Tornado of Humility: West Muskingum's Sesay credits others in record-breaking season

FALLS TOWNSHIP — Few have the game-changing ability of Rashid Sesay.

Opposing defensive coaches have yet to slow him down, while the senior has provided fireworks for the West Muskingum faithful on Friday nights.

Sesay became the latest record breaker during last Friday's 49-10 win over Meadowbrook. His three touchdowns helped him set a new Muskingum Valley League mark for TDs in a season with 39, breaking New Lexington's Drew Cannon's record 36. He also surpassed the program's career TD record of 55 by Jeff Murray earlier this season.

His versatility has aided the 9-1 Tornadoes. He leads the team with 1,060 yards and 27 TDs on 136 carries and 454 yards and 8 scores on 28 receptions, to go with two kickoff returns, two passing TDs and a pair of pick 6s.

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Sesay is averaging a touchdown every 4.5 touches this season, and coach Nate Brownrigg noted the senior's humility matches his production.

"He's a great kid and very mature," Brownrigg said. "I've been coaching for a long time, and I've never had a kid with his level of maturity. We have real conversations about life, family and matters like that.

"He's very talented and strong athlete who also sees the big picture," he added. "He's very humble. He's the first to give credit to his offensive line. He knows without the guys around him, he wouldn't have earned it or deserved it."

Humility comes naturally for Sesay

Football has been Sesay's passion since he first stepped onto the field at age 10. He grew up playing with many of the senior linemen on the roster, including Colin Thornton and Connor and Cord McKenzie.

His achievements are possible due to the guys up front, and Sesay has embraced this special season with his classmates.

"I didn't worry about the record coming into the season, but I appreciate having the opportunity to break it," Sesay remarked. "This is the O-line's record, too. I wouldn't have it done it without them so it's a shared record. They deserve as much credit as I do.

"I grew up loving football and playing with these guys for years," he added. "I've been more appreciative of the time we've spent together, knowing it's our last season together. I'm taking in every moment and second, enjoying it the best I can."

It's no surprise to see Sesay pass around the credit, noted Brownrigg. Their bond was developed years ago, and their dedication is being rewarded.

"They grew up seeing a lack of the success in the program. They went through the bad times together, getting beat up as freshmen," he said. "They learned to trust each other and lean on each other. They did the work, both mentally and physically, to be in this spot. You can see it on the field every day."

There were other examples for Sesay, including former teammates Harley Hopkins and Ty Shawger. Both were captains in recent seasons, and Sesay took the lessons from them so he could put the team on his shoulders this season.

"Harley passed that torch onto me. I looked up to him and he inspired me to take on a leadership role. It's been such a blessing," Sesay remarked. "I also appreciate Coach Brownrigg and his staff for giving me an opportunity to take on those roles and reach those record. It's a privilege to play for them."

Seeing Sesay's growth is not surprising for Brownrigg. The senior has the attitude and work ethic to find success in any facet of life.

"He's pretty even-keeled and takes his game up a level when the game begins," Brownrigg said. "He's followed in the footsteps of Ty, setting the tone by the way he does things and being more vocal. He's also an extension of the coaches on the field.

"He can be serious when needed, but knows when and how to keep it loose. He makes it fun for the whole team, but keeps them focused when we need it, too."

Work remains for the Tornadoes

West Muskingum, the fifth seed, is far from satisfied with a 9-1 season, which included its first Muskingum Valley League title since 2005 and a home playoff game.

Union Local, the 12th seed, presents a similar challenge to Coshocton with its physical run game, said Brownrigg. Having that experience from two weeks ago should aid the Tornadoes.

"(Union Local) is one of the bigger teams we've seen up front, and they are balanced offensively," Brownrigg said. "We have to be disciplined and play assignment football. There are no excuses for a lack of effort this week. This is bonus time and a chance to see how far we can go."

Playing better defense is a focus for the Tornadoes. Sesay also believes a balanced offense is behind West M's improvement, as Jake Anton has found a rhythm in the passing game and Carter Winland provides a physical presence in the running game.

"Defensively, we need to get them out of their comfort zone. We need to read our keys and do our jobs," Sesay said. "Our offense starts with better execution and doing things the right way. Jake is playing with more confidence, and Carter is doing his thing. We're sharing the ball which has made us more dynamic. It's a perfect time to bring it all together, and we just need to keep grinding."

The postseason is a special time, no matter how long it lasts. Brownrigg hopes his team embraces it, as the Tornadoes strive to begin a postseason run on Friday.

"We want to play together as long as we can," Brownrigg stated. "I want our guys to enjoy each day and play for each other. If or when it ends, I want to make sure we fight together to the end."

bhannahs@gannett.com; X: @brandonhannahs

This article originally appeared on Zanesville Times Recorder: The Humble Gamechanger: West Muskingum's Sesay setting the standard