The Lebanon News | Anthony Stevens | Photo Credit: Anthony Stevens
HONAKER — At a recent ceremony at A.P. Baldwin Gymnasium, two more Tigers signed to continue to play football at the collegiate level at DII UVA-Wise. Lineman Elijah “Animal” Musick and versatile Aidan Lowe are ready to suit up for the Cavaliers this fall.
Musick is a 6-foot-2, 270-pound lineman who will likely play on the defensive side of the ball at UVA-Wise. During his senior season, he had 61 tackles and two sacks for the Tigers.
“Elijah is a big, physical lineman who plays to the whistle consistently,” said Gary Bass, the Cavs’ head coach, who was hired in December. He shows a great grasp of football knowledge when you watch him play on film. We are very excited to have him join our family.”
Musick is looking forward to wearing the silver and black.
“I’m looking forward to it,” Musick said. “I’m glad to have the opportunity to get an offer. For my whole high school career, I’ve concentrated on playing football, and I guess it paid off.”
Musick was an anchor on the line for Honaker.
“It’s a great opportunity for Animal, and he deserves it,” Honaker coach Todd Tiller said. “He’s the quiet type, but he will do the work. He doesn’t want any of the glory or recognition, he just goes in and does his job. He has a blue-collar mentality, he will be a special player for them.”
Lowe is a 5-foot-10 speedster who excelled on both sides of the ball for the Region 1D champion Tigers.
“It’s very exciting,” Lowe said. “It always takes hard work, no matter what level you are at and I’m sure a little extra at the collegiate level. It means a lot of me to get the chance to do this.”
It will be exciting to see where Lowe ends up on the field. Defensively, he had 91 tackles, seven sacks, and three interceptions from his linebacker position, including a Pick-6.
Lowe played everywhere on offense. He had 151 carries for 1,245 yards and 16 touchdowns rushing. He also had 56 receptions for 725 yards with nine touchdown catches. Oh, and Lowe also returned punts, including a 75-yard punt return for a touchdown.
“Aidan is a very versatile player who has displayed the ability to play anywhere he is needed,” Bass said. “He plays with relentless effort and displays a passion for the game every second you watch him play. We are very happy he joined our family.”
If it’s possible to replace Lowe at Fuller Fields, it will take more than one player.
“A-Lowe is electric; he’s used to the limelight,” Tiller said. He’s a tremendous football player. You can’t put a position on A-Lowe; he’s a football player. I feel Wise got a steal.”
There will likely be several on the road from Honaker to Wise this fall. From the Class of ’24, Musick, Lowe, Tyler Cole, and Parker Bandy have all signed to play football for the Cavaliers.
“I’m very excited to go and play with some of my teammates,” remarked Lowe. I’ll also be able to reunite with some I’ve played with before. My class is full of hard workers and people who can just play straight out. I think we can all play a big role for Wise, we just have to keep working hard.”