From staff reports

Former Bowdon standout A.J. Cooley is the 2008 Mid-South Conference Offensive Player of the Year for his efforts in Shorter College’s 9-2 regular season.

Cooley is the leader of the most prolific rushing offense in the country in NAIA. He had 1,496 yards and 21 touchdowns on 245 carries this season.

He helped lead the Hawks to a tie for the Western Division title in the MSC, as well as helping No. 12 Shorter earn its first-ever postseason appearance. The Hawks visit the University of Cumberlands in Williamsburg, Ky. for Saturday’s playoff contest.