The Grapevine

by Martin McConnell

Independence High School football kicker Casey McGhee recently committed to the University of Northern Iowa to continue his academic journey and football career.

McGhee became a decorated kicker during his time with the Blue Devils, earning one first-team All-Ohio honor, two second-team All-Ohio honors, and four all-district honors. He said Northern Iowa was a natural fit, as he has family ties with the university through his grandmother.

McGhee was an 80% field goal kicker and hit 98.96% of his extra point tries. He also played shooting guard on Independence’s basketball team, and was on the school’s soccer team.

“I’m very excited for Casey as he starts the next chapter of his career. He became a very important weapon for us the past few years,” said Independence head football coach Rick Adams. “All the off-season work that he put in has paid off for him with his signing. He is an example for other players to follow; that if you put the time in you will get an opportunity to play college ball.”

IHS senior basketball player Anna Weber earned an honorable mention under the Division III Girls Basketball All-Ohio team. She averaged 14.3 points per game in her senior year.

She has been a dual-sport athlete during her time at Independence, also playing first base for the school’s softball team and joining the varsity squad in spring 2021.

“Being honored at that level is due to opponents having to game plan for you,” said Independence girls basketball coach Mike Marcinko. “Teams focus their defensive plan to slow or stop Anna. Players that demand that type of attention earn the honor of being one of the top players. She definitely has earned that spot.” ∞