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Although the 2008 season did not turn out quite as planned for the Bonner Springs High School football team, the Braves were well represented on the All-Kaw Valley League postseason teams announced Monday morning.

Jonathan and Jeremy Walker were honored along with Max and Jake Barren.

Jonathan Walker is a repeat first-team honoree as a running back, a recognition that stands out even more considering the league was stacked at that position (Lansing’s Brenton Smith rushed for more than 1,400 yards and Mill Valley’s Nicholas Woods had more than 1,600). Walker finished the season with 1,192 yards rushing on 171 carries. He also earned second-team honors on defense with his improved coverage and powerful tackling at the safety position.

“Jonathan deserved the attention he got,” BSHS coach Lew Kasselman said. “Being named with those other quality running backs is an honor in itself. I would have liked to see him higher on the defensive side, but second team is still a nice honor in this league.”

Jeremy Walker earned a spot on the second team as a receiver, though he was certainly one of the most effective players at that position in the league. The KVL lumps “offensive backs” and “receivers” together into six available spots. With just six spots for quarterbacks, running backs and receivers Jeremy was left off the first team.

“Jeremy had the numbers and yards, no doubt,” says Kasselman. “He is one of the top receivers in the league.”

Jeremy Walker also received honorable mention recognition for his play at the other safety position opposite his brother in the Braves’ defensive backfield.

Jake Barren was named to the second team for his solid work on the offensive line. He helped clear holes up front for Jonathan Walker to run through, and provided solid pass protection allowing time for Braves quarterback Brandon Eastland to find Jeremy Walker on deep pass patterns. Many times his blocking keyed touchdowns.

Max Barren, along with brother Jake, earned honorable mention on defense. If you heard the loudspeakers at any of the football games, more than likely you heard a Barren given credit for a tackle in the middle of piles. They have a knack for being around the ball and don’t mind getting their noses dirty, according to their coach.

“They (Max and Jake) got quite a few votes this year and shouldn’t have trouble earning higher honors next year,” Kasselman said. “The coaches in this league know who they are and what type of players they are capable of being.”

Jake Barren led the BSHS defense in tackles with 97. Max Barren was third on the team with 65 and had team-highs with seven tackles for loss and five sacks.

Kasselman was happy to find out that his players were honored for their commitment this season to the program.

“You want the kids who are well deserving to earn awards,” he said. “It’s nice for them to be rewarded for all the hard work that they put in. It really shows the type of players they are.”

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