Senior Ivan Jones concluded his final season of football where he finished the season with a total of 108 tackles which propelled him to receive honorable mention all-state. Ivan has been playing varsity football since freshman year and has been a varsity starter since his sophomore year. Ivan said, ¨starting was a huge accomplishment for me because not too many younger classmen get to start, let alone get a lot of playing time.¨

 Not only did Ivan start his sophomore year, but he also led the team in tackles with 70 during the 2019 season. This past year, he led the team again with 108 tackles. Therefore, it is very easy to tell that Ivan has been a vital part of the team the past four years. Teammate Marshall Blythe says, ¨Ivan is a fun person to be on the field with, because he is always upbeat and brings a lot of energy to every practice and game.”

He helped his team achieve team of the week after beating Murphysboro and helped lead the Carterville Lions to a season record of 7-2. This allowed them to make the playoffs this year.

 Additionally, Ivan has put in countless hours of dedication and hard work to achieve all that he has. Coach Brett Dial talks very highly of Ivan when saying, ¨He has been a three year starter for me on defense, and has the most experience out of everyone. That makes it easy for him to know when and where to be on the field, which makes it easier for him to play faster and hit harder. Overall, he is just a fun player to watch because of all the energy he brings.¨ 

Ivan also has attended several football camps which has allowed many schools to look at him as a potential college recruit. Ivan says he plans on playing football in college, but he is just waiting on the right opportunity to come up.