Written By Rob Beckmann @Coach_Beckmann

The Independence Pirates Football team had several players named to the 2022 Jayhawk All-Conference team following the season.

First-Team honors were awarded to Xavier Morrow and Dontez Fagan.

Morrow – a linebacker from Tuscaloosa, Alabama – recorded 66 tackles, two sacks, one interception, and one forced fumble through eight games this season. "Xavier is a warrior," said Indy Pirates Defensive Coordinator Steve McCollom. "He was the main man in the middle for us. He is one of the best linebackers in the country and one of the best to ever come through this school."

Also receiving a First-Team nod was Fagan, a six-foot defensive back who recorded 14 tackles and an interception this season through seven games. "DT was a lockdown player for us," Coach McCollom said. "He is a guy that has trusted the process and is going to be a big-time four-year player."

Second-Team honors went to Will Whitson, Dajhon "DJ" Smith, and Tyrik McDaniel.

McDaniel was a standout at the safety position, picking up 32 tackles and two sacks through only five games. "Tyrik is a big-time player and was always a vocal leader and playmaker," said Coach McCollom. "He will be a name to remember that you will be hearing about in the near future."

Smith joined him in the secondary, accruing 18 tackles, one interception, one sack, and one forced fumble of his own in eight games.

"DJ plays the game the way it's supposed to be played - pissed off for greatness!" Coach McCollom said. "He's physical, mentally tough and a playmaker. He was a leader for us."

Whitson – a six-foot-five defensive end from Cincinnati, Ohio – rounded out the defensive second team. He amassed 25 tackles and one sack for the year – his third at Indy – following a standout 2021 campaign as well.

"Will has made a lot of plays in his career," said Coach McCollom. "He has grown up a lot, and the sky is the limit for him in the future."

Special Teams Second-Team honors were bestowed on Reggie Akles. Listed as an athlete, Akles did a little bit of everything for the Pirates this season, including on kick returns. His all-purpose yards were invaluable to the Pirates each game, including a 18-5 win over Coffeyville, in which he made a 97-yard touchdown reception.

"Reggie has big-play ability every time he touches the field," Coach McCollom said. "Offense, defense, and the return game. We would not have beaten Coffeyville without him."

Also gaining acknowledgement for the Pirates with Honorable Mention recognition were Antonio Barber (WR), Tachawn Brooks (OT), Harrison Hamsley (TE), and Ikani Tuiono (C).

Congratulations to all the Pirates who were recognized for their achievements this season!