Lions well represented on all-district teams
The Lion football team dominated the District 7-2A selection announced this week, including receiving the majority of the superlative honors.
Senior Cutter Edgar was named the district’s MVP, while senior Cameron Dacus was picked as the Offensive MVP and senior Ryan Hill was the Defensive MVP.
“I thought that we were really well represented, especially with the special awards,” head coach Denney Faith said. “You always wish there were a few more kids recognized, but the guys did very well and they are all very deserving.”
The Lions finished the season last week with a semifinal loss to Gruver. Albany won the district championships with a perfect 5-0 mark, advancing five rounds in the playoffs to end the season with a 9-6 record.
Other special award winners included junior Ben West as the Offensive Newcomer of the Year and senior Payne Hebel selected as the Offensive Lineman of the Year.
The Albany coaching staff was tapped as the Coaching Staff of the Year.
Receiving offensive first team honors were senior Ryan Hill, tight end; junior Blaine Kayga, wide receiver; linemen Tyler Beard and Coby Knight, both juniors, and senior Kade Everitt as utility player.
Hill was also named the first team kicker.
On the defensive side, linemen Tyler Beard was named as a defensive tackle and Coby Knight as defensive end.
In the backfield, senior Payne Hebel was picked as inside linebacker, along with senior Cameron Dacus and junior Blaine Kayga, both at cornerback.
The Lions also received five spots on the second team, including junior Dillon Hindman at offensive wide receiver and junior Gerardo Rodriguez on the offensive line.
The second team defense included junior Gregori Mikeska as defensive tackle, junior Dillon Hindman at safety, and junior Ben West at cornerback.
Junior Kasey Cauble received honorable mention as a defensive lineman.
Also named this week were academic all-district players, including Blaine Kayga, Brooks Neece, Jackson Chapman, and Everett McWhorter.
