Huntingdon trio looking forward to second All-Star opportunity

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – Huntingdon seniors Willie McDowell, Cody Pearcy and Keith Anthony each enjoyed their first experience in an all-star college football game in December.

On Monday, the three will have a chance to play in another all-star game -- the Hansen Bowl.

"It's always exciting to be able to go play football," McDowell said. "This game has an established tradition and it's a great opportunity to be able to play in it. With the amount of talent on the rosters, it's a great chance to see how you match up with some of the best in the country.

"There are a lot of us that hope this game will help us get noticed. You don't know what is going to happen, but I hope I can make the most of this opportunity."

During the All-American Bowl in December, McDowell and Pearcy each earned starting positions at receiver and Anthony started at safety. Anthony was named Defensive Player of the Game for the Stripes team.

Anthony said he believes the experience in the first game has helped prepare all three players for the Hansen Bowl.

"I was nervous before the All-American Bowl and I didn't really know what to expect," Anthony said. "Going into this game, I feel like I have a better understanding of what to expect. I think all three of us have a better idea of how we stack up now.

"There is a little pressure going into this one because we all want to make the most of this opportunity."

Players reported to Virginia Beach, Va., on Friday and practiced during the weekend. Monday's kickoff is set for 12:10 p.m. central and will be televised on a delay basis. According to the Hansen Bowl website, the date, time and channel will be announced after the game.

"From what I understand, this game is supposed to feature the best of the best from Division III, Division II and NAIA," Huntingdon football coach Mike Turk said. "It's good for our program to have three guys selected and I'm excited for them to have this opportunity. It's another chance for them to show what they can do.

"All of them have aspirations of playing beyond college. The more they present their case, the better off they'll be. They all three definitely have abilities and I'm proud of the way they're challenging themselves against the best competition in the country."

One of the draws for the Hansen Bowl is the presence of NFL, Canadian Football League, Arena League and other scouts.

"Knowing there are going to be scouts there, it just pushes you to work harder. If you play well in this game, there is a better chance of being noticed," Pearcy said. "You only live once and there's no reason not to give this everything we have. The worst thing that can happen is the scouts tell you no. Whatever happens, I just want to do my best so that I don't have any regrets."