NFHS Sports Recognition Banquet a Big Success

05-19-2012

C.L. Brau
Post Sports Writer

FISD Athletic Director, Neal Weaver, recently joined the athletic coaching staff of North Forney High School in recognizing the outstanding achievements of each of the athletic teams representing Forney’s newest high school

Preparing to celebrate the first graduating class of North Forney High, Principal Dr. Joseph Kucera and the Falcon Athletic Foundation hosted a lovely athletic banquet where guests dined on a deliciously prepared dinner of Barbeque Brisket, Mashed Potatoes and Green Beans.

Producing numerous quality athletes within its first four years, the NFHS cafeteria was packed with families as Dr. Kucera stepped to the podium to thank everyone for attending before introducing NFH Senior, G. Fortune’ who delivered a very moving Invocation.

FISD Athletic Director, Neal Weaver next addressed the crowd, stating, “I’d like to open by thanking Dr. Kucera and the parents for all their support. I’d really like to thank the great parents and the students for everything they do. They were here all day and did a wonderful job so we want to thank them from the bottom of our hearts. As well as the great coaches we have. They don’t work for the money but for the kids and a great coach can have a great impact on kids’ lives.”

Director Weaver next distributed several special recognition awards that included the NFHS Athletics Falcon of the Year Awards, which were presented to Senior, Shelby Hedrick, for her outstanding contributions to both the softball and volleyball teams, and to Stephen Buckley, for his valued contributions to the football and track teams.

Special recognition awards were also presented to volleyball players, Lauren Stotts and Peyton Hedrick. And to football MVP, Stephen Buckley, Defensive MVP, Armand Franklin, Offensive MVP, G. Fortune’ along with MV Lineman, Gunner Hudson.

Senior, Brittney Norris, was named MVP in Girls Basketball along with La Quincia Dorsey who made the All District/All Region Basketball team, and in boys basketball, Alex Harris, was recognized for making the TABC All Region Team.

For outstanding Boys Track and Field contributions, Stephens Buckley was recognized along with Haekeem Regis, Terry Jackson and Hunter Hartley while Cheche Okehi was honored for her contributions to the Girls Track team.

On the NFH Girls Soccer team, Lexi Veccera, was named Mid-fielder of the Year and on the NFH Boy’s Soccer Team, Austin Lindler, was named Sophomore of the Year.

And the last of the special recognition awards was presented to Softball teammates, Offensive MVP, Shelby Hedrick and Defensive, MVP Taylor Schblocher.

Director Weaver next introduced new NFH Head Coach and Athletic Coordinator, Lance Gary, stating,“I know that the kids and athletes are good. I know this because athletics as a whole is something that demands resilience. Kids have got to adjust their game, coaches have to adjust to their careers throughout their seasons, and we have gone through numerous changes on this campus in three years. You can tell that we have adjusted, been resilience and have continued to be successful. Coaching changes are never easy but they are a lot easier when you know the coach coming in has his priorities straight, and he is somebody that is always going to put the kids first.”

Briefly addressed to guests, Coach Gary said, “I’m very excited to be here. This is a great bunch of kids and there are good building blocks in place. And I really want to be here and add to these blocks. I look forward to working with these kids. I believe the key to coaching is the relationship with the athletes and that it’s important that we respect each other. I have an open door policy and I’d be happy to talk with any of you.”