Seniors Keith Mincin and Andrew Sharp have been playing football together for eight years, and now their high school careers are wrapping up with honors from the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Mincin and Sharp are two of only 11 area football players named to the Steelers “All-Peer” team.
The recognition goes to those players “who go above and beyond to provide mentor-like support for their teammates,” according to the Steelers.
“It has been cool playing together since we were kids. The reason we are successful is because we were always competing with each other and working together, so receiving this award means a lot,” Sharp said.
Mincin and Sharp said they did not expect to earn this recognition, but they feel honored and appreciative.
“It makes me feel rewarded for all my hard work I put in,” Mincin said.
Sharp agreed.
“I’m very excited and honored to receive this award because of all the work I put in every day. I also couldn’t have done this without my strong support system,” he said.
Earning this spot gives the boys a chance to participate in virtual discussions with players on the Steelers, recognition on the field at a Steelers game, two $1,000 donations to Baldwin’s athletic program, and recognition on the Steelers social media platforms.
It helps gain attention from college football programs as well.
“It helps with recognition for the work we put in day in and day out,” Sharp said.
Mincin said it feels great to see them both go so far in their high school careers.
“We grew up together and seeing us both succeed makes it really feel like we’re family,” Mincin said.