2016 Combined

WEEK .OF. _ _\ _/ !J_{_f_f _\__f.l.__.__

Bill Wagnon

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Austin Wednesday, February 03, 2016 2:16 PM Bill Wagnon Kemper County Signees

Bill,

Here is the story we have in this week's Messenger. - Austin

By Ryan Satcher Kemper County Messenger

Kemper County's recent success on the gridiron continued to carry players to the next level as the Wildcats had five players from last year's 11-3 squad sign to play college football. Elijawhan Cole, Otis Cross, Kendrick Collins and Kedrick Collins each signed to play at East Central Community College next year and Dondre Andrews inked with Mississippi Delta Community College. "I've always said players moving to the next level should really be the measuring stick for a program," said Kemper County coach Chris Jones. "It's a great opportunity for guys to use the game to get a college degree. I'm proud of them." The group makes 15 players that have moved on to play on the next level since Jones took over three years ago. According to Jones, this group is a special one. "They have meant the world the this program," said Jones. "They were sophomores when I came in and the first group I kind of got to work with. They were all starters since 10th grade and helped turn us around." According to Jones, seeing so many guys sign to play college football helps motivate his younger guys as well. "It's motivation for them," said Jones. "They get to see college scouts coming in and recruiting these guys and they realize they can have the same shot ifthey work hard. It's always good when guys have positive stuff going on for the younger guys to learn from." Wide receiver Cross battled through early season injuries and got hot late in the year to finish with 48 catches for 951 yards and 11 touchdowns. Andrews also had a big year at wideout with 39 catches for 66 yards and a 17.1 average per reception. Kendrick Collins played offensive line and will work at guard for the Warriors next year. Collins helped anchor the Wildcat line and helped open holes for Cole, who finished with 955 yards on 126 carries and scored 10 rushing touchdowns. Cole will probably make a shift to the defensive side of the ball for East Central and will get a look at safety with the squad. Kedrick Collins help lead a strong Kemper County secondary at cornerback and will play defensive back for the Warriors next season. ------~-~--· ···-·'I-·,. WINSTON COUNTY JOURN~L --- MERIDIAN STAR CLARION-LEDGER -------- \\Ll'\Wtf count\\ nt)\tngcr