Mahomet Family Dentistry Athlete of the Week: Donovan Lewis

In the heart of Mahomet-Seymour’s defensive lineup, Mahomet-Seymour senior Donovan Lewis proved to be a powerhouse on the field, leaving a mark that resonates across the state during the 2023 season.

Ranked #108 nationally and an impressive #3 in Illinois for interceptions, according to MaxPreps, Lewis has been an unwavering force against opposing teams. His prowess is reflected in his remarkable ability to read the game and intercept passes, continually thwarting the opponent’s attempts to score.

Known for his exceptional ability to read the game and create crucial turnovers, Lewis exhibited remarkable performances in key moments. In the nail-biting 28-21 win against Washington Community in Week 3, Lewis made his presence known with a crucial 46-yard interception return for a touchdown. This pick-six showcased his innate ability to turn the tide, favoring the Bulldogs.

Moreover, his consistent performance throughout the season was evident in his knack for interceptions. In the faceoff against Highland, a state-ranked team, Donovan secured another interception, contributing to the Bulldogs’ impressive shutout victory.

Lewis ended the season with seven interceptions, earning a mark in Mahomet-Seymour’s top 5 for a season.

But Lewis isn’t just about interceptions. He’s also ranked #35 in Illinois for punt return yards, boasting an 8.2-yard average, showcasing his versatility and ability to turn defensive plays into offensive opportunities.

Throughout the 2023 season, Lewis amassed 38 tackles, of which 33 were solo. His physicality and determination were evident in every game, whether it was an impressive interception return against Mahomet-Seymour’s rivals or consistently reliable tackles that kept the opponents at bay.

Mahomet-Seymour’s head coach, Jon Adkins, has been vocal about Lewis’s impact on the field. Adkins commended Lewis for “putting guys in the right spots” and making remarkable pass breakups. His skill set aligns perfectly with the Bulldogs’ defensive strategies, making him a linchpin in their setup.

Despite the team losing the first game against Morton, Coach Adkins praised Donovan for being “incredible” and “awesome” and matching his career-high in tackles. His tenacity was evident as he was consistently “around the ball,” and his “non-stop motor” was credited for his relentless efforts on the field.