Profiles of eight Monroe County Region Associated Press Football All-Staters

COLE McELVANY, Milan

Age: 18.

Year: Senior.

Height: 6-2.

Weight: 210.

Honor: Associated Press Division 3-4 All-State, first team.

Position: Specialist.

Statistics: Led the team in passing (101-of-150 for 1,177 yards and 8 TDs) and rushing (160-1,185 yards, 20 TDs). Second in tackles with 104.

Full AP All-State teams: Associated Press All-State Football teams for all four 11-man divisions

What his coach, Jesse Hoskins said: “He is one of the smartest and most mature players I have ever coached. His stats are pretty amazing. In two years as the starting quarterback he has over 2,000 rushing and passing yards and over 50 touchdowns.”

Parents: Josh and Jayme McElvany.

Siblings: Tanner McElvany (23) and Madison McElvany (19).

People I most admire: My dad and grandpa Marty.

Favorite movie: “The New Edition Story.”

Favorite book: “The Hunger Games."

Favorite music: R&B.

Favorite class: Leadership.

The best thing about my school: Being able to be with my friends every day.

If I could change one thing about my school: I wish we had more kids get involved in sports.

The person most influential in helping me become a successful athlete: My grandpa Marty.

My greatest asset as an athlete: My football IQ and my versatility.

The moment I realized I could excel in sports: In little league.

Favorite team: The Detroit Lions.

I’m happiest when I’m: Playing sports.

Biggest thrill in sports: Winning back-to-back District championships my sophomore and junior year.

Biggest disappointment in sports: Losing my senior season in the District Final.

Best Christmas gift I ever received: A car.

Favorite place I have visited: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Place I would like to visit: The Bahamas.

Hobbies: Watching sports and hanging out with friends.

Future plans: Playing football at Eastern Michigan University and majoring in Education.

In 10 years, I see myself: Coaching high school football.

People would be most surprised to learn that: I had all of my high school math credits by the time I finished 7th grade.

Can’t live without: My family and football.

Best coaching advice I ever got: Control the things you can control and the rest will take care of itself.

What sports taught me about life: You can accomplish anything you set your mind to.

What role can athletes take in making our schools feel safer and more inclusive: Treat everybody with respect.

WILLLIAM GASKELL V, Milan

Age: 15.

Year: Sophomore.

Height: 6-2.

Weight: 200.

Honor: Associated Press Division 3-4 All-State, first team.

Position: Linebacker.

Statistics: Led the team with 134 tackles, 6 sacks, 3 interceptions, 4 caused fumbles and 17 tackles for loss.

What his coach, Jesse Hoskins said: “Billy burst on to the scene with some big time performances. He is going to be a force for the next two years.”

Parents: William Gaskell IV and Amanda Barnard.

Siblings: Ty Barnier (18), Cash Meyer (12), Aksel Meyer (8), Ryker Meyer (6), Isabella Gaskell (9), Benjamin Gaskell (3 months).

Person I would most like to meet: Tom Brady.

People I most admire: My dad and grandpa.

Favorite movie: “Forrest Gump.”

Favorite book: “Heat by Mike Lupica."

Favorite music: Hip Hop, R&B.

Favorite class: History.

The best thing about my school: Respectful teachers.

If I could change one thing about my school: Better school lunches.

The person most influential in helping me become a successful athlete: Coach Hoskins.

My greatest asset as an athlete: My physicality and taking no plays off.

The moment I realized I could excel in sports: When I started on varsity my freshman year.

Favorite team: Michigan football.

I’m happiest when I’m: Playing my favorite sport football.

Biggest thrill in sports: Winning District champs last year.

Biggest disappointment in sports: Losing to Chelsea in the second round of playoffs.

Best Christmas gift I ever received: Jordan football cleats.

Favorite place I have visited: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Place I would like to visit: Hawaii.

Hobbies: Football, baseball, basketball, hanging out with friends and family.

Future plans: Go to a Division 1 college.

In 10 years, I see myself: In my own house, graduated from college with a good job.

People would be most surprised to learn that: I have 6 siblings.

Can’t live without: Football, and my family.

Best coaching advice I ever got: Coach Zupi told me that if I play as hard as I can every play no one is stopping me.

What sports taught me about life: You get what you put into things.

What role can athletes take in making our schools feel safer and more inclusive: Sticking up for kids who can't stick up for themselves. Being kind and respectful to everyone in the school.

CODY BRITT, Gibraltar Carlson

Age: 17.

Year: Senior.

Height: 6-0.

Weight: 215.

Honor: Associated Press Division 3-4 All-State, second team.

Position: Running back.

Statistics: 221 carries 1,420 Yards, 21 TDs (24 total); 10 catches, 104 yards, 1 TD; 70 tackles, 7 tackles for loss, one interception for a TD, and 1 fumble recovery for a TD.

What his coach, Landon Grove said: “Nobody did what he did playing Class A football at the two positions that he did. Carrying the ball 30 plus times per game, then being a stud at middle linebacker is unheard of, and to do it at the level he did was special to see. Nobody outworked Cody and he deserves every accolade that he gets.”

Parents: Kim and Eric Britt.

Person I would most like to meet: Barry Sanders.

Favorite movie: “American Sniper.”

Favorite book: “American Chillers."

Favorite music: Rap.

Favorite class: Forensic Science.

The best thing about my school: The people and teachers.

If I could change one thing about my school: There's nothing I would have changed.

The person most influential in helping me become a successful athlete: There's not a specific person. Many people have helped me.

My greatest asset as an athlete: My versatility.

The moment I realized I could excel in sports: First time I was selected as a starter.

Favorite team: Detroit Lions.

I’m happiest when I’m: In the gym.

Biggest thrill in sports: The excitement of the spectators.

Biggest disappointment in sports: Losing.

Best Christmas gift I ever received: Shoes.

Favorite place I have visited: Las Vegas.

Place I would like to visit: London, UK.

Hobbies: Listening to music.

Future plans: Secure a job I love.

In 10 years, I see myself: With a career and family.

People would be most surprised to learn that: I am quiet.

Can’t live without: My phone.

Best coaching advice I ever got: Don’t give up.

OWEN SAMPSON, Ida

Age: 18.

Year: Senior.

Height: 5-10.

Weight: 160.

Honor: Associated Press Division 5-6 All-State, first team.

Position: Running back.

Statistics: 1,997 yards rushing, 21 TDs; 5 catches, 200 yards, 1 TD, set school record for rushing yards in a game (333), second all-time at Ida in single season rushing, most total yards from scrimmage in season all-time at Ida (2,197).

What his coach, Jeff Potter said: “Owen stepped up his game this year and he ran with a greater purpose. He has always had good speed and agility, but he really worked in the offseason to get stronger. Owen's work in the weight room enabled him to break more tackles and pick up extra yards after contact. He gained the ability to run through contact and make people miss, so he was difficult to tackle in the open field. He also become a better blocker, too.”

Parents: Steve and Carrie Sampson.

Siblings: Noah (24) and Clay (21).

Person I most admire: Eric Bugg.

Person (living or dead) I would most like to meet: Donald Trump.

Favorite movie: “Tommy Boy”.

Favorite book: “Green Eggs and Ham” by Dr. Seuss.

Favorite music: Country.

Favorite class: Special Topics: Advanced Health,

The best thing about my school: All of the friendships built from it.

If I could change one thing about my school: Have it so it would never have to end.

The person most influential in helping me become a successful athlete: My brother Clay.

My greatest asset as an athlete: My mentality, determination and the ability to give it all up for the team.

The moment I realized I could excel in sports: Fifth Grade Ida Lightning Pee Wee Football championship.

Favorite team: Michigan football.

I’m happiest when I’m: On the farm and with my friends.

Biggest thrill in sports: Beating Dundee my senior year.

Biggest disappointment in sports: Losing to Dundee my sophomore year.

Best Christmas gift I ever received: A four wheeler.

Favorite place I have visited: Grand Marais, Michigan.

Place I would like to visit: Montana.

Hobbies: Farming, football, hanging out with friends.

Future plans: Going into trade school.

In 10 years, I see myself: Working and being a football coach.

People would be most surprised to learn that: I sing to Taylor Swift in the shower.

Can’t live without: Football.

Best coaching advice I ever got: Determination will show on the field.

What sports taught me about life: The harder you work, the more you will excel.

What role can athletes take in making our schools feel safer and more inclusive: Use their leadership skills not only on the field, but also within everyday life in order to encourage positive communication with one another.

Noah Bauman, Whiteford

Height: 6-3.

Weight: 300.

Honor: Associated Press Division 7-8 All-State, first team.

Position: Line.

Statistics: Four-year starter, three-time All-Stater, 55 tackles, 31 solos, 9 sacks, 14 tackles for loss.

What his coach, Jason Mensing said: “Noah has been the heart of our offensive and defensive line for the last four years. I don’t believe there is a more talented player in Division 8. His work ethic, toughness, and love for the game is unmatched.”

Parents: Phil and Holly Bauman.

Siblings: Kalle Bauman (23), Nathan Bauman (20).

Person I most admire: My grandfather and father.

Person I would most like to meet: Ray Lewis.

Favorite movie: “The Blind Side.”

Favorite book: “The Bible.”

Favorite music: All genres.

Favorite class: Agriculture Shop.

The best thing about my school: The small class sizes.

If could change one thing about my school: Be allowed to wear hats in school.

The people most influential in helping me become a successful athlete: My teammates around me.

My greatest asset as an athlete: Leadership.

The moment I realized I could excel in sports: Freshman year during the Blissfield game.

Favorite team: Baltimore Ravens.

I’m happiest when I’m: Fishing.

Biggest thrill in sports: Sand Creek my sophomore year winning 28-6 and beating Britton Deerfield 58-56 in triple overtime.

Biggest disappointment in sports: Losing at Reading my freshman year.

Best Christmas gift I ever received: My dog.

Favorite place I have visited: Big Sky, Montana.

Place I would like to visit: Glacier National Park.

Hobbies: Fishing, hunting, hiking.

Future plans: Play college football and earn a degree in Mechanical Engineering.

In 10 years, I see myself: Living out west in the mountains.

People would be most surprised to learn that: I make my own fishing lures.

Can’t live without: Food.

Best coaching advice I ever got: Mind is to the body as 4 is to 1.

What sports taught me about life: Everything doesn’t go as planned, you will always face adversity and need to use it to your advantage

What role can athletes take in making our schools feel safer and more inclusive: Be the leaders, listen to your classmates around you and help them if they ask.

COLE GIESIGE, Whiteford

Year: Senior.

Height: 6-1.

Weight: 185.

Honor: Associated Press Division 7-8 All-State, first team.

Position: Running back.

Statistics: 158 carries for 1,257 yards and 21 touchdowns; 18 catches for 453 yards and 6 TDs.

What his coach, Jason Mensing said: “Cole is a tremendous worker, he constantly works to improve his craft in all the activities he is involved in. Cole has developed into a great runner, receiver, but most importantly leader of our program.”

Parents: Kim and Troy Giesige.

Siblings: Jake Giesige (16).

Person I most admire: My father.

Person (living or dead) I would most like to meet: Ronald Reagan or Michael Jordan.

Favorite movie: “Olympus Has Fallen.”

Favorite book: “The Great Gatsby” or “Hamlet.”

Favorite music: Country or Rap.

Favorite class: Chemistry.

The best thing about my school: The close knit community.

If I could change one thing about my school: That we don’t have an auditorium yet.

The person most influential in helping me become a successful athlete: My father.

My greatest asset as an athlete: My hard work and determination.

The moment I realized I could excel in sports: Around middle school when I got stronger and started to grow.

Favorite athlete: Clayton Kershaw.

I’m happiest when I’m: Playing sports.

Biggest thrill in sports: Close games and the student sections cheering you on.

Biggest disappointment in sports: Losing a close game.

Best Christmas gift I ever received: A trip to Crystal Mountain to snowboard.

Favorite place I have visited: New York City or Washington, D.C.

Place I would like to visit: Iceland.

Hobbies: Playing sports, reading.

Future plans: Become a pediatrician or businessman while playing baseball in college.

In 10 years, I see myself: Either in medical school or working on Wall Street.

People would be most surprised to learn that: I actually was born without 2 of my teeth.

Can’t live without: Milk.

Best coaching advice I ever got: When you want to be great, you will become great.

What sports taught me about life: Never to give up, keep on pushing when time gets tough. Rewards do not come easy. It takes pain, blood, sweat, and tears.

SHEA RUDDY, Whiteford

Year: Junior.

Age: 16.

Height: 5-11.

Weight: 165.

Honor: Associated Press Division 7-8 All-State, second team.

Position: Quarterback.

Statistics: 67-of-128 passing for 1,353 yards and 16 TDs; 96 carries for 786 yards and 9 TDs.

What his coach, Jason Mensing said: “Shea is a very talented dual-threat QB. His numbers speak for themselves but as a three-year starter, he understands football at a high level and has a calm demeanor and presence.”

Parents: Buffy and KC Ruddy.

Siblings: Ty (17), Ryin (15), Drew (14), Brek (12).

Person I most admire: Grandpa Williams.

Person (living or dead) I would most like to meet: Ronald Reagan.

Favorite movie: “The Tomorrow War.”

Favorite book: “Where Men Win Glory.”

Favorite music: Country.

Favorite class: Math.

The best thing about my school: Positive culture.

If I could change one thing about my school: Add wrestling program.

The person most influential in helping me become a successful athlete: My parents.

My greatest asset as an athlete: Leading by example.

The moment I realized I could excel in sports: When I first started playing football.

Favorite athlete: Drew Brees.

I’m happiest when I’m: Playing sports.

Biggest thrill in sports: Winning the Regional championship.

Biggest disappointment in sports: Losing in the state semifinals.

Best Christmas gift I ever received: Varsity jacket.

Favorite place I have visited: Grand Lake, Colorado.

Place I would like to visit: Alaska.

Hobbies: Anything sports related.

Future plans: I plan to go to medical school and become a sports medicine doctor.

In 10 years, I see myself: Working as a doctor, most likely in residence or fellowship.

People would be most surprised to learn that: I love tea.

Can’t live without: A supportive family.

Best coaching advice I ever got: Play every game like it’s your last.

What sports taught me about life: Hard work and discipline go a long way.

What role can athletes take in making our schools feel safer and more inclusive: Treat everyone just as they would treat you.

NATHAN HERRMANN, Summerfield

Age: 17.

Year: Senior.

Height: 6-1.

Weight: 175.

Honor: Associated Press Division 7-8 All-State, second team.

Position: Defensive back.

Statistics: Recorded 41 tackles to go along with 3 interceptions and a fumble recovery. Added 5 receptions for 167 yards and 2 touchdowns as a receiver.

What his coach, Alex Lipka said: “He’s very aggressive. This year he really grew into player who wasn’t scared to make a mistake. He had a big year last year and proved to himself that he is actually pretty good at this football. Honestly, he is one of the best raw athletes in the school.”

Parents: Michael Herrmann and Shelly Stumpmier.

Siblings: Ashley Herrmann (23), Rachel Herrmann (21), Mason Stumpmier (11) and Lacy Herrmann (7).

Person I most admire: My grandfather.

Person I would most like to meet: Sean Taylor.

Favorite movie: “Sand Castle.”

Favorite book: “Of Mice and Men.”

Favorite music: Rap.

Favorite class: Personal Finance.

The best thing about my school: It is small, so everyone knows everyone.

If could change one thing about my school: More sports equipment.

The people most influential in helping me become a successful athlete: Zach Phillip and Alex Lipka.

My greatest asset as an athlete: Being able to react on spot.

The moment I realized I could excel in sports: Junior year I had to start because of injuries.

Favorite athlete or team: Michigan State.

I’m happiest when I’m: Playing football or playing video games.

Biggest thrill in sports: Right before kickoff or in the blocks ready for the race (in track).

Biggest disappointment in sports: The seasons being too short.

Best Christmas gift I ever received: A football.

Favorite place I have visited: Florida.

Place I would like to visit: Colorado.

Hobbies: Fishing, hunting.

Future plans: Go into trades or go play football or track somewhere.

In 10 years, I see myself: Having my dream job and helping coach football.

People would be most surprised to learn that: I'm not very confident.

Can’t live without: My siblings.

Best coaching advice I ever got: You can do this it's all in your head.

What sports taught me about life: No matter how hard you get hit get up because life is going to bring you down so keep getting up.

What role can athletes take in making our schools feel safer and more inclusive: Treat everyone the same, like their teammates.

This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: Profiles of eight Monroe County Region Associated Press Football All-Staters