Lucas Donson
Valley High School

When Lucas Donson fell after a blistering hit against Oakwood last September, he knew he was done for the year.

The promising Valley View High School quarterback seriously injured his shoulder, and his family went to Dr. Timothy Kremchek, the Cincinnati Reds medical director.

Nearly five months of rehab followed the Oct. 3 arthroscopic surgery.

"It was tough having my sophomore season taken away from me," said the determined Donson. "I love the game so much, and that's what motivated me to get back."

The 6-foot-3, 190-pound junior now triggers Valley View's run-and-shoot offense, running for two touchdowns in a 35-6 win over Dayton Marshall in the opener.

"There are a lot of guys that don't ever come back from an injury like this," said Valley View coach Jay Niswonger. "Luke had labrum damage along with issues with his rotator cuff. ... He really has displayed a strong work ethic in coming back.

"We got away from making the big play last season," Niswonger said of a 3-7 year. "That's something we have to get back to doing. Luke will help us accomplish that."

- Daytondailynews.com