Chris Ficklin of Forest, a freshman defensive standout at East Central Community College in Decatur, was named National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Defensive Player of the Week following his performance in the Warriors’ battle with Northwest Mississippi Community College Sept. 9 in Senatobia. 

Ficklin, a 5-11, 195 pound linebacker, registered 13 tackles – including four stops for minus yardage - and four assists in the 41-26 loss. He was also credited with 1.5 sacks, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery.  

The Scott Central High School product currently leads the Mississippi Association of Community and Junior Colleges (MACJC) in tackles with 21 solo stops and eight assists. 

Regarding Ficklin’s honor, Warrior head coach Brian Anderson said, “Chris is setting a high standard for his level of play and for our entire defense. He is also as good of a person off the field which again helps set a standard for the rest of our team. Needless to say I am pleased to have him at East Central.”  

Added Blake Frazier, defensive coordinator, “Chris is a hard worker with a great attitude; he always gives 110 percent at practice and is a good teammate. You want to see good people succeed in life and that is exactly the case here.”