Athlete Spotlight
Maury’s Michael Vick: Au’Tori Newkirk Seizing Every Moment
During the start of the year, Maury High football made significant changes to retool themselves to compete again for the 5A Class Virginia Championship after losing to Highland Springs. The transition at the start of the season left many fans questioning the team’s prospects. The Commanders would be questioned after losing Mario Miller and Kendall Daniels, who was sidelined due to injury. Yet, Coach Dyrri McCain and his staff had no worries as they knew they had a unique talent in junior quarterback Tori Newkirk.
Newkirk’s emergence throughout the season proved pivotal as he showcased poise and leadership with several stunning performances. Not only did Newkirk impress the fans. He dominated his competition with an impressive 2,978-yard passing season, completing 147 out of 213 passes and 34 touchdowns to lead the Hampton Roads area with 2,978 yards. His exceptional stats, bordering on breaking regional records, underscore his impactful presence on the field.
Beyond his passing prowess of 3,670 yards a 68% completion rating and 44 touchdowns. Newkirk’s versatility is evident in his 760 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. His combined all-purpose yards ranks him third in the region’s single-season history, trailing only notable names like Darriel Mack Jr. and Kevin White Jr. However, Newkirk remains firmly focused on a singular objective: guiding the Commodores to a state championship.
Newkirk ends his junior season with the following honors;
- 2023 – 1st team All District Honors and Player of the Year
- 2023 – 1st team All Region Honors and Player of the Year
- 2023 – 1st team All State Honors and Player of the Year
- 2023 – 1st team All Tidewater Honors and Player of the Year
- 2023 – State Champion
Newkirk’s ascension in Virginia High School football hasn’t gone unnoticed, as he received several Player of the Year and 1st Team Honors. Newkirk navigated a demanding early schedule this season, showcasing his mettle against formidable opponents like Highland Springs and Dinwiddie. In the State Championship game, Newkirk took the lead, orchestrating six touchdowns as the Commodores surged to a commanding 45-34 victory over Stone Bridge for the Class 5 state championship at Scott Stadium in Charlottesville. This triumph signifies Maury’s second-ever state title in program history, culminating in an impeccable 15-0 record.