Outlaws earn all-league honors

The Outlaws football team had three players earn first team all-league recognition this year, including seniors Marteen Jiminez, Marcus Arends and junior Connor Morgan.

Jiminez was named first team all league tight end and was the Outlaws MVP on both offense and defense. Marteen caught 11 passes for Sisters in their last three games and recorded three interceptions.

"Marteen played outstanding defense for us," said Coach Bob Macauley. "But, the thing I like best is that Marteen is an outstanding wide receiver but he volunteered to play tight end at the beginning of the year because it would help the team more."

Arends earned first team all-league defensive back and was one of only three players in the league to receive unanimous votes.

Macauley told The Nugget that Arends always drew the toughest assignments against other teams' receivers. Coach also noted that Arends was the Outlaws' smartest defensive player.

Connor Morgan, first team all-league punter, rounded out the first team selections.

"Connor was recognized for his athleticism," said Macauley. "There were a few games when Connor had to punt under duress and had to kick with his left foot. He continually gave opponents poor field position to start from."

Macauley said that putting three players on the first team roster is pretty unique for a fifth place team; this senior class will be the example in years to come of perseverance when things don't go your way.

Seniors John Green (linebacker), Jordan Hodges (slot) and Shane Groth (tackle) earned second team all-league recognition.

Macauley praised the performance of all three players.

"John, at outside linebacker was very consistent all year," said Macauley. "He played tough and aggressive, had an outstanding year and I'm proud of the play he put in. Jordan was one of our toughest players and never missed a practice. He played through minor injuries and came up with big plays when we needed them. Shane, our second leading tackler, was our most consistent player all year long and played the game with great emotion and intelligence."

Erick Carlson (quarterback), Eric Mickel (wide receiver), Hayden Wester (offensive guard), Mitch Keranen (offensive tackle) and Jalen Miller (running back) all earned honorable mention.

"Eric has heart, leadership and athletic ability," said Macauley. "As quarterback and team leader that's exactly what we needed."

Macauley told The Nugget that Erik Mickel, Wester, Keranen and Miller all had some standout games and were crucial to the success the Outlaws did have. The coach stated that he was very happy the league recognized their efforts.