By Kyle Roberts
Ruston High had five seniors and two assistant coaches participate in the 2023 I-20 Bowl on the East All-Star team taking on the West All-Stars, which included a wide receiver who caught the game-winning touchdown.
The Bearcats seniors included offensive lineman Kylon Bradley, cornerback Semaj Jones, safeties Jacoryian Crowe and Nate Johnson, and wide receiver Logan Malone. Ruston assistants participating were offensive coordinator Earl Griffin and defensive backs coach Kenny Wright.
“I think that it’s well-deserved,” Ruston High head coach Jerrod Baugh said. “Depending on what these kids plan to do, if they want to go play some college football somewhere, they could have that possibility. But for some that may choose not to play again, I think it’s an opportunity maybe to relax and get a chance to go back out. And I think it’s extra special for our that it’s our stadium, it’s our field, and they’ll have a chance to get out there and and play one more time.”
Malone’s heroics put the East team over with 1:58 left to play with his 26-yard touchdown reception. The East would get their fifth win in a row by a final score of 15-14 in a defensive battle that started with the West team scoring on the first offensive possession of the day.
For seniors Crowe and Bradley, it was a good feeling to participate after winning a state championship the previous weekend.
“I grew up watching my cousins play who wanted a state championship,” Crowe said. “As far as me, I can come back out here and play with the emotion (following the championship). I think it’s just a good opportunity for us to get more exposure.”
Bradley echoed his teammate.
“It’s truly an honor and a blessing to put these pads back on one more time and try to get another opportunity,” Bradley said. “I really just want to thank the man above for giving me another chance and to these coaches give me another chance.”
