Shamus Jones, one of Dale’s best defensive players, keeps getting noticed by colleges. This past week, Averett in Danville, gave an offer to the rising senior.
Coming off a junior season in which he racked up 102 tackles, Jones continues to impress. Coach Kevin Tucker thinks that “the tall and athletic player” could get Division I offers before it’s all said and done.
Schools such as Christopher Newport and Hampden-Sydney both in Division III, have offered roster spots to Jones as well. Jones also visited Emory & Henry on Nov. 8.
While Virginia State was the first with an offer for Thomas Dale athlete Jonathan Martinez (6-0, 217 pounds), it wouldn’t be the last. Averett has extended an offer as well.
A Swiss Army knife of sorts for Thomas Dale, he presents an interesting skill set for college coaches and can do a little bit of everything.
Martinez started at tight end and half back, even punted for the Knights. He was honored as All-State for his work with special teams.
“Jonathan has worked extremely hard this off-season to improve his game,” Tucker said. “Not only is he a great pass and run blocked, he is also one of the most dangerous weapons we have in our receiving corps.”
Another Swiss Army knife for Tucker and Thomas Dale received two new offers. In addition to one from Averett, Greg Mitchell received one from Shenandoah after a visit to that school.
“Greg is versatile,” Tucker said. “He was able to start at three different positions for us last year and fill in for injured players.”
Mitchell (6-1, 260) spent time at center, tackle, and guard for Thomas Dale. He handled being the “captain” of the line in the middle, pull blocking and keeping opposing pass rushers in check equally well.
