Flowery Branch quarterback Kanler Coker’s spring is off to a good start.

On Friday in Athens, Coker took part in the Nike Elite 11 Quarterback Competition and was one of six out of about 100 quarterbacks who earned “Golden Gun Accuracy” honors.

Contestants were allowed into the competition either by coach recommendation or invitation from Nike. Student-athletes from all over the country competed, including some from Oregon, New York and Mississippi, among other states.

The competition was held in conjunction the Nike Training Camp, part of the University of Georgia’s G-Day spring football game festivities.

“It was a good experience,” said Coker, who will be a senior next school year. “I threw with confidence and I felt good out there. It was good getting to see the competition out there and to see what you’re up against. To do well gives me some confidence heading into spring, and at the same time it makes me want to go home and work harder.

"I told (Flowery Branch coach Lee Shaw) I’m ready to bust it at spring practice and get after it.”

Shaw was impressed with Coker’s performance at the competition.

“I thought it was great,” Shaw said. “He’s one of my guys now. My sons (Conner and Jaybo Shaw), as well as Austin Brown (the Falcons’ previous three starting quarterbacks), have been through the Elite 11 competition, so I know what kind of caliber athletes are invited to participate. It’s exciting for the program.

“Anytime you get exposure like that, you’re on the hot list for the Elite 11,” Shaw said. “Kanler is learning our offense this spring, so this well help him with his confidence.”

The Falcons kick off spring practice May 17.

Follow Adam Krohn at Twitter.com/gtimesakrohn.