Six representatives from Jackson Parish took part in the Gridiron Football All-American Bowl Game Series was played on the campus of Louisiana Christian University in Pineville, La, on December 27-30.

Representing Jonesboro-Hodge High School in the varsity division was JHHS head coach Terrance Blankenship, who was selected as an assistant coach in the Bowl Game for an 8th consecutive year, and senior Tiger players Landon Boston and Dakota Knox. In the Junior High Division, Levi Martin and Corey Campbell were selected to play with Carlos Hicks being chosen as an assistant coach. 

The varsity division was comprised of four teams, with Boston playing running back and Knox a cornerback on the “Knights” team, which beat the Demons 31-21 in the semi-finals before falling to the Lions 7-0 in the championship game. 

Three teams made up the Junior High Division, with Martin playing wide receiver and safety and Campbell competing as a running back and linebacker for the “North” team that beat the “South” in the semi-finals before losing to the “Central” team in the finals. 

Beginning in 2018, the Gridiron Football All-American Bowl has spotlighted elite high school talent from across the U.S. and Canada in front of college coaches and has a 97.6% success rate for getting players college offers. Participation is by invitation only. To be considered, athletes must have a minimum 2.8 GPA and be All-District, All-Metro, or All-State, with a coach’s recommendation.

The Junior High All-American Bowl was implemented in 2022 to inspire the youth to be a complete STUDENT-ATHLETE. Studies show that participants have improved their test scores, morale, and participate in more after-school activities