Ragland brings home Lineman of the Year Award
BY LINDSAY VAUGHT
Bob Jones linebacker Reggie Ragland continues to collect postseason awards. In addition to being named to the All-State football team, he was awarded the 6A Lineman of the Year in Montgomery at the annual Player of the Year/ Mr. Football Banquet held Wednesday, Jan. 18 at the Alabama Activity Center.
Ragland
Bob Jones head football coach Kevin Rose and Bob Jones Athletic Director John Wilson were in attendance along with Ragland and his parents. Ragland came in sixth in voting for Mr. Football which was won by TJ Yeldon, a running back from Daphne.
The three nominees for the 6A Lineman of the Year Award were Ryan Anderson, a defensive lineman from Daphne and Austin Golson, an offensive lineman from 6A state champion Prattville.
The award is chosen by the Alabama Sports Writers Association.
In a prepared statement, Wilson said that just making the list is quite an accomplishment. He also said that Ragland has been a school leader on and off the field of play and he has had a lasting effect on all Bob Jones athletic programs.
“Reggie Ragland’s selection to be considered as Lineman of the Year in Class 6A and Mr. Football in the entire state of Alabama is representative of not only his talent, but, his character and leadership qualities as well,” Wilson said. “Not only this year, but, for four years, Reggie has exemplified how his leadership and performance can impact our Basketball as well as Football program. As a four-year starter in both sports at Bob Jones High School, Reggie has exhibited the leadership qualities and commitment to excellence, which have molded championship caliber programs.
Outside the competitive venues, Reggie has proven himself to be a leader within the school community. Reggie’s nomination for Mr. Football and for Lineman of the Year in the largest classification in the state of Alabama is a result of his hard work, perseverance, and commitment to excellence, not only this year, but for the past four years.”
Ragland said it means a lot of hard work all throughout his career to become one of the best football players in the state and if it happens, then he’ll know he has come a long way.
“It will feel good for the school since it would be the first for Bob Jones,” he said. “It would be a big deal for the school. Something I can tell my kids about.”
Ragland has been committed to Alabama for over a year and will sign his scholarship papers on Feb. 1. Yeldon and Ryan Anderson are also Alabama commitments.
Ragland’s brother Chris White was named Mr. Basketball in the state of Alabama in 2001 while playing for Grissom High.
