading by example. With her athletic ability alone kids sit up and take notice of her but you add in the way she carries herself, her effort, her attitude in practice along with her encouraging words she gives to those around her and she is the total package. These kids just want to be around her. Mac has done a great job welcoming in anyone that has come into the softball program. She does a good job picking up other girls when they get down on themselves. She does a great job of not showing frustration and poor body language. We are blessed to have such a strong and talented kid in our program and school.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

LONGVIEW REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER AWARD FOR BOYS TRACK & FIELD

Raimone Flournoy

PINE TREE HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

I am happy and honored to recommend Raimone Flournoy for this award. I have known Raimone for 4 years and it has been my pleasure to serve as his Head Track coach. During this time, I watched Raimone grow into an outstanding young man who excels in both his academic and athletic pursuits. As Raimone coach, I witnessed his leadership and work ethic to excel in academics and athletics daily. His diligence in his studies and to his teammates will make him a great addition for this award. Raimone’s academic accomplishments are rivaled only by his personal strengths in track and field. He competes in multiple events and is a great example for his teammates. His compassion and charisma are beyond his years and he is wellloved by his peers, as well as all those who had the pleasure of coaching him. Whenever any of his fellow students are having a difficult time or feeling down, he never fails to step in with an encouraging word and a smile.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Not only is Kaysen a fantastic athlete but she is one of the backbones to our program in the classroom and on the field. She is a all state volleyball player, a golfer, and does the 100H, 300H, High Jumps, Triple Jumps, and Long jumps for us. In 2023 she was a district champion and a regional finalist in the HJ. As most of these kids are, Kaysen is a high competitor at everything she does. Her hurdle times have dropped significantly from her freshmen year to her sophomore year and her future is very bright.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

Riley is a 4 year starter for us and is captain of our team. While we do not have any year round players, Riley is and has been committed to getting better every year to help this program grow and get better. He is 17th in his class, he is the drum major for our state champion band, he is the XC captain, a 2 x All State band member, and a leader on and off the field here at NDHS.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

Presented by

CHICK-FIL-A AWARD FOR GIRLS SOCCER

Abigayle Fisher SPRING HILL HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Abby is a determined, tireless student-athlete that exemplifies selflessness, hard-work, toughness, and leadership in the classroom and on the soccer field. Abby is a junior captain and central defender for Spring Hill and has a played a primary role in leading the Lady Panthers back to the playoffs in 2024. Furthermore, Abby serves her community in all types of areas including school, civic, and church activities.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

Hudson demonstrates the true definition of hard work. He works relentlessly on his golf game to perfect his craft. He works extremely hard in the classroom as well.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

Presented by

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Faith Ann Chinn has been a pillar on the Spring Hill golf team since her freshmen year. She was a team captain as a freshmen and has led her team to the regional tournament for 3 straight years.

Last year she tied for second at the UIL State 4A Golf Tournament. She epitomizes student and athlete.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

Easton Pena is one of the hardest working kids on and off the court. He is a multi sport athlete and excels in everything he does. He is a great teammate. He will come after his other practices just to help younger kids with serves or anything else. He went to regionals in tennis last year and did very well. I feel he is very deserving of this award. I’m proud to be his coach.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

Presented by

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Allison Williams is our nominee because she fits the mold of what a student athlete should be. She is a leader on the team, she is ranked #1 in her class in GPA, and she is a very well mannered student. Allison works very hard on the court and is always very coachable. She was a tennis regional qualifier last spring, and is working hard to make it back there this year.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

HALLSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

Cameron has been in Swim club since age 6 with Longview Metro Aquatics. Most of Camerons "free" time goes to swimming. He swims 2 hours on M,W,F mornings and 2 hours every day after school! For UIL swim, He is a 2 time District Champ for the 50 freestyle, and 2 time state qualifier. For USA swim (club swim) he has attended speedo sectionals 2 years running. Outside of swim he is a pole vaulter and made it to regionals last year coming in 5th place with a broken wrist! Cameron is a hard working student athlete and he love swimming he trains every day on his own time and needs to one to push him.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

Presented by

Gonzalez

LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Riley Gonzalez is my LNJ Best Preps female swim nominee because of her commitment to athletic and academic excellence. Riley is my female swim captain and a regional swim finalist. Riley has always used her upbeat personality to motivate her teammates and mentor to the up and coming student athletes. As an IB student with excellent grades, Riley has also managed to find the time to give back to the community by volunteering with multiple organizations.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

Presented by

EASTMAN CREDIT UNION AWARD FOR CHEERLEADING

Sophie Socia CARTHAGE HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Sophie has cheered at the High School for the past four years. She served as JV and Varsity Captain. She has qualified for All American all four years of High School, has been on the UIL Spirit State team all four years and has demonstrated leadership through out her time at Carthage High School. Sophie is looked up to by her team and they look to her for guidance. She is also a member of National Honor Society and a competitive cheerleader.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

Presented by

M. ROBERTS DIGITAL AWARD FOR BASS FISHING Hunter Oney HALLSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL

Contributed Photo

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

Hunter has been a part of the Bobcat Anglers fishing team for 6 years. His team has been named Anglers of the Year 2 consecutive years. Hunter has been awarded several scholarships with the fishing organization over the years, He has also participated in the KYKX Big Bass tournament and a part of the High School division team. I have had the opportunity to have Hunter in my Culinary Arts classes and he has been enrolled in the Culinary program for several years. Hunter shows leadership and is willing to help out when needed during school and after school hours.

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Kylee has been a part of my program for 6 years. She has served in a leadership position for 3 years. She is a good example of what a Strutter should be leading her team not only by example but goes above and beyond to help her team. Kylee is smart, dedicated, hard working, goal oriented, and genuinely well rounded.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

Presented by

LONGVIEW NEWS-JOURNAL AWARD FOR STUDENT ATHLETIC TRAINER Hailey Smith

SPRING HILL HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Hailey is kind, caring, smart, hard-working and dependable. Her coaches love her and she is a joy to be around. Working as a student athletic trainer can be a thankless job at times, but she is always willing to volunteer and even picks up extra shifts if needed. She sets a great example for our Sports Medicine program and exhibits the caring and selfless attitude that will make her successful in anything she chooses to do.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

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M. ROBERTS MEDIA COACH OF THE YEAR AWARD Alan Metzel

GILMER HIGH SCHOOL

ABOUT COACH METZEL

As a longtime assistant coach, Metzel helped turn Gilmer into one of the state's top football programs. Since taking over as head football coach for the Buckeyes four years ago, Gilmer has continued to win at a phenomenal rate.

The 2023 Buckeyes became the third team in Metzel's four seasons at the helm to play for a state championship, and this time Gilmer brought home the big trophy.

The Buckeyes started the season with two straight losses, and after winning three in a row, the team lost its district opener. Metzel and his veteran staff didn't panic, and neither did the team. After closing out the regular season with four straight wins, Gilmer defeated enter, Sunnyvale, Aubrey, defending champ Carthage and Glen Rose to advance to the Class 4A Division I state title game - knocking off Bellville, 28-26, for the championship and running Metzel's record to 52-8 in four seasons.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

ABOUT COACH KING

King has compiled a 221-47 record (111-9 in district play) along with 16 district championships and one state title (2018) during his tenure as head football coach at Longview, but as the school district's athletic director he has made sure all Lobo athletes have a chance to be successful.

The numbers don't lie. While the Lobo football team compiled another season of double-digit wins (11-2 overall, 7-0 in district) and made a three-deep run in the playoffs, the volleyball team carved out 22 wins and earned a playoff victory during a successful fall.

When basketball season rolled around, the girls won 24 games and earned a couple of playoff wins, and the boys team won 32 times and advanced to the regional tournament for the first time since 1992.

Girls golf is headed to the regional tournament, and the boys and girls soccer teams were unbeaten in district play on the way to championships this spring while several track and field athletes qualified for area competition after standout performances at the district

mee.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Jada exemplifies what a student-athlete and teammate should be. She uplifts her teammates to do their best, but also can keep them in line as a senior veteran. She sets an example for work ethic and competitiveness, always working to beat whoever stands in her way. She is currently in soccer, cheer, and track simultaneously, juggling a busy schedule and doing it well. She just broke her own personal record in shotput by two feet from one meet to the next with minimal practice because of her passion and coachability. She's in college and honors classes, and doesn't let her hearing disability keep her from succeeding in the classroom as well. When you think of top athletes, amazing attitude, character, and determination, Jada is right at the top of the list. To say I'm proud of her as an athlete, student, and all around great person is an understatement.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

JUCYS TACO AWARD FOR GOING THE EXTRA MILE

Alaila Allen MARSHALL HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Alaila exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated student athlete both on and off the court. Alaila is a multi-sport athlete, including cross country, track and field, volleyball, and powerlifting. On the court or field, she is determined, disciplined, dedicated, and hard-working. She is coachable, encouraging, dependable, a team player, and has outstanding character. She leads by example and always goes the extra mile. Alaila is a natural leader, and her leadership is evident on the team, during competition, and during every practice. Her presence, attitude, and energy is evident and has influenced her teammates to step up to the plate to have that same mentality and work ethic. I am grateful to have her on our team as a leader and role model for other athletes in our program over the past four years. Not only is she driven as an athlete, she is a dedicated student first and foremost. Alaila is an all-around student athlete and is well-deserving of this nomination.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

KILGORE COLLEGE

AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT ACADEMICS Gavin Sipes

WHITE OAK HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

Gavin is one of the most dependable, hard working young men that I have ever had the pleasure to coach. He was voted by his football teammates as one of our Core Value Captains. Gavin personifies what it truly means to be a leader on the field, court, in the classroom and in the community. He is currently the Valedictorian of his class as well. While injured for the first half of the season, Gavin never missed a day of practice and was always coaching his teammates while working his way back to health. His teammates look up to him and see him as a consistent voice of reason regardless of situations. He also managed to break the school record for most receptions in a single game this year.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

Capture Your Best Stuff

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Gracey decided to do powerlifting for the first time this season. Gracey has taken on the role of team cheerleader/encourager. As we know, the powerlifting uniforms aren't the most flattering on anybody and during ever meet she has told every girl how good they look in them and to go dominate with each lift they do. She is at the sides of platforms during her other teammates lifts yelling(in an encouraging way) that they can complete the lift. Gracey always has a smile on her face no matter what is going on and in my opinion a smile is contagious and can lift a team up tremendously.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

EAST TEXAS PROFESSIONAL CREDIT UNION

AWARD FOR COMMUNITY EXCELLENCE

Allison Robinson

SPRING HILL HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Allison's commitment to excellence is rare and unmatched by nearly all of her of peers. She strives to excel both on the court and in the classroom with a relentless work ethic and a strong sense of responsibility. She puts in countless hours studying to achieve at such a high academic level, while still finding time to train and compete as the top-ranked girl on our team, and finding time to volunteer in the community. She weathered a difficult situation this fall when a higher-ranked teammate was removed from the squad. This required her to step up and play a higher rank on the team facing more difficult opponents week in and week out. She not only filled the role but did so well with a winning record for the season. She to me is what comes to mind when I think of a "Best Preps" athlete.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

SIG/RAMEY INSURANCE INSPIRATION AWARD

Carol Anguiano

SABINE HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Carol has played on the Sabine varsity soccer team for four years. Not only is she an outstanding athlete, she is an amazing person. As goalie Carol has saved over 140 goals in one season, which is almost unheard of at the high school level. Carol is a captain of our team. Carol has shown dedication, leadership and friendship to her peers. Her team looks up to her and they are not afraid to come to Carol for help! Carol is No. 2 in her graduating class. What makes Carol standout even more is what she has recently overcome. Carol lost her mom at the beginning of this school year. Her mom was at every game supporting her and her sister Madison. Even with this loss, Carol has continued to excel in school, be a friend to her peers, but most of all she has been a shoulder to lean on for her sister Madison who is also on the varsity soccer team.

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

CHRISTUS ORTHOPEDICS AND SPORTS MEDICINE INSTITUTE MALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR AWARD

Taylor

Tatum

LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

I could not be more proud to nominate senior student-athlete Taylor Tatum for the 2023 ET Varsity Best Preps Award. Taylor embodies everything we want in a Lobo student-athlete. He excels in the classroom with his impressive 3.52 GPA and ranks in the top 25% of his class, dominates in different fields of competition as a gifted multi-sport athlete, and selflessly gives back to the community through volunteering at events like the Kicks for Kids Wrapping Party, Lobo Special Olympics, the Broderick Washington Football Camp, City of Longview Parks & Recreation Football Clinic, and Lobo Football Youth Camp. With his tireless work ethic, innate leadership, and humility, Taylor makes his teammates better on and off the field and is a role model to younger students. His character and integrity are unmatched, making Taylor the perfect selection for Best Preps recognition for going above and beyond in all aspects of the student-athlete experience.

Running circles around the competition

Photo by Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal

Running circles around the competition

WHAT HER COACH SAID

I am happy and honored to recommend Ewoma Ugbini for this award. I have known Ewoma for 6 years and it has been my pleasure to serve as her Track and Field coach. During this time, I watched Ewoma grow into an outstanding young lady who excels in both her academic and athletic pursuits. As Ewoma coach, I witnessed her work ethic and diligence to excel in academics and athletics daily. Academically, she ranks in the top 10% of her class and wants to go into the medical field in the future . All of this while being in multiple activities and she is always the first to arrive and the last to leave. Her diligence in her studies and to her teammates will make her a great addition to your award. Ewoma academic accomplishments are rivaled only by her personal strengths. Her compassion and charisma are beyond her years and she is well-loved by her peers, as well as all those who had the pleasure of coaching her. Ewoma is a returning regional qualifier in triple jump and high jump.

Cale Brown Class of 2024

We areso proud of you! Love,Mom

We are so proud. eare Love,Mom and Love, Moma Dad Congratulations ngratulatio Boone!

2024 Best Preps Athlete PrepsAthlete WestRusk High School West Rusk Football

Love om and Dad

2024 Best Preps Athlete Sabine High School Volleyball

2024 Best Preps Athlete Trinity School ofTexas of Texas Tennis

Addison Hatchett

Addison we are thrilled you have been nominated for this award based on your character on and off the field. Your heart and intentions are always pure. You’re steadfast in your dedication to your sports, your teammates, your school work, your friends and your relationship with the Lord. We love you and are always proud of the young woman you are becoming.

Love Mom & Dad

2024 Best Preps Athlete Hallsville High School Cross country

We areso proud of you! Love, Dad, Mom

,

SarahJane Palmer

Class of 2024

We areso proud of oproud howhardyouhave ou have worked& can’t wait worked &c to see what Godhas Go as in store foryou!orefor you!

Cohle Sherman Class of 2024

2024 Best Preps Athlete New Diana High School NewDiana Football

Taylor Dixon Class of 2024

Cade and Jordan Jo

2024 Best Preps Athlete Car thage High School HighSchool Soccer

2024 Best Preps Athlete estPreps Marshall High School MarshallHigh Volleyball

Congratulations

Faith Ann,

We love you and are very proud of your accomplishments.

Love, Mom & Dad

Matthew 6:33

2024 Best Preps Athlete Spring Hill High School Golf

Faith Ann Chinn Class of 2024

We areso proud of you!

Love Mom, Dad, Marshall and Nick

2024 Best Preps Athlete for Athletefor Spring Hill High School/ HighSchool/ Cross Country Count

Congratulations Addison! Congratulatio

We are so proud ofyou! You aresoproud of you! Yo continue to amaze with all continuetoa al you do bothin the class youdo both in and on the field! andonthe

LoveLove

Mom, Dad,Harlen, Ashley, Dad, Harlen, Vivian, Emma, Lolly & Pop &Pop

2024 Best Preps Athlete White Oak High School WhiteOak Schoo Softball

SWe are all so proud area of you!! yo

2024 Best Preps Athlete BestPreps Sabine High School abine Track& Field ac

Kora Ottun

Class of 2025

Congratulations! Your hard work and determination yield achievements. Keep the momentum and enjoy the journey into your bright future. We are so proud of you!

Love, Dad, Mom, and Nia

2024 Best Preps Athlete Longview High School Powerlifting

Sydney Singh Class of 2024

Congratulations Congratulatio Sydney!

We aresoopproud roud of you! We love you!

2024 Best Preps Athlete PrepsAthlete Longview High School HighSchool Tennis

Riley Stevenson Classof2024

Congratulations Riley!Weare so Riley! We are proud of you!

We love you D yo Momand Jac Mom and

2024 Best Preps Athlete Athlet New Diana High Schoo NewDiana HighScho Soccer ad, ob. l

Seth Nixon Class of 202

We know the Lord hasbig plans foryou.

We aresoproud of you and love youverymuch!

Mom, Dad,Blaine, Nana, Uncle Blake, Aunt Kailee, Ella, and Lainey

2024Best Preps Athlete Car thage High School Soccer

Addison Milligan Class of 2025

Congratulations in recognition of your exceptional achievements and receiving anominationfor the ETVarsity omination forthe ET Varsity Best Preps athletic athletica

Your unwaveringd unwavering dedic and fierce compet fiercecompetiti will undoubtedly pr in allfuture endeav all futureendeavo couldn’t be more p couldn’tbemorep of your commitmen commitment to excellence both excellenceboth athletically and academically! academically We love you!

2024 Best Preps At Athlet

White Oak High Sc WhiteOak HighSch

Track& Field ac

Kylee Longhofer Class of 2024

Congratulations Kylee! We are so proud esoproud of you! yo

Love, Momand Dad Mom and

2024 Best Preps Athlete Sabine High School DrillTeam Dril eam Jack Rectenwald

Congratulations,Jack! Congratulations ack! We areso proud of op ud your hardwork. ork. Go Bobcats! Love, Mom, Dad and Sarah Sar

2024 Best Preps Athlete Hallsville High School Tennis

Noah Fritsche Class of 2024

Congratulations on all Congratulatio your accomplishments! We areso proud of you! op

Addison Clinkscales Class of 2024

Congrats Addison! We are so proud aresoproud of all ofyouraccomplishments-keep of your accomplishments-keep shining bright sweet girl! shiningbright

,

“IT’S GOING TO BE A JOURNEY. IT’S NOT A SPRINT TO GET IN SHAPE.”

- KERRI WALSH JENNINGS

Mom Dad & Abigail Mo

2024 Best Preps Athlete White Oak High School WhiteOak Volleyball

2024 Best Preps Athlete White Oak High School WhiteOak Golf Go

“CHAMPIONS KEEP PLAYING UNTIL THEY GET IT RIGHT.”

Alaila Allen MARSHALL HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY & GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

Peyton Abernathy NEW DIANA HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL

Carol Anguiano SABINE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS SOCCER

Jose Aranda PINE TREE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS TENNIS NOT

Anna Grace Bagley CARTHAGE HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL

Hadassah Balcorta GLADEWATER HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL

Barnabas

Baliraine HALLSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS BASKETBALL

Ryan Baker TATUM HIGH SCHOOL BOYS GOLF

Aundrea

Hunter

Israel

Jennifer

NOT PICTURED

Kynlee

Victor

Gage

NOT PICTURED

Jayson Clark

Addison

MichaeL

Charlie Barber CARTHAGE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS BASKETBALL

Lexi Barr BECKVILLE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS BASKETBALL & GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

Samson Black SABINE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS TRACK & FIELD

Blaire Bodenheimer SPRING HILL HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

Rome Bowman TRINITY SCHOOL OF TEXAS BOYS BASKETBALL NOT PICTURED

Bradley TATUM HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS BASKETBALL

Branson HALLSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS POWERLIFTING

Tyranny Bridges TATUM HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS POWERLIFTING

Bright WHITE OAK HIGH SCHOOL CHEERLEADING

Broomall HALLSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS CROSS COUNTRY

Cantellano TATUM HIGH SCHOOL BOYS CROSS COUNTRY

MARSHALL HIGH SCHOOL BOYS POWERLIFTING

Steven Calico SABINE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS POWERLIFTING

Emerson Brown SPRING HILL HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

Cale Brown SABINE HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL

Gloria Cedillo KILGORE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS SOCCER

Cerda GLADEWATER HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

Chen PINE TREE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS TENNIS

Clinkscales WHITE OAK HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL

Coggins SPRING HILL HIGH SCHOOL BOYS TENNIS

Kendall Fant CARTHAGE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

Maggie Downing TRINITY SCHOOL OF TEXAS VOLLEYBALL

Jaxxon Cook GLADEWATER HIGH SCHOOL BOYS CROSS COUNTRY

HAILEY GARNER HALLSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS POWERLIFTING

Clayton Courington TRINITY SCHOOL OF TEXAS BOYS TRACK & FIELD

Ramsey Dancer SABINE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS TENNIS NOT PICTURED

Hayes Daugbjerg PINE TREE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS GOLF Dillon Davenport CARTHAGE HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL NOT PICTURED

Starrmia Dixon NEW DIANA HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

Taylor Dixon CARTHAGE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS SOCCER

Eli Emery MARSHALL HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL NOT PICTURED

Claire Fielder SPRING HILL HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS BASKETBALL

Lauren Fisher LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS GOLF

Sarah Cate Freeman TRINITY SCHOOL OF TEXAS GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

Noah Fritsche WHITE OAK HIGH SCHOOL BOYS GOLF NOT PICTURED

Giani Garza TATUM HIGH SCHOOL BOYS SOCCER

Abigail Glaser ORE CITY HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS TENNIS

Kaleb Glenn WHITE OAK HIGH SCHOOL BOYS TENNIS NOT PICTURED

Carson Gonzalez TATUM HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL NOT PICTURED

Riley Gonzalez LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL SWIMMING

Julius Hawkins SPRING HILL HIGH SCHOOL BOYS POWERLIFTING NOT PICTURED

Bethany

Grandgeorge BECKVILLE HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL NOT PICTURED

Bridjette Guijosa TATUM HIGH SCHOOL DRILL TEAM

Alexis Guzman HALLSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS TENNIS NOT PICTURED

Blanton Hale HALLSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

Caden Hardison LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL BOYS TRACK & FIELD

Addison Hatchett HALLSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

Briley Hopkins HALLSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS GOLF

Peyton Hunter GLADEWATER HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

Ayva Ivy TRINITY SCHOOL OF TEXAS GIRLS TENNIS

Alexis Kemp GILMER HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL

Logan Langewisch WHITE OAK HIGH SCHOOL BOYS CROSS COUNTRY

Beatrix Jagers TRINITY SCHOOL OF TEXAS CHEERLEADING

Morgan Jones HALLSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL CHEERLEADING

Parker Kelsey LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL BOYS SOCCER

Austin Kerns NEW DIANA HIGH SCHOOL BOYS BASKETBALL

Landry Knowles TRINITY SCHOOL OF TEXAS GIRLS GOLF NOT PICTURED

Luke LaBouve MARSHALL HIGH SCHOOL BOYS GOLF

Luke Lawrence CARTHAGE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS GOLF

Will Lenhart LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL BOYS GOLF

Carson McCarthy WEST RUSK HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL

T'Asia McGee LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS BASKETBALL

Jeremiah McCowan MARSHALL HIGH SCHOOL BOYS TRACK & FIELD

Emma Logan SABINE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

natalia Mata WEST RUSK HIHG SCHOOL GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

brady meyer SPRING HILL HIGH SCHOOL BOYS TRACK & FIELD

Addison Milligan WHITE OAK HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

Camryn Milam TATUM HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL

Carli Manasse SPRING HILL HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL

Chris Martinez KILGORE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS CROSS COUNTRY NOT PICTURED

Maci McNew KILGORE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

Lily Luna TATUM HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS SOCCER & GIRLS TENNIS

Mason Lundy LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL BOYS POWERLIFTING

Hannah Marcott TATUM HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS GOLF

Xander Mason WEST RUSK HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

Marlee Mauldin GILMER HIGH SCHOOL CHEERLEADING

Madison McAfee BECKVILLE HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL

Boone McHaney TRINITY SCHOOL OF TEXAS BOYS TENNIS

Dean McMillen PINE TREE HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL

Jaydan McPherson SABINE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS BASKETBALL & BASEBALLE

Jadasia Mims LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL

Addison Minshew LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL CHEERLEADING

Alec Molloy CARTHAGE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS TENNIS

Xavior Moore TATUM HIGH SCHOOL BOYS POWERLIFTING

Akeira Oden TATUM HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

Sarah Jane Palmer MARSHALL HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL & GIRLS SOCCER

Allauryn Morgan PINE TREE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS POWERLIFTING

Cole Nations CARTHAGE HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

Spencer Murphy GILMER HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

Braydon Nelson KILGORE HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

Seth Nixon CARTHAGE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS SOCCER

Kora Ottun LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS POWERLIFTING

Jada Owens LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

Joe Pepper TATUM HIGH SCHOOL BOYS TENNIS

Grace Pratt WHITE OAK HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS TENNIS

Kyler Priest WHITE OAK HIGH SCHOOL BOYS TRACK & FIELD

Jack Rectenwald HALLSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS TENNIS

Kason Reed WEST RUSK HIGH SCHOOL BOYS TRACK & FIELD NOT PICTURED

Ella Roberts SABINE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS BASKETBALL & CHEERLEADING

Nate Roberts LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL BOYS TENNIS

Rylee Russell PINE TREE HIGH SCHOOL CHEERLEADING

Lakelyn Sirmons TATUM HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC TRAINER NOT PICTURED

Modesto Serrato MARSHALL HIGH SCHOOL BOYS SOCCER NOT PICTURED

Ally Tatum WHITE OAK HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

Allison Robinson SPRING HILL HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS TENNIS

David Rodriguez PINE TREE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS SOCCER

Keelie Roper SABINE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS TENNIS

Khloe Saxon SPRING HILL HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL

Kamdyn Scott TATUM HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL

Cohle Sherman NEW DIANA HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

Cade Silvertooth SABINE HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

Sydney Singh LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS TENNIS

Gavin Sipes WHITE OAK HIGH SCHOOL BOYS BASKETBALL & FOOTBALL

Graycen Sipes WHITE OAK HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS BASKETBALL

MaKayla Smith KILGORE HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL NOT PICTURED

Makenna Sprouse GILMER HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

Gracey Struwe BECKVILLE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS POWERLIFTING

Kaleb Tate HENDERSON HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL NOT PICTURED

Abigail Shafer NEW DIANA HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS BASKETBALL

Taylor Tatum LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

“OVERPOWER. OVERTAKE. OVERCOME.” - SERENA WILLIAMS

Morgan Teague TRINITY SCHOOL OF TEXAS GIRLS BASKETBALL

Jackson Thorp WHITE OAK HIGH SCHOOL BOYS POWERLIFTING

Carson Tidwell SPRING HILL HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL & BASEBALL

Ella Wolfe CARTHAGE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS TENNIS NOT PICTURED

Dustin Yelverton SPRING HILL HIGH SCHOOL BOYS BASKETBALL

Cole Watson TATUM HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL NOT PICTURED

Fatima Traore LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL

Karsyn Watson SABINE HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL

Nathan Williams HALLSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS GOLF

Lono Wacasey LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL SWIMMING

Andrew Wood KILGORE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS TENNIS NOT PICTURED

Ronald Woods LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL

Tate Truman KILGORE HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL

Ewoma Ugbini PINE TREE HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL & GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

Lacey Wilson GILMER HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL

Kenny Villearreal MARSHALL HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL NOT PICTURED

Davis Toliver WHITE OAK HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL NOT PICTURED

THE behind

Photos by Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph

THE behind Scenes

Your winning game plan

It starts with a playbook based in our deep experience in spine and orthopedic care. We approach every patient’s pain as an individual challenge and develop custom health solutions for successful outcomes, on and off the field.

Learn how our expert network of specialists keep you playing and winning the most important contests in life.

• Back and Neck Pain

• Joint Pain