Valley players earn all-state selections

Several players from area Valley schools were selected last weekend for the Alaska all-state football teams.

Houston High School tight end Joe Foster, guard Mike Barrett and long snapper Russell Shurtleff were honored with selections to the small-schools first team.

Houston second-team selections went to David Smith at both running back and defensive back, and Mike Barrett at defensive utility player.

"I think we were fairly represented," said Houston head coach Mat Bredberg. "It was quite an accomplishment for the players, they deserve the recognition."

Palmer High School running back Adam Norton and defensive lineman Jonathan Hillman earned first-team large-school selections.

Palmer second-team selections included kicker Tim West and linebacker Ali Larijani.

Wasilla High School wide receiver Travis Webb earned first-team honors for large schools.

Quarterback Jake Carney was selected to the second team, along with running back Travis Dutcher, guard Geary York, and Webb at defensive back.

Colony punter Matt Wiles was honored with a first team selection.

Colony's Preston Pickett was selected as the large-schools utility player of the year.

Nikiski wide receiver David Holloway was named the Gatorade Player of the Year.