WOLFVILLE, N.S. - The 2014-15 season concluded with the Axemen Football team year-end team awards at the Acadia Athletics Fred G. Kelly Awards Night.
The 2014 Football Rookie of the Year is awarded to quarterback Thompson Richards. Thompson showed great poise and leadership when he was called upon this season. He was asked to join the team after a rash of injuries leading up to and during training camp at the QB position and exceeded all expectations. His efficiency as a passer was evident as he posted the highest completion percentage in the conference and gave us all a glimpse of good things to come.
Russell Rainey, a third year linebacker, was named the Most Improved Player of the Year. Russell won a starting position this season after making the switch from defensive back to outside linebacker. Russ started every game for the Axemen after not dressing a single game in 2013 and he finished in the top 10 in the AUS in tackles with 34.5, added a pair of quarterback sacks and 8.5 tackles for a loss. Russ also finished the first semester with a 3.93 GPA. Russ has come a long way in a short time and we expect big things from Russ next season.
Jesse St James, a two time 1st team all Canadian, was named as the team’s Lineman of the Year. His exceptional take off & speed has terrorized QB’s in the CIS over the last few seasons. He was first in sacks in the nation in 2013 & 3rd in 2014. Jesse is a well-rounded Defensive-end being equally good against the run, as the pass. He ranked 6th in the nation this season with 12.5 tackles for loss. Jesse has been invited to the CFL regional combine where he will look to impress scouts and get a chance at the next level.
This season’s Defensive Player of the Year Award goes to senior Linebacker Drew Morris. Drew Morris was the anchor of our Axemen front 7 from his middle linebacker position. Drew was named as an AUS All-Star in 2014 for the 2nd time in his career. Known for his physical style of play, Drew finished 2nd in the conference in tackles with 61. Drew was recognized for his efforts as a second team All-Canadian and by being selected to the CFL regional combine in 2015.
Eli Prochnau was the jack of all trades for the Axemen this year and was second in the team MVP voting but was honoured as the team’s Kristen Pipe Community Service Award. Since his arrival here to Acadia Eli has improved every year, overcome physical obstacles and all the while put the team first. As a leader within the team he is tireless and continues to stay consistent with who he is, on and off the field. We are very proud to honor Eli with the Kristin Pipe Coach’s award for 2014.
Wide receiver Brian Jones is this year’s Axemen Football’s Most Valuable Player. Brian led the conference in both receptions and yards this season despite being the focal point of every defense. He was able to physically over power defenders with size and strength or outrun opponents with his speed. Brian was named the AUS Most Valuable Player with his league leading 639 yards in receiving. This spring Brian will look to impress CFL scouts at the Annual East-West all-star game.