Hopewell’s Heath picked to play in Shrine Bowl

Hopewell High running back/linebacker Denzel Heath, one of the area’s best two-way players, was picked to play in the 75th Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas on Dec. 17 in Spartanburg, S.C.

The game, which will benefit the Shriners Hospitals for Children, matches the top 44 seniors from North Carolina against those from South Carolina.

The 5-foot-11, 195-pound Heath has rushed for more than 900 yards and 10 touchdowns this season. He’s also the Titans’ top defensive player. Last week, Heath had a 72-yard touchdown run against Mallard Creek, the state’s top 4A team.

“Denzel making the Shrine Bowl was a great accomplishment for himself and the Hopewell football program,” Titans coach David Johnson said. “Through the whole year Denzel has exemplified what Hopewell football is about. Playing every play with maximum effort, Denzel has been a leader for us on both sides of the ball.

“Whether we need a huge first down and he has to carry the ball, or a stop on fourth down, Denzel has stepped up in every big situation,” Johnson continued. “I could not be prouder of this young man, and am glad to see that his efforts are being recognized outside the city of Charlotte.”

Davidson Day’s Grier tops in nation

Davidson Day quarterback Will Grier, a sophomore, leads the nation with 41 touchdown passes, according to maxpreps.com.

Grier’s 2,762 passing yards in eight games rank eighth nationally. Last week, in a 45-14 road victory against North Lenoir, Grier was 27-of-40 passing for 397 yards and six touchdowns. His scoring passes went to five different receivers – Aaron Seward, Mike Stevens, Jordan Brown, Jason Eddie and Jordan Young.

Hough’s Mobley fit to be a king

Wide receiver Brandon Mobley was voted Hough High’s first homecoming king. He was honored at the Oct. 14 homecoming game against Mooresville.

When the three senior finalists were named during halftime ceremonies, Mobley was in the locker room with teammates, and his mother walked onto the field unescorted.

A couple of minutes after Mobley’s name was announced as the winner, he bolted from the locker room, received a warm hug from his mom and was fitted with a crown and black cape. Then, it was back to the locker room.

Davidson Day in search of playoff home

Davidson Day (8-0) almost certainly will qualify for the N.C. Independent Schools Athletic Association Division III playoffs. That means the Patriots will host a first-round playoff game on Nov. 4, but they don’t have a home field with lights or adequate seating.

Coach Chad Grier said potential sites are Johnson C. Smith University, where Davidson Day played its lone “home” game this season. Victory Christian, Hopewell, Mooresville and Davidson College also could be options.