BYU commit Dean Jones to transfer to American Leadership Queen Creek

Dean Jones, one of the state's top strong safeties who last month committed to BYU, says he is leaving Phoenix North Canyon and transferring to American Leadership Academy in Queen Creek.

"My family will be moving because of a job relocation," Jones said. "I will be attending American Leadership Academy."

This will be Jones' third high school in three years, and it is a move back into 3A football after playing in 4A last year at North Canyon.

Unless he is able to receive a hardship from the Arizona Interscholastic Association, there's a chance he may have to sit out the entire season, because it's his second transfer move.

After one transfer, according to AIA bylaws, a player must sit out half the season if the player doesn't receive a hardship. A second transfer would require the athlete to sit out a full season.

Jones began his high school career at Wickenburg, but didn't start playing football until his sophomore year. He grew up on a ranch between Prescott and Wickenburg.

"He has come on and off since the end of school," ALA coach Rich Edwards said about Jones. "I was told his dad was being reassigned and the family has sold their home and purchased one in Queen Creek.

"I don’t know him very well yet, as he has not been with us much because he has been gone for camps on a regular basis. From what I have seen, he is a good kid, works hard and loves football yet seems to be well-balanced."

Jones, 6-foot-3, 190 pounds, had 25 tackles, 19 solo, an interception and 10 pass breakups last season at North Canyon.

North Canyon has undergone a coaching change since last season with Adam Beene taking over.

To suggest human-interest story ideas and other news, reach Obert at richard.obert@arizonarepublic.com or 602-316-8827. Follow him at twitter.com/azc_obert.

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