Hoover and Spain Park high schools will each send two athletes to the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) North‑South All‑Star Classic next month. The North roster, announced Thursday, includes Hoover quarterback Kaleb Freeman and defensive back Jordan Williams, as well as Spain Park defensive end Jaylen Bates and linebacker Jonathan Roberto.
The exhibition game, now in its 68th edition, will be played on Friday, Dec. 11, at AmFirst Stadium on the campus of Jacksonville State University. The North team will be coached by Russellville’s Darrell Higgins, while the South squad will be led by Eric Scott of Baker.
Player highlights
Freeman, listed at 6‑foot‑2 and 205 pounds, helped Hoover dominate a first‑round playoff matchup last week, throwing 80‑ and 50‑yard touchdown passes in a 50‑3 victory over Bob Jones High School. Williams, a 5‑foot‑10, 185‑pound defensive back, contributed a rushing touchdown and an interception in the same game.
Spain Park’s representatives also made a strong impression. Bates, a 6‑foot‑4, 230‑pound defensive end, and Roberto, a 6‑foot‑1, 210‑pound inside‑outside linebacker, earned their spots through consistent play throughout the season.
Game context
The North‑South Classic moves to Jacksonville this year because the AHSAA will host the Alabama‑Mississippi All‑Star Classic in Mobile the following day. Historically, the South leads the all‑time series 35‑30‑2, but the North captured last year’s game with a 41‑28 win in Mobile.
Each roster features 37 players drawn from eight different classifications, marking the first time the game will showcase such a broad cross‑section of Alabama high‑school talent.
What this means for local fans
Hoover and Spain Park families can look forward to seeing their standout athletes compete on a larger stage, representing Jefferson County and showcasing the depth of talent in the region. The game also provides a valuable recruiting opportunity for college coaches scouting future prospects.
Local supporters are encouraged to attend the Dec. 11 matchup or follow the broadcast, which will highlight the skill and sportsmanship of Alabama’s top high‑school football players.
Original reporting: Hoover Sun — read the source article.
