2A HONORS: Center Hibbs an anchor in Bobcats’ run to state title game
In the midst of its best season in decades, White Pine’s football team has no shortage of skill-position stars.
But the Bobcats probably wouldn’t have such a consistent offense or dominating defense without an unsung hero: center Christopher Hibbs.
The White Pine senior, who also plays defensive tackle, recently garnered recognition when coaches voted him the Class 2A Southern League Lineman of the Year.
“He doesn’t expect any praise,” Bobcats coach Paul Bingham said. “At the end of the day, he just wants to know he did the best he could. The kid is all heart.”
The 6-foot-4-inch, 230-pound Hibbs not only anchored White Pine’s offensive line this season, but also posted 45 tackles, including 27 solo.
He’ll be counted on as White Pine (11-0) plays a physical Pershing County (10-1) team for the Class 2A state title at 3 p.m. Saturday at Damonte Ranch in Reno.
White Pine is playing for its first state title since 1968.
The Bobcats were rewarded for their breakthrough season with several other awards.
Running back Devante Valencia took league Offensive Most Valuable Player, and Bingham was named Coach of the Year.
Valencia is a threat running and catching the ball, and in the return game. The speedy senior lined up in multiple positions on offense, and enters the state final with 473 yards and nine touchdowns rushing, along with 23 catches for 516 yards and five TDs.
“Devante did a great job. The kid is a threat all over the field,” Bingham said.
The top overall award, Player of the Year, went to The Meadows senior quarterback Garrett Gosse.
Gosse passed for 2,700 yards and 32 TDs this season, carrying The Meadows to the 2A state semifinals.
Defensive MVP went to Mountain View senior outside linebacker Trevor Van Kempen.
Van Kempen had 89 tackles, one sack and six interceptions this season. He set a state record with five interceptions in a 42-14 win at Calvary Chapel on Oct. 14.
