Niekamp is coach of the year

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Mercer County wasn’t the only place that took notice of the success of Fort Recovery’s football team.
The Associated Press on Wednesday named coach Brent Niekamp the Division VII coach of the year for the Northwest District.
Three players were also given all-district honors.
Coaching in his 10th season, Niekamp led the Indians to the best record (7-5) in school history, including the program’s first playoff appearance — and playoff victory — in its 23 years of existence.
Fort Recovery finished tied for fifth in the Midwest Athletic Conference, which is regarded as one of the best small-school conferences in the state. The Tribe’s 4-4 MAC record ties the 2007 squad for most conference wins in a season, and its fifth place is also the highest the team has finished in the conference since joining in 1995. The Indians reached as high as sixth in the AP poll for Division VII.
Wes Wenning earned first-team all-district honors as a wide receiver. The junior caught 46 passes for 747 yards. He scored eight touchdowns, which ranks third on the school’s single-season list, and his three receiving TDs on Oct. 24 at St. Henry ties the school record.
Cole Hull was named to the second-team as a running back. The senior set new school records in rushing yards (1,520) and rushing touchdowns (17). His 118 points (19 total touchdowns) puts him atop the school’s single-season scoring list, and his four TDs on Oct. 3 against New Bremen rank second all-time in single game rushing touchdowns.
Also named to the second team was Evan Schoen. The senior linebacker was second on the team with 109 tackles, including 11 tackles for loss, and forced four fumbles.