General | 1/23/2026 5:30:00 PM
CLINTON -- The Clinton Athletics Department recognized six student-athletes for their accomplishments in competition and academics, as nominated by their respective team coaches, during the Athlete of the Month Awards ceremony on Friday, January 23, at the Clinton High School Media Center.
The Athlete of the Month Award is proudly sponsored and presented by Clinton State Farm Insurance Agent Tim Bruss, a longtime supporter of Clinton Athletics.
For November, the Clinton Arrow Football program nominated senior leader Jacob Jones, while Ellyn Burchfield (Women's Golf) and Aria Jones (Women's Basketball) were also recognized for their outstanding performances. December honorees included Carly Howell (Women's Soccer), London Mckenzie (Men's Basketball), and Bradley Wells (Men's Soccer), each celebrated for excellence on and off the field of play.
ELLYN BURCHFIELD
Burchfield's junior golf season was marked by consistent success and elite-level performances. She finished among the top 10 individual competitors at the MHSAA Class 7A State Tournament and led the Lady Arrows in scoring average during the season.
Burchfield recorded top-five finishes in five of eight regular-season tournaments, including several runner-up and third-place finishes, demonstrating her ability to compete at the highest level across the state.
"Ellyn produces excellence off the course as well as on the Lady Arrow soccer team and by sharpening herself in the classroom," Clinton Head Women's Golf Coach Cameron Melton said. "Ellyn is set apart by her relentless spirit and work ethic in everything she pursues."
CARLY HOWELL
Clinton Head Women's Soccer Coach Elliot Rimmer credited Howell's tireless work ethic as a key driving force for the Lady Arrows during the 2025-26 season. Howell has accounted for seven goals and three assists thus far -- consistently pushing the team with her effort and leadership.
"Carly is a player that has shown her ability on the field repeatedly over the years, sitting this year at five goals and three assists already, driving the team forward with her work ethic," Rimmer said. "More than her abilities on the field however, Carly is also a fantastic teammate. Her intentionality and care for her teammates is evident in all that she does both on the field and off the field. I could not be more proud of what she has accomplished and will continue to accomplish this year."
ARIA JONES
Known for her positive energy and infectious personality, Jones has combined dedication on the court with diligence in the classroom. This basketball season, she is averaging 11.5 points, four rebounds, three assists, and four steals per game.
"Aria works very hard in practice and it shows in games," Clinton Women's Basketball Coach Pearline Fairley said. "She also works hard in the classroom maintaining a high GPA. She understands how to balance school work and basketball. She has a bubbly personality and she's a joy to be around."
JACOB JONES
Selected by Clinton Head Football Coach Hamer Morgan, Jones has been a cornerstone of the football team as a two-year starter at the center position.
Anchoring the offensive line, Jones has served as a key cog in the Arrows' success, providing consistency, toughness, and leadership in the trenches.
Jones' excellence extends beyond the gridiron as he was also awarded Karen and Ray Johannson's "Iron Sharpens Iron" Scholarship, recognizing his dedication in both athletics and academics.
LONDON MCKENZIE
Clinton Head Men's Basketball Coach Joshua Luckett highlighted McKenzie's impact as a difference-maker for the Arrows during the 2025-26 season.
McKenzie has delivered an outstanding start to the year, currently ranking as the team's second-leading scorer, top rebounder, and leading shot blocker. His production on both ends of the floor has made him a key contributor for the Arrows.
Beyond his athletic performance, McKenzie continues to excel in the classroom, earning honor roll recognition during both nine-week grading periods of the first semester.
"London's commitment, discipline, and consistency exemplify what we want our student-athletes to be, Luckett said.
BRADLEY WELLS
Clinton Head Men's Soccer Coach Tyler Wade praised Wells as a deserving recipient of Clinton High School's Athlete of the Month honor, citing his excellence in the classroom and leadership on the field.
A two-year captain for the Clinton Arrow Men's Soccer team, Wells has served as the steady anchor of the back line throughout his junior and senior campaigns. This season, he has started all 19 matches, providing consistent leadership and organization.
"Bradley exemplifies what it means to be a complete student-athlete," Wade said. "His consistency, leadership, and commitment to excellence set the standard for our program and make him a model for his teammates and the Clinton community."
The Clinton Athletics Department congratulates all Athlete of the Month honorees for their dedication, leadership, and excellence in both academics and athletics. Their achievements reflect the values of Clinton High School. Clinton Athletics also extends its gratitude to Clinton State Farm Agent Tim Bruss for his continued support of the Athlete of the Month program and our department as a whole.