WTB Posted May 13, 2008 Report Posted May 13, 2008 The Lumberton Raiders enjoyed the best season in school history in 2007 with a first ever playoff appearance that included a trip to the regional semi-finals after beating power La Marque in the second round. One of the main reasons for the historic season was the play of sophomore standout linebacker Anthony Beard. The 6-foot, 205-pound quick-footed inside 'backer was all over the field in 2007, recording more than 100 tackles and close to 500 yards rushing in limited duty. UT Photo Texas is one of the schools on Anthony Beard's early list. Entering the season, Beard was thought of as a talented young prospect for Lumberton. By season's end, the first team All-Golden Triangle performer was being tabbed as one of the top sophomore linebackers in the state of Texas as well as being a key cog in a season and playoff run that brought a community together on Friday nights never seen before in the small town located on Highway 69. Beard says the season was one of teamwork and laying it all on the line. "I really don't know what to say about our season. We worked hard as a team, came together and played out butts off," Beard said. "Seven-on-seven really helped us come together. I think I did excellent, but I don't think I did as well as I can. I just worked my butt off. I think I can do better next year." With 4.7 40-yard dash time, Beard totaled 109 tackles, 13 tackles for loss and two sacks which was good for first team 22-4A all-district as well as honorable mention all-state. Blessed with a combination of a game gear and lateral quickness, Beard has already begun to attract college recruiters from around the region. The Golden Triangle native has a few schools that he has an interest in. "I like Texas Tech. I just like how they play. I like UT too. They are good. Texas A&M is a good school and Kentucky. I like Texas State too," Beard says. After the school year ends on May 31, the talented sophomore will turn his attention to attending several camps. "I think I'm going to Baylor (in Baytown) and Texas State maybe. I've got a few others. Every camp I hear about, I'll try to get to them. I'm going to try and get my name out there a little more," Beard said. Beard, who recorded 20 tackles against Little Cypress-Mauriceville in a game he said was "just one of those nights," says improving from sophomore to junior year is what is most important. "My goals for next year are to just do a lot better. Just play my butt off and hopefully we'll have another successful season," Beard said. Lumberton got the momentum rolling with a handful of wins to start the season, including an 8-7 win over Dayton to begin district play. The Raiders knocked off LaMarque 24-21 in the region III second round before being eliminated at the hands of Waller 42-14.
dayton Posted May 14, 2008 Report Posted May 14, 2008 looking forward to seeing him play this year... even if it is just a scrimmage.
Guest Its_All_About_Tha_U Posted May 14, 2008 Report Posted May 14, 2008 Here's the link: http://texas.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=807305
Razor08 Posted May 14, 2008 Report Posted May 14, 2008 Anthony will be a huge factor in the success of Lumberton this coming year!!
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