Built in the Trenches: Lucas Evans and Tavian Branch Earn James “Hookey” Reap Honors
By: Justin Bradley | SportzWire | January 11, 2026 | Photo courtesy Sportzwire
Since 1957, the District 11 American Legion has honored the region’s toughest and most dependable linemen with the James “Hookey” Reap Award, a distinction reserved for players who do their loudest work where the game is decided.
This season, two familiar names stood above the rest.
On the offensive side, Lucas Evans of Lackawanna Trail embodied everything the award represents. A four-year starter, Evans helped fuel one of the most productive rushing attacks in Pennsylvania and served as the foundation for a historic run. The Lions finished 12–2, captured the LFC Division III title, and claimed another District 2 Class 1A championship, the fourth such title of Evans’ career. A two-time Pennsylvania Football Writers’ All-State selection, Evans’ impact went far beyond the stat sheet.
Defensively, Tavian Branch proved once again that dominance is repeatable. The Riverside standout earned the James “Hookey” Reap Award for the second straight year after anchoring a Vikings defense that powered an 8–3 season and a District 2 Class 2A semifinal run. Branch filled the box score with tackles, sacks, forced turnovers, blocked kicks, and relentless pressure — but his presence went deeper than numbers.
Different roles. Same responsibility.
Evans and Branch represent the heartbeat of high school football — toughness, selflessness, and excellence forged snap by snap in the trenches.
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