Northeast Mississippi Community College sophomore wide receiver Kymbotric Mason feels like has come a long way on the football field.
“This experience has changed me in so many ways,” said Mason, who played at Noxubee County High School in Macon. “Being able to line up against some of the best junior college players in the nation has been rewarding. Nothing comes easy in this league. You have to fight for everything. A lot of people do not appreciate the junior college game as much as they should. We have some players who can play in this league.”
Northeast C.C. will look to snap a three-game losing streak when it plays at No. 7 Jones County Junior College (5-1) Thursday in the final non-division game of the Mississippi Association of Community and Junior Colleges (MACJC) regular season.
It has been a struggle on offense for the Tigers (1-5). Northeast C.C. is averaging 19.8 points per game. It is coming off a 41-11 loss to Mississippi Delta C.C. on Thursday.
“This season has been difficult in a lot of ways,” Mason said. “Just haven’t been able to play well for four quarters. A couple of injuries have also hurt. In this league, you can’t have an off night or the other team is going to beat you. Our best game (a 37-31 double overtime loss at Itawamba C.C.) showed a little bit of what we are capable of doing. However, we haven’t been able do that on a consistent basis.”
As a senior at Noxubee County High, Mason had 55 receptions for 980 yards and five touchdowns. He was part of Mississippi High School Activities Association (MHSAA) Class 4A State championship teams at Noxubee County in 2014 and 2015.
“Feel blessed to have been in that position (of playing at Noxubee County),” Mason said. “That is what has allowed me to play college ball. The coaches cared about us so much and made sure we had our grades and that we didn’t slack in any area. There were a lot of good times on that field. We were brothers, and I have tried to help bring some of that positive attitude here.”
For now, Northeast C.C. will look for a strong finish to the season. Mason, who will graduate in December, has five receptions for 26 yards. He is looking for a first touchdown. He isn’t alone.
The Tigers are averaging less than 200 yards passing per game. Northeast C.C. has eight passing touchdowns. It will complete the season with games against No. 2 Northwest Mississippi C.C. and No. 1 East Mississippi C.C.
“Everybody gets excited when you start winding down the days,” Mason said. “It’s hectic with the season ending and then graduating. We all want what’s best for our futures, so it’s kind of like a whirlwind. Football has always been a big part of my life. Hopefully, something good is coming.”
Follow Dispatch sports writer Scott Walters on Twitter @dispatchscott
Scott was sports editor for The Dispatch.
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