The Prosper Eagles fought a hard season, taking one pre-season loss, but going undefeated during districts. Their final loss of the season was served by North Crowley, the #5 ranked team in the state. Despite the end of their season, the Prosper Eagles served the Panthers the biggest fight of their season, giving up the least amount of points out of all their opponents. The third round of playoffs was held at The Star in Frisco, where seniors played their final drives of the season.
Announced this past Monday, All District and MVP awards were awarded to players, displayed on social media. Players on all sides of the ball were highlighted, both upper and lower classmen bringing the heat every game.
Nate TeneBarge- 5-6A District Quarterback MVP
Leading the team offensively, senior ‘QB1’ Nate TeneBarge was named 5-6A District MVP. As starting quarterback for the Eagles entire season, TeneBarge contributed abundantly to the team — combinations of run-ins and long yard passes. The 6’1 QB played a key role in the team’s success. “I turned up on Friday nights,” said TeneBarge. “I fought hard, and got some good results.”
TJ Jones- 5-6A Defensive Utility MVP
Locked in for the next four years with his division one commit to Holy Cross University, Terrence ‘TJ’ Jones assisted the team in a variety of ways for this 2023 season. Primarily cornerback and safety, the team captain joined teammates on the team during kickoff, a notable special team’s playmaker. Informed of his award this Monday morning, Jones expressed his gratitude. “I felt surprised,” said Jones. “I honestly didn’t think I was going to get it, I thought I was just going to be first team. And then I started laughing”
“I gave 100% effort, every single day, in practice, and on the field,” said Jones. “It all paid off at the end of the season, because I felt like I kept getting better and improving my game throughout the year.”
Tyler Mercer- 5-6A Offensive Line MVP
One of the two starting offensive lineman coming back from last season, Mercer was destined to be a huge playmaker for the Eagles. Committed to Tulane, Mercer has repeatedly put forth full effort for the team, shown on and off the team. Shutting down every defensive line handed to him, No. 76 allowed for no sacks his entire career at Prosper. The team captain made the decision to graduate a semester early in order to get ahead on his college academics and join the Waves starting the spring before his freshman year.
Ellis Davis- 1st Team All District Offensive Line
Division-1 commit, senior Ellis Davis will continue his academic and athletic career at Texas Tech University- ranked 7th in its division. Moving from one powerhouse to another, Davis will continue making big moves on the front end of the ball. “I felt honored to win such an important title.” said Ellis. “I worked hard this season, and it has shown to be beneficial.”
Jack Clifford- 1st Team All District Tight End
Being reliable from a coaching standpoint, Clifford takes what he learns in the meeting room and immediately applies it on the team. “Jack is reliable on and off the field,” said class president Malick Katalika. “He’s a great friend and I had fun supporting him from the sidelines every game. His energy boosts the morale of the team every game.”
Jonah McClendon- 1st Team All District Outside Linebacker
3rd year starter, No. 5, Jonah McClendon was a impactful playmaker for the team these past few seasons. “As good of a football player as he is, he’s also that good of a young man,” said Coach Coby Richards. “I’m going to miss the guy.” Named one of the team captains for the 2023 season, McClendon also made a switch from inside to outside linebacker. Diminishing any worries from himself and coaches, McClendon was successful with the change.
Davis Perkins- 1st Team All District Middle Line Backer
Team captain and defensive lead, linebacker Davis Perkins is a key component to the Eagle’s success on the back-end of the ball. Division 2 commit, Perkins will continue stepping up, improving his skills. Perkins’ IQ when it comes to the game made him stand out this season, in comparison to his opponents and other linemakers. “Davis was one of the most hard working leaders on our team,” said Luke Johnson. “He gave his best effort day in and day out.”
Malique Sutherland- 1st Team All District Defensive Lineman
Defensive end, No. 8, Malique Sutherland contributed to the Eagle’s defensive line as a strong 2 year letterman. “Being able to adjust to different areas on the field, I was able to help the rest of the team,” said Sutherland. “Working alongside the guys made me a better player.”
Laird Hanson-Felter- 1st Team All District Defensive Lineman
With a season ending career in the second round of playoffs, No. 93 Laird Hanson-Felter had to cut his senior season short. His contributions were not lacking during the season – his height, standing at 6’5, Hanson-Felter was a huge asset for the Eagle’s defensive line and special team this season, similar to the past. The Four Star punter still looks to continue his career at the Air Force Academy, where he committed to officially this June.
Andrew Ward- 2nd Team All District Outside Linebacker
Making a number of notable plays, No. 7, Andrew Ward contributed to multiple sacks. Stronghold for the defensive line, Ward stepped into a role he had never played, and showed tremendous efforts for the team. “He played corner and kind of recreated his body during his recovery (from his injury) and became a linebacker,” said Coach Coby Richards. “He had a couple of struggles early on because he had never played the position, but he figured it out pretty quick and became a great linebacker force.
Bo Mongaras- 2nd Team All District Defensive Back
“Giving 110% effort both on and off the field shaped me into the player I am,” said Mongaras. “Being a kid that’s 5’6″ starting at a 6A D1 school I developed a mindset of ‘I don’t care’ when looking at our opponents, and continued doing my best.” Just in the first half of the season, Mongaras had assisted the team with 22 tackles, 2 pass break ups, and one interception.
Javan Henry- 2nd Team All District Wide Receiver
Wide receiver Javan Henry brought the Eagles a good portion of their yards this season. Connections with quarterback Nate TeneBarge and coordination with the offensive line made for an impactful season for Henry.
