Phoenix Desert Vista High School superstar recruit Devon Kennard won't be able to participate in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl due to a knee injury, but that didn't keep him from grinning ear-to-ear upon receiving a formal invitation to the game Tuesday morning in front of hundreds of well-wishers on the school's outdoor stage.

"It's an honor," Kennard said after thanking his family, coaches and teammates. "Ever since I knew about the Army game I had dreams of playing in it so to finally to get nominated and know that I have this opportunity, I'm honored."

Kennard tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee on a fourth quarter play against Chandler High School on Sept. 19, prematurely ending his senior season.

Six weeks removed from surgery, Kennard was able to step up to the podium without the aid of crutches to don the prestigious Army All-American jersey.


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