By Angie Ledbetter

South Panola’s Deon Mix was awarded the “Heart of a Champion Award” Last Wednesday at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium when the Clarion-Ledger officially unveiled the 2012 Dandy Dozen players, the 24th class.

South Panola was represented by seniors Tony Conner and Mix.  

Of the 12 players, eight have verbally committed to Division 1 schools and the remaining four have offers to SEC and FBS schools.

Mix has verbally committed to Mississippi State University while Conner has delayed making his decision known.

Before a catered lunch, players, family members, coaches, friends and media listened to three speakers.

Mississippi High School Activities Association Director Don Hinton spoke first. Hinton singled out Mix as being a model student athlete and presented him with the “Heart of a Champion” certificate.

“That meant a lot to me because that’s actually who I am and who I’ve always been. That’s how my parents brought me up and I just thank God that people are finally noticing it.”

Deuce McAllister, who was over looked as a Dandy Dozen player his senior year, and Dontae Walker who was in the Dandy Dozen class of 1998,  gave advice to the players about making good choices on and off the field, setting an example to the younger fans, helping people in their community and getting an education.

To complete the day a photo shoot was done on the field and players were interviewed by the media.
The Clarion-Ledger’s Rod Walker had the 12 players on a panel discussing various subjects.