Bralan Womack is celebrated after winning Gatorade Mississippi Football Player of the Year

FLOWOOD, Miss. (WLBT) – On Friday, all of Hartfield Academy piled into their auditorium to recognize one football player who stood out on and off the field.

Just last month, the Hawks’ defensive back and wide receiver, Bralan Womack was named the 2024-2025 Gatorade Mississippi Football Player of the Year. Friends, family, teammates, classmates, teachers, and coaches all took the time to celebrate Womack for his achievement. The junior recipient is now the first player from Hartfield Academy to accept this prestigious award.

Womack feels that this is a testament to the hard work he has put in day in and day out, and he wants to encourage others that they can do the same.

“It doesn’t happen overnight,” Womack said. “Put in the work and your time will come.”

The junior wasn’t just recognized for his talents on the field but also for how he pours into his community. Womack does his best to use football as a platform to bring others closer to Christ.

“God has a plan,” Womack said. “It may not be like mine and it may not be like others, but just put in the work and stay disciplined and true to who you are.”

Two people who were more than proud to watch Bralan receive the award were his parents B.J. and Nicole Womack. They have witnessed firsthand all of the countless hours he’s put in and are happy to see his hard work pay off.

“This is a surreal moment,” Nicole Womack said. “We know the work he puts in behind the scenes and to see this come full circle is a blessing.”

While the junior standout serves as a role model to younger kids, his parents are also inspired by what he’s accomplished.

“Bralan is really encouraging us,” B.J. Womack said. “Bralan keeps us grounded and watching him do what he loves during the season is great for us.”

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