2 area running backs named second-team all-state

By Josh Bowe

Special to the Star-Telegram

Crowley coach Chris James remembers exactly how Larry Cheeks looked when he was a sophomore.

"He was about 140 pounds soaking wet," James said with a laugh.

That 140-pound running back has turned into an all-state second-team selection. The 2012 Texas Associated Press Sports Editors Class 4A all-state teams were announced Wednesday and Cheeks was one of two area running backs on the second team.

Fort Worth Western Hills senior running back Aaron Stevenson joineds Cheeks on the second team. Fort Worth Eastern Hills senior offensive lineman Cody Hayes also made the second team.

Cheeks ran for 1,923 yards and 23 touchdowns and led Crowley to an undefeated district record and the 8-4A district title. Crowley won a playoff game before falling to Birdville in the area round.

"It definitely represents all the hard work I've put in because I'm not the biggest guy out there," Cheeks said. "I'm actually kind of little, people tell me. This shows that size doesn't matter."

James said this accomplishment solidifies the commitment Cheeks showed in the summer and off-season.

"Larry's a leader on and off the field," James said. "He makes great grades and he's a great leader. He's definitely an example for the kids at Crowley High School."

Stevenson rushed for 1,880 yards and 17 touchdowns for Western Hills. Hayes helped lead the Eastern Hills offense to 1,503 rushing yards. They were the only two Fort Worth school district players to make a 4A all-state team.

Aledo had three players represented: junior offensive lineman Cory Stitle, senior defensive back Shea Wood and junior linebacker Jordan Mittie.

Stitle and Wood both made the second team and Mittie was an honorable mention.

"Jordan Mittie is one of the best defensive high school football players I've ever been around," Aledo coach Tim Buchanan said. "Cory Stitle is one of those kids that can play just about any position on the offensive or defensive front. He's strong, he's fast and has great football savvy.

"It's going to mean a tremendous amount to Shea. He had hoped to go out his senior year with another state championship. This will not replace that, but it will help."

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