Special acts of good character recalled
Helton comments on all 11 Carter Hornets
By Steve Williams
When Dave Moore founded the Careacter Star Athlete program 22 years ago, he started out by recognizing the football players for their character on a weekly basis during the season.
A couple of years ago, Moore decided to make a change and wait until the end of the season so the head coaches could reflect on the entire season before submitting their honorees.
That approach turned out to be right down new Carter head coach Todd Helton’s alley.
“Honestly, we just went through game by game and selected kids that typically demonstrate good character,” said Helton, who had been on the Carter staff for four seasons and the last two as defensive coordinator under Justin Pressley, who resigned midway through the 2023-24 school year.
“I just added a little something by each kid’s name.”
Below are Carter’s Careacter Star Athletes for the 2023 football season and what Helton had to say about each honoree:
Judd Taylor – Encouraging young players.
Joseph Armenta – Accepts accountability for the actions of self and team.
Brody Sparks – Was injured and worked alongside the new quarterback to ensure team success.
Hayden Warwick – Always puts team before self.
Jody Scruggs – In critical moments will always demonstrate perseverance and determination.
Jake Coffey – Selfless teammate.
Roman Webb – Always will demonstrate self control even in the most tense of situations.
Spencer Russell – Exhibits humility in achievement and success.
Isaiah Webb – Demonstrated excellent sportsmanship.
Latrodrick Rodgers – Treats opponents and officials with the utmost respect.
Gabe Dennis – Always shows compassion towards teammates.
They called him ‘Coach Walker’
Lee Warren, who was in his first season as head football coach at Karns last fall, has been impressed by Walker Lockhart in many ways.
“Walker Lockhart constantly displays great character in our school and in our community,” said Warren. “As he was recovering from an injury at the beginning of the season, we all called him ‘Coach Walker.’ He would be there every day helping coaches run their individual drills, helping younger players fine tune their skills, and giving positive energy to his teammates. I have no doubt that Walker’s high character is going to take him far in life. He is a great young man that we are going to miss very much.”
Lockhart plans to attend UT and major in Construction Science or Construction Management.
Helping prepare ‘future’ Spartans
New Webb Coach Don Mahoney recalled acts of good character last fall from four of his senior players – Jack Wagner, Harvey Niendorff, Cooper Cameron and Blake Carter.
“These players coached our Futures flag football teams,” said Mahoney. “They took time on Saturday morning to coach and motivate kids in our lower school. We appreciate the effort and passion they provided for these kids! They were great role models for our lower school team.”
