UC’s Smith, OC’ Light named All-State

Two players from Obion County teams have been selected to the Tennessee Sports Writers Association football All-State teams.

Gage Smith of Union City is a Class 2A selection, while Johnny Light of Obion Central was named to the 4A team.

Both players led their respective teams into the state playoffs this season, Union City advancing to the quarterfinal round and Central reaching the second round for only the fourth time in program history.

Gage was the heart and soul of the Golden Tornado squad, leading the team in tackles with 111, including 16 in a regular season match-up with Huntingdon, from his linebacker position.

He was also a steady contributor on offense, rushing for 578 yards and 11 touchdowns from his fullback position.

In addition to the TSWA team, Gage was selected to the Tennessee Football Coaches Association 2A all-state team.

Light was a record-setting ball-carrier for the Rebels, rushing for 1,936 yards and 21 touchdowns on 308 rushing attempts.

His signature game came in the opening round of the 4A playoffs against Melrose at Memphis where he tormented the Melrose defense for 322 yards and four TDs in a 42-32 win.

Among his many postseason honors, Light was named the Most Valuable Player in Region 7 and was The Messenger-Obion County Player of the Year.

Full stories on both players will be published in The Messenger’s next print edition on Jan. 11.