Doing it 'The Burls Way'

Photograph submitted Blackhawk Justin Stamps received the Brandon Burlsworth award for 2013.
Photograph submitted Blackhawk Justin Stamps received the Brandon Burlsworth award for 2013.

From Staff Reports

Showing humility and hard work, two former Blackhawk football players were awarded the Brandon Burlsworth Award, according to athletic director and head football coach Tony Travis.

Each year, high school football programs in Arkansas nominate a player from their team to receive the Brandon Burlsworth award.

This player should be of good moral character and demonstrate a desire to excel in the classroom. It recognizes the student athlete who puts their team first and is not looking to just draw attention to themselves.

Often it is not the quarterback or star running back selected to receive the award but someone in the background who always gave their best effort but usually went unnoticed.

The 2013 winner was Justin Stamps, a 2014 PRHS graduate. Stamps is currently attending Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College in Miami, Okla.

"Justin always put the team first and was one of our hardest workers. He got his chance due to the injury of a teammate and really took advantage of it. He was ready when his number was called," Travis said.

The 2014 winner was Garrett Easterling.

"Garrett played many positions on on offense and special teams," Travis said. "On defense, he became one of the best outside linebackers we've had. He was always willing to do anything he could to help the team have success."

Former Blackhawks to receive the award include Jayse Anderson, 2012, and Zach Oldebeken, 2011.

Sports on 04/08/2015