Kemisha Ware - The Vermilion Sports Editor
Terryl Fenton
UL fans said goodbye to 23 seniors this weekend, but according to Cajun senior Ivan Taylor, the Cajuns are “rebuilding,” and with players like Terryl Fenton and Chester Johnson, the future looks bright for the team.
“We are still rebuilding, but I see progress everyday,” said Taylor. “Our young guys are coming up and making big plays.”
Fenton, a freshman cornerback from New Orleans, stepped up for the Cajuns in UL’s homecoming game against Idaho when he returned Vandal quarterback Brian Lindgren’s interception 44 yards.
“I think it was a big play,” said Taylor. “He’s a good cornerback. Watch out for him.”
Johnson, a freshman running back from Shreveport, said Fenton has good timing.
“It seems like he is always there,” said Johnson. “I don’t know if that’s coaching or if that’s him, but he is always in the right spot at the right time.”
Johnson, also has made an impact this season with impressive carries, including a 37 yarder to mid-field against Idaho, which was the longest run play of the season.
Johnson, a product of Evangel Christian Academy, said he credits his family for his success.
“My dad is always encouraging and pushing me to work hard, even when I’m being lazy,” said Johnson. “He’s like my best friend, pushing me to work hard.”
Johnson said his family is one of the reasons why his chose to attend UL.
“Me, my dad and my brother, we’re so close. I wanted to be close to them,” said Johnson. “They could come see me play whenever they want to, and I can go home whenever I want to.”
Despite his success so far this season, Fenton said he did not expect to make an immediate impact with the Cajuns.
“I was hoping I could,” said Fenton. “I came in and contributed to the team a little bit, but I didn’t get to do as much as I wanted to.”
Taylor said, in time, Fenton will improve as an athlete
“I think he will be a fine cornerback from this school,” said Taylor. “Hopefully, he will do big things.”
As for Johnson, Taylor said “he’s getting more confident.”
“In couple of years, I hope I can come back and maybe see him rush for 1,000,” said Taylor.
Fenton said Johnson came into the season prepared.
“Chester came in during the summer and worked hard,” said Fenton. “All of the freshmen that are stepping up now worked hard all summer.”
Johnny Felders and Bill Sampy are two other Cajun newcomers making their marks on the team.
“Bill Sampy has contributed to the team on offense,” said Fenton.
“Bill was a red shirt last year, but he has come in this year and is doing real good,” added Johnson.
Fenton, who compiled 69 total tackles during his senior season at Holy Cross, said he strives to become a better player.
“My vision, as far as reading the receiver, is really good,” said Fenton. “I want to improve on my footwork, experience and speed to be where I know I can make it to the next level.”
Johnson, who was a member of Evangel’s 2001 5A State Championship team, said he wants the Cajuns to have a “winning season.”
“I have to improve on my speed and blocking, but I think i’m coachable,” said Johnson. “I want the team to be Sun Belt Champions and I wouldn’t mind being Sun Belt Offensive player of the year.”
Johnson helps fuel Cajun comeback efforts
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