The annual Athletic Banquet was held in the Red River High School Gym last week. Outstanding athletes were recognized. But this year the emphasis of the evening was on something else.

New Athletic Director Billy Henry, Jr. told the gathering, “Our players will be scholars first. We must remember that the reason for the athletic programs is to educate our athletes.”

During the evening there was emphasis on accomplishments in the classroom. All sports presented awards for athletic achievement, however there were also trophies presented for earning high academic marks.

The coaches selected the overall student athletes from all sports. The girls overall athlete is Kori Allen. The boys overall athlete is Jon Russell.

Recognition of Overall MVP from all sports went to Greg Wallace for the boys. Ziaya Drakes was named girls Oveall MVP.

A head coach and assistant coach from all sports was announced. Earl Martin was recognized as the Assistant Coach of the Year for his 30+ years service to Red River sports. Head Coach of the Year honors went to Zachary Thrasher for coaching the girls softball team to a winning season. Missy Antilley was recognized for being named the Shreveport Times District 1-2A Girls Basketball Coach of the Year.

Dez Bryant of the track team was recognized for winning the state 2-A championship in the 400 meters for the third year in a row. Bryant presented three pair of cleats, one from each year, to be retired in the school trophy case.