2012 NCCA East-West All-Star Football Game Bios

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GREENSBORO - Here are the bios for the athletes set to play in the 2012 NCCA East-West All-Star Football Game on Wednesday, July 19 at Greensboro Grimley's Jamieson Stadium. Kickoff is slated for 8 p.m.

2012 Football Bios

East Team

Brian Aguilar

Brian…Wallace-Rose Hill High…6-3, 305...offensive lineman…coached by Joey Price…named NCPreps 1A All-State, All-Conference, All-Area, All-County…played on state championship teams his junior and sophomore years….plans to attend Methodist University where he will major in physical education…his older brother is his role model…favorite pro athlete is Troy Polamalu…says “I feel good about playing in the all-star game, and I look forward to playing well and meeting other people.”

Timothy Applewhite

Timothy…Hunt High…6-2, 220…linebacker…coached by Randy Raper…as senior, named Defensive All-Conference, All-Area Defensive Player of the Year, team Most Outstanding Defensive Player…had 91 tackles – 6 for losses, 7 sacks, 3 recovered fumbles, and 5 blocked kicks…as junior, had 86 tackles, 9 sacks, 3 blocked kicks…also competed in track and field…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with Chowan University…undecided about major…wants to pursue a career in the NFL and then become a business owner…Coach Randy Raper is his role model…favorite pro athlete is Clay Matthews…says “I am very excited, privileged, honored, and ready to represent Hunt High School and the East.   I look forward to this football event.  I expect to gain experience playing with and against some of the best high school players in North Carolina and the chance to shine by performing my athletic abilities on the field.”

Dorian Belcher

Dorian…Southern Durham High…6-1, 210…quarterback…coached by Adrian Jones…as senior, named All-Conference…passed for 1,900 yards 24 TDs…rushed for 12 TDs…as junior, named All-Conference…also played basketball…plans to attend North Carolina A & T State University where he will major in business…wants to own his own business as a sports agent…favorite pro athlete is Patrick Withers…says “I am excited to have the opportunity to get back on the field again.  I am hoping to just enjoy the time getting to know my teammates.  I am also hoping the East will win.”

Derrick Black

Derrick…East Duplin High…6-3, 240…offensive line…coached by Battle Holley…as senior, named All-Conference, All-Area, Conference Player of the Year…as junior, named All-Area…also competed in track…plans to attend Louisburg College where he will major in sports education…says “I’m very ecstatic about playing in this game.”

Cody Brown

Cody…Pender High…6-4, 280…offensive lineman…coached by Tony Hudson…as senior, named All-Conference, All-County, All-Area…as junior, named All-County, All-Area…also competed in track and field…Junior Marshal…plans to attend UNC Charlotte where he will major in engineering…his parents are his role models…favorite pro athlete is Maurkice Pouncey…says “ I am very honored that I have the opportunity to play in this game. The experience that I get from this game will help me in college.”

Taylor Buffkin

Taylor…West Brunswick High…6-2, 180…defensive back… coached by Jimmy Fletcher…as senior, named All-Conference…as junior, named All-Conference…also competed in basketball, where he was named All-Conference, and track…plans to attend Brunswick Community College…undecided about his college major or career plans…his Dad is his role model….favorite pro athlete is Kevin Durant…says  he is “very excited” to be playing in the all-star game, and he hopes to gain “wonderful memories.”

Jordan Butler

Jordan…D.H.Conley High…6-0, 193…linebacker…coached by Brian Paschal…as senior, named All-Conference…had 61 tackles, 1 interception…ranked 8^th best tackler in league…as junior, Big Show Combine Jump Man Award recipient…holds 6 school weightlifting records…Senior Academic Excellence Award recipient…Senior Academic and Athletic Excellence Award recipient…plans to attend East Carolina University…wants to pursue a career in nursing…his dad is his role model…favorite college athlete is Tyrann Mathieu…favorite pro athlete is Troy Polamalu…says “I’m very excited to get on the field and show my hard work.  I had not thought about what to gain from participating.  I’m here because I love the game.”

Terry Caldwell

Terry…Hoggard High…6-2, 210…linebacker…coached by Scott Braswell…as senior, named All-Conference, All-Area, All-Area Defensive Player of the Year…had 101 tackles – 13 for a loss, 2 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles…as junior, named All-Conference…also named All-State in wrestling…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with UNC Charlotte where he will major in pre-kinesiology…wants to pursue a career in physical therapy…favorite pro athlete is Patrick Willis… says “I feel honored to have been chosen to play in the all-star game.  I am expecting to gain experience that will assist me with playing college level football.”

Ja’Quil Capel

Ja’Quil…West Montgomery High…5-11, 180…quarterback…coached by Nick Eddin…as senior, named NCPreps 1A All-State, All-Conference, Conference Player of the Year…passed for 783 yards and 12 TDs…rushed for 2,424 yards and 36 TDs…as junior, named All-Conference, Conference Player of the Year…passed for 1,440 yards…rushed for 1,500 yards…as sophomore, passed for 1,028 yards…rushed for 1,149 yards…twice named All-Conference in basketball…named Runner of the Year and twice named All-Conference in track and field where he was the 4x200 meter state champion as a junior and the 200 meter state champion as a senior…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with UNC Charlotte where he will major in accounting…wants to play in the NFL and own his own business…favorite college athlete is Tayvon Mathuew…favorite pro athlete is Randle Cobb…says “I am very excited to play against the best in our state.  I want to gain friends from other schools, and I am expecting to show off my talents against top level players.”

Keith Clark

Keith…D.H. Conley…5-10, 210…linebacker…coached by Brian Paschal…as senior, named All-Conference, All-County, County Offensive Player of the Year, team MVP and captain…offensively, rushed for 1,816 yards…had 27 TDs…as junior, named All-Conference, All-County, County Offensive Player of the Year, team MVP and captain…as sophomore, named All- Conference, team MVP and captain…also played basketball…Line Crew Leader…Sassy Award for Leadership recipient…volunteer fireman…plans to attend P.H. Community College where he will major in horticulture…Coach Conner is his role model…favorite college athlete is Trent Richardson…favorite pro athlete is Mark Ingram…says he is “excited and expects to gain experience in competing with other good athletes.”

Sayoun Flowers

Sayoun…Richmond High…6-0, 243…defensive lineman…coached by Paul Hoggard…as senior, named All-Conference… also competed in track and field…member of Omega Psi Phi fraternity…Derrick Watkins is his role model…favorite college athlete is Justin Jackson…favorite pro athlete is Melvin Ingram…says “I feel honored to play in the all-star game. I expect to meet new people, get a better college opportunity, and learn new techniques to add to my talent.”

Donjoré Gainey

Donjoré…Northside (Jax) High…5-8, 190…running back…coached by Bob Eason…as senior, named All-Conference, All-County, County Player of the Year, MVP…rushed for 1,950 yards and 27 TDs…as junior, named All-Conference…also competed in track and field…AVID graduate…plans to attend UNC Charlotte where he will major in kinesiology…wants to pursue a career in the NFL…his family are his role models…favorite college athlete is Trent Richardson…favorite pro athlete is Michael Turner…says “I feel great having this opportunity.  I am expecting to gain another great game with great coaches and teammates.”

Bladen Gatling

Bladen…Hertford County High…6-3, 320…offensive line…coached by Scott Privott…as senior, named All-Conference, All-Roanoke Offensive Lineman, Lineman of the Year…Scholar Athlete…as junior, named All-Conference, Co-Lineman of the Year…Scholar Athlete…as sophomore, named Scholar Athlete…member of SGA…Beta Club president…Hertford Board of Education “Remarkable Character” recognition…voted “Best All-Around” and “Most Likely to Succeed”…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with Elizabeth City State University where he will major in accounting…wants to own his own accounting firm…Tyler Perry is his role model…favorite college athlete is Antonio Vaughan…favorite pro athlete is James Harrison…says “I feel honored. I will get a head start on college conditioning.”

Marquis Gorham

Marquis…J.H. Rose High…5-10, 185…running back…coached by Todd Lipe…as senior, named AP All-State, All-Conference, All-County, Pitt County Player of the Year…as junior, named All-Conference, All-County, Army Player of the Week, team MVP…Coaches Award recipient…as sophomore, named All-Conference, All-County, NUC DB MVP…member of National Honor Society…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with North Carolina A & T State University where he will major in journalism and mass communications…wants to pursue a career in the media market…his grandfather, Frank Haddock, is his role model…favorite college athlete is De’Anthony Thomas…favorite pro athlete is Reggie Bush…says “It is a great  honor to play in the all-star game. I expect to represent my area well, and I am looking forward to connecting with the other payers on the team.”

Marquise Grizzle

Marquise…Currituck High…5-7, 170…running back…coached by John Wheeler…as senior, rushed for 3, 085 yards and scored 54 TDs…as junior, rushed for 1,085 yards and  scored 22 TDs…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with Murray State University where he will major in physical education…wants to pursue a career as a gym teacher…his older brother is his role model…favorite pro athlete is Ladainian Tomlinson…says “I cant wait to get started! I feel like I’m going to get to play with and against some real talent so I can test my talent!”

Terron Huffman

Terron…Southern Nash High…5-7, 166…defensive back…coached by Brian Foster…as senior, named All-Conference, All-Area, team MVP…rushed for 1,466 yards and 16 TDs…had 7 receptions for 146 yards and 2 TDs… returned 6 kickoffs for 178 yards…as junior, named All-Conference, All-Area…rushed for 1,035 yards and 11 TDs…had 6 receptions for 109 yards and 1 TD…returned 8 kickoffs for 188 yards and 1 TD…as sophomore, rushed for 1,316 yards and 12 TDs…had 4 receptions for 139 yards and 1 TD…returned 16 kickoffs for 283 yards…2^nd all-time rusher in Southern Nash history with 3,840 career yards…also wrestled and was a member of the 2012 state championship 4x200 relay team…member of Monogram Club…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with UNC Pembroke where he will major in criminal justice…wants to pursue a career in law enforcement…Coach Brian Foster and mother Charlotte Riley are his role models…favorite pro athlete is Barry Sanders…says he feels “honored and humbled to be representing my school and family. I hope to gain memories that will last a lifetime.”

Darius Jeffers

Darius…Wallace-Rose Hill High…5-6, 167…defensive back… coached by Joey Price…in addition to football, also competed in track and field…plans to attend Fayetteville State University…undecided about his major and career choice…favorite college athlete is Trent Richardson…favorite pro athlete is Adrian Peterson.

Angelo Keyes, Jr.

Angelo…Kinston High…6-1, 239… linebacker… coached by Nick Anderson…as senior, named All-Conference, Conference Defensive Player of the Year, team Defensive MVP, state championship game Outstanding Defensive Player, Kinston High Athlete of the Year…had 74 sole tackles, 60 assisted tackles…also played basketball where he was named All-Conference and state championship game MVP…member of FCA…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with North Carolina A& T State University where he will major in mechanical engineering…wants to pursue a career playing in the NFL…his sister Jessica Reed is his role  model…favorite college athlete is Sammie Watkins…favorite pro athlete is Patrick Willis…says he is “very excited  and ready to play”  in the all-star game, and he expects to gain “exposure and experience.”

Shawn Knox

Shawn…Apex High…5-9, 193…linebacker…coached by Bob Wolfe…as senior, named All-Conference…plans to attend Fayetteville State University where he will major in psychology…his mom and dad are his role models…favorite college athlete is Monte Ball…favorite pro athlete is Patrick Willis…says “I’m truly honored to play in this year’s all-star game. I’m just looking to play ball and to come out with a win.”

Zachary Lahaie

Zachary…Havelock High…6-0, 165…kicker/punter…coached by Jim Bob Bryant…as senior, named AP All-State, All-Conference, All-Area…had 1,001 receiving yards as a WR...made 96/98 PATs and 4/4 field goals…played on state championship team…also competed in soccer, where he was named All-Conference, All-Area, and All-Region, and in track, where he was 2^nd  in the state in the 110 hurdles…plans to attend UNC Charlotte where he will major in nursing…says “I feel like it is a big honor to represent my high school, community, and self.  I look forward to the experience of playing one last football game with and against the best football players in North Carolina.”

Josh Lockyer

Josh…Panther Creek High…6-2, 240…defensive lineman…coached by Wayne Bragg…as senior, named team MVP…plans to attend East Carolina University where he will major in business…his favorite pro athlete is Tiger Woods…says “I feel very privileged to play in the all-star game and be recognized for my hard work.”

Marquis McMillan

Marquis…Jack Britt High…5-8, 185…linebacker…coached by Richard Bailey…as senior, named All-Region, All-Conference…had 168 tackles… as junior, named All-Conference…had 374 career tackles…favorite college athlete is Robert Lee Griffin III…favorite pro athlete is Ted Gin…says “I would’ve never thought I would be selected to play. To me, it’s a great honor to represent my school.”

Derek Nelson

Derek…Havelock High…6-3, 290…offensive lineman…coached by Jim Bob Bryant…as senior, named All-Conference, All-Area, team captain…played on 3A state championship team…as junior, named All-Conference All-Area, team captain…also competed in wrestling, achieving the rank of # 2 heavyweight in the state…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with Chowan University where he will major in criminology…wants to work as a detective or with the DEA or Homeland Security…his father is his role model…says that playing in the all-star game is a “once in a lifetime opportunity” and is expecting to gain “experience with a higher level of athletics.”

Calvin Pate, Jr.

Calvin…New Bern High…6-3, 225…defensive lineman…coached by Bobby Curlings…as senior, had over 100 tackles, 3 INTs and 2 TD returns…as junior, had over 100 tackles and 12 sacks…also competed in basketball, track and field, and wrestling…plans to attend Louisburg College where he will major in engineering…wants to pursue a career playing in the NFL…his Dad is his role model…favorite pro athlete is Lawrence Taylor…says “I am hoping to be noticed for my skills and love for the game.”

Kenneth Patten, Jr.

K.J….South Central High…6-0, 275…offensive lineman…coached by Tim Carter…as senior, named All-County…had 120 pancake blocks, including 15 in 1 game…as junior, named All-Conference, All-County, Offensive Lineman of the Year…had 150 pancake blocks…also competed in track and field …signed an athletic grant-in-aid with Saint Augustine University where he will major in sports management…wants to pursue a career as a pro football player or coach…his brothers-in-laws are his role models…favorite college athlete is Tavon Austin…favorite pro athlete is Lebron James…says “I feel anxious about playing one more game before college. I want to have fun with new players.”

Chris Phillips

Chris…Fike High…6-0, 285…offensive lineman…coached by Tom Nelson…as senior, named All-Conference, All-Area…as junior, named All-Conference…also competed in basketball, baseball, and track, where he was 7^th in the state in the shot put…member of National Honor Society, FCA…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with Lenoir Rhyne University where he will major in history education…wants to pursue a career as a high school history teacher and football coach…favorite college athlete is Giovani Bernard…favorite pro athlete is Josh Hamilton…says “I feel so honored to play in the game.  I am excited and can’t wait to play.  I look forward to meeting new people , learning more about the game, and going against great competition.”

Rodney Quick

Rodney…Chapel Hill High…5-9, 165…wide receiver…coached by Isaac Marsh…as senior, named All-Conference, HighSchoolOT All-State, team Offensive Player of the Year…WRAL Extra Effort Award recipient…Golden Helmet Award recipient…as junior, named All-Conference, HighSchoolOT All-State…plans to attend Winston-Salem State University…Adam Sanders is his role model…favorite college athlete is LaMichael James…favorite pro athlete is Steve Smith…says “I feel great about playing in the all-star game.  I feel I had to do a lot and put in a lot of hard work to get here.  I expect to learn new material I can use in college.”

Carter Roberts

Carter…New Bern High…6-4, 200…tight end…coached by Bobby Curlings…as senior, named All-Area, All-Conference…was team leader in sacks with 15…as junior, named All-Area, All-Conference…led team in sacks with 13…as sophomore, had 6 sacks…also played basketball…member of Interact, National Honor Society…named Student-Athlete of the Week…plans to attend N.C. State University where he will major in business…his mother is his role model…favorite college athlete is Lorenzo Brown…favorite pro athlete is Julius Peppers…says “I am very excited and honored about playing in this game. I hope to learn many new skills as well as showcase my own personal skills.”

Shaheed Swinson

Shaheed…Kinston High…5-8, 171…running back…coached by Nick Anderson…as senior, named All-Conference…had over 2,500 all-purpose yards and 27 TDs…also named All-Conference in track three years in a row…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with North Carolina Central University where he will major in computer science…his mother is his role model…favorite college athlete is Tavon Austin…favorite pro athlete is Steve Smith…says he hopes to “meet new football friends and showcase my talents versus very skilled players.”

Will Thomas

Will…Topsail High…6-1, 168…defensive back…coached by Bryan Davis…as senior, named All-Conference, team MVP, team Most Consistent Playmaker…as junior, named All-Conference, team Most Outstanding Player…also competed in track and field where he was the 2011 and 2012 2A state high jump champion…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with UNC Charlotte where he will major in accounting…wants to pursue a career as a football player…his mother and father are his role models…favorite college athlete is Sammy Watkins…says “I’m blessed to be selected to play in this game. It is truly an honor. I hope to gain friends from different parts of North Carolina and just be competitive every time I step on that field.”

Kristopher Tyndall

Kristopher…Scotland High…6-1, 300…defensive lineman…coached by Chip Williams…as senior, named NCPreps All-State, All-Conference, All-Region, state championship game MVP…as junior, named All-Conference, team Defensive Line MVP…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with UNC Pembroke where he will major in physical therapy…wants to pursue a career as a physical therapist  on a sports team…his Mom is his role model…favorite college athlete is Jadeveon Clowney…favorite pro athlete is J.J. Watts…says “ I feel accomplished to play in this all-star game. It was one of my goals to play in an all-star game by my senior year, and now that I have the chance to play, it is overwhelming.  I expect to gain friendships with other football players that I can carry on though my life. I also expect to get better from facing better opponents of the offensive line of the ball.”

Gary Williams

Gary…South Brunswick High…5-9, 160…defensive back…coached by Roman Kelley…as senior, named All-Conference, All-County, County Player of the Year…as junior, named All-Conference…also played baseball, where he was the Senior Award recipient, and basketball, where he was  named team co-MVP…member of Decca Club, National Honor Society…NC Scholar…Senior Male Athlete of the Year…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with Catawba College where he will major in accounting…says “I feel like it is great opportunity to meet other athletes and also that it will be a good experience.  I’m looking forward to gaining more knowledge of the game and hopefully learn things from other players.”

West Team

Colt Austin

Colt…C.A.Erwin High…6-3, 240…tight end…coached by Mike Sexton…as senior, named All-Conference, All-WNC…had 27 receptions for 311 yards and 3 TDs…on defense, he had 55 tackles – 5 for losses, 1 INT, 2 forced fumbles, and 2 fumble recoveries…as junior, named All-Conference…also named All-Conference in baseball and All-WNC in basketball…named USMC Distinguished Athlete…Booster Club 100% Award recipient…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with Mars Hill where he will major in sports recreation and management…wants to pursue a career as a coach…his Dad is his role model…favorite college athlete is Tyram Mathieu…favorite pro athlete is Lebron James…says “I’m very excited about playing in the all-star game.  I  hope to learn a lot and improve my game.”

Brandon Banks

Brandon…Southwest Guilford High…6-3, 248…defensive lineman…coached by Scott Schwarzer…as senior, named All-Conference, school Defensive MVP…as junior, named All-Conference, Conference Defensive Player of the Year…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with UNC Charlotte where he will major in mechanical engineering…wants to pursue a career in the aviation or automotive industry…his Mom and Dad are his role models…says “I feel excited to be playing in the all-star game.  I get a chance to play with other players and new coaches.   It is a great honor to be chosen to play in the all-star games.  I will never forget this opportunity.”

Chase Causey

Chase…Randleman High…6-2, 190…wide receiver…coached by Shane Handy…as senior, named All-Conference, All-County…had 41 catches for 967 yards…rushed for 281 yards…accounted for 1,248 total offensive yards and 17 TDs…as junior, had 27 catches for 362 yards and 3 TDs…also competed in basketball, baseball, and track and field…member of Beta Club, DECA…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with Wingate University…his grandmother who has helped open his eyes to so much in life is his role model…favorite pro athlete is Cam Newton…says “I am very blessed to be selected to play in a prestigious game such as this.  Also, I am very eager to gain tremendous knowledge and skill playing with and against some of the other top players in the state.  I would like to thank my family and coaches for all they have done, but most certainly I want to thank God.”

Terrence Clyburn

Terrence…North Mecklenburg High…6-0, 196…wide receiver… coached by Mike Bradley…as senior, named All-Conference, Special Teams Player of the Year, Athlete of the Year…had over 1,500 all-purpose yards and 15 TDs…as junior, named All-Conference, Offensive Player of the Year…had over 900 all-purpose yards and 8 TDs…also competed in track and field…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with UNC Pembroke where he will major in physical education…wants to pursue a career in the NFL or as a personal trainer or as a head coach…Eric Thomas is his role model…favorite college athlete is Tyrann Mathieu…favorite pro athlete is Deion Sanders…says “I feel honored to play in this all-star game.  I’m expecting to just have a great overall experience working with new coaches and players and playing in front of a big crowd.  This should really be fun.”

Greg Dixon

Greg…West Rowan High…6-0, 280…defensive lineman…coached by Scott Young…as senior, named All-County, Defensive Player of the Year…played on two state championship teams…holds record for sacks in the state…his Mom is his role model…favorite college athlete is Anthony Davis…favorite pro athlete is Kevin Durant…says “I feel happy about playing in the all-star game, and I feel like this game will make me a better player playing against the state’s best.  Hopefully a coach will see me and make me an offer.”

Kyle Farlow

Kyle…Randleman High…6-2, 185…quarterback…coached by Shane Handy…as senior, named All-Conference, All-County, County Player of the Year…passed for 2,121 yards and 22 TDs…as  junior, named All-Conference…passed for 1,651 yards and 19 TDs…also named All-Conference 4-times in golf…named Man of the Year…member of DECA…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with Hampden-Sydney College where he will major in business…wants to pursue a career in sports marketing…his grandfather Richard Petty is his role model…favorite college athlete was Colt Brennen…favorite pro athlete is Aaron Rogers…says he is “very grateful and excited to represent Randleman.”

Alex Fox

Alex…Watauga High…5-10, 190…defensive back…coached by Tim Pruitt…as senior, named All-Conference, team MVP and captain…had 112 tackles, 2.5 sacks, 3 INTs, 3 forced fumbles, and 1 TD…as junior, had 25 tackles, 2 INTs and 1TD in only 3 games…as sophomore, had 92 tackles…member of DECA, National Honor Society, Lamp of Knowledge…founder and president of Athletes for Good…plans to attend UNC Wilmington where he will major in chemistry…Abraham Lincoln is his role model…favorite college athlete is P.J. Hairston…favorite pro athlete is Clay Matthews…says “I am honored to be playing in the all-star game. I expect the tough competition in practice and the game to make me a better player.”

Jereme Gamble

Jereme…Mount Tabor High…6-0, 185…defensive back…coached by Laymarr Marshall…as senior, named All-Conference…had 56 tackles – 7 for losses, and 9 pass break-ups and 3 INTs…also competed in indoor and outdoor track.

C.J. Gibbs

C.J….West Iredell High…5-6, 180…wide receiver…coached by Mark Wycker…as senior, named All-Conference,  Conference Special Teams Player of the Year…Warrior Award recipient…had 845 yards receiving and 7 TDs…493 return yards and 1 TD…broke school record for most receptions with 157…as junior, named All-Conference, Conference Special Teams Player of the Year, Old Spice Player of the Year…Impact Player Award recipient…had 800 total receiving yards and 9 TDs…also played basketball and was named Varsity Most Improved…2009-2010 Leadership Award recipient…plans to attend Livingstone College…undecided about college major and career plans…favorite pro athlete is Steve Smith…says “It’s a great opportunity to get to play in one more high school football game  I feel I’ve been overlooked because of my size, so I’m honored to be able to show my abilities regardless of my size.  I expect to show that although most schools look at a person’s size, I’m here to show that SIZE IS NOT A FACTOR. I may have a little frame, but I’m all HEART for the game of FOOTBALL.  I just want to shed some light that just because someone may have a small build, it doesn’t mean we can’t get the job done.”

Tray Grimes

Tray…Ragsdale High…6-0, 240…linebacker…coached by Tommy Norwood…as senior, named All-Conference, Conference Defensive Player of the Year…had 107 tackles, 2 sacks, 3 interceptions, and 3 fumble recoveries…as junior, named All-Conference…had 83 tackles, 3 sacks, and 3 fumble recoveries…as sophomore, had 72 tackles and 2 sacks…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with Winston-Salem State University where he will major in history education….wants to pursue a career as a teacher and coach…his father is his role model…favorite pro athlete is Ray Lewis…says “I am very honored to be selected for this prestigious game. I am looking forward to gaining more experience and exposure.  I also want to gain life-long friends that are here with the same opportunity and honor as I am.”

Blake Hickman

Blake…Page High…6-0, 210…linebacker…coached by Kevin Gillespie…as senior, named NCPrep All-State, All-Conference, 4AA Defensive Player of the Year…played on 4AA state championship team…had 188 tackles – 27 for losses, 5 sacks, 1 INT, 1 fumbled returned for a TD…as junior, named All-Conference, All-State, All-Area…had 145 tackles – 21 for losses, 7 sacks…plans to attend UNC Pembroke where he will major in physical therapy or pre-pharmacy…wants to pursue a career as a physical therapist or pharmacist…his  mother is his role model…favorite pro athlete is Ed Reed…says “I feel honored and excited to be selected in a prestigious game I watched every year growing up.  I’m expecting an exciting experience working with new coaches and great players!”

Chad Hollandsworth

Chad…East Forsyth High…5-11, 185…kicker/punter…coached by Todd Willert…as senior, named All-Conference, All-Northwest Offensive, Special Teams MVP…as junior, named All-Conference, Special Teams MVP, Old Spice Player of the Year…also played soccer…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with Catawba College…undecided about college major and career choice…his grandfather, PawPaw, is his role model…favorite college athlete is Danny O’Brien…favorite pro athlete is Peyton Manning…says “I feel honored to be playing in the all-star game. I am excited to represent my high school and look forward to playing with players from other schools in the state.  I think it will be a great experience and an exciting game.”

Jalen Holt

Jalen…South Stanly High…6-4, 220…linebacker…coached by Luke Little…as senior, named All-Conference, All-County…as junior, named All-Conference…as sophomore, named All-County, All-Conference as quarterback and led 1A in passing yards and touchdowns…plans to attend UNC Charlotte where he will major in criminal justice…wants to pursue a career as a detective…favorite college athlete is Sammy Watkins…favorite pro athlete is Patrick Willis…says he is “really excited to play in the all-star game.  I hope to learn new techniques and skill sets.”

Sha’Quann Johnson

Sha’Quann…Thomasville High…5-10, 175…running back…coached by Allen Brown…as senior, named Conference Offensive Player of the Year, Conference Outstanding Male Athlete of the Year…rushed for over 3,400 yards….scored 49 TDs…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with Hargrave Military Academy where he will major in business…wants to someday own his own business…his mother is his role model…favorite college athlete is LaMichael James…favorite pro athlete is Barry Sanders…says “I am honored to be a part of the all-star games.  Its’ been my dream since I started playing football for Thomasville High.  I’m ready for the challenge and experience.”

Kipton Key

Kipton…Shelby High…5-9, 175…coached by Lance Ware…as senior, Golden Lion Award recipient…as junior, named All-Conference…rushed for over 1,000 yards and 17 TDs…as sophomore, named All-Conference…also received the Golden Lion Award in baseball…member of Young Life, FCA, Student Council, Executive VP…undecided about which  college he will be attending…plans to major in criminal justice… Omar Porter is his role model…favorite college athlete is Tyrann Mathieu…favorite pro athlete is Cam Newton…says “I feel excited about playing in the all-star game, and I plan on gaining experience with higher skilled athletes and try to enhance my knowledge of the game.”

Taylor McCurry

Taylor…Enka High…6-3, 205…quarterback…coached by Manny Matsakis…as senior, named All-Conference, All-WNC…as junior,  named All-Conference…also played basketball where he was named a Blue-White All-Star, MVP and scored over 1,000 career points…member of National Honor Society, Junior Civitans…plans to attend East Carolina University where he will major in health services management…wants to pursue a career as a pharmaceutical consultant or in pharmaceutical sales…his grandpa, Big Daddy, is his role  model…favorite college athlete is James Michael McAdoo…favorite pro athlete is Tim Tebow…says he feels “excited” to be playing in the all-star game. “I hope to gain leadership skills and also new friends.”

Marcus McDowell

Marcus…East Lincoln High…5-8, 180…running back…coached by Mike Byus…as senior, named All-Conference, Conference Player of the Year, team MVP…rushed for 1,852 yards…had 499 receiving yards…scored 38 TDs…as junior, named All-Conference…rushed for 1,321 yards and 14 TDs…rushed for 3,477 career yards…also competed in track and field where he was named All-Conference and won the state championship in the 400…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with Louisburg College where he will major ins sports management…favorite pro athlete is Cam Newton…says that playing in the all-star game “means a lot” and that he expects “to meet new, other athletes.”

Jervasse Moss

Jervasse…Newton-Conover High…5-7 ,174…running back…coached by Nick Bazzle…as senior, named All-Conference…also competed in tennis where he was named All-Conference and won a state tennis championship…plans to attend Carson-Newman where he will major in physical education…his grandfather, Donald Moss, is his role model…says “I am much honored to get this chance to show more than Newton-Conover how well I can play.”

Larry Ogunjobi

Larry…Ragsdale High…6-3 ½, 270…defensive line…coached by Tommy Norwood…as senior, named All-Conference, All-Area, team Most Outstanding Defensive Lineman…had 38 tackles, 13.5 sacks, 1 fumble recovery…as junior, named All-Conference…had 37 tackles, 2 sacks…also named All-Conference in track and field…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with UNC Charlotte where he will major in biology…wants to pursue a medical career…his parents and coaches are his role models…favorite college athlete is Dontari Poe…favorite pro athlete is Nick Farley…says he feels “blessed” to be playing in the all-star game.  “It’s an amazing opportunity to play with and against all the best players in the state.  It’s humbling to know that all your hard work really pays off.”

Mark Petit

Mark…Western Guilford High…6-4, 230…linebacker…coached by Chris Causey…named All-Conference…as junior, named All-Conference…also competed in basketball and track…plans to attend UNC Charlotte where he will major in construction engineering…favorite college athlete is Cam Newton…favorite pro athlete is Michael Jordan…says “I feel honored to be chosen to play in this game. I’m just expecting to have a great time playing the game I love.”

London Richardson

London…Burns High…5-10, 220…offensive line…coached by Matthew Beam…as senior, named Most Outstanding Lineman…on defense, had 68 tackles – 17 for losses, 5 sacks…also competed in track and field…Distinguished Image Award recipient…Distinguished Athlete Award recipient…plans to attend Western Carolina University where he will major in criminal justice…wants to pursue a career in pro football…Will Smith is his role model…favorite college athlete is Trent Richardson…favorite pro athlete is Tom Brady…says “I’m excited and honored to have the opportunity to play in this all-star game.”

Travond Ross

Travond…Burns High…5-11, 220…linebacker…coached by Matt Beam…as senior, named All-Conference, Defensive Player of the Year…had 162 tackles – 21 for losses, 4 sacks, 6 forced fumbles, 5 fumble recoveries, 4 defensive TDs…also named All-Conference in track and field…plans to attend Hargrave Military Academy…plans to major in psychology…favorite pro athlete is Brandon Spikes…says “It’s a great honor to play in the all-star game, and I’m inspired to play, recognizing that one day I can pursue my dream.”

Karson Sherrill

Karson…Lake Norman High…6-3, 280…offensive line…coached by Rob McNeilly…as senior, named All-Region, All-Conference, All-County, Lake Norman Area Dream Team, Charlotte Observer All-Area, team captain…89% blocking efficiency grade…60 pancake blocks…named Athlete of the Week…member of Lake  Norman High Wildcat Power Club…undecided about college choice…his brother Kane Sherrill, who plays for Wofford College, is his favorite college athlete…his father, Scott Sherrill, was an assistant coach in the 2003 NCCA East-West All-Star Game…says “I am honored to have been selected to play in this prestigious and tradition-rich game.  It will be a great way to end my high school football career while representing my proud family name and community.  ‘Thank You’ to all who have supported me, believed in me, and helped me achieve my goals as a football player, and most important, becoming a man.”

Mason Sledge

Mason…Monroe High…6-4, 250…offensive line…coached by Johnny Sowell…as senior, named NCPreps 1A All-State, All-Conference, All-County, Defensive Player of the Year…had 100 tackles and 7 sacks…as junior, named All-Conference, All-County…had 81 tackles and 7 sacks…also played basketball and baseball…plans to attend UNC Charlotte where he will major in athletic training…wants to pursue a career as a football coach…favorite college athlete is Javedon Clowney…favorite pro athlete is Jarred Allen…says “It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to play in the all-star game.  I’m expecting to gain some more aspects to my game from learning from different coaches.”

Avery Sluder

Dylan…Central Davidson…6-2, 320…offensive line…coached by Brad Morton…as senior, named All-Conference, All-County, team captain…as junior, named All-Conference…as sophomore, named All-Conference…also named All-Conference in track and field where he threw the shot put and discus…plans to attend Western Carolina University where he will major in computer science…wants to pursue a career in software development and computer programming…favorite pro athlete is Brad Hoover…says “It is a great honor to play in the all-star game.  It will help prepare me for playing at the next level, and allow me to represent my school and community.”

Adam Smith

Adam…Davie County High…5-11, 165…wide receiver…coached by Doug Illing…as senior, named All-Conference, Conference Player of the Year…as a quarterback, passed for 1,997 yards and 18 TDs…rushed for 371 yards and 11 TDs…as junior, led defense in INTs with 3…Scholar Athlete…plans to attend Guilford College where he will major in sports management…wants to pursue a career as a football coach…favorite college athlete is Taylor Martinez…favorite pro athlete is Robert Griffin III…says “I am humbled and excited to be chosen for the all-star game!  I know I’ll have a great time, and I’ll see really great collegiate level competition.”

Michael Styles

Michael…Mitchell High…6-0, 180…defensive back…coached Russell Barnett…as senior, named All-Conference, Most Valuable Inside Linebacker…had 51 tackles – 10.5 for losses, 2.5 sacks, 1 INT…also served as punter with a 35.8 yard average…as junior, named 1A All-State punter, Special Teams Player of the Year…had 79 tackles – 3 for losses, 7.5 sacks, 1 INT, 2 fumble recoveries…37.7 yard average as punter…also competed in basketball and track…member of Key Club, Outstanding Agriscience Applications…FFA Sentinel Officer…plans to attend Maryland Community College and then Western Carolina University where he will major in forestry….wants to pursue a career in forestry…his father is his role model…favorite pro athlete is Tim Tebow…says “I feel very stoked to be playing in this game.  I expect to gain skills in a position I haven’t played before.  Also, I expect to gain better leadership skills by being around players/ former students that I don’t know.”

Alex Villanueava

Alex…Avery County High…6-3, 192…quarterback…coached by Darrell Brewer…as senior, named NCPreps 1A All-State, All-Conference, Conference Athlete of the Year, Conference Offensive Player of the Year…passed for 2,387 yards and 23 TDs…also served as punter with an average of 45 yards…as junior, passed for 1,761 yards and 18 TDs…as sophomore, passed for 1,865 yards and 18 TDs…also named All-Conference in basketball, where he also played in the Blue-White All-Star Game, and was 3-times named All-State in track and field...NC Scholar Athlete…plans to attend Appalachian State University where he will major in applied technology…wants to pursue a career as a petroleum engineer…his grandfather is his role model…favorite college athlete is Robert Griffin…favorite pro athlete is Drew Brees…says “I feel honored to have been chosen and look forward to bringing back a win for Western North Carolina.  We have strong athletes on this side of the state.”

Jacob Walker

Jake…Newton-Conover High…6-0, 255… offensive line…coached by Nick Bazzle…as senior, named All-Conference, All-Region…had 25 pancake blocks…as junior, named All-Conference…had 18 pancake blocks…also competed in baseball and golf…member of National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society…Beta Club vice president…signed an athletic grant-in-aid with Carson Newman College where he will major in psychology…wants to pursue a career in law enforcement…his father is his role model…favorite college athlete is Robert Griffin…favorite pro athlete is Adrian Peterson…says “I feel honored to be allowed to play in the all-star game, and I feel like it can prepare me for the next level.”

Joshua White

Josh…East Davidson High…6-2, 315…offensive line…Brian Lingerfelt…as senior, named team captain…on defense, had 36 tackles – 5 for losses, 2 forced fumbles, 3 fumble recoveries…as junior on defense, had 40 tackles – 6 for losses, 1 forced fumble, 4 fumble recoveries…also competed in track and field and was named twice named All-Conference in wrestling…signed an athletic grant-in-aid  with UNC Pembroke where he will major in environmental science…wants to pursue a career as a soil scientist…his PawPaw, the best man he has ever known, is his role model…favorite college athlete is Josh Smith…favorite pro athlete is Jeff Saturday…says “I feel honored to be playing in the all-star game; not a lot of people get this opportunity. I am expecting to gain knowledge of the game along with new tactics.”

Charles Wilkes

Charles…Mooresville High…6-2, 245…defensive line…coached by Hal Caps…as senior, named All-Conference, All-County, Big 22…as junior, named All-Conference…also competed in track and field…plans to major in business…favorite college athlete is Tim Hightower…favorite pro athlete is Ray Lewis…says “It has been an honor to be recognized for my efforts on the field.  I am expecting this experience will be rewarding for the fact that I am meeting new people and playing the game I love.”