Clinton — In an exhilarating finish to the MAIS Class 6A championship game, Hartfield Academy rallied to defeat Jackson Prep 19-14 on Saturday night, securing their second consecutive state championship. With less than two minutes left in the game and trailing by a single point, the Hawks needed a score to take the lead. That’s when Kenzy West stepped up, rushing for a crucial 3-yard touchdown that put Hartfield ahead.
However, the victory wasn’t sealed yet. Hartfield had to stop Jackson Prep’s offense with just a minute remaining, a challenge West willingly accepted. On the very first play of the ensuing drive, he forced a fumble that was recovered by Hartfield, clinching the win for his team. Hartfield’s head coach, Craig Bowman, praised West’s relentless effort, saying, “Kenzy does it all for us. He’s tired, he’s battered, he’s bleeding and he keeps saying, ‘Give me the ball and let’s go down and win the game.’”
West was not only the hero on offense, rushing for all three touchdowns, but also made significant plays on defense. He reflected on the importance of his performance, stating, “I knew I had to step in and do what I had to do to get the win.” This determination showed the commitment of the seniors to their team.
Teammate Bralan Womack praised West for his hard work and dedication, saying, “Kenzy West is that guy I’ve been telling everybody from Day 1. He believes nothing is given to him.” The team had faced difficult losses earlier in the season, but those moments only brought them closer, aiding their later success in the playoffs.
With this significant win, Hartfield concluded a challenging yet rewarding season, finishing with a record of 12-2 after overcoming past defeats against both Madison-Ridgeland Academy and Jackson Prep. Coach Bowman appreciated the team’s perseverance and adjustments made throughout the season, which ultimately led them to victory.
As the excitement settles, Hartfield Academy can proudly celebrate their championship title, thanks to a heart-stopping performance that showcased their resilience and teamwork.
