Crenshaw Christian Academy’s juniors, Dalton Jordan and Dylan Atwell recently showcased their talent and resilience at the 2024 Dream All-American Bowl in Arlington, Texas. Joined by their head football Coach, Brandon Burleson, who was also selected to coach at the prestigious event, Jordan and Atwell represented not only their school but also their families and communities.

The Dream All-American Bowl, held at the iconic AT&T Stadium in Arlington, is a platform that highlights the nation’s top high school and middle school athletes. It provides participants with an opportunity to learn from renowned coaches and former NFL players while competing on a national stage. 

Coach Burleson expressed immense pride in his players, emphasizing the significance of their achievements.

“I could not be more proud of these young men,” Burleson said. “They stepped out of their normal element and stepped up on a big stage. I mean, how many of our young athletes from Crenshaw County or even other local counties can say that they stood on the STAR and balled out?”

During the game, Jordan made a pivotal defensive play that caught everyone’s attention and showcased his determination and skill. Meanwhile, Atwell’s energy and performance throughout the weekend earned him recognition as one of the team’s Leadership Award recipients and a captain for the game. Coach Burleson says he believes that this experience has set a bright path for their future and the future of all athletes at Crenshaw Christian Academy.

For the teammates, the Dream All-American Bowl was not just about showcasing their talents but also about the invaluable learning experiences it offered. The pair experienced the opportunity to train with former NFL players and coaches from various levels of the sport, all within the remarkable setting of AT&T Stadium. Shannon Riley, the CEO of Dream Sports Group, expressed his congratulations to the young athletes, highlighting the rigorous selection process that they successfully navigated. 

“We received over 10,000 nominations, and these gentlemen are 1 and 2 of 360 student athletes from across the nation selected,” Riley said. “Dream Sports Group congratulates them on this prestigious honor and once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

Reflecting on their experience, Atwell shared, “We spent Saturday just doing drills… the next day we had practice…It was really cold, but we were just getting ready for the game and having fun.” 

CCA Headmaster Becky Baggett emphasized that these young men weren’t just chosen at random and that it was their tremendous effort and dedication that resulted in the opportunity.

“We are very excited that these students were able to get exposure at that level. They worked hard, and when you work hard, it pays off.”