Eric Wesley named as VDN Defensive Player of the Year

After dominating as a strong safety for the Vicksburg High School football team and helping them to the second round of the playoffs, Eric Wesley has been named as the Vicksburg Daily News Defensive Player of the Year.

Wesley has a unique style of play where he lays a hard lick on anyone carrying the ball his way. He also has the great ability to work across the field to break up passes and drop running backs to the turf if they make it past the line of scrimmage.

Eric Wesley (Phot by Alvin Coleman)

Wesley ended the year with 93 tackles, two forced fumbles and one interception while breaking up five passes. His best performance came from playing against Warren Central where he racked up 18 tackles and helped hold the Vikings to seven points.

Although Wesley made many memories during the 7-5 season, one holds on special to him.

“When we beat Cleveland Central in the first round of the playoffs we made history because Vicksburg haven’t won a playoff game since 2008 so that’s by far my favorite memory,” Wesley said.

By defeating CC 25-3, VHS moved on to the second round under head coach Todd McDaniel and faced West Point the following week.

Throughout all the hard hits he made, all passes he interrupted and through all havoc he caused for other teams on the field, Wesley held much respect for those who stuck with him during his high school career.

“I want to give a special thanks to all my football coaches that I have came across my last four years of high school,” Wesley said. “Outstanding shout out goes to my head coach Todd McDaniel and my defense coordinator Christopher Lacey. Last but not least, I would like to recognize Coach Chip, without the help of them, I wouldn’t be the young man that I am standing here today.”

Wesley has received a few scholarship offers but has not officially committed to any school. However, with his talents on the field, he is bound to be playing on the next level in the fall.