Jim Walker

jim.walker@irontontribune.com

 

COAL GROVE — Austen Pleasants and Ike Pennington have been stars for the Coal Grove Hornets.

The senior duo have been upgraded to all-stars as they prepare to play in the Ohio High School Football Coaches Association’s 70th annual North/South Game on Saturday at Dayton’s Welcome Stadium.

There will be two games. The Divisions 4-7 game will be at 2 p.m. followed by the Division 1-3 game at 6 p.m.

The 6-foot-7, 295-pound Pleasants is a four-year starter and All-Ohio selectio who has signed with Ohio University.

“Austen is one of the better linemen in the state. He’s been a great player for us the past four years and he’s going to be a good player for the next four years,” said Hornets’ coach Dave Lucas.

The 5-foot-11, 275-pound Pennington is a four-year starter who drew praise from Lucas.

“He’s one of those guys who doesn’t meet criteria for college but meets all the things needed to be a good high school player,” said Lucas.

Former Ohio State Buckeyes’ running back Maurice Clarett will speak in the University of Dayton Arena at noon and also serve as the honorary captain.