Top 5 Lift For Life Skills Players Returning in 25'

Coach Woolfolk and his staff put together an amazing run in the playoffs in their first season at Lift For Life. His experienced coaching staff helped develop some of the top athletes in the area, elevating the Hawks program to new, respectable heights.   This coming season, they're eyeing another record-setting year, continuing to raise the bar on the backs of these top five returners, all of whom play a major role in the team's success.    Tony (Tejay) Woolfolk Jr. played a big role in helping the Hawks reach the Class 3 Semifinals last season, finishing second on the team in receiving yards while averaging 14.1 yards per catch. When you watch his film, it looks like it's sped up—his release off the ball is that explosive. His acceleration and ability to adjust to the ball in the air are nearly impossible to defend. Tejay runs routes with no hesitation, especially on double moves, planting his foot without losing speed. His football IQ is evident, particularly in the playoffs, where his ability to recognize coverages stood out. If beating defenders in the air isn't enough, Woolfolk turns jet sweeps into track meets—and more often than not, he's not getting caught!   Holds offer from SEMO...     [player_tooltip player_id='1128426' first='Kameron' last='Hurst'] is a First-Team All-State lockdown corner with tremendous ball skills. He is a legit playmaker, coming off a standout junior season with five interceptions and two scores. Kam breaks on the ball like a heat-seeking missile, with only two possible outcomes—a pick or a breakup. Offensive coordinators prefer the latter because if he gets his hands on the football cleanly, he can take it the distance. Hurst is a pure athlete with amazing Jaylon Johnson like instincts, and trusts his technique to win. He can lock up your No. 1 wide receiver without needing help over the top. Even more impressive than being a turnover machine, he is a solid tackler in space and doesn't shy away from contact when coming up to secure the ball carrier. Next fall should be a movie for this kid.   Holds offers from SEMO, Eastern Illinois, Sacramento State, Southern Illinois Carbondale, Lindenwood...     Mr. Scott is a tall, explosive back with a second gear that makes him a constant threat to take it the distance at any moment. He gets better with more touches as the game progresses. I really appreciate how Jay'Veon keeps his feet alive through contact. His vision is impressive, and he has a natural feel for navigating through traffic, getting in and out of holes smoothly. When given the opportunity to run the "Wildcat," he often delivered a touchdown or kept the chains moving. He is a seamless blend of speed and power out of the backfield. When a player includes a highlight of himself blocking, it shows me he understands the importance of being effective in all phases of the game. Scott is a complete high school running back with a high ceiling.   Finished second in touchdowns for the Hawks in 2024!       [player_tooltip player_id='1638117' first='Ekeilan' last='Henderson'] is an All-MCC wide receiver who led the Hawks in receiving, total yards, and touchdowns as a sophomore. He gives maximum effort when securing catches and can bail out quarterbacks on off-target throws due to his impressive catch radius. Henderson has soft hands paired with quick feet. As he matures, I believe he can be just as effective whether he lines up inside or outside. I love his confidence and the passion he plays with, both of which contribute to his production. Finally, Ekeilan has the ability to make defenders miss or reverse field to extend plays after the catch. Defensive backs, beware—when the football is up for grabs, #7 can elevate and high-point any ball that looks like it's going the other way.       [player_tooltip player_id='1638119' first='Phoenix' last='Isaiah'] is a dual-threat quarterback taking over the reins fully from senior Mike Gerdine Jr. In his junior campaign, he completed 56 of 93 pass attempts for 921 yards and 10 touchdowns. Phoenix has the arm strength to zip the football into tight windows or air it out, allowing his talented receivers to run it down for big gains. He shows good poise and doesn't panic under pressure. When moving the pocket with his legs, he can still deliver an accurate ball to his open target. When it's time to tuck and run, his long stride allows him to cover ground efficiently while protecting the football. I believe he will bulk up more during the offseason and continue mastering the finer details needed to lead this high-powered offense as a senior. Starting in August, Isaiah will need to be accounted for under the lights every week.

Coach Woolfolk and his staff put together an amazing run in the playoffs in their first season at Lift For Life. His experienced coaching staff helped develop some of the top athletes in the area, elevating the Hawks program to new, respectable heights.