Big talent for smaller schools

By PrepsKC staff
Posted: November 29, 2011 - 9:59 PM



The annual Simone Awards will be handed out Dec. 6 at the high school of the winner of the Simone Award.
 
There are four other awards that will also be given out that day. The Fontana Award goes to the top all-around player from small schools (Classes 1-4) in the Metro. This year’s Fontana finalists are:
 
Antwynn Beavers, runningback, junior, Liberty North
The Eagles found their way to the playoffs this season in just their second year as a program. Beavers was a big part of the offensive attack that helped North to its first winning record. The junior finished with 2,239 yards and 25 rushing touchdowns along with a kick return for a TD.
 
Krae Kelso, quarterback, senior, Platte County
The Pirates signal caller was a true dual threat quarterback with a combined 2,700 yards through the air and on the ground. Kelso finished with 1,639 yards passing with 16 touchdowns and 1,121 yards rushing and 16 TDs on the ground. He was also a finalists last year for this award.
 
Colin Murphy, quarterback, senior, Basehor-Linwood
The Bobcats have been one of the best teams in Kansas class 4A the last two seasons and the play of Colin Murphy. The senior finished the season with 2,609 yards and 23 touchdowns through the air with another 420 yards and 13 TDs on the ground. Murphy also only had two losses in his two seasons as a starter.
 
Gabe Vandiver, runningback/defensive back, senior, Richmond
The Spartans backed up their state championship with a two-loss season and a run to the Class 3 semifinals. Vandiver ran for more than 2,000 yards while scoring 23 touchdowns on the ground. He also returned one punt for a touchdown, two kickoff returns for scores and an interception for a touchdown while playing defensive back.