Taylor, Montoya earn football All-State, Big 12 honors

Zachary Knox-Doyle, Sports Editor • Nov 20, 2024

AJ Montoya, in addition to his defensive play, served as a goal line back for Community, rushing for 77 yards on the season and scoring four touchdowns. Photo Courtesy of: Mr. Jeff Christopherson

Ironmen football standouts Calen Taylor and AJ Montoya were named members of the 2024 Class 7A All-State team by the Illinois High School Football Coaches Association on Thursday, Nov. 14, an honor bestowed on just 36 athletes across the state.

Taylor, a First-Team All-State selection, capped off a remarkable season with 34 total touchdowns, 1,195 rushing yards and 419 receiving yards.

The dynamic running back solidified his All-State status in the Ironmen’s quarterfinal matchup against the top-ranked Chicago Mt. Carmel Caravan, scoring three touchdowns in a narrow 49-42 loss to the back-to-back state champions, the Associated Press’s top-ranked team.

Taylor, who averaged more than 10 yards per carry and 19 yards per reception, was also named the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year, highlighting his impact on the Ironmen’s success.

Montoya earned an IHSFCA All-State Honorable Mention and was named Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year for his dominant presence on the line. The 6-foot, 230-pound lineman was one of three unanimous selections to the Big 12 First Team, accompanied by teammates Kyle Beaty and Jase Wilson.

A full list of Ironmen receiving Big 12 All-Conference recognition is below.

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About the Contributor

Zachary Knox-Doyle, Sports Editor

Zachary Knox-Doyle is a senior at Normal Community High School and plays on the school's tennis team. He is sports editor for the Inkspot. One of my biggest inspirations is Stacie King, the color commentator for the Chicago Bulls. He has a unique voice, catchy slogan, and encompasses skills I strive to achieve as a color commentator. "Give me that HOT SAUCE!" The best advice I've received is to create something that makes a wave, one must venture outside of the box to begin the ripple.