Loyd Star’s junior guard Edrick Alsworth received a very special honor last summer. He was chosen along with seven others players from Mississippi to participate in the International Sports Festival in Columbus, Ohio, back in July.

He received very high recognition as the All-State, All-American and USA Junior Nationals player.

The International Sports Festival is a prestigious basketball camp where a select number of players are given a chance to increase their basketball knowledge and skills. It is also a big opportunity for the players to be seen by major colleges.

Eric Geldart is the head director of the event with 33 years excellences. Alworth was a member of the Mississippi/Louisiana team, which finished third on the national level.

Erick Alsworth and his parents would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to his coach Gene “Moochie” Britt of Loyd Star, the superintendent of education in Lincoln County, Clint’s Pharmacy, Broma’s, Jeff Wilson Chrysler, Dodge & Ram, Bank of Brookhaven and their church family and friends for their contributions and prayers.

“The trip was very successful,” said Alsworth. “I had a chance to meet so many great people and gained a lot of new friends. I met several coaches from many different states, who showed a lot of interest in me.

“One of the most valuable things that I brought back with me is that it takes a teams to win,” continued Alsworth. “If one person is a showoff, it can mess up the team’s chemistry. In summary, you spell team with an ‘E’ and not an ‘I’.”

Alsworth is excited to put his new knowledge and skills to the test as the Hornets look to be a force to be reckoned with when the season starts in November.