Walker’s Hands Never Too Far From the Ball

Tony Walker first gave indications that he was a budding star as a skinny sophomore, when he scored on a 38-yard reception and a 48-yard interception to spark Antelope Valley High’s 36-15 upset of Hart in the Southern Section Division II title game.

In his senior year, Walker, 6 feet, 170 pounds, contributed in an ever-increasing variety of ways and earned recognition as The Times’ Valley defensive player of the year.

On offense, he was a constant breakaway threat and a sure-handed receiver.

On defense, he was a stealth-like presence in the secondary and a punishing tackler.

Walker, a three-year starter, made 80 tackles and four interceptions against teams whose game plans were designed to stay as far away from him as possible.

Coach Brent Newcomb ranks Walker with the best players he’s had in 19 seasons with the Antelopes: a list that includes former Tampa Bay Buccaneer All-Pro receiver Bruce Hill and college players Tommie Smith (Washington) and Jermaine Lewis (UCLA).

Defensive coordinator Wayne Ekimoto calls Walker the best player he has seen in 10 seasons with the Antelopes.

“He has great speed, great quickness and good anticipation,� Ekimoto said. “He studied the film and always knew where he was supposed to be. He could do so many things.�

After switching to running back during the fourth week of the season, he rushed for 1,238 yards and 14 touchdowns while averaging 6.7 yards per carry.

He also had 20 pass receptions and five touchdowns while averaging 19 yards per catch.

Walker hasn’t taken the classes necessary to qualify for a major college. He will likely play at a community college next season.

Said Newcomb, “[Assistant coach] Scott Linehan of Washington told me face-to-face that Tony’s the best high-school player in California.�