Incoming Freshman Earn Honors

Four incoming University of Central Oklahoma athletes earned player of the year honors for the 2017-2018 academic year.

“Big things are happening at Central Oklahoma,” said UCO athletics director Eddie Griffin. “This is a testament first to our coaches and the outstanding job they’re doing in recruiting.”

Wrestler Jerome Townsell of Edison Preparatory School in Tulsa earned Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame Jim Thorpe Wrestler of the Year after finishing his senior season with a 38-1 record. He won his third-straight 182-pound title.

Running back Payton Scott of Sand Springs earned 2017 Gatorade Oklahoma Football Play of the Year after setting a single-season rushing record with 2,597 yards along with 33 touchdowns. He also owns the single-game rushing record with 507 yards and finished his career with 5,826 yards and 71 touchdowns.

Pitcher Chandler Shapard of Heritage Hall earned The Oklahoman’s Little All-City Player of the Year after posting an 8-1 record with 104 strikeouts.

Volleyball player Amanda Desch of Topeka, Kansas earned back-to-back player of the year honors and is a three-time state champion.

“There are a lot more kids coming to UCO that have earned very significant awards,” Griffin said. “We’re looking forward to seeing what they can do to help UCO win more national championships.”