Retiring coach David Lanier recognized for his contributions
Pierce County Middle School honored its 2024 football team with a banquet at the Blackshear Train Depot.
The banquet was held February 9.
Damon Moody was named Best All Around Player for the 8th-grade squad. Four players shared Most Versatile Player. They were Dathan Thornton, Jayme Perez, Ja’Shun Faison and Lawton Wright.
The Coaches Award was given to Colton McCook and Mason White. Five players shared the Most Improved Player award. They were Reb Dixon, Houston Davis, Andrew Barrett, Lee Thornton and Simon McEuen.
Seven Scout Team Awards were presented to Preston Jewell, Riley Thompson, Charles Harwood, Kayden Lane, Jed Davis, Brayden Owens and Jake Taylor.
Members of the 7th-grade team were also honored. A trio of players were tabbed with the Offensive Player Award. Bryce Willis, Gavin Grant and Chael Harris shared the recognition.
Three players shared the Defensive Player Award. They were Ayden Walley, Oliver Simon and Hunter Dendulk.
Jack Jamison received the Most Versatile Player with Aidyn Howard recognized as Most Improved Player. The Coaches Award was shared by Matthew Herring and Grayson Council.
Head coach Shannon Batten thanked his assistant coaches consisting of David Lanier, Blake Meeks, Trace Insalaco, Jon Jordan, Brad Arington, Lee Howard and Perry Tison.
“Thank you so much for your hard work, dedication, commitment to the players and football program and unwavering support throughout this season,” Batten said.
Batten presented Lanier, who has announced his retirement, with a helmet signed by all the football players. The color and style of the helmet was the one PCMS wore during Lanier’s years as the Bears head coach.
“I wanted to recognize coach Lanier for his professionalism, mentorship, friendship and dedication to PCMS football over the past 20 years as head coach and the last several years as offensive coordinator,” said Batten. “His years of experience cannot be duplicated. I also need him to not hang up his whistle because we need his help.
