Football’s Malik McDowell Gets All-American Honor

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Madison Jones

Fan Favorite: Schoolmates surround senior Malik McDowell at Southfield High as he is named to the United States Army’s All-American football team.

Malik McDowell is the fourth Southfield High athlete to be named an All-American football player.

“In 1980 Vincent Bean was the first to make the All-American man. Three years later, Torin Dorin received the same honor, and Gabe Watson received it in 2001,” said Football Coach Tim Conley.

McDowell is ranked number two for his position in the nation, number one for his position in the state, and number two overall in the state, according to the rivals.com web site.

The 6 foot 7 inch defensive tackle for Southfield High School’s varsity football team, is the big guy who stands out in the hallways, as well as on the field.

He received his honor Nov. 8 during the last half of the school day, in front of family members, friends and team mates who gathered in the school library for the special ceremony.

Each year the U.S. Military gives out the title of the “All American’” man to 90 high school football players with outstanding performance and sportsmanship. Those chosen to receive the title also get the opportunity to participate in the All-American Bowl football game, which is scheduled to take place in San Antonio, Texas, on Saturday, January 4.

McDowell, who has 40 offers from colleges, will be flown to the Alamo Dome to compete for the All-American Team title in the nation’s premiere high school football game shown live on NBC.

To earn such a title is very exciting, said McDowell’s father, Greg McDowell. “It’s a really big honor as far as we’re concerned.” He added, “We’re so thankful that he’s been such a great son. If Malik keeps his head on straight, his future will go well. Everyone is so proud of him and only hoping for the best.”

Previous All-Americans have gone on to become Heisman Trophy winners and NFL MVP winners. More than 200 NFL players are counted among its alumni. Throughout the years, the game has featured the nation’s most elite football players, providing a launching pad for college and NFL stars such as Andrew Luck in 2008 and Reggie Bush in 2003.