Lowndes students participate in AISA All-Star Game
The team representing the West defeated the team representing the East during the AISA All-Star football game at Cramton Bowl in Montgomery on Friday, December 3, with a final score of 44-33.
The East struck first during the first quarter following a 38-yard touchdown reception with ten minutes until the second quarter.
Following the punt, the West began their drive on their 35-yard line. After multiple drives downfield, the West managed to put points on the board after a 25-yard touchdown reception.
Halfway through the first quarter, Corey Brown with Valiant Cross Academy secured a 25-yard touchdown for the East. The extra point attempt kick by Pike Liberal Arts Kameron Baker was no good.
With two minutes until the second quarter, the West took the lead after an 18-yard touchdown.
The West furthered their lead halfway through the second quarter after a four-yard touchdown run followed by a two-point conversion.
After gaining possession of the ball, the East made it a one-score game following a nearly 60-yard touchdown reception and successful two-point conversion.
With under three minutes to go until halftime, Ja’Daniel Nettles ran 71-yards to the end zone for the West. Parker Spears with Sparta Academy then completed a two-point conversion to extend the West’s lead.
However, seconds later, Radonda Beauchamp Jr with Glenwood Academy ran 61-yards to score for the West. The West attempted a two-point conversion but was unsuccessful.
At halftime, the West was leading the East 30-27.
In the opening seconds of the third quarter, the West managed to extend their lead further following a 33-yard touchdown reception by Jack Standeffer.
Halfway through the third quarter, Jackson Self with Lowndes Academy ran two yards for the East. The East’s two-point conversion attempt was no good.
By the fourth quarter, the West still led the East 37-33.
With three and a half minutes in the game, the West scored a final time. Afterward, they successfully held off the East offense to secure a 44-33 win.
Four students from Lowndes County Schools participated in this year’s All-Star game.
Lowndes Academy seniors Parker Lee Harris and Jackson Self played for the East while seniors Mackenzie Bailey and Shelby Oglesby cheered for the East.
Rebels Head Coach Shayne Moye also participated as one of four coaches for the East team.
According to Harris, playing on a team with students from other schools was a lot of fun.
“We had the opportunity to get to know each other well on the first day of practice,” Harris said. “Everyone bonded and became friends pretty quickly. There wasn’t any animosity among the team.”
Self said he was very grateful to have the opportunity to score a touchdown for the East.
“I’ve been thinking about the All-Star game for a while now,” Self said. “When I scored that touchdown, I just felt pumped. To go out there and do what I did, knowing it was my last game, was just the best feeling.”
Oglesby said participating in the All-Star game has been her dream.
“I’ve been cheering since second grade,” Oglesby said. “Growing up, I always wanted to be a part of the All-Star game. Being able to participate in this year’s game was very special to me.”
Bailey said cheering with girls from other schools felt natural.
“Many of the cheers the girls from the other schools do are similar to what we do,” Bailey said. “We worked well together and got along. We also made friends with each other.”
All four students agreed it was an honor to participate in the game and represent their school.