NATCHEZ — Unlike Adams County Christian School softball player Ashleigh Williams, Rebels football player Lester Wells earned his first “Mississippi Association of Independent Schools Fab 15” honor in 2014. Still, Wells shrugged off the honor as if he’s the one receiving the award for the third time, not Williams.

“It’s cool because we work so hard,” Wells said. “But it’s really just a step towards playing at the next level.”

Wells was recognized as one of 15 seniors for his running ability and coverage skills, while Williams received the honors as one of 15 juniors for her batting ability and defense at first base. ACCS eighth grader Shelby Mason was nominated in the Fab 15 Class of 2019 and 2020.

Mason was elated to hear that she made the top 15 for seventh and eighth grade MAIS athletes, and she credits her work ethic for the receiving the accolade.

“I think working hard and playing in tournament ball helped me get it,” Mason said.

Like Wells, Williams is using her nomination to seek recruitment from colleges around the state. She’s hoping that any award or nomination will help her be discovered.

“It’s always surprising when you receive something like this, but really, I’m hoping it helps me be seen by coaches at the next level,” Williams said.

In order to be discovered, Wells and Williams have to receive recognition to garner attention from colleges, something they feel they’ve done by grabbing headlines with their Fab 15 honors.

Williams said her third nomination motivates her to work harder and improve her quality of play in 2014.

“It makes me feel really proud to be one of the Top 15 because there are so many teams in Mississippi, and to be one of those Top 15 is really special,” Williams said.

ACCS football coach David King said Wells is his first football player to receive the award.