Midland Valley head football coach Andrew Jenkins once referred to Tyrese Cohen as a "dancing bear" when he arrived at Midland Valley two years ago because of how skilled he was as an offensive lineman and his good footwork. Two year's later Cohen is set to become a Mercer Bear upon graduation. Cohen signed a letter of intent to join the Mercer football program recently and is looking to make an immediate impact at the school in Macon, Georgia.
"It's kind of a surreal feeling. It was two years in the making. As far as getting it out of the way, it's a blessing and a lot of stress relieved as far as knowing where I want to go and having school paid for," Cohen said. "I'm just ready to get there."
Halfway through his high school years, Cohen made the move from Allendale-Fairfax High School to Midland Valley High School. That move turned out to be incredibly beneficial for the 6-foot-4, 315 pound offensive lineman.
He credits the change with giving him the versatility as a lineman.
Cohen has had experience in different offensive schemes, something he said went a long way in helping him land college offers. While at Allendale-Fairfax he was in the wing-t offense before landing with the Mustangs, who run a spread offense.
"When I made that move I knew I was going to have to be a better player and change my style up a bit. I conditioned myself better and pushed myself a little bit more in the weight room," Cohen said. "I think that move was probably one of the biggest moves in my life, and I think it's going to help me in college."
Cohen, a member of the All-Aiken Standard football team, has been one of the Mustangs' best linemen over the past two seasons. He had offers from Newberry, Limestone, North Greenville and Johnson C. Smith as well.
Aiken Standard Photo by Eric Russell
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