The American Arena League is [about] halfway through their season. With that being said, it’s time to look at where players stand as far as awards.
MVP – Larry Beavers, WR, West Virginia Roughriders
Beavers jumped out on to the scene Week 1 when he scored seven touchdowns against the Pittsburgh Defenders. In the Roughriders five games this season, Beavers has 13 touchdowns. That is tops in the league. No other player has played like him all season long.
Offensive Player of the Year – Steffon Colon, QB, Carolina Energy
After leading the Vermont Bucks to a win in the Can-Am Indoor Football League title game in 2017, he now has the Energy as one of just two undefeated teams in the AAL. Not only that, but they have been able to defeat some talented teams in the defending champion Carolina Havoc and Georgia Doom.
Defensive Player of the Year – Eliis Lankster, DB, West Virginia Roughriders
Lankster has been a stud for the West Virginia defense, reportedly having six interceptions this season. Three of them came against the Cape Fear Heroes. He has been a key player each of the last two seasons for them, and him and teammate Brian Price have been the heart of the defense.
Offensive Rookie of the Year – Chris Payne, QB, Peach State Cats
In what can be considered a bounce back season, Chris Payne has been huge for the Cats. He has led this team to a 2-2 record with home games against the Cape Fear Heroes and Georgia Doom coming up in May. Wins over those two teams would be big time for Payne.
Defensive Rookie of Year – Christian Russell, LB, Carolina Havoc
Russell has been key to the Havoc’s success on defense. There are no stats available for him, but those who have watched Havoc games know how great of a player he is.
Coach of Year – Ervin Bryson, Carolina Energy
Bryson is the leader of the franchise that kicked off with no website. Since then, he has led them to the postseason and currently has them as one of two undefeated teams in the league this season.
