Bayport Athlete of the Week: Bethel running back Amari Pryear

HAMPTON, Va. (WAVY) — Bethel junior running back Amari Pryear has had himself a big couple of weeks, and while it may have been a shock to some seeing a talent like him burst onto the scene, Bruins head coach David Porter has always seen it from his tailback.

“He runs smooth,” Porter said. “He’s the same running back on carry 31 as he is on carry 1. I’ve never seen that on the high school level that I coached at the running back position.”

Over the past two weeks, Pryear has accounted for 50% of Bethel’s points. With four rushing touchdowns and more than 300 total yards of offense, Pryear is establishing himself as one of the best backs in the Peninsula District.

“I think I’m elusive, hard-running,” Pryear said. “I’m a good back. … I expected that. I work hard in the offseason, training, going to camps.”

As Pryear and the Bruins head into their week six matchup with Gloucester Friday, they sit at 2-3 on the year. Porter thinks this group has potential, and he wants Pryear to be able to have a signature postseason moment before his time at Bethel comes to a close.

“He’s the engine — I want him to walk away with that playoff moment,” Porter said, “that playoff win that all superstars get.”

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