Showcase standouts strengthen Georgia Junior Sophomore Elite Classic

Six juniors earned roster spots in the 2015 Georgia Junior Elite Classic after attending Sunday’s Elite Classic Showcase at McEachern High School, none bigger than Mountain View offensive tackle Jonathan Stewart. Stewart, who stands 6-foot-8, 291 pounds will suit up for the Junior American team on Dec. 29 as the event kicks off its third edition of the junior all star game . Three-star receiver Corey Reed will represent Mays on the American team and brings his 6-foot-2 frame and athleticism to a talented American offense.

The National Junior team added four defensive players over the weekend that stood out at the showcase. Buford cornerback K.J. Anderson was picked up and Central Gwinnett defensive tackle Emmanuel McNeil was added to the National team’s star-studded front. Linebackers Jeffery Burley (Jackson) and Jacob Gregory (Centennial) were also invited with Gregory providing long snapper experience to the National team as well.

There were a total of 13 sophomores selected from the showcase to play in inaugural Elite Sophomore game on Dec. 29, including Woodstock quarterback Garrett Bass. The 6-foot-2 Wolverine will quarterback the American team with North Gwinnett’s Cade Fortin. The sophomore American Team also added two offensive lineman. Jackson’s George Ball is a 6-foot-3, 260-pound guard and Arabia Mountain’s Angelo Miller will likely take the majority of his snaps at tackle with his 6-foot-4, 270-pound frame. Ola’s Christopher Rodriquez was added to serve as the American running back and he is coming off an outstanding sophomore season that saw him rush for 1,479 yards off 178 carries (8.3 yards per carry). The 6-foot-1, 191-pound sophomore has the physicality to play both sides of the football and scored 18 touchdowns this past season. Centennial wide receiver Blane Mason is joining the American team and he will start what could be a very busy offseason with recruiting interest continuing to gain steam. Metter’s Shamel Johnson (CB), Lamar County’s Sean Smith (DE), Fitzgerald’s Kierron Smith (DT) and Manchester’s Jontavious Ferguson (LB) will bolster an already deep American defense.

The Sophomore National team added cornerbacks Tre Douglas and Myles Sims. Douglas was a member of ELCA’s state championship team this year and Sims saw action in 6A quarterfinalist Westlake’s secondary this season. Mundy’s Mill center Corey Freeman and Walton offensive tackle Matthew Hall were added to boost an offensive line responsible for protecting Peachtree Ridge quarterback Fred Payton and Taylor County quarterback Gunnar Watson.