Coach Zack Wuichet announced Monday, December 7, that Mount Ida had one player receive 2A All State Honors and 11 players receive 5-2A All Conference Honors.
Sophomore Jack Hoeksema was the lone Lion to receive 2A All State Honors this season. Jack was the go-to receiver in the passing game and was effective in the running game as an outside threat. His speed was used on special teams as a kick returner also.
His greatest contribution came on the defensive side of the ball. Jack worked as a defensive back where he used his speed to close gaps for tackles and his athleticism helped him be among the best in interceptions this season.
Seniors Hunter Humphries and John Hoeksema lead a pack of 11 to receive 5-2A All Conference accolades.
Hunter was the anchor on the offensive line where he was often the lead blocker on running plays. His size often forced teams to double team him when he played defense.
John was limited in his time on the field due to injuries, but was able to contribute on special teams. He provided the Lions with a consistent kicking game and often kicked the ball into the end zone when asked. He was able to close out the season with a touchdown reception, the last TD of the season for the Lions.
Baylor Bates and Jacob Woodfield were fixtures in the backfield for the Lions this year. Bates was the workhorse up the middle with Woodfield using his speed to make opponents miss tackles.
Sophomore Caleb White stepped under center for the first time to lead the Lion offense. He also shifted to the backfield when needed to run the ball. He was also the team leader on defense.
Gavin Summitt, Blake Collum, Ramsey Gilbert and Chandler Perkins were responsible for most of the tackles and turnovers on defense this season. Summitt forced a fumble which was recovered by Perkins for a scoop and score to cap a 17-6 victory over the Bearden Bears early in the season.
Ashton Humphries rounded out the list of All Conference players. Humphries got a late start to the season due to an injury, but quickly became the defensive end to avoid. He also saw time on the offensive line.
Mount Ida ended the season with a 5-7 record and a third place finish in the 5-2A Conference. They defeated Bearden in the first round of the playoffs before falling to Des Arc in the second round.
