Malachi Batts, who wore No. 1 as a senior, made all-conference.
(Dunn Area Sports Photo)

The Tri-County Six 3-A Conference has announced its football all-conference selections.

Ben Penny of Triton is Coach of the Year after guiding the Hawks to a 4-1 league record following a limited preseason, due to COVID, that did not include a scrimmage.

Jayden Byrd, a 6 feet, 270-pound senior tackle and defensive end at Western Harnett, was named Athlete of the Year.

Triton had three players on the all-conference team, including senior Malachi Batts at running back, Amir Wynn on the defensive line and freshman J.J. Cowan, who was an at-large selection on the offensive unit.

Harnett Central was represented by offensive lineman E.J. Artis, wide receiver Jayden Bryant and Hanson Staps as a defensive at-large choice.

Misha-el Vines (at large, offense), linebacker Xavier Jackson and defensive back Carl Collins were chosen from Western Harnett.

The Offensive Player of the Year award went to Tyric McKendall of league champion Lee County. Derran McKoy of the Yellow Jackets was Defensive Player of the Year. Ahmad Jones of Union Pines was the Special Teams Player of the Year.

Coach Ben Penny said Triton kept striving to improve in 2021.
(Dunn Area Sports Photo)