James Clemens’ Lineman Playing In All-Star Game And Wins Service Award
MADISON- Zac Taylor is determined to participate in the upcoming Alabama-Mississippi All-Star Football Classic. Suffering a high ankle sprain to his left ankle during the recent completed 2019 season, the 6-foot-5, 310-pound offensive lineman has been resting his ankle, going through lots of physical therapy and mentally prepping for his chance in partake in the 33rd annual event.
“I’m excited and anxious about playing in the game as I’m honored to be chosen for the contest that I’ve heard good things about,” said Taylor. “This is an opportunity to show off my talents on a big stage.”
Taylor is among a 40-player roster from schools in Alabama who will face a similar squad from Mississippi in the game scheduled for Dec. 14 in Hattiesburg, Miss. on the campus of the University of Southern Mississippi.
Taylor will sign an athletic scholarship with the UAB Blazers during the upcoming early signing period and graduate early from James Clemens. He’s currently undecided about his course of study, but is looking to be a possible starter as a freshman for the Blazers next fall.
As an offensive lineman, Taylor anchored the line that helped lead the Jets to a 9-3 overall record and a perfect 7-0 record to win the Class 7A Region 4 championship. The Jets fell to Hoover 23-20 in the second round of the AHSAA playoffs. The offense scored a whopping 476 points in its 12-game season including twice going over the 60-point mark.
Taylor and his family moved to Madison after their East Limestone home was destroyed by the 2011 deadly tornadoes in the area and he’s made his mark on the James Clemens team by being named a two-time All-State selection.
Taylor was recently presented with the Bubba Trotman Service Above Self Award by the Montgomery Rotary Club for his outstanding community service. “We’re pleased to announce Zac Taylor as the 2019 winner of the award,” according to a club’s Facebook page. “He is an exemplary member of his community and school and we wish him the best of luck as he pursues his future at UAB.”
“My community service includes a lot of work with Special Olympics and helping gather food and other items for victims of natural disasters,” added Taylor.