Plant City sends Coney and Patterson off in style

Posted Dec 6, 2011 by Katherine Smith

Updated Dec 6, 2011 at 01:19 PM

Plant City has to say goodbye to two of the best football players to ever don a Raiders uniform. First, school officials wanted to say thank you and what better way to do so than with a party.

With family members, friends, teachers, coaches and administrators on hand, Plant City quarterback Bennie Coney and running back Dazmond Patterson were treated to a ceremony Tuesday morning, complete with cake and donuts, to celebrate their accomplishments as Raiders and also acknowledge their future destinations.

Coney is heading the University of Cincinnati and Patterson is going to Ohio University. Both student athletes are graduating early and will leave for college in January. And since they wouldn’t be able to participate in February’s National Signing Day ceremony, the school wanted to honor them before they leave.

Plant City athletic director Traci Durrance thanked the boys for their four years and for the excitement their football skills brought to the school. She also had a special message for Coney, who resurrected his football career after his dismissal from the team during his junior season.

“I’m very proud of the way you’ve turned yourself around,’’ Durrance said. “You became a leader on the team and a leader in the hallways.’‘

Coney, who finished his senior season as one of the top quarterbacks in the county with 2,297 passing yards, 30 touchdowns, thanked God, his family, teachers, coaches and teammates for helping him along the way. He also wished his grandmother a Happy Birthday.

“I can’t believe it’s over with,’’ Coney said. “Four years goes by in a flash. I’ve enjoyed everything I’ve done with y’all.’‘

Patterson, who missed the last three games of the season with an ankle injury, led the Raiders in rushing with 821 rushing yards, six touchdowns and 292 receiving yards, two touchdowns.

“I appreciate all of you,’’ Patterson said. “I appreciate all you’ve done for me.’’

Raiders coach Wayne Ward said both players are leaving a great legacy.

“It’s one of those bittersweet moments because we are excited for your future, but sad to see you go,’’ Ward said. “They’ve set a new standard at Plant City.’‘