Five Riders Named to All-District

By Emarald Robinson | Photo by Elijah Lopez

Seniors Dillon Thornton, Solomon Hunter, Timothy Johnson, Johnell Foster, and junior Jeremy Jones  were named to the first team all-district football team this year. 

“It feels awesome to have this many kids be recognized after one season, and it shows results from the new staff,” coach Darnell Barnes said. 

Thornton has been playing football since he was four years old. Though he has had lots of struggles in his life, the past seems to be his biggest motivation to succeed in life. Thornton was number 22 on the field, with the position of safety.

“Football isn’t just a game for me, it’s a window that helps me see through all the problems in life; Football is my pain reliever,” Thornton said.

Barnes called Thornton a quiet leader who will do well at the next level. 

Hunter plays the position of Line Backer, and is number 20 on the field. Hunter is well known for his determination on and off the field. Keeping a straight mind he also feels that Football will take him a long way in life. Receiving his second offer last week from Sam Houston State, Hunter is determined to keep doing what he’s been doing, and he’s got spiritual reasons for doing what he does.

“My success doesn’t just come from the plays I made, games I played, or how many times I trained. My success comes from God,” Hunter said.  

Barnes said he knows Hunter will do well at the next level.

Johnson is number 35 on the field and plays the position of defensive tackle. His biggest motivation is his Mother. He constantly checks the stands for his Mother’s helpful smile pushing him on to work harder toward his dreams.

“Being a star athlete has always been my goal; I’ve strived for these days to come for years,”
said Johnson.  Recently playing in the All American football game Johnson knows that he’s done well in his High school career.

“Johnson is one of the hardest working athletes. He has potential to be a great college athlete; He’s a motivational leader,” Said Coach Barnes.

Foster is a defensive lineman. Jones plays offensive tackle. 

Though Barnes is in his first year of coaching the Roosevelt team, he coached college for three years.

“My goal is to inspire our kids to work hard and excel not only on the football field but in the classroom as well,” Barnes said. Coach Barnes also was a football player for Roosevelt high school, he constantly reminds his team that hard work is the best skill you can take into life. 

“Hard work beats talent when talent refuses to work hard,” said Barnes.