Lockport currently sits in fourth place in Class A1 after a key 23-11 victory over West Seneca West in Week 5. The Lions threw the ball just 11 times in the win, moving their star wide receiver Shey Williams to the backfield where he took 11 carries for 200 yards and three touchdowns.
The Lions, who already have two wins this season against divisional opponents this season, have already improved interdivisional play after finishing with just one league win a year ago.
Much of the team's improvement has stemmed from Williams, a senior, who’s found a way to somehow make a larger impact after a strong 2022 season. Last year, he finished 12th in Section VI in yards (716) and third in the section in receiving touchdowns (14). In 2023, Williams is accounting for 81% of his team’s receiving yards and four of the Lions’ six receiving touchdowns.
He’s also added an aspect to the game that wasn’t as prominent last season, his ability to run the ball. Finishing with five rushing yards a year ago, the do-it-all player has 241 yards on the ground through five games. Williams was responsible for 86% of Lockport’s total yardage in the Lions' last outing, with 200 on the ground and nearly all of their yards in the air.
Williams was Lockport’s lone scorer Friday claiming all three of the team's touchdowns in the victory.
“Shey’s been our Pokemon as we like to call him. He can play quarterback, running back, wide receiver, safety as well as return kicks and punts. He’s willing to do whatever it takes to win,” Lions Head Coach Trait Smith said.
Coach Smith mentioned Williams’ involvement in all aspects of the game and as a returner. The senior has 149 total yards to accompany two touchdowns, while on defense their “Pokemon” has an interception to his name.
Lockport’s coaching staff complimented Shey’s drive and willingness to grow - leading the team in hours of film watched.
“I uploaded the film from Friday’s game this morning and Shey’s already logged over two and a half hours on Hudl,” said Smith.
Lockport hosts Niagara Wheatfield this week, before facing Grand Island and Williamsville North to close out the regular season. With two must-win divisional games remaining, Williams will be relied on heavily.
“I trust him 100%,” said Smith.