[Buckskin86]

http://www.thedailyindependent.com/s...7365954117.php

RACELAND State record-setting football player Aaron Pettrey of Raceland is also in select company nationally.

Known for his multi-threat ability, Pettrey is one of 50 high school players across the country to be named an Old Spice Red Zone Player of the Year.

The program recognizes individuals who exemplify leadership and elevate their play and that of their teammates, especially in the football field's Red Zone. Winners were chosen from a pool of nominees representing more than 4,500 participating schools.

"It's great,'' Pettrey said. "I didn't even think I would be in the running. It's a really nice honor.''

Pettrey, a first team All-State selection, set a state record by completing just under 72 percent of his career passes. He also put his name at the top of the Kentucky record book with a 58-yard field goal against Berea.

Pettrey has verbally committed to Ohio State as a kicker.

"He's a fabulous player,'' said Raceland coach Randy Vanderhoof. "Aaron developed into probably the best quarterback that ever played in this area, and the best kicker, too.''

Pettrey, a 6-foot-3 senior, threw for 5,200 yards in two seasons and kicked 24 career field goals. Last season, he passed and ran for more than 3,000 yards. In the Berea game, he kicked two field goals of more than 50 yards.

As one of the 50 Red Zone Players of the Year, Pettrey will be recognized in a full-page congratulatory announcement in USA Today on Feb. 5.

He also receives an awards package including a logo fleece, a plaque and a medal.

"It's a great individual award for Aaron,'' Vanderhoof said. "Then again, we look at it as a great team award for Raceland High School and the Raceland Rams.''

The Red Zone Player of the Year program is sponsored annually by Procter & Gamble, the maker of Old Spice Red Zone Deodorant.

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