Another year, another running back from Bridgeport claiming the Frank Loria Award.
Â
Gavin Williams claimed the prize, in its 43rd year and named for the Harrison County native, Virginia Tech All-American and Marshall plane crash victim, at a ceremony at the Bridgeport Conference Center on Monday.
Â
"It means a lot," Williams said. "My grandma actually went to school with Frank Loria's wife, so my entire family was up there hoping to see me win it. It was a big accomplishment and everyone was happy….it's always been a dream and it's great to win."
Â
Josh Love won last year, while Zach Rohrig went back-to-back in 2023 and 2024.
Â
 A first-team all-state selection as a junior, Williams ran 127 times for 1,977 yards (yeah, over 15 yards per carry) and 27 touchdowns.
Â
On special teams, the Big 10 Conference player of the year added 62 PATs on 65 tries and put 47 of 79 kickoffs in the end zone for touchbacks.
Â
Bridgeport also retained the Loria Lineman of the Year award as
Bryson Lowther continued a streak that includes Wes Brown (2025), Beau Ford (2024) and Kamar Summers (2023).
Â
Lowther missed his freshman and junior years due to injury, but returned to anchor a Tribe attack that amassed 5,325 total yards, 91 touchdowns and 52.6 points per game.
Â
"I was tremendously grateful," Lowther said. "All of my teammates and coaches have helped me so much throughout my career."
READ THE REST HEREÂ
https://www.connect-bridgeport.com/connect.cfm?func=view§ion=Sports&item=Bridgeports-Gavin-Williams-Wins-Frank-Loria-Award-Bryson-Lowther-Claims-Lineman-of-Year-Tyler-Phares-Retains-Coach-of-Year62555
Â