ON THE MARK: SANTA FE’S KANIPES NAMED 12-5A-2 FOOTBALL COACH OF THE YEAR

SANTA FE’S Mark Kanipes was selected as the District 12-5A-2 coach of the year after guiding the Indians to their first playoff appearance since 2009 and one of the program’s biggest victories when they shocked then-top 10 ranked Crosby in October. The Indians finished 5-6 overall and 4-3 in district play, all but erasing the expectations of pundits who had the team ranked near the bottom of the district at the start of the regular season. Quarterback Nathan Kruger was named to the 12-5A-2 first offense, ranking among the Greater Houston area leaders in passing yards. Also joining Kruger on the first team was receiver Austin Lamb, who was among the state’s top pass catchers with 113 receptions. Linebacker Colton Scott was named to the first team defense, while Lamb also earned first team honors as the district’s best punter. Receiver Nate Hays and offensive lineman Joey Gibbs were named to the second team offense. Defensive lineman Kaleb Wisko, linebacker Michael Moore and defensive back Landon Thompson each earned second team defensive nods. Port Neches-Groves quarterback Roschon Johnson was named the 12-5A-2 most valuable player, with Baytown Lee quarterback Ijena Wooley selected as the offensive most valuable player. Nederland linebacker Adam Roccaforte received defensive MVP kudos, while Nederland running back Kade Scott was chosen as the 12-5A-2 newcomer of the year. Crosby kickoff/punt return specialist Marquise Doucette was named the district’s top special teams performer.