Photos by Tim Weight/Jeff Shomo
By Kenny Varner

BELLEFONTE – The stars came out Friday night as the best of the best MIfflin and Juniata County football players were on hand to participate in the 41st Annual Central Pennsylvania Football Coaches Association’s Lezzer Lumber Classic.

The All-Star contest had a total of eight players Donn their football gear one more time before heading to their next level.

It was also an unforgettable performance by Juniata’s own Connor Boreman. Boreman won the South’s Defensive MVP award as he finished unofficially with eight solo tackles, two knockdowns and an interception for his team.

This year’s contest was held at Rogers’ Stadium in Bellefonte which is home of the Bellefonte Red Raiders.

With the local players playing on the South squad. All contributed in what would be a nail biting contest which would not be decided until the final minutes.

However, in the end the North would pull out the 36-28 victory.

It was a strong showing for the locals.

Boreman’s teammates also had some strong moments as team captain Lane Peiper finished with eight tackles of his own at the linebackers position and four yards rushing on three carries.

Round out the Indians’ squad was defensive lineman Hunter Erb. Erb was a strong force in the middle clogging holes and forcing the North’s running backs to find a different lane to go to instead of his.

Mifflin County had three players at the Classic as well.

Defensive back and kick returner Dupree Reed returned three kicks for 45 yards. He was also tough in the defensive backfield knocking down passes and providing lockdown coverage on the North’s wide outs.

Hunter Tipton was also a tough force in the offensive and defensive line department.

Mifflin County kicker Brendon Noerr had provided some strong kick off efforts.

Mount Union was represented by wide receiver and defensive back Julian Weirich. Weirich finished with one pass completion for four yards.

The Trojans were also represented by running back Josh Ryan. Ryan finished his night with two rushes for five yards.

The South held the lead for much the contest, it took a late fourth quarter drive by the North to spoil things for the hardworking group.

Despite the loss, all players proved that the belonged there and showed their opponents that as well.