It has been a crazy year with the COVID pandemic. Many activities have been postponed or cancelled locally and nationwide.
That is not a secret, but as we move forward, activities are at least starting to take place as they once did.
I am happy to say there will be Ronald “Hoss” Bennett scholarship award winners once again in 2021.
The Clarksdale Exchange Club, which I am proud to be a part of, puts everything together, names the winners and rewards scholarship money for college.
Each of the four high schools have three senior football players nominated by their coach. There is one winner per team and an overall winner. The criteria is based on athletics, academics, community involvement and school spirit.
Three school winners receive at least a $250 stipend for college. The overall winner receives at least a $1,000 stipend for college.
While we do not have details at the moment about how we will announce the winners and present them with their awards, we do have nominees from each school.
Coahoma County High School’s nominees are quarterback Lamont Lee, running back and backup quarterback Eddie Henderson and offensive and defensive lineman Martin Williams.
Lee Academy’s nominees are center and linebacker Jackson Spinks, wide receiver and defensive back Gaines Barksdale and kicker Michael Basha.
Clarksdale High School’s nominees are running back Sammie Ray, wide receiver Josh Hollins and lineman Almetris Smith.
Coahoma Early College High School did not have a football team this year. However, three seniors who played while there was a program were nominated.
They are defensive lineman Josh Hawkins, wide receiver and free safety Curtis Jones and defensive tackle and offensive and defensive lineman Elijah Brown.
