All-PARISH OFFENSIVE MVP

BASILE -- One of the most rewarding things to see as a fan is a player with a boatload of talent show himself to be one of the most humble players around.
Such is the case with this year’s Evangeline Parish Offensive Most Valuable Player, senior Basile High running back Gabe Fontenot.
Fontenot repeats as the Parish’s Most Valuable Player, as well as being named as the Most Valuable Player for District 5-1A. Fontenot blew through the opposing defenses in 2015, rushing for 1,951 yards on 239 carries; an average of 8.2 yards per carry. Fontenot crossed the goal line a total of 25 times this season.
When asked what was the reason for his success in his four years of high school, Fontenot was quick to point the attention away from himself.
“I had great coaches that taught me everything I know,” said Fontenot. “They not only showed me the techniques necessary for me to be successful, they have always pushed me to be my best. The times that I felt like not practicing hard, the coaches were there encouraging me to give everything I have. I never wanted to disappoint them.”
Fontenot also knows that his career has a lot to do with his teammates.
“All of the players on this team have been a part of the reason for me to be able to accomplish these awards,” stated Fontenot. “I want to thank them for all they have done. As a team we have won two district championships and it feels good to do that with this group of guys, especially the other seniors. The seniors of this year have been working hard for four years. I will never forget what we have done together.”
Showing that he gets the concept of life lessons, Fontenot pointed to a heartbreaking loss this past season as one of his most memorable moments of his high school playing time.
“The loss against Arcadia this year probably stands out as my biggest memory,” stated Fontenot. “That game showed that no matter how bad things seem, you have to get back up and keep moving forward. Football is a little bit like life in that way.”
Fontenot hopes to continue playing football on the next level.
“I don’t have any offers as of right now,” commented Fontenot. “I am thinking about walking on at McNeese and trying to be a part of that program. I love playing the game of football and I hope to get the opportunity to keep playing.”
Head coach Kevin Bertrand knows all too well the attitude and work ethic that Fontenot has carried on the field for the Bearcats the last two seasons.
“The job that Gabe has done for us the last two seasons is incredible,” said Bertrand. “We have relied on him to carry the offense, especially this season, when things were not exactly working right.”
“Gabe was one of those players that loved to stay after practice and listen to the coaches talk about the game plan,” continued Bertrand. “You don’t see many players with his work ethic.”