Quarterback Braden Sheldon doesn’t take any games for granted. He knows all too well how precious it is to put on the pads, and how quickly that can be taken away.
Last fall while playing for Kelly Catholic, Sheldon suffered a season-ending, lower-leg injury in the first game of the season. It’s why he’s cherishing the chance to play high school football one last time on Friday night at Beaumont ISD Memorial Stadium.
Sheldon is one of more than 70 seniors from across Southeast Texas who will take part in the 2021 SETCA Christus All-Star Football Classic. Players were selected through nominations from their coaches after strong seasons last fall.
For some, Friday will mark the last time playing organized football. Others, like Sheldon, who will soon play at Tyler Junior College, are using the game as a tune-up before moving on to the next level.
“I didn’t really have many games as a senior, so to play in front of my city and this area one last time is a blessing,” Sheldon said. “It’s the perfect mix of competitive intensity and having fun with guys you’ve grown up playing with.”
Players were split up into East and West teams depending on the geographical location of their schools. Beaumont United’s Marcus Graham will coach the East team, while Anahuac’s Greg Neece will lead the West squad.
Leading up to the game, Graham has tried to keep things simple at practice, especially since one of the sessions was rained out. He’s focused on implementing a system quickly and using easy terminology so all the players can catch on.
“I’ve been so impressed with the football acumen and the intensity these guys have shown this week,” Graham said. “They’re all-stars for a reason. If anything, I’ve had to slow them down a bit.”
The practices have also given players a chance to see future college teammates and opponents. On the East team, Sheldon has bonded with Nederland running back Josh Mazyck, who will be at Blinn College next season.
The two will play against each other this fall as conference foes.
“He’s a baller,” Sheldon said of Mazyck. “That dude is the real deal, and from what I’ve seen this week, he’s going to be a problem at the next level. I even tried to convince him to maybe rethink and come to TJC.”
Friday’s football game will be the last contest in this year’s SETCA Christus All-Star Classic. The softball and baseball games were held Wednesday night at Barbers Hill High School, followed by volleyball and basketball events on Thursday at East Chambers High School.
Last year’s all-star events were canceled during the coronavirus pandemic.
Kickoff on Friday night at Beaumont ISD Memorial Stadium is scheduled for 7 p.m. Graham said he hasn’t spoken with Neece since the game was announced, but expects a fun matchup with his fellow Southeast Texas coach.
“This is such a great event for kids to go out and put on a high school jersey one last time,” Graham said. “They’ve all had a great attitude and I’m just thankful to be a part of it.”
mfaye@beaumontenterprise.com
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