Inside The Blue And White
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Last week was our first week back after the bitter cold front we experienced, and while our community came together to help those in need by providing food, shelter and warmth, Water Valley High School experienced a season of both celebration and heartbreak. Over the past three weeks, our school has celebrated major accomplishments while also mourning the loss of one of our own.
Senior guard Aaden Reed has worked incredibly hard to help lead his team and recently reached 1,000 points in his basketball career at Water Valley. He will continue to put in work and further his basketball career with a commitment to play at Hinds Community College after he graduates in May.
“Going to Hinds feels like I’m coming home. The moment I stepped into the gym, I felt love and determination in the atmosphere. Having the opportunity to play the game I love for another two years is truly a blessing. I’m headed there on a mission — to put in work every day, stay humble and compete for a championship. My goal is to help bring home the NJCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship,” Aaden said.
We are so proud of you, Aaden.
Speaking of basketball, history was made on Feb. 12 when the boys traveled to East Union to take on Myrtle in the district tournament. Not only did they win the game, but they also secured a huge advantage heading into the playoffs. This victory marked the first time since 2011 that the boys basketball team earned a home game for the first round of the playoffs. The first playoff game was underway at presstime Tuesday, Feb. 17.
Archery season has officially started, and I’m very excited for it. This past Thursday, we traveled to Lafayette High School to compete against Oxford High School, Oxford Middle School and Lafayette Middle and High School. In true Water Valley fashion, the bus arrived a little late. Since it was our first match of the season, many of us shot slightly below our usual scores. Water Valley placed second with a combined score of 3,002, while Oxford took first with a score of 3,133.
Top high school shooters were Matthew Surrette with a 270, and top female shooter was A’lexia Horton with a 268. Junior high top shooters were RJ Horton with a 231 and Adalynn McCluskey with a 274. Our next match is scheduled Thursday, Feb. 24, at home against Oxford. Make sure you come out and support — we’d love to see everyone there.
Senior free safety and wide receiver Channing Freeman is officially taking his talents to the next level. Channing, who proudly wears jersey number 7, signed a letter of intent with Copiah-Lincoln Community College and will continue his football journey at the collegiate level. Whether catching interceptions on defense or creating big plays as a wide receiver, he has consistently given everything he has for his team.
“Feels great, another football player from Water Valley going to the next level to play some college ball,” Channing said.
His signing is not just a personal achievement, but a proud moment for Water Valley and the entire community.
While we have had much to celebrate, we have also experienced deep loss. One of our dear students, Landon Arbuckle, tragically lost his life over the break.
Landon Arbuckle
Landon was a sweet and goofy young man who loved mud riding, hunting, fishing, cracking jokes and making people smile. He played football and powerlifting and excelled in every sport he participated in.
On the football field, wearing number 8, Landon gave his absolute all every time he played. He was known for being fast and tough, and even when a game did not go the way he hoped, he continued to smile and laugh through it all.
In powerlifting, Landon remained his fun-loving self. At his last meet, he placed second and was determined to return and earn first place. Coaches described him as the best workout partner anyone could ask for. Practices were filled with laughter, countless jokes and plenty of dance breaks.
Landon was deeply loved by his classmates and friends. His cheerful personality, endless jokes and unforgettable laugh will always be remembered in the halls of Water Valley High School. His impact on our school will never be forgotten.
Senior Channing Freeman, middle, signs his letter of intent to continue his football career at Copiah-Lincoln Community College, with his parents, Eon and Shedlia Freeman, and Water Valley football coach Clint Faust looking on.
