By SHERRY DIGMON
Coaches, cheerleaders and players celebrated the 2023 season with an awards program. There were a few surprises this year, including a surprise visit by an honoree’s family.
Cheerleader coach Vernametres McCracklin presented the following awards to her squad:
Most Skilled Cheerleader – Ziyhona Moye
JV Cheerleading Captain – Janea Dillard
Cheerleading Captain – Tiarra Lee
Blue Devil Community Service Awards were presented to the Rev. Michael Wilson and the Rev. Harold Askew for donations to the football program and for speaking encouragement and wisdom to the players. The third Community Service Award was presented to Coach and Interim Principal Layton Knight for his coaching record but also for stepping up to lead the school. As the award was being presented, Knight’s family came from behind the curtain, taking him completely by surprise.
The following player awards were presented by the coaches.
Rookie of the Year – Jalyn James
All In Award – Elijah Thomas Jr.
Defensive Lineman of the Year – Keeshan McKenzie
Linebacker of the Year – Markavion Dixon
Running Back of the Year – James Whatley
Defensive Back of the Year – Marrion Hooks
Wide Receiver of the Year – Lorenzo Arnold Jr.
Offensive Lineman of the Year – Jacarion King
Blue Devil Award – Jamarion Robinson, Keeshan McKenzie, Brandon Dean, Jacarion King, Devin Riley, Gabe Hooks, Exavion Bradley, Elijah Thomas Jr., Jovaughntai Henderson, Marrion Hooks, LH Riley, Luis Garcia
Special Teams Player of the Year – Dallas Owens
Defensive Player of the Year – Michael French
Offensive Players of the Year – Jamarion Robinson
Most Valuable Player of the Year (MVP) – Lorenzo Arnold Jr.