Henderson and Evans named VDN’s Football Athletes of the Year

Local football players Zack Evans and Tyler Henderson have been selected as VDN’s Football Athletes of the Year.

Evans:

Zack Evans was instrumental in Warren Central’s 9-3 season where he led the Vikings in receiving.

In a 12-game senior season, Evans finished with 589 receiving yards, eight receiving touchdowns, one rushing touchdown, 1,108 All-Purpose yards and three punt return touchdowns.

2023 was highlighted with accomplishments by Evans, including two touchdowns against Neshoba Central to clinch a playoff berth and three touchdowns on senior night.

Zack Evans: Photo by Richard Miller

Although Evans was freshman quarterback Nash Morgan’s key target, he also held his own on the defensive side of the ball. Midway through the season, Evans caught the game-winning interception against Vicksburg High School in a 19-18 win.

With the help of Evans, WC went undefeated in district play where he received All-District honors along with being named MVP and All-State.

Evans contributions and excellent play in 2023 is what led to him sharing this award with Henderson.

“I feel blessed because I know that a lot of things had to go right for me to be in this position right here especially with coming off injuries and having a freshman quarterback made it even more worth it,” Evans said.

Evans played under Head Coach Josh Morgan and he will be announcing his college plans in the upcoming weeks.

Henderson:

Henderson was a complete savior on the football field for VHS as they secured a playoff spot in 2023 after a 7-4 season. In the years’ prior, Henderson developed a reputation as a solid athlete but he quickly went from good to great once he scored four touchdowns along with 180 receiving yards in a win over Natchez. He also was the star in the 26-20 win over Terry when he caught a 65-yard touchdown pass.

Henderson became the key target for quarterback Ronnie Alexander as he continued to snag the football and score touchdowns often when he was in double coverage. He finished the year with 982 All-Purpose yards, 12 receiving touchdowns and one kickoff return touchdown.

Tyler Henderson: Photo by Richard Miller

Like Evans, Henderson proved that he can show out on defense as well as he grabbed three interceptions while also starring in the secondary.

Henderson’s talents led him on the All-District First Team while also receiving the District’s Athlete of the Year Award and being selected to play in the Bernard Blackwell Classic All-Star Game.

“I knew before the season that this would be my year and I’m not surprised at the outcome but I’m far from finished,” Henderson said.

Tyler played his final year under Head Coach Christopher Lacey and he will also soon announce his college plans.

Henderson and Evans are the second group of individuals to receive this award and VDN will be keeping track of their future endeavors.