Fogerson is ESP's State Player of the Year

How hard was it too choose the most outstanding player in the state this year? The self-debate lasted for more than in a week before deciding on the final winner. But once the decision was made, it was clear that one prep stood above the rest this year.

With the amazing amount of talent in the state of Washington this year, it’s not easy to choose just one as the Evergreen State Preps Player of the Year. Potential winners included a rising star quarterback (Jake Heaps), and a prolific wide receiver (Cody Bruns), and while they both had great years, it was the hard nosed runner from Seattle’s First Hill that was the most outstanding player in Washington this year.

O’Dea running back Johri Fogerson provided “wow” moments all year in an Irish uniform. From his first 140 yard, four touchdown performance in August against Enumclaw, to his record breaking state final game in a loss to Skyline, Fogerson lit up the scoreboard all year.

On the year, Fogerson’s numbers were astronomical. In just twelve games, he ran for 2,545 yards (181.8 yards per game), scoring four rushing touchdowns, and added two more touchdowns receiving. With those kinds of numbers, it would be easy for Fogerson to think he was a one-man show. But his appreciation for his offensive line was evident at all times.

After big divisional win over then state ranked Bainbridge, Fogerson made sure to first acknowledge the offensive line. “I can only go as far as my offensive line takes me,” said Fogerson after the Bainbridge win.

And after a dominating statistical performance against Auburn, Fogerson gave all the praise to his fullback, little brother Zach Fogerson, “He just had a great game tonight blocking.”

Fogerson also patrolled the defensive backfield for the Irish, and played well from his safety position all year.

Recently, Fogerson decided to continue his playing career under Tyrone Willingham at Washington. After a great prep career, Fogerson seems ready to succeed at the next level.

And although his team fell barely short of the ultimate goal of a state title, Fogerson’s dominance on Friday nights made him Evergreen State Prep’s Player of the Year.