SAN ANTONIO — America’s top high school football athletes were in San Antonio to take the field one last time before many go on to the next level to compete in the NCAA.

  • This is the 20th year for the bowl
  • More than 70 players participated
  • West All-Stars defeated East All-Stars 33-20

"It’s been a blessing to see them go from an 8th grader to 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th and then make it to this big game," said Terry Bullock, a coach at St. John Bosco High School who's watching two of his athletes compete from southern California. "This is the elite of the elite. This is kind of like a fraternity, only a chosen few are designated to be in."

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The 20th annual All-American Bowl showed more than 70 young men the caliber of players they'll soon be facing in college.


Photo of the Alamodome during the All-American Bowl on January 4, 2020 (Chris Grisby/Spectrum News)

 

"I need to get stronger," said defensive end Devin Grant. "I feel like I’m strong, but when they’re 330 pounds, you can’t really bull rush them, so just a little bit stronger."

Grant attends Antonian College Preparatory High School in San Antonio, and has made a commitment to play at The University of Colorado.

"I was born and raised here and it’s all good to see all my family and friends to support me," said Grant.

For a few select high school coaches, the annual game gives a chance to help elevate the future stars to the next level. Keanon Lowe was once in these players’ shoes in 2010, but now as a coach he's teaching kids how to grow up on and off the field. Last year, Lowe disengaged an active shooter, which prevented another high school massacre.

"Be mindful how you treat people. Be mindful how you speak, and you know be mindful how you carry yourself," said Lowe.


Photo of players at the Alamodome before the All-American Bowl on January 4, 2020 (Chris Grisby/Spectrum News)

 

On and off the field though, these kids are excited for a bright future ahead of them.

"It was a blessing to play against all these good players and I got to showcase my skills," said Alfred Collins from Cedar Creek High School in Bastrop. "It was fun."

The West All-Stars defeated the East All-Stars 33-20.