MORGANTOWN — University High’s Evan Parow and Morgantown High’s Jestohn Moore both were named first-team all-state on Sunday by the West Virginia Sports Writers Association.
Parow, a senior, was named as a first-team receiver, while Moore, also a senior, was recognized as a first-team linebacker.
Parow finished with a whopping 68 catches for 1,152 yards and 19 touchdowns this season — at or near the top of the state in each category. He accepted a preferred walk-on position at West Virginia on Friday.
Moore was a critical cog in the Mohigans’ defense this season and used his speed to his advantage. He finished with 82 tackles but 21 of those were for a loss, living in opponents’ backfields. He also had two forced fumbles and an interception. Moore committed Dec. 3 to play at Fordham.
Parow and Moore were joined by some teammates on the second team.
MHS offensive lineman Nick Malone, who is headed to Pitt, was named second team.
UHS defensive lineman Ben Gribble, quarterback Logan Holgorsen and defensive back Amir Richardson were also named second team.
MHS cornerback Aaron Alvarez, running back/linebacker Ty Konchesky and wide receiver Preston Fox were named special honorable mentions, while linebacker Nick DeFelice was an honorable mention.
UHS lineman and linebacker Christian Evans was also an honorable mention.
All of them were named along a host of players from Martinsburg and Spring Valley — the two teams who played in the Class AAA state championship.
Elite players were the key for both teams.
“It was the two best teams in the state, and unfortunately, we didn’t play our best game, but they’ve won 42 games in a row for a reason,” Spring Valley head coach Brad Dingess said. “(Martinsburg) Coach (Dave) Walker does a great job with them and they’ve got great football players.”
Spring Valley led the way with four players represented on the First Team, including offensive lineman Doug Nester and utility player Graeson Malashevich, who served as co-captains for the offense. In addition to being the catalysts for the Timberwolves’ run, the two are also best friends.
“We’ve been friends since first grade and grown up together, playing every sport together – football, basketball, baseball,” Nester said. “We’re with each other 24/7 — at each other’s houses hanging out — and for it to go this far and we’re still best friends is really great.”
Nester headlines an offensive line that rivals that of past seasons with four of five members committed to FBS programs.
Nester is currently an Ohio State commit while teammate Zach Williamson is currently committed to Louisville. Just down the road from Spring Valley, Huntington senior Darnell Wright is also one of nation’s top available prospects along the offensive line, and all three hold 10 or more FBS offers. Wheeling Park’s Tristen Bittner is also committed to Marshall while Parkersburg’s Ryan Creech rounds out the team. All five are seniors.
