Submitted Photo

Luke Brown signs to play football at Kentucky Christian University. Pictured, Front: Rhonda Brown , Luke, Scott Brown. Back: Dave Frantz , Mike Smith, Bill Crabtree, Brooks Fry, Coach Blackstone, Jared Lute.

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By BOB STRICKLEY

PDT Sports Editor

McDERMOTT — The product of four years of hard work came to fruition Thursday morning as Northwest football standout Luke Brown signed to continue his football career at Kentucky Christian University.

In his four seasons at Northwest, Brown grew to be the centerpiece of the Mohawk offense and was twice named to the Division IV All-State list for his efforts.

In his junior and senior seasons, Brown proved to be a nightmare for defensive coordinators and blossomed under the tutelage of coach Brooks Fry.

“I only had the opportunity to coach him for the last two years and he was a huge part of what we did here,” Fry said. “He put up amazing stats and you would see him in the paper every week.”

Over the span of his two seasons under Fry, Brown compiled 2,101 yards rushing on 388 carries and also hauled in 27 catches for 432 yards. His versatility allowed him to register multiple touchdowns in every phase of the game with 26 overall touchdowns.

On top of his ability with the ball in his hands, he also racked up 102 tackles and two interceptions as a safety and linebacker. His all-around game gives Fry the impression he will be used in multiple positions at KCU.

“He did a little bit of everything for us and I would think they will do the same with him, and quickly,” Fry said.

Outside of his abilities between the lines, Fry spoke highly of the type of character Brown possesses.

“He was a good leader in the locker room and is a great kid,” Fry said. “He worked extremely hard in the weight room and was the strongest player on our team.”

Brown will join Valley standout Tyler Rowe as the second player from Scioto County to announce his intention of playing his home games an hour away in Grayson, Ky.

“Luke had some bigger programs that were interested in him but I think the idea of going somewhere close to home was a big factor in his decision, along with the opportunity to play right away,” Fry said.

The Mohawks were left with a difficult void to fill as Brown put a lid on his high school football career Thursday morning. However, his coach feels the impression left by his do-it-all star will help current and future players at Northwest.

“He set a great example to our kids that if you work hard enough you can accomplish something like this,” Fry said. “He was the first one of my kids to sign to play at the next level and hopefully there will be more like him in the near future.”

Bob Strickley may be reached at 740-353-3101, ext. 203, or bstrickley@heartlandpublications.com.