Cobb Reporter

Jaiden Moore, a sophomore at Hillgrove High School and a running back for the school's undefeated football team, has been named "Player of the Week" by Georgia High School Football Daily. This recognition follows his impressive performance in a recent rivalry game against McEachern.

Moore rushed for 255 yards and scored on runs of 97, 51, and 67 yards during the game, leading to a 30-23 victory at McEachern's Walter Cantrell Stadium. Additionally, he caught a 34-yard pass that extended a drive culminating in a decisive 20-yard field goal, securing the lead for Hillgrove with just over four minutes left in the third quarter.

Remarkably, Moore is not only a sophomore but also serves as the backup running back behind senior starter Caleb Walters. This marks only the second time in five seasons that a sophomore has received this honor and the first instance of it being awarded to a non-starter.

"Jaiden's been our number 2 or number 3 back all season," said Hillgrove Head Coach Justin DeShon. "He’s a young sophomore with tons of potential. Caleb came up with an ankle injury against Campbell last week, and we had a lot of confidence in Jaiden. We knew he had some spurt, and some things worked out tonight, and he got to showcase his talents."

The Hawk football team has shown significant improvement this year, advancing from last year's record of 2-8 to an impressive 8-0 this season—their best since 2018. They are guaranteed at least one home playoff game in the upcoming GHSA playoffs. A win against Harrison would secure them the Region 3-6A title and another home game in the second round.

"Jaiden is a special kid, and he has been phenomenal to us all year," Coach DeShon added. "The lesson we teach over and over is that it's about opportunity. Jaiden's opportunity came in Week 8 because he steadily practiced and has gotten better all season. We are so happy for him!"

District Director of Athletics Don Baker praised Moore's readiness when called upon: "This is a testament to the staff and the culture that has been built at Hillgrove that Jaiden was ready when his number was called," Baker stated. He emphasized that while individual achievements are often highlighted at the high school level, Hillgrove's success is due to collective team effort.

On Wednesday, Craig Musselwhite presented Moore with the GHSF Daily Player of the Week Award sponsored by Sports Turf during a ceremony held at Hillgrove's cafeteria attended by teammates, coaches, administrators, and family members.

Congratulations were extended to Moore and his team for their outstanding season thus far.