UPDATE: Edgewater’s standout offensive lineman Ben Jones, formerly known as Ben Bankowitz, has just been invited to the prestigious Army All-American Bowl, set to take place on December 21, 2023, in Frisco, Texas. This recognition marks a significant milestone in Jones’ football career, highlighting his critical role in leading Edgewater to an impressive 9-0 record this season.
In a heartfelt response to the announcement, Jones expressed gratitude, stating, “It feels really good. I try to not think about it too much, just give the glory to God, but it does feel really good.” He recently changed his name to honor his stepfather, Eric Jones, signifying his commitment to family values alongside his athletic priorities.
As a key player on Edgewater’s offensive line, Jones has been instrumental in the team’s success, starting since his freshman year. The Eagles, currently undefeated and champions of Class 7A, District 5, are gearing up for their upcoming rivalry game against Boone on October 30. “This year is going really well, obviously, 9-0, but we’re not close to done. In our minds, we still got six more games,” Jones emphasized, demonstrating his focused mindset.
Jones has been refining his skills for years, becoming one of the top offensive linemen in the state. “Technique is one of the most pivotal components of being an offensive lineman,” Jones explained, underscoring the importance of practice and execution in games. His agility and technique have earned him respect, with a 6-foot-3, 295-pound frame that allows him to excel at the tackle position, though he plans to transition to the interior line in college.
The commitment to Appalachian State on June 17 has solidified Jones’ future in football. He praised the Mountaineers’ coaching staff, particularly offensive line coach Allen Mogridge, stating, “They are building something special up there… I feel like App State is overachieving with the coaches they have.”
With Patrick Browning leading the team this year, Jones has thrived under his guidance. “I don’t have enough good words to say about Coach Browning. He’s a great coach, a football guru,” Jones stated, reflecting on the positive impact of strong leadership during a time of uncertainty for the program.
The resilience of the Edgewater team has been commendable, especially after the departure of former head coach Cameron Duke. Despite potential disruptions, the players remained united and committed to their goals. “We had team meetings and we talked every day about how we had to have the whole team stay on track during the offseason,” Jones recalled, emphasizing the camaraderie among teammates.
As the Eagles prepare for the Barrel Game rivalry against Boone, all eyes will be on Ben Jones as he continues to showcase his skills on the field. His journey to the Army All-American Bowl not only highlights his individual talents but also serves as inspiration for his teammates and future athletes.
Stay tuned for further updates on Jones’ performance and the upcoming games as Edgewater aims to maintain their undefeated streak.
