Alabama, U.S. – Four high school football players from Covington County have been named to the 2024 Alabama Sports Writers Association (ASWA) All-State High School Football Team, which was announced on Saturday, December 21.
The ASWA All-State Team recognises outstanding players across Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) classifications 1A-7A and the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA). The team is divided into first and second teams, with additional players receiving honourable mentions.
Nominations were submitted by coaches from across the state and voted on by the ASWA’s prep committee. Only players nominated by their respective coaches were eligible for consideration.
Andalusia Bulldogs Representation
Junior defensive back Neillex Ferrell earned a spot on the Class 5A Second Team Defense. Ferrell had an impressive season, playing in 11 games and recording:
- 64 solo tackles,
- 30 assisted tackles,
- 5 tackles for loss,
- 1 interception,
- 1 fumble recovery,
- 1 forced fumble,
- 4 quarterback hurries, and
- 5 pass breakups.
Under the guidance of veteran head coach Trent Taylor, the Bulldogs concluded the season with a 7-5 record and reached the second round of the playoffs.
Florala Wildcats Recognition
Florala had three seniors honoured:
- Elijah McMeans: Selected for the Class 1A First Team Offense as a wide receiver. McMeans played in all 11 games, amassing 52 receptions, 1,017 yards, and 11 touchdowns, averaging 19.6 yards per catch and 92.5 yards per game, with his longest reception reaching 79 yards.
- Rayshon Coleman: Named to the Class 1A Second Team Defense as a defensive back. Coleman recorded 60 solo tackles, 79 assisted tackles, 45 tackles for loss, 1 interception, 2 fumble recoveries, 2 forced fumbles, and 4 pass breakups.
- Bradley Norman: Earned Honorable Mention as a linebacker, tallying 59 solo tackles, 94 assisted tackles, 37 tackles for loss, 2 fumble recoveries, and 1 forced fumble.
The Wildcats, led by first-year head coach Kyle Davis, finished the season with a 7-4 record and made a first-round playoff appearance.
The ASWA All-State Team honours the best players across AHSAA classifications 1A-7A and the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA). Players were nominated by their coaches and selected by the ASWA’s prep committee.
