By Staff
Clif Knight, Hartselle Enquirer
Danville High School's Matt Young was honored Saturday night prior to the Hatton game as the second player on this year's Danville boy's team to reach the 1,000-point plateau in scoring this season.
He claimed the honor as a result of his performance against West Morgan on Feb. 1. Earlier in the season, his teammate, Nate Orr, was recognized for the same achievement.
Young was presented a commemorative game ball in recognition of his achievement.
It was embossed with the words "1,000 Points" and was autographed by his coaches and teammates.
The ball was presented by head coach Robert Pope and assistant coach Bruce Fitzgerald. Young's parents, Mackey and Robin Young were at courtside to offer their congratulations on the milestone.
Young responded by leading the Hawks to an 80-78 win over the visiting Hornets in his team's final regular season contest. He had 20 points and seven rebounds in helping Danville to win No. 23.
" I don't know of another team to have two 1,000 point scorers in a single season" said coach Pope.
"I don't know of anyone who is more deserving of the honor than Matt.
"He is an extremely hard worker and a leader of the team. He is averaging about 15 points a game and is leading the team in rebounding."
Young is a six-foot senior who splits his time between guard and forward.
He joined the varsity as a ninth grader and has started for the last three seasons.
"He has meant an awful lot to our program," Pope stated.
"It a real honor for me to receive this award because not many high school players make it," said Young.
"But this game is all about teamwork, not about how many points a player has. I'd rather play good defense, rebound and help our team win than to score a bunch of points."
Young said he thought he had a chance of reaching 1,000 points when his teammate made it a few weeks ago.
"But I tried to keep it out of my mind, just go out and play hard," he added.