Belding junior running back Ethan King has been recognized as the 2025 Daily News Offensive Football Player of the Year following an exceptional inaugural season on the varsity team. King played a pivotal role in leading the Belding High School Black Knights to their fourth consecutive OK Silver conference title and sixth straight playoff appearance. Over the season, he amassed 1,564 yards on 148 carries, averaging an impressive 10.57 yards per carry, and scoring 16 touchdowns.
“It feels great,” King stated regarding his achievement. “I’m pretty new to everything since it was my first year starting on varsity, so it’s pretty neat and accomplishing. I’ve worked out all summer and basically my whole life to do what I’ve been doing.”
King’s journey in football began in fifth grade, continuing through middle school and junior varsity levels. His determination and talent shone brightly this season, earning him All Conference and All Region honors from the Michigan High School Football Coaches Association.
King’s Impact on the Black Knights
Coach Monty Price expressed pride in King’s performance, emphasizing that his success reflects his hard work and commitment. “He accepted that challenge and rose to the occasion,” Price remarked. King’s notable performances included a standout game against Godwin Heights, where he rushed for 247 yards and scored four touchdowns.
King’s contributions extended beyond rushing; he also made significant impacts on special teams, including an 88-yard kick return for a touchdown. Price noted that King’s ability to adapt to a new position as fullback was crucial for the team’s offensive strategy. “When you rush for over 1,500 yards and have 16 touchdowns, that’s quite an impact on a team,” Price said.
Despite being part of a senior-heavy team, King emerged as a leader. He credited his offensive line, comprised entirely of seniors, for their execution, which allowed him to perform at his best. “I just played to the best of my ability and really just leaned on the seniors,” King said.
Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead
This season was particularly meaningful for King as it marked his return after shoulder surgery the previous year. “Last year, after football season, I had surgery on my shoulder and was out for several months,” he reflected. “To be able to continue that and prove myself that I’m the athlete that we needed was pretty rewarding.”
King’s resilience was evident as he transitioned to fullback, a change that initially posed challenges. Yet, he embraced the opportunity to grow as an athlete. Price acknowledged King’s remarkable performance, stating, “He’s certainly exceeded all expectations.”
Looking ahead, King is eager to build on his success and help guide the team through the upcoming season. “I just want to prove myself once again,” he shared. With a new group of younger players stepping up, King hopes to continue the Black Knights’ winning tradition and secure another conference championship.
The dedication shown by King throughout his first varsity season not only highlights his potential but also sets a standard for his teammates. As Price put it, “His work ethic is amazing and his desire and drive is second to none.” As the Black Knights prepare for the next chapter, King’s journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes in Belding and beyond.
