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By Ron Marvel
Star Correspondent

Often a player is recognized for more than just stats; sometimes they bring intangibles that can’t be measured but are essential for a team’s success. Happy Valley Coach Jason Jarrett was quick to mention offensive and defensive lineman Jayden Walls when asked about candidates for Player of the Week.

“Jayden Walls is a relentless worker. The time he has invested in the weight room has simply propelled him into a phenomenal offensive and defensive lineman,” Coach Jarrett shared.

Against Eagleton Academy, Walls had four tackles, but his play was much more significant than that simple stat line. His performance on the offensive line helped his team to a strong second half. Defensively, his pressure and ability to stretch out runs allowed the linebacking corps to clean up. The 5-foot-10 senior, who plays much larger than his frame, is extremely humble when asked about what makes him special.

“I don’t know that I’m special or good, but the coaches see something I don’t,” Walls remarked.

Coach Jarrett had more to say about what makes Walls stand out—from his leadership to his on-field play, Walls has become a key part of the Warriors’ 3-0 start.

“His quickness and strength separate him from most linemen,” Jarrett shared.

When asked about his level of play, you can sense a humble player who trusts his coaches and is a team-first player.

“If I want to be better, I have to listen to my coaches. I know if I don’t listen and do my own thing, it affects my play and everyone around me,” Walls said.

Despite the 3-0 start, Walls sees a lot of room for improvement.

“We won, but we’ve got a lot of work to do. If we had our heads in the game Friday night, especially in the first half, we would have played a lot better. We have to work on our chemistry and playing as a unit,” Walls said. “After the first half, we had a good locker room talk, came together, and played better,” he added.

Walls has big expectations for himself and his team but knows it starts with him.

“Being a Warrior means being an example, to give those around me someone to look up to,” Walls shared.

Walls hopes to continue playing in college and is putting together highlight reels to send to schools. Despite his size, you wouldn’t want to bet against him. Certain qualities in student-athletes just can’t be measured.