(Editor’s note: This article only includes stats through 13 games. Owensboro still has at least one more game this season.)
Owensboro senior Kobe Skortz has been named The Owensboro Times Football Defensive Player of the Year.
Though he’s just one part of an outstanding defensive unit for the Red Devils, Skortz was a key figure that played multiple roles all season.
Playing both as a linebacker and defensive end throughout the year, Skortz has a team-high 11.5 sacks and 81 tackles (18.5 for loss). He’s also forced and recovered one fumble.
While the numbers speak for themselves, Skortz said he also tries to lead the team by bringing a high energy level and dedication — something that’s played a big part in his success this season.
“I didn’t think it was going to go this well,” Skortz said. “I just came out and played hard, and this is the result. Working hard, taking stuff serious and execution has led to success. I bring a lot of energy. I feel like I can go hard every play. I try to go out there and just go crazy.”
Skortz played on the offensive side of the ball last season for the first time in his career, but he returned to the defense during the offseason. As the season drew closer, head coach Jay Fallin said it was clear Skortz could play a major role for the Red Devils.
“When we started the season that’s where we had him penciled in,” Fallin said. “He’s really flourished there and had a lot of success. We certainly expected him to have a good season. I think he’s overachieved our expectations from a statistical standpoint, but we knew that he would really contribute a lot.”
Skortz was glad to be back in a familiar position.
“I was excited,” he said. “I had played defense my whole life. Last year was my first year playing offense, so I was excited when I got switched back.”
Lining up defensively, Skortz is a versatile player who can crash the backfield as well as defend the run and pass.
Fallin said his ability to play multiple positions allows OHS to switch up looks without having to change personnel, adding that having plenty of talent all over the field helps Skortz thrive.
“Kobe would be the first to attribute his success to being on a really good team defense,” Fallin said. “When you play team defense, every week as an individual you have an opportunity to have success. What allows his stats to kind of jump off the page is that he plays a kind of hybrid position where he’s aligned at defensive end and then he can also align at a detached outside linebacker.”
Not only did Skortz give credit the veteran leadership around him, but he said they’ve been the best part of his standout season.
“It’s all about the team,” he said. “My highlights have just been making memories out here playing with these guys.”
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