Walker James: It's still football

Walker James is entering his senior season as a Hurricane Redskin but many Redskin fans have not yet gotten to truly appreciate what Walker has to offer.

He transferred to Hurricane from Clay County his sophomore season, but that season ended for James before it got started, as an injury necessitated surgery. Some other kids in that situation would stay away from the team and perhaps feel sorry for themselves. Not Walker, he was at every practice all season long.

Walker still notes the difference between Clay County and Hurricane football, "we had maybe 30 kids tops, and every one who could play, went both ways. Here we have a little bit of a smaller turn out this season and we have about 55 players, and only the best may play both ways."

He still keeps track of his ex-teammates on Clay's squad and hopes they have a great season.

Last season in limited action James recorded 55 tackles and a huge interception versus Hurricane's upset victory over Spring Valley.

This season Walker will find himself at a new position as he makes the move from safety to corner. "It's the same principal, you are still covering and coming up on the ball, but at corner I will be trying to push the ball to the sideline." He gives a shout out to coach Joe Pratt for showing him the ropes at corner, and also credits the addition of Coach Midkiff, who is concentrating on the safeties, as helping to keep the entire secondary focused and prepared.

Something else that will make his senior year special is sharing it with younger brother J.T., a Freshman on this year's squad. "It's special and a great memory in the making," Walker stated. "I want him to learn for himself, I'll help him, but he has to find his own way." J.T. is battling for playing time or perhaps even a starting position at the corner opposite Walker, "he has a shot, the coaches will go with whoever is best."

During the opener versus Winfield a year ago, James found himself on the field after John Porter was hurt, this season he will join Porter in the defensive starting line-up. "It will be a special moment, but after the hype dies down, I will just go out there and try to help us win a game."

Walker has an eye on two other early season contests. "We have to be meaner than Cabell Midland, and a win over Capital would be a huge statement for our team and especially our DBs."