Teamkong Player of the Week
Teamkong.net

As a new feature this year, Teamkong will be selecting a player of the game on the Monday following each game.  Then after the season has concluded, we will select a player of the year.  The player of the year recipient will receive a plaque commemorating the award.

The week one Teamkong Player of the Week is Aaron McConnell.  As a three time All-American, his skills are no secret to opponents or Gorilla fans. 

Against Lincoln, McConnell caused havoc for the Blue Tigers the entire three quarters he was in the game.   He led the Gorillas with seven tackles, five of them unassisted.  Four of his tackles were for loss, including three sacks.  Aaron also recovered a fumble.  On offense, he played fullback on one play, clearing the way for a Joe Taylor touchdown.

Having been a dominant force for his first three years, McConnell showed even he has another level of competition.  There are not many three hundred pound athletes who can run a 4.8 40 yard dash, have a vertical leap of 29 inches and perform a standing front and back flip.  These are all “knowns” for McConnell.  Gorilla fans have known he was something special since his first game in Carnie Smith Stadium.

But there is something different about him this year.  He is even quicker.  He is smarter.  He is more focused.  He has better technique.  The bottom line he is on a mission.  McConnell wants great things for his team.  Walk up and start up a conversation with Aaron about this year.  He smiles ear to ear, and cannot stop talking about the offense and the defense.  He cannot stop talking about the coaches. 

If Aaron could bottle up that energy, that enthusiasm, that smile and sell it, he would be one rich man.  Great leaders, lead by example.  McConnell is setting one heck of an example for his fellow Gorillas.  They are following his lead.

While Aaron will be the first to tell you he cannot do it alone.  He does have a great defense to work with this year.  Having Mark Stephen next to him is a blessing.  But if the Lincoln game is any indication, then McConnell will have a great year, and likewise so will the Gorillas!