RHS' Mason Willis honored as state's best TE

By Staff
Scot Beard
After earning spots on the All-State and All-County teams, Russellville tight end Mason Willis continues to collect post-season awards.
Earlier this month Willis was named as member of the 2008 Reebok Alabama Football Phenoms offensive unit.
"I'm happy, but I never thought about it," Willis said. "I didn't think I would get All-State. It kind of shocked me."
The staff of AlabamaFB.com selects the Reebok Phenoms after talking with coaches and media across the state. The award is intended to recognize the top 24 players in the state – 12 offensive players and 12 defensive players – regardless of classification.
In other words, Willis was the state's best tight end in 2008.
"He has great hands. If you throw the ball close to him he will catch it," said Russellville coach Doug Goodwin. "He wants to do things right."
Willis, a junior, said he missed much of his sophomore season because he was hurt and wanted to make up for lost time this year.
He did just that by catching 43 passes for 592 yards.
His five touchdowns were fourth best on the team. He also returned two kickoffs for a total of 45 yards and recorded 22 tackles on defense.
As good as his season was, Willis sees room for improvement as he prepares for his senior season.
"I would like to get faster and get bigger," Willis said. "I'm small for a tight end."