By By Chandler Myers
A sophomore slump is the fear that consumes coaches after a player comes in as a freshman and plays with outstanding ability. The slump attacks players in their second year and shows a significant drop in production, but the best players continue to play hard and outshine previous accomplishments.
The Atmore Advance’s 2008 Offensive Player of the Year did not take a step backwards and continued to improve his play all season long.
Escambia County Blue Devils sophomore quarterback Rico Stallworth did not guide his team to the playoffs this season, but he did show toughness and determination in their return to Class 5A.
Stallworth said being named the offensive Player of the Year is a great honor and hopes he continues to compete at a high level.
Stallworth completed 50 percent of his passes this season, throwing for 959 yards and five touchdowns, while rushing 145 times for 1,008 yards and seven touchdowns.
Stallworth said he keeps track of his performances and judges himself on the production and outcome of each game. He believes his best game was against a rival school he played for the first time.
Stallworth’s play at ECHS has not gone unnoticed by his coaches or college scouts. The sophomore was recently added to Rivals.com as a recruit to watch for the 2011 graduating class.
Blue Devils head coach Kyle Davis said that his quarterback put up strong performances and improved his leadership this season.
Stallworth is already looking forward to the 2009 season. He said he wants to continue to improve and make significant strides in his abilities as a player and leader. He added that he will take the necessary steps to make that happen.