Older, wiser White Station standout primed for big year
Last season was a learning experience, albeit a painful one, for White Station defensive back Tony Becton.
The class of 2014 standout and his Spartans teammates went into the year with the highest of expectations, including a No. 4 ranking in last year’s preseason Dandy Dozen. But White Station forfeited their season opener against Ridgeway following a hazing incident at a preseason team camp.
The Spartans also forfeited victories over Arlington and Hamilton for using an in e ligible player. Those losses helped contribute to a 4- 6 record — and no postseason football.
“It was real difficult,” said Becton, who is one of the area’s most sought-after prospects.
“I really wanted to get to state for our seniors. We had grown so close. Every week it seemed like something different was popping up.”
But as tough as last season was for Becton and his teammates, the player said he gained wisdom and insight.
“I learned that anything is possible, both good and bad,” he said. “And I learned that you have to watch what you say and do at all times.”
Becton will be one of the leaders for a new-look White Station squad this year. Joe Rocconi replaces Devin Rutherford as coach and the schedule isn’t kind, with a season opener on the road against Mississippi power South Panola one of many tough tests.
But Becton said he’s up for the challenge, and several colleges will be keep-
ing a close eye on how he does.
“I’m getting the most attention from Arkansas State, Middle Tennessee State and UAB,” said the ultra-athletic 5-10, 175-pounder. “And I’m also getting a lot of mail from Cincinnati, Wake Forest, Central Arkansas.”
Becton said he doesn’t have any offers yet. But with camp stops planned for later this month at Cincinnati and UAB, some may start coming his way.
“I’m probably going to choose after the football season,” said Becton, who also plays basketball for the Spartans. “I’m looking for a good football school, not too big of a school, but one with good coaches and a good fan base.
“And of course playing time; I just want to be out there on the field.”
Becton called the recruiting process “exciting yet confusing,” but he’s had some good role models. Two players from last year’s team — Jason Carr and Donald Gray — signed with SEC schools Tennessee and Mississippi State, respectively, and Becton said he learned a lot by watching his friends go through the process.
“I watched Donald and Jason last year and soaked up what they were going through,” he said. “At first when I started getting the letters, I didn’t know what it actually meant to be on (coaches’) radar. ... This year, I’m going to play with a sense of urgency.”