2008 All Star West
James Williams
Fullback
5’10 lbs” 180 lbs
High School Coach: Al Slamer
High School, Class: Battle Creek Central, A
James was a three-year starter and served as a captain his senior year for the Battle Creek Central Bearcats where he played running back and defensive back. During James’ sophomore season, he started as a corner and ran for 132 yards on just four carries in one game. He ran for over 600 yards in one playoff game. During his junior season James found a spot in the record books of Battle Creek Central with a 93 yard kick return. He finished the season running over 700 yards total and made a streak of playoff appearances as the Bearcats went 6-4 for the season. In James’ senior season, he started as corner back and running back. He was honored with all conference and Honorable Mention All State offense and All City.
James also lettered in basketball and was a state qualifier in track and field.
James thanked, “God for all that he has done for me, without him none of this would be possible.” He also thanked his mom and dad for “my talent, their support and guidance.” James thanked uncles, Clyde Sanders, Michael Hightower and Marcus Tucker for “their discovering my athleticism.” He thanked Mike VanSycle, Orval King and Chris Caper for “all the practices and hours of putting time into my game.” In addition he thanked his sisters, grandmothers, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and fans for “believing in me and supporting me and being there when I needed you the most.” He said, “Thanks to all my coaches who coached me, to my teammates in any sport I played, thanks for the memories and experience that we shared together.”
Awards
All Southwest Michigan Conference Running back, 05, 06 & 07
All City Defensive Back, Battle Creek Enquirer, 2007
All City Running Back, Battle Creek Enquirer, 2007
All State Honorable Mention, 2007