Riverdale’s Williams, Carlisle named All-MAIS
Riverdale defensive players Kaidyn Williams and Tanner Carlisle were named to the Midsouth Association of Independent School’s Class 1A team as voted by coaches who reached the quarterfinals of the 1A playoffs.

Williams appeared on the MAIS’s version of the all-state team as a defensive back while Carlisle made the squad as an all-purpose defensive player.

The seniors patrolled the defensive backfield, Williams as a safety and Carlisle as a cornerback.

Both also played offense as Williams was Riverdale’s primary rusher and Carlisle a key receiver.

Two Rebels play in MAIS All-Star Game
Riverdale seniors Kaidyn Williams and Logan Gryder were members of the winning Blue team (46-14) in the Class 1A/2A MAIS All-Star game on Thursday at Madison-Ridgeland Academy in Mississippi.

Williams predominantly played receiver and cornerback in the game, neither of which were positions he typically plays.

But he did catch one long pass and was targeted on several others.

Gryder played on both offensive and defensive lines in the contest, which was the first to feature eight-man football rules.

“I think it’s always a great opportunity for the players to make an All-Star game and represent their school,” said Riverdale coach Nathan Edie, who braved frigid conditions to watch his boys at the All-Star game. “The boys have put in the work and deserve to be rewarded for it.

“Words can’t express what Kaidyn meant to our team this year, and Logan became a leader as the year went on. As a coach, you can’t be prouder than to see your boys succeed and get rewarded for that success.”

Williams named Offensive MVP to lead Riverdale’s group of all-district performers
Riverdale offensive weapon Kaidyn Williams was named the Offensive MVP of District 3-1A to lead a group of Rebel all-district performers.

While primarily a running back, Williams filled in at quarterback for the first half of the season when Ashton Almond was injured in the first game.

Whether running as a quarterback or from the running back position, Williams proved to be dangerous from anywhere in the backfield.

Williams was joined on the first team by seniors Logan Gryder and Tanner Carlisle.

Ben Moseley was voted to the second team and a lineman.

Riverdale surged late in the season to post a 5-6 record and finished second in the district.

The Rebels won one playoff game before falling in the quarterfinals.