Running back Deon Moore flashed a bright smile upon his selection as the 2012 KDMC Offensive Player of the Year. The award, presented Friday during a banquet held in the new KDMC Athletic/Speed Performance Center, capped an impressive comeback season for the West Lincoln senior who sustained a torn ACL in his knee during the 2011 campaign.

     Moore, a 5-foot-10, 185-pound speedster, was instrumental in leading the Bears to a 5-4 record and the first winning season in the school’s 14-year football history. He underwent surgery to repair the torn ACL last winter at KDMC.

     “Deon accomplished a lot to gain 1,000 yards this year,” said West Lincoln coach Willie Brumfield. “It’s a credit to his courage and determination. He has a great work ethic.”

     Moore was presented the award by KDMC public relations director David Culpepper. He also received a $500 scholarship toward his college education.

     Twenty-nine trophies were distributed to the football players in attendance. Players from each week of the 12-week season were recognized for their accomplishments on offense and defense.

     Brookhaven senior end JaBoree Poole, recognized for his strength and speed, was selected the KDMC Defensive Player of the Year and received a $500 scholarship. Poole, who has made a verbal commitment to sign with Southern Miss on Feb. 3, 2013, missed the awards ceremony because of  his participation in the Alabama-Mississippi All-Star Classic at Montgomery, Ala.

     Other  Players of the Week from Brookhaven included quarterback Zach Smith, running back Justin Blue, wide receiver Fred Trevillion and defensive end Leo Lewis.

      Brookhaven Academy awards went to quarterback Gage Posey, wide receiver Seth Rushing, linebacker Preston Rawls and running back Landon Nettles.

     Bogue Chitto players receiving awards were linebacker Jeremy Blackwell and  quarterback Brock Roberts.

     Loyd Star linebacker Peyton Flowers, Enterprise linebacker Corey Hickson and Lawrence County quarterback Nico McDonald also were honored, along with defensive lineman Cullen Greer and running back Antonio Miller, both  of Wesson.

     Alcorn State University head coach Jay Hopkins was the guest speaker for the awards ceremony, which was held in the new KDMC Athletic Training/Speed Center. Hopkins, a Warren Central High School graduate, recalled his early years in football.

     “I learned how to work hard to become a better football player,” said Hopkins. “Always give special credit to your teammates who helped you win these awards.

     “Eleven brothers working together are hard to beat,” Hopkins pointed out. “You have to love your teammates. There is a special bond that will last a  lifetime.”

     Hopkins said when difficult times are encountered during life, your former teammates will be there to help you.”

     During his college career, Hopkins was a 43-year lettermen at defensive end for the Ole Miss Rebels, 1978-81. 

     He became the first white head coach at Alcorn State and in the SWAC  last spring. “God blessed me when I took the Alcorn job. The first thing I wanted to do was start FCA,” referring to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

     He conducts a Bible study group on Thursday nights. There is a team chapel program during preseason practice in August.

     Hopkins stressed the importance of each athlete obtaining a college degree. “Only one percent of college players make it in the  NFL and their careers usually last three or four years on the average. You have to have a college degree when you enter public life.”

     Hopkins also thanked KDMC for providing athletic trainers and physicians for Alcorn’s sports teams.

     KDMC CEO Alvin Hoover congratulated the Player of the Week award winners, praising them for their dedication and hard work.