By David Fleet
Editor
Lansing — Two seniors from the Goodrich Martians Varsity Football team and one Brandon Blackhawk were named all-state by the Michigan High School Football Coaches Association announced Nov. 27. There were 34 players on the Division 4 all-state team on offense, defense or as specialists.
The Brandon Blackhawks were 5-5 during the 2023 season which ended with a first round playoff loss to the Goodrich Martians.
BHS Senior Wide Receiver Drew Hickmott was named to the first-team offense.
“Great accomplishment for a great young man,” said Blackhawk Head Coach Brad Zube. “Back to back all state honors are well deserved. Four time All Flint Metro League too.”
During the 2023 season, Hickmott caught 47 passes for 929 yards scored 11 total touchdowns and a career of more than 3,000 yards of total offense.
“One of the best Blackhawks to ever play for us,” added Zube. “The 2023 season was the eighth consecutive year that the Blackhawks have had an all state player.”
The Goodrich Martians were 11-2 during the 2023 season which ended with a state semi-final playoff loss to Harper Woods.
GHS Junior Running Back Chase Burnett was named to the first-team offense. Burnett played in 13 games during the season 258 carries,1,926 yards rushing with 25 touchdowns.
“As a team we came in the season with the mind-set no one is going to hold us back,” said Burnett. “That attitude made me strive for greatness, worked hard in practice and came ready to play.”
GHS Senior Linebacker Easton Phipps was named to the first-team defense. Phipps played in 13 games during the 2023 season with 133 tackles, 64 solo, 24 tackles for losses, four interceptions, two quarterback sacks and two defensive touchdowns.
Martian Head Coach Tom Alward said both players were exceptional athletes and leaders during the season.
“Phipps not only led us in tackles but also threw for almost 1,000 yards and had 500 yards rushing,” said Alward.
“Burnett is by far one of the best in the state, he’s our second leading tackler on defense and still carried for almost 2,000 yards on offense. His conditioning is amazing they just can’t slow him down. As a runner he delivers a hit when they try to stop him. A very durable rusher.”