Local Talent To Represent North In Annual North-South All-Star Football Game
MADISON- Squads for the 2021 AHSAA North-South All-Star Football Game have been announced and five players and one coach representing two of the four local schools were chosen to play for the North squad in the 63rd renewal of the game scheduled for Friday, Dec. 17 at Mobile’s Hancock Whitney Stadium.
The game will feature two 37-member teams comprised of graduating seniors.
From Bob Jones, head coach Kelvis White was chosen to be among the coaching staff led by Richie Busby of Helena High. The coaching staff will also include former James Clemens head coach Wade Waldrop who took over a similar position at Florence High in 2021.
Players from Bob Jones selected include D.J. Davenport (5-11, 175) at defensive back, Cedric Jackson (6-3, 315) at defensive line and offensive lineman Collin Jones (6-3, 299). Madison Academy had two players chosen for the contest. They include offensive lineman Kaden Young (6-5, 300) along with Will Stokes (5-9, 160) at running back.
“I’m truly blessed to be chosen for the game, but I feel as though I’ve worked hard and deserve this as I am very confident and know I’m among the best in the state,” said Young, who has had numerous Div. I offers for college scholarships.
Meanwhile, Stokes, who just celebrated his 18th birthday, is also looking at schools for possible scholarships as the speedster is also running track for the Class 4A Mustangs. He said, “This is a great opportunity for me to showcase my football skills among the best competition in Alabama. I feel I have a chance to prove myself as I feel I’m underrated and recruited. In the All-Star Game, I have a chance to show my skills in front of a large audience.”
Both Stokes and Young are leading the Mustangs towards next week’s playoffs as the No. 1 ranked squad is 8-1 overall and 7-0 in Region 7 play heading to the regular season finale and non-region game this Friday versus Class 5A Russellville (8-1). On the 2021 campaign, Madison Academy has racked up 40 points per game while giving up just 12 points per opponent.
Stokes has been responsible for 27 touchdowns on the season with 25 coming by way of rushing, two by receptions and one score on a return.
Meanwhile, Bob Jones is also headed towards the post-season playoffs in Class 7A with a bout against eighth-ranked Hewett-Trussville in round one. The Patriots are 5-4, 5-2 and clinched the Region 4 runner-up position. The Pats have put 35 points on the scoreboard at each game while allowing opponents to roll up close to 30 at each contest.
Young is a four-time All-Region selection and a two-time All-State player for Madison Academy. He said when head coach Bob Godsey, who is in his third season as head of the Mustangs, came on the scene the culture changed to be more positive. “We play for each other within those white lines,” added Young, who has been nicknamed “Big Daddy” and who can play all five positions on the line. “I feel as though I can move well, I’m very aggressive and I finish blocks as leader of the O-line.”
“He has worked hard to achieve this honor,” said Godsey of Young. “He is physical and lives to compete. His best football is still ahead of him.”
As for Stokes, the youngest of six children, Godsey sees him as an all-round player with many skills. He added, “He has put in the work to have the season he is having as he’s quick, strong and has great vision. He is a very good player and even better person.”
“I let my game speak for me as I try and lead by example,” said Stokes.
