Friday, Aug. 08, 2008

Hicks changes, two others commit

By BRIAN HERNALSTEEN

News-Mirror Writer

The University of Texas just lost a big fish.

Antoine Hicks, who graduated from Timberview High School in June, is now at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth. The decision came down this week and Hicks is now practicing with the football team.

The decision is big news and the press release was timed appropriately.

Two other top recruits from the Mansfield schools were announced this week. Stepfan Taylor, who will be a senior running back at Mansfield High and widely considered as a top state recruit, committed to Stanford University this week. Eric Stephens, a senior running back at Timberview High also considered one of the state’s best, pledged to the University of Minnesota.

While at Timberview, Hicks was a multiple sport star in basketball, track and baseball. This past year, though, Hicks focused his time on football.

Hicks was ranked in ESPN’s top 150 recruits list for the country, due to his impressive athleticism.

At the beginning of the 2007 season, Hicks was slated at the starting quarterback. Over time, Hicks saw plenty of on-field action at running back, receiver, cornerback, safety and kicker.

"He was a tremendous athlete and did everything for us. He did it all, and did it very well," said Timberview coach Terry Cron. "Being the stellar athlete that he is, I expect nothing but good things from him in college."

In addition to his stellar play on the field, Hicks was also a star track athlete. He was a part of the 4x200 and 4x400 relay teams that advanced to state.

In his final season at Timberview, Hicks was a part of a 9-4 football team that advanced the deepest in the playoffs in school history.

"He will be missed here. He was a team captain for two years and was greatly respected by his teammates and opponents. Antoine was one of those guys that would lead by example," Cron said. "One of the biggest reasons why we were successful this year was because of his play and leadership. He has the tools to be utilized as just about anything at the collegiate level.

"He is a quiet kid, and his actions on and off the field speak louder than words."

Taylor and Stephens are entering their senior years at their respective schools, and many scouts expect big numbers from the pair.

With Timberview moving to 4A into a very impressive football district, Stephens has every opportunity to prove himself against some of the state’s best teams.

"I try to leave it up to my players to explore all the options that they have. I know that Eric considered everything when choosing Minnesota, but I wanted to be a little selfish and have him closer to the area so I could go watch him on a weekend," said Cron. "I’m excited for him. He said he felt really at home with the staff and I’m proud of him and support him wherever he goes."

Mansfield’s back is also expected to do big things, especially with new coach Jeff Hulme. The Tigers are switching to a power back offense, with Taylor sure to get many opportunities at carrying the ball.

Former Mansfield coach Kirk Thor and current assistant athletic director for the district knows that Taylor will be a success.

"I’m very proud of him. He is one of those kids that is not just a great football player, but a great person as well. He is going to get a great education and a chance to play Pac-10 football," said Thor. "He is one those kids that coaches love to coach. He is a regular team player, and is very humble and well respected among his peers."

Taylor’s decision this week now takes the pressure off the senior, and will allow him to focus on Tiger football this year.

"It feels nice to get that off of my chest, because it could be stressful at times," Taylor said of his decision. "Stanford is a great school with great academics. Also, the weather is nice.

"I like the coaching staff and the team, and they are dedicated to turning the program around. It is a perfect environment for me to play and focus on academics."