By Luke Krausse
Shamus Jones- linebacker/wide receiver
Shamus Jones, a defensive and offensive standout at Thomas Dale, has received an invitation to play in the 2021 Hawaii Tiki Bowl Senior All-Star Game this coming winter.
“Shamus is a tall and athletic LB/WR, [who]has been a two year starter on varsity,” Coach Kevin Tucker said.
Jones is a 6-2, 190-pound junior who totaled 7 receptions and 110 receiving yards last season in his limited time on offense. However, he starred on Dale’s defense.
“He has steadily improved his defensive game play and developed into a D1 linebacker,” Tucker continued.
On defense, Jones earned 98 solo tackles, 102 total tackles, one sack, two interceptions, and one forced fumble in his junior season.
Preston Puni- linebacker
Preston Puni, an outside and middle linebacker for Thomas Dale, has been invited to play in the Hawaii Tiki Bowl.
“Preston is a great kid; he has worked hard over the past four years to receive this invite,” Tucker said.
An injury cut the 6-2, 210-pound junior’s season short last year; he only played in four games, amassing eight tackles.
“He was sidelined to covering the field,” Tucker said. “Puni is one of the most feared linebackers I have ever coached.”
Gregory Mitchell- offensive line
One of Thomas Dale’s standout offensive linemen, Gregory Mitchell, has been chosen to play at the Hawaii Tiki Bowl.
“Greg was a first year starter this past season,” said Tucker.
Mitchell, a 6-2, 210-pound junior, was a utility player on the offensive line. “Greg started at center, guard, and tackle and excelled at all three positions,” Tucker said.
DeAngelo Gray, running back
DeAngelo Gray, one of Thomas Dale’s offensive weapons, has received an offer to play at the Hawaii Tiki Bowl.
“DeAngelo is the most electrifying kid in the region,” said Tucker. “He has totaled 38 touchdowns in the past two years while working in the backfield with [Chris] Tyree and [Jasiah]Williams.”
The 5-8, 160-pound junior fell just short of a 1,000-yard receiving season, gaining 930 receiving yards on 42 receptions. On the ground, Gray totaled 554 yards on 76 carries.
“He should double all of his numbers on the field this year,” Tucker said. “Look for him to be a Player of the Year candidate.”
Keyshawn Williams, offensive line/tight end
Keyshawn Williams, a three year letterman at L.C. Bird has been selected for the 2021 Hawaii Tiki Bowl.
“He started as an offensive lineman for us last year,” said Bird football head coach Troy Taylor. “His dad and myself played at UVA Wise together, so it is pretty cool to coach and have a kid in our program that I played college ball with his dad.”
