LRS Bronco Cort Ruzicka named AP All-State for three positions
Lind-Ritzville/Sprague senior wide receiver Cort Ruzicka, 82, was named to the AP All-State First Team as a defensive back and a punter. He was also named to the second team as a wide receiver. For the full AP All-State teams for each classification see page B2.
RITZVILLE - After advancing to the semifinals of the 2B state football playoffs this year, the Lind-Ritzville/Sprague Broncos received more adulation when senior Cort Ruzicka was named to the 2B AP All-State Football Team at three different positions.
Ruzicka was awarded First Team as a defensive back and a punter, Second Team as a wide receiver.
"Certainly he's maybe the best player in our league," head coach Greg Whitmore said.
Whitmore also acknowledged how impressive it was for Ruzicka to be recognized as a wide receiver when he maybe played only one third of his snaps at the position.
Ruzicka also spent time at quarterback and running back on offense.
"It was great for us and difficult for other teams to prepare for," Whitmore said.
For the Broncos, Ruzicka finished second in rushing, second in passing and first in receiving.
Ruzicka rushed the ball 86 times for 469 yards and 4 touchdowns. He also threw for 351 yards and 3 touchdowns.
As a receiver, Ruzicka caught 26 passes for 431 yards and 4 touchdowns.
His ability to play all over the field helped Ruzicka lead LRS in total offense with 1,251 total yards.
On defense, Ruzicka helped anchor a Broncos team that allowed just 6.9 points per game and recorded three shutouts.
"First Team as a defensive back is great," Whitmore said. "Certainly as a safety he was an impact player for us this season."
Ruzicka and the Broncos' senior class finished their high school career with two state championships and a 47-3 record.