Bulldog Standouts Earn Top Honors at Simone Awards

Two Kearney High School football players have been recognized among the elite athletes in the Kansas City metro area. At the 2025 Thomas A. Simone Memorial Football Awards ceremony, held Tuesday, December 9, junior quarterback Carter Temple was honored with the Frank Fontana Memorial Award, while senior defensive end Isaac Beaver received the Bobby Bell Award. These distinctions are presented to the top high school football players in the region, as determined by a vote of local coaches and select media members.

junior quarterback Carter Temple was honored with the Frank Fontana Memorial Award, while senior defensive end Isaac Beaver received the Bobby Bell Award. Photo by Ray Weikal.

The Simone Awards were established to celebrate athletes who not only excel on the field, but also embody the values of love, courage, and friendship. The Frank Fontana Memorial Award is given to the most outstanding player from smaller high schools in the metro area. Carter Temple earned this accolade after guiding Kearney to a perfect 14–0 season and capturing a state championship as a dynamic dual-threat quarterback. Temple carried the ball 146 times for 1,037 yards and 22 touchdowns, and completed 100 of 150 passes for 1,456 yards and 18 touchdowns, throwing just two interceptions. He also contributed on special teams, averaging 44 yards per punt.

The Bobby Bell Award, named for Pro Football Hall of Famer and former Kansas City Chief Bobby Bell, is awarded to the area’s top linebacker or lineman. Isaac Beaver anchored the Bulldogs’ defense, making crucial plays throughout the season, including a standout performance in Kearney’s Class 4 state title win over Hannibal. Beaver finished the season as the team’s sack leader with three, and also contributed offensively with a rushing touchdown. His influence extended beyond individual statistics, helping the Kearney defense limit opponents to just 154 points over the course of the season.

This recognition celebrates not only the individual achievements of Isaac Beaver and Carter Temple, but also the collective effort of their teammates, coaches, and supporters. These prestigious awards highlight the dedication, resilience, and character of the players, and shine a spotlight on the strength and unity of the entire Kearney Bulldog community.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.