LaBryan Ray received his award for “Lineman of the Year” for 7A from Alvin Briggs, Director of Alabama High School Athletic Directors and Coaches Association. CONTRIBUTED/Dennis Victory, Alabama Sports Writers Association

Athlete of the Week

MADISON – LaBryan Ray has the distinction as “Lineman of the Year” for all 7A schools in Alabama.

Ray is a junior at James Clemens High School. Rocky Smith, James Clemens Assistant Principal and Athletic Director, said that Ray received his “Lineman of the Year” award from Alvin Briggs, Director of Alabama High School Athletic Directors and Coaches Association, at the Mr. Football banquet in December 2015.

Even as an incoming junior, Ray, who is 6-4, 260 pounds, had received offers from the University of Louisville, Duke University, University of Southern Mississippi, Western Kentucky University and Troy University. Ray is a defensive lineman.

In addition to football, Ray also played on the Jets basketball team for Coach Danny Petty. This team made school history by winning the area title in spring 2015. Ray served as a reserve center and power forward.

He has two brothers. Gary Ray already has graduated from college. Brandon Ray currently attends Western Kentucky, where he earned a football scholarship.

Q & A

Q: What is your favorite food?

A: Pizza.

Q: What restaurant do you like to go to in Madison?

A: When Ray gets to pick the place, he will go for Cricket’s, Zaxby’s and Chick-fil-A.

Q: What is your favorite sports team?

A: Cleveland Cavaliers and Carolina Panthers.

Q: What do you like to do in your free time?

A: Ray likes to ‘hang out’ with friends and play video games. In addition, he volunteers in the community when he can.

Q: What is your favorite sports memory?

A: “Winning the championship while I was in middle school,” Ray said.

Q: What are your plans?

A: Ray plans to “play college football and get my degree as well. Also, I (hope) to be able to maybe play in the NFL,” Ray said.