The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Kevin Weiss

Local commitments and signings

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Stephanie Brower

Wiregrass Ranch High product Stephanie Brower recently became a member of the University of Florida women’s basketball team, as a freshman walk-on. One of the top players in Pasco County, the 6-foot forward played in 123 games for the Bulls, compiling nearly 1,500 points and more than 1,000 rebounds for her career.

She most recently helped guide Wiregrass Ranch to 21 wins and a Class 8A regional appearance during the 2016-2017 season.

Paul Coumoulos

Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School product Paul Coumoulos announced his commitment to play collegiate baseball at Saint Leo University.

Coumoulos posted a .378 career batting average in four varsity seasons at Bishop McLaughlin, helping his team reach the Class 3A state semifinals last season.

The outfielder was later selected by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 40th round of the 2017 MLB Draft, but didn’t sign.

Hiking Spree showcases regional parks, trails

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Take a hike — that’s what the Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation wants you to do this winter.

The county’s Hiking Spree program returns for its second year, with a new set of diverse trails for residents and visitors to explore.

The program began in November and runs through March 31.

Here’s how it works:

  • People may walk any of 20 designated trails on their own, with friends, as part of a group, or with a member of the Parks & Recreation staff. There also is a wild-card hike of sorts: Hikers choose their own trail, which can be anywhere.
  • Participants can receive a brass medallion or Access Hiker patch after completing eight of the 20 hikes.
  • The program works strictly on an honor system. Nobody monitors your progress.
  • Anyone can participate. There are no age or physical restrictions, and you don’t have to be a Hillsborough County resident.

It’s designed to offer something for everyone from hiking rookies to seasoned outdoor enthusiasts.

Some of the trails are at well-known regional parks, such as Lettuce Lake, Upper Tampa Bay, and Lithia Springs.

Lettuce Lake Park’s Boardwalk Run is included on this year’s Hiking Spree. It is one of 20 trails people are encouraged to try out this winter. (File)

Others are at more obscure preserves, including Alafia Scrub and Blackwater Creek.

Those who want a more leisurely walk can go to neighborhood and recreation centers, including Northdale, All People’s, and Valrico, which are part of the program, too.

Each trail has a classification and difficulty rating. Distances range from about one-third mile to more than 4 miles.

Hikers can walk paths near their homes, but also are encouraged to explore new terrain.

“We’ve basically highlighted 20 trails that we thought people would like to see,” said Dana McDonald, special events coordinator for Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation.

“We wanted to make sure there were acceptable trails. We wanted to make sure there were some easier trails for people who just started out — a little bit more primitive trails for people who really want to get deep into nature.”

While still new, the outdoor initiative already seems to be a hit.

About 1,000 people participated in the inaugural program last year.

Thousands more are expected to take part this year. In fact, more than 3,200 people have already registered for this year’s challenge.

The hiking event promotes the county’s parks and trail offerings, encouraging people to get active outdoors and experience “natural” Florida.

Set across fall, winter and early spring, it’s also timed to take advantage of the cooler, drier weather and to coincide with prime bird-watching season.

“It’s a way to kind of get out and turn off the cellphones, turn off the electronics and just kind of be out there, take some time for yourself,” McDonald said.

“It’s a great way for families to explore nature,” she added.

Hiking Spree is modeled on successful programs elsewhere, most notably in Akron, Ohio. There, the Summit Metro Parks community hiking event draws some 12,000 participants annually.

Parks & Recreation officials hope to surpass that mark one day.

“We want to take as many people out to our parks as possible,” McDonald said. “We just want to make sure people see it and they experience it.”

For information or to register, visit hcflgov.net/hikingspree.

Here’s the list of parks and trails for the 2018 Hiking Spree:

  • Alafia Scrub Nature Preserve, Riverview: River Bend Trail (1.5 miles)
  • Alderman’s Ford Conservation, Plant City: Two Rivers Loop (1.9 miles); Enchanted Forest Run (1 mile)
  • All People’s Life Center, Tampa: Nature Trail (0.40 miles)
  • Bell Creek Nature Preserve, Riverview: Nature Trail (4.1 miles)
  • Blackwater Creek Nature Preserve, Plant City: Central Loop (4.2 miles)
  • Branchton Neighborhood Park, Tampa: Gray Fox Fitness Trail (.75 miles)
  • Channel Park Trailhead, Tampa: Upper Tampa Bay Trail—north to Wilsky Road Trailhead and return (3 miles)
  • Cockroach Bay Nature Preserve, Ruskin: Nature Trail (.70 miles)
  • Edward Medard Conservation Park, Plant City: Singing Bluffs Trail (.70 miles)
  • Eureka Springs Conservation Park, Tampa: Serenity Loop (.35 miles)
  • Golden Aster Scrub Nature Preserve, Gibsonton: Nature Trail (3.5 miles)
  • Lettuce Lake Conservation Park, Tampa: Hammock Run or Boardwalk (2.1 miles)
  • Lithia Springs Conservation Park, Lithia: Fish Hawk Trail North (3 miles)
  • Lower Green Swamp Nature Preserve, Plant City: Nature Trail (2 miles)
  • Northdale Neighborhood Park, Tampa: Owl Fitness Trail (.45 miles)
  • Peterson Road Neighborhood Park Trailhead, Odessa: Upper Tampa Bay Trail—south to Ehrlich Road and return (2.4 miles)
  • Ruskin/Baudette Neighborhood Park, Ruskin: Quiet Pines Fitness Trail (1.2 miles)
  • Upper Tampa Bay Conservation Park, Tampa: Bobcat, Eagle and Otter Trails (1.7 miles total)
  • Valrico Neighborhood Park, Valrico: Rolling Acres Fitness Trail (.40 miles)
  • Wild-card trail (choose your own)

Published January 3, 2018

Local football players sign with colleges during early period

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Several of the area’s top football players took advantage of a new NCAA rule allowing prospective student-athletes to sign their National Letters of Intent (NLI) in December, rather than waiting until February to put pen to paper.

Approved in May, the college football early signing period created a 72-hour window for signings from Dec. 20 to Dec. 22.

The next opportunity to sign an NLI will be at any point between the first Wednesday in February (Feb. 7) and April 1—also known as the traditional signing period.

Here’s a look at a few of the top athletes in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area who participated in the first-ever early signing period for football:

Isaiah Bolden, cornerback, Wesley Chapel High School
College: Florida State University (Tallahassee)
The highest-rated football prospect in Pasco County waited until the third and final day of the early signing period to make his official announcement to Florida State.

But, it was hardly a surprise he was headed there.

Wesley Chapel’s Isaiah Bolden signed with Florida State University, despite being committed to the University of Oregon for several months. The four-star cornerback prospect is the highest rated recruit in Pasco County for the 2018 class. (File)

Bolden de-committed from the University of Oregon on Dec. 5—the same day head coach Willie Taggart left his post at the school to accept the Florida State job, replacing Jimbo Fisher.

Bolden had an in-home visit with Taggart on Dec. 10, then took an official visit to Florida State on Dec. 15 — before ultimately signing with the university a week later.

A consensus four-star prospect, the 6-foot-2, 175-pound Bolden is ranked among the top 30 or so cornerbacks for the 2018 recruiting class.

His senior season ended prematurely, however, after he was kicked off Wesley Chapel’s football team in early October, playing in just three games.

The prior year he helped lead Wesley Chapel to a 7-2 record and near playoff appearance, after transferring from Bartram Trail in Jacksonville.

Bolden’s dismissal didn’t deter major college programs from pursuing him, however.

Besides Florida State and Oregon, the rangy athlete boasted about 30 offers from other major FBS programs, including Auburn, Clemson, Georgia, Oklahoma and Michigan, among others.

Local fans wanting to witness Bolden’s athletic prowess still can. He recently joined Wesley Chapel’s varsity basketball team, where he’s averaging about 11 points and eight rebounds per game as a forward.

Jordan Miner, cornerback, Wiregrass Ranch High School
College: Penn State University (State College, Pennsylvania)
Like Bolden, Miner opted to join one of college football’s blue chip programs at Penn State University — a school he verbally committed to back in July.

A four-star prospect ranked among the nation’s top 50 cornerbacks for the 2018 recruiting class, Miner also had offers from nearly 30 Division I programs, including the likes of Auburn, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee and Wisconsin.

Wiregrass Ranch’s Jordan Miner signed with Penn State University, a school he committed to in July. Miner was perhaps the most versatile player in Pasco County this season, making an impact on offense, defense and special teams. He’ll likely play defensive back at the next level.

Miner’s productive four-year varsity career at Wiregrass Ranch culminated in the football program’s best record ever (9-3) and first playoff win.

The 2017 Sunshine Athletic Conference East defensive player of the year proved to be a Swiss Army knife, of sorts, for the Bulls this season.

Besides tallying 39 tackles and four interceptions, Miner was an integral part of the team’s offense and special teams—racking up nearly 1,200 all-purpose yards and nine touchdowns.

Various scouting reports laud the 6-foot-1, 180-pound Miner for his speed and fluidity, as well as his ball skills. His size as a defensive back is another noted plus.

Meanwhile, Miner is the second member of his family to play college football.

His older brother, Jaye, was an All-State linebacker at Wiregrass Ranch from 2011 to 2014. He later played college football at Florida Atlantic University, a Division I FBS program in Boca Raton.

Until his college gridiron career gets rolling, Miner can be found on the hardwood as an integral member of Wiregrass Ranch’s varsity basketball team, which currently stands at 10-3.

Its Feb. 9 matchup against Wesley Chapel—and Bolden—will certainly be one to watch.

Michael Penix Jr., quarterback, Tampa Bay Tech (Dade City native, Pasco High transfer)
College: Indiana University (Bloomington, Indiana)
The Dade City native surprised many when he spurned major college programs in favor of Indiana University, a school that has struggled to win consistently in recent years.

The lanky 6-foot-3, left-handed signal-caller committed to the University of Tennessee in April, but de-committed in mid-December, after a coaching change.

Dade City native and Pasco High transfer Mike Penix Jr., is heading to Indiana University. A Pasco High transfer, the left-handed quarterback finished his career at Tampa Bay Tech, where he developed into one of the Bay Area’s most productive football players.

He also had scholarship offers from Florida State, Oregon, Arizona, South Florida and many others.

Though headed to the Midwest, Penix will be surrounded by Bay Area ties, as the Hoosiers’ 2018 roster is expected to include a dozen players from Tampa, Largo, Clearwater and Spring Hill.

Moreover, Indiana head football coach Tom Allen has several Tampa connections. He was defensive coordinator for the University of South Florida in 2015, and had coaching stints in the 1990s at Armwood High School and the now-defunct Temple Heights Christian School.

Hoosiers quarterbacks coach Nick Sheridan also coached at USF in 2013.

Penix played his first two seasons at Pasco High School before transferring to Tampa Bay Tech, finishing his high school career with 6,986 total yards and 76 touchdowns.

He appeared destined for football and athletic success at early age.

His father and uncle both starred on Pasco High’s football team. Penix Sr., later played college football at Tennessee Tech University, where he met Penix’s mother—who was on the school’s track and field team.

Lavel Dumont, offensive tackle, Wharton High School
College: University of Toledo (Toledo, Ohio)
Dumont’s first season of organized football was in 2016.

Just two years later, he’s headed to the Division I FBS (Football Bowl Subdivision) ranks.

After verbally committing to Toledo in June, the 6-foot-4, 270-pound offensive lineman didn’t change course, signing with the Ohio-based university on Dec. 20.

Wharton High offensive tackle Lavel Dumont (No. 75) signed with the University of Toledo during the early signing period. The three-star prospect is coveted for his size, athleticism, flexibility and potential to improve.

Dumont’ primary recruiter was Toledo running backs coach Marquel Blackwell—

a former standout quarterback at USF, who later coached at Freedom High School in Tampa.

A consensus three-star recruit, Dumont had close to 20 offers, mostly from mid-major schools like Appalachian State, Arkansas State, Central Michigan, Marshall, Tulane, Western Kentucky and others.

A basketball player by trade, Dumont began to take football seriously about two years ago, making significant strides in the weight room and with game fundamentals.

Dumont’s rare combination of size, flexibility, athleticism—and developmental potential — intrigued Division I programs early in the recruiting process.

He reportedly earned his first collegiate offer in June 2016 — from Florida A&M University—before ever playing in a varsity football game.

Meanwhile, Wharton teammate A.J. Hampton is also expected to sign with Toledo during the traditional February signing period; the 5-foot-11 cornerback verbally committed to the school in July.

Donovan Jennings, offensive tackle, Gaither High School
College: University of South Florida (Tampa)
Jennings, like Dumont, is a relative newcomer to organized football—first playing as a freshman in high school because he always exceeded the size limit for youth-league teams.

It’s not surprising why: Jennings stands at a towering 6-foot-5 and whopping 310 pounds.

Gaither High’s Donovan Jennings (No. 72) signed his national letter of intent to the University of South Florida. The jumbo 6-foot-5, 310-pound offensive tackle paved the way for teammates to compile nearly 2,900 rushing yards this season.

After early struggles picking up the game, Jennings thrived as an upperclassman.

His blocking skills helped pave the way for Gaither running backs to rack up nearly 2,900 rushing yards this season, and more than 1,500 rushing yards the year before.

Uncommitted throughout the recruiting process, Jennings ultimately picked his hometown team for the next level.

A consensus three-star recruit, he also had offers from Marshall, Old Dominion, Toledo, Central Florida, Virginia and others.

Jennings now joins a long line of Gaither High products to play at the Division I FBS level. Some more recent Cowboys football alums include Decalon Brooks (Florida State University), Estafano Feliciano (Old Dominion University), Alex McGough (Florida International University), Shane McGough (Florida International University), Ernest Suttles (Memphis), Shug Oyegunle (Florida International University) and Amani Oruwariye (Penn State University).

Elsewhere, Jennings’ teammate Matthew Wood signed his national letter of intent to Holy Cross University, a Division I FCS (Football Championship Subdivision) program in Worcester, Massachusetts. Wood tallied 261 tackles in three varsity seasons as a linebacker.

Published January 3, 2018

Recalling some top moments in sports for 2017

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Coaches were celebrated, state titles acquired and local athletes turned in outstanding performances.

The past year brought countless moments and lasting memories in sports, from Lutz and Land O’ Lakes, across to Wesley Chapel and Zephyrhills.

Here’s a look back at some of the top sports happenings from 2017:

Florida Hospital Center Ice opens
Hockey and ice-skating enthusiasts rejoiced when the largest ice sports facility in the Southeastern United States finally opened its doors in Wesley Chapel.

Florida Hospital Center Ice has been a hit since it opened in January. The five-rink facility is on pace to draw 1.5 million visitors in its first year. (File)

The 150,500-square-foot Florida Hospital Center Ice, unveiled in January, took about 2 ½ years to complete.

The main attraction of the $22.5 million complex, of course, is its four full-size rinks (one Olympic, three National Hockey League) and one kid-size rink.

Previously, many Pasco and northern Hillsborough residents would trek to Brandon’s Ice Sports Forum to get their hockey and skating fix. Others may have used the Clearwater Ice Arena or the Tampa Bay Skating Academy in Oldsmar.

Besides serving local hockey players, skaters and curlers, the facility already has scored on Pasco’s sports tourism initiative by hosting a number of camps, collegiate competitions and other tournaments — drawing an estimated 1.5 million visitors in its first year.

It has also become the training home of the U.S. women’s national hockey team, as members prepare for the 2018 Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea.

Land O’ Lakes High wins state softball title
It had been nearly 25 years since a Pasco County school won a state softball title — until May 20.

On that day, Land O’ Lakes seized the Class 6A state softball championship, unseating powerhouse Plantation American Heritage 3-1, at Historic Dodgertown in Vero Beach.

Land O’ Lakes High School ended Pasco County’s state softball title drought, after defeating American Heritage 3-1 in the Class 6A state championships on May 20. The victory marked the first fastpitch title for the Gators, and first for a Pasco school since 1992

The achievement marked the first fastpitch title for Land O’Lakes and the first for a Pasco County program since Ridgewood High won in 1992.

What made the victory even sweeter for the Gators was downing the same team that eliminated them in the 2016 state semifinals.

They did it in comeback fashion, too.

Trailing 1-0 in the bottom of the sixth inning, Land O’ Lakes unearthed timely hits and capitalized on opposition mistakes to build the lead for good — against an American Heritage program that was making its fourth-straight championship game appearance and had previously won seven state titles.

The Gators ended the year with a 29-3 record.

And, the accolades didn’t stop there.

In July, Gators coaches were named the 2017 National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) High School Coaching Staff of the Year, beating out staffs from other top-tier programs in California, New Jersey, Illinois and Kansas. The recognition went to Gators fourth-year head coach Mitch Wilkins and assistants Edwin Rodriguez, Janet Sciales and Vinny Guarracino.

Paralympic athletes excel at nationals
It was another banner year for Paralympic Sport Tampa Bay.

The team in July won its second straight Small Team Division at the National Junior Disability Championships in Middleton, Wisconsin.

Three athletes — Eric Lowry, 17, of Land O’ Lakes; Danielle Kanas, 12, of Lutz; and 16-year-old Logan Krepop of Parrish — earned a combined thirty-three medals and set nine national records. In total, they collected 18 gold, 11 silver and four bronze medals.

Paralympic Sport Tampa Bay this July won its second straight Small Team Division at the National Junior Disability Championships in Middleton, Wisconsin. Lutz resident Danielle Kanas, a single-arm amputee, earned 15 gold medals and set six national records this year.

Kanas — a single-arm amputee, missing her left arm below the elbow — herself collected 15 gold medals and set six national records this year.

That included a javelin throw of 19.66 meters, shattering the previous record for her age group by six meters.

After the season, Kanas earned Paralympic Sport Tampa Bay’s “Spirit of Excellence” award. The club’s highest honor, it recognizes courage, strength, determination and demonstration of a positive attitude as a role model.

Beyond athletics, Kanas is a “straight-A” student at Martinez Middle School, and member of the National Junior Honor Society, a Girl Scout, and patient ambassador at Shriner’s Hospital for Children-Tampa. She’s also a talented guitar player.

The others likewise have overcome various hardships to shine in athletics.

Lowry has spina bifida and competes from a wheelchair. It didn’t stop him from benching 190 pounds, earning a gold medal and setting an Adaptive Sports Junior national record.

And Krepop, who has cerebral palsy, earned a gold medal in the 400-meter run. His time of 1:33.14 set a new Adaptive Sports record for his age group.

Zephyrhills High honors winningest football coach
It was the perfect time for Zephyrhills High School to honor its winningest football coach.

The Bulldogs earned a district championship, won a playoff game, and finished the season with 10 wins.

That was all last done in 2002 — under former longtime coach Tom Fisher.

This year, the school’s Bulldog Stadium was formally renamed Tom Fisher Field at its Oct. 27 homecoming

During the school’s Oct. 27 homecoming, Zephyrhills High’s Bulldog Stadium was officially renamed Tom Fisher Field after its longtime coach of 21 years. Fisher retired in 2008 as the program’s winningest coach, with 124 career victories.

The dedication ceremony was attended by Fisher, and drew dozens of former players and coaches, as well as many of his family members and friends.

Fisher — regarded as a hard-nosed, no nonsense type who voraciously studied game films — retired in 2008 after 21 years as head coach.

In his tenure, Fisher won 124 games (most in program history) and led Bulldogs teams to eight playoff berths, four conference championships and three district titles; he also was a four-time conference coach of the year.

Moreover, the Zephyrhills football program had gone 47 years without a state playoff appearance until Fisher’s arrival, making it in his first season in 1989.

Another example of Fisher’s extensive impact: The Bulldogs’ past two head coaches, Nick Carroll and Reggie Roberts, both played for him over 20 years ago.

The most successful player under Fisher was defensive lineman Ryan Pickett, who played 14 years in the NFL, mostly for the St. Louis Rams and Green Bay Packers. Pickett, a 1998 Zephyrhills graduate, started as a freshman at Ohio State, left after his junior season to play professionally and was selected in the first round of the NFL Draft.

Though its been nearly a decade since the 65-year-old Fisher last roamed the sidelines, he still can be found in the stands at many Bulldogs home games.

Academy at the Lakes wins state football title
Following three straight losing football seasons, Academy at the Lakes football experienced a remarkable turnaround in 2017 — capped by its first eight-man state title on Dec. 9 with a 30-9 win over Jacksonville Old Plank Academy.

The Wildcats, under fourth-year head coach Shawn Brown, finished the season 11-1, with a 7-0 district mark.

Many of their wins came in dominating fashion, with an average scoring margin of nearly 34 points.

Academy at the Lakes football overcame three straight losing seasons to win its first eight-man state title on Dec. 9. They finished the season 11-1, after going a combined 9-20 the past three years.

It was quite the contrast from past years.

The team went 2-8 in 2016, after finishing 4-7 and 3-5 the prior two seasons.

This year’s success harkens back to its summer offseason program, which included weightlifting sessions three days a week, participating in Division I college camps, and competing in various seven-on-seven tournaments — sometimes facing 11-man schools from Classes 7A and 8A.

The Wildcats’ solid talent base didn’t hurt its gridiron performances, either.

Senior tailback/linebacker Daniel Gonzalez was the most productive two-way player in the eight-man ranks— rushing for 1,125 yards and 24 touchdowns on offense, and tallying 138 tackles and 7.5 sacks on defense.

Several others made significant impacts as well, including freshmen Jalen Brown and Jordan Oladokun, juniors Jamaal Johnson and Dylan Price, and senior Isaiah Smith, among others.

The football program’s last state title came in 2006, when Academy at the Lakes played in the six-man ranks.

Some other notable highlights from 2017:

  • Wesley Chapel High varsity softball has first winning season in program history
  • Cypress Creek High varsity football wins its inaugural game against Gulf High
  • Wesley Chapel hoops product Erik Thomas appears in NCAA Tournament
  • Academy at the Lakes athlete Alexis Kilfoyl makes 2017 USA Softball Junior Women’s National Training Team
  • Land O’Lakes’ Jabari Ramsey becomes the first boys swimmer from Pasco County to win three-straight state titles in the same event (100 breaststroke).
  • Carrollwood Day School volleyball wins the Class 4A state title, to earn the school’s first state championship in any sport.

• Steinbrenner baseball alum Kevin Merrell is selected by the Oakland Athletics in the first round of the Major League Baseball Draft.

Published December 27, 2017

All-Pasco County fall awards announced

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High school coaches from the Pasco County School District recently announced Sunshine Athletic Conference (SAC) All-Conference Teams, Athletes of the Year and Coaches of the Year, for the 2017-2018 fall sports season.

Selections were made for both the East and West Division.

The following high schools from The Laker/Lutz News coverage area were represented in the East: Cypress Creek, Land O’ Lakes, Pasco, Sunlake, Wesley Chapel, Wiregrass Ranch and Zephyrhills.

Fall Sports (Boys)
2017-2018 SAC East All-Conference Boys’ Cross Country
Coach of the Year: Chris Loth, Wiregrass Ranch
Runner of the Year: Alex Normandia, Land O’ Lakes

First-Team All-Conference
Alex Normandia, Land O’ Lakes, senior

Kevin Jaaves, Wiregrass Ranch, senior

Giovanni Duran, Wiregrass Ranch, senior

Dominic Burleson, Sunlake, junior

Devin Pollay, Wesley Chapel, sophomore

Edward Scheid, Sunlake, sophomore

Joseph Pineda, Land O’ Lakes, junior

Second-Team All-Conference
Jericho Cooey, Pasco, senior

Adam Hahn, Land O’ Lakes, junior

Josiah Pineda, Land O’ Lakes, junior

Carlos Cruz, Wiregrass Ranch, senior

Gavin Kennedy, Sunlake, junior

Anthony Dimarco, Wiregrass Ranch, sophomore

Abdallah Mbowe, Sunlake, junior

Honorable Mention
Joseph Hoppe, Zephyrhills, sophomore

John Rowsell, Cypress Creek, freshman

Sunlake High’s Jordan Sarhaddi was named 2017-2018 Sunshine Athletic Conference (SAC) East Boys’ Golfer of the Year. The junior took first place at the Sunshine Athletic Conference meet in October. He later won the districts and was runner-up at regionals before finishing 16th at the Class 2A state championships in Orlando. (File)

2017-2018 SAC East All-Conference Boys’ Golf
Coach of the Year: Shaun Van Patten, Zephyrhills
Golfer of the Year: Jordan Sarhaddi, Sunlake

First-Team All-Conference
Jordan Sarhaddi, Sunlake, junior

Damien Rhule, Sunlake, senior

Jarrod Smith, Cypress Creek, sophomore

Wyatt Pisarski, Zephyrhills, senior

Gabriel Fleck, Pasco, senior

Second-Team All-Conference
Zach Bauer, Wesley Chapel, senior

Cade Darbyshire, Pasco, senior

Brendan Schmied, Wiregrass Ranch, junior

Roddy Kight, Zephyrhills, sophomore

Landon Ogilbee, Zephyrhills, senior

Honorable Mention
Max Budd, Land O’ Lakes, senior

Zach Holiday, Land O’ Lakes, senior

2017-2018 SAC East All-Conference Boys’ Swimming & Diving
Coach of the Year: Brian Vaile, Land O’ Lakes
Swimmer of the Year: Jabari Ramsey, Land O’ Lakes
Diver of the Year: Mason Gandy, Land O’ Lakes

First-Team All-Conference
200 Medley Relay: (Land O’ Lakes)— Patryk Pilkowski, Jabari Ramsey, Zachary Davis, Zuri Ramsey

200 Freestyle: Douglas Lankton, Wiregrass Ranch, sophomore

200 Individual Medley: Colin Wilkins, Sunlake, sophomore

50 Freestyle: Dominic Ortanez, Sunlake, sophomore

100 Butterfly: Jabari Ramsey, Land O’ Lakes, senior

100 Freestyle: Patryk Pilkowski, Land O’ Lakes, junior

500 Freestyle: Douglas Lankton, Wiregrass Ranch, sophomore

200 Freestyle Relay: (Sunlake)—Brendon Thai, Dominic Ortanez, Colin Wilkins, Jay Jay Fonnotto

100 Backstroke: Patryk Pilkowski, Land O’ Lakes, junior

100 Breaststroke: Jabari Ramsey, Land O’ Lakes, senior

400 Freestyle Relay: (Land O’ Lakes)— Patryk Pilkowski, Jabari Ramsey, Zachary Davis, Zuri Ramsey

Diver: Mason Gandy, Land O’ Lakes, freshman

Second-Team All-Conference
200 Medley Relay: (Zephyrhills)—Julian Jennings, Houston Neal, Peyton Lebron, Zayne Trebour

200 Freestyle: Quinn Crouse, Cypress Creek, freshman

200 Individual Medley: Jack Kaatze, Land O’ Lakes, sophomore

50 Freestyle: David Garbutt, Wiregrass Ranch, senior

100 Butterfly: David Garbutt, Wiregrass Ranch, senior

100 Freestyle: Danny Amaya, Wesley Chapel, sophomore

500 Freestyle: Quinn Crouse, Cypress Creek, freshman

200 Freestyle Relay: (Wesley Chapel)—Daniel Amaya, Brennen Choate, Jayden Rogers, Dominick Slay

100 Backstroke: Ravidu Idipplil-Pathiran, Land O’ Lakes, sophomore

100 Breaststroke: Griffen Sutek, Land O’ Lakes, freshman

400 Freestyle Relay: (Sunlake)— Nathan Doris, Diego Hernandez, Ryan Juarez, Paul Scavino

Diver: Rick Pritchard, Sunlake, junior

Honorable Mention
Quentin Carren, Pasco, freshman

Land O’ Lakes High’s Rachel Michner was named 2017-2018 Sunshine Athletic Conference (SAC) East Volleyball Player of the Year. The junior hitter on the season tallied 201 kills, 60 blocks, 30 aces and 53 digs. The Gators (18-10) reached the Class 7A regional semifinal. (Courtesy of Land O’ Lakes High School)

Fall Sports (Girls)
2017-18 SAC East All-Conference Volleyball
Coach of the Year: Michelle Davis, Wiregrass Ranch
Player of the Year: Rachel Michner, Land O’ Lakes

First-Team All-Conference
Destanie Aydt, Wiregrass Ranch, junior

Sydney Bade, Wesley Chapel, senior

Rachel Michner, Land O’ Lakes, junior

Caroline Schoonover, Sunlake, sophomore

Shayna Heymann, Land O’ Lakes, junior

Llanek Davis, Wiregrass Ranch, senior

Abbie Hindersman, Land O’ Lakes, sophomore

Second-Team All-Conference
Peyton Patterson, Wesley Chapel, senior

Jaizah Anderson, Wiregrass Ranch, junior

Sydney Hiner, Land O’ Lakes, senior

Elizabeth Spalding, Sunlake, senior

Kamea Nash, Sunlake, junior

Elanny Breton, Wiregrass Ranch, senior

Rebecca Wolff, Pasco, sophomore

Honorable Mention
Shayla Fleshman, Cypress Creek, sophomore

Land O’ Lakes High’s Natalie Abernathy was named 2017-2018 Sunshine Athletic Conference (SAC) East Girls’ Runner of the Year. The junior was seventh at the Class 3A state meet (18:39.30). Her top time this season was 17:51.59, which ranks fourth overall among girls in the state regardless of classification. (File)

2017-18 SAC East All-Conference Girls’ Cross Country
Coach of the Year: Randy Reeves, Sunlake
Runner of the Year: Natalie Abernathy, Land O’ Lakes

First-Team All-Conference
Natalie Abernathy, Land O’ Lakes, junior

Liina Winborn, Sunlake, sophomore

Estefania Acosta, Land O’ Lakes, junior

Shannon Gordy, Sunlake, freshman

Emily Jenkins, Sunlake, sophomore

Reis Ehman, Wiregrass Ranch, senior

Kylee Ehman, Wiregrass Ranch, sophomore

Second-Team All-Conference
Guadalupe Guerra, Wiregrass Ranch, freshman

Emma Skantze, Land O’ Lakes, senior

Olivia March, Wesley Chapel, freshman

Mariah Morales, Sunlake, junior

Brenna Moran, Wiregrass Ranch, senior

Anna Moore, Wiregrass Ranch, senior

Breanna Preiser, Wiregrass Ranch, freshman

Honorable Mention
Ashleigh Lacey, Cypress Creek, freshman

Madison Kaylor, Pasco, senior

Josalyn Wingo, Zephyrhills, junior

2017-18 SAC East All-Conference Girls’ Golf
Coach of the Year: Kathleen Dorkowski
Golfer of the Year: Norah Catlin, Wiregrass Ranch

First-Team All-Conference
Maggie Schmock, Land O’ Lakes, senior

Emily Alderman, Zephyrhills, junior

Kacie Huber, Pasco, senior

Norah Catlin, Wiregrass Ranch, freshman

Hannah Sullivan, Zephyrhills, junior

Second-Team All-Conference
Karlye Finn, Wiregrass Ranch, junior

Loryn Finn, Wiregrass Ranch, sophomore

Sofia Clark, Sunlake, sophomore

Maddie Wagner, Sunlake, sophomore

Callisa Kwiat, Cypress Creek, sophomore

Honorable Mention
Hannah Collin, Wesley Chapel, senior

Cydnee Jonas, Wesley Chapel, freshman

2017-18 SAC East All-Conference Girls’ Swimming & Diving
Coach of the Year: Tanner Schmitz, Land O’ Lakes
Swimmer of the Year: Chloe Grimme, Sunlake
Diver of the Year: Taylor Watson, Wesley Chapel

First-Team All-Conference
200 Medley Relay: (Sunlake)—Tori Eurell, Hanna Barton, Elise Ballash, Chloe Grimme

200 Freestyle: Taylor Ward, Land O’ Lakes, junior

200 Individual Relay: Audrey Ballash, Sunlake, sophomore

50 Freestyle: Chloe Grimme, Sunlake, sophomore

100 Butterfly: Margarita Czupryn, Land O’ Lakes, sophomore

100 Freestyle: Chloe Grimme, Sunlake, sophomore

500 Freestyle: Taylor Ward, Land O’ Lakes, junior

200 Freestyle Relay: (Sunlake)—Tori Eurell, Chloe Grimme, Audrey Ballash, Hannah Barton

100 Backstroke: Tori Eurell, Sunlake, junior

100 Breaststroke: Elise Ballash, Sunlake, junior

400 Freestyle Relay: (Land O’ Lakes)— Taylor Ward, Romina McCloskey, Margarita Czupryn, Ashley Schrader

Diver: Taylor Watson, Wesley Chapel, senior

Second-Team All-Conference
200 Medley Relay: (Wiregrass Ranch)— Daniela LaFlamme, Kieligh Grace, Kyra Johnson, Delaney Smith

200 Freestyle: Alex Sprague, Sunlake, freshman

200 Individual Relay: Alex Sprague, Sunlake, freshman

50 Freestyle: Brooke Duncan, Wesley Chapel, senior

100 Butterfly: Kyra Johnson, Wiregrass Ranch, junior

100 Freestyle: Brooke Duncan, Wesley Chapel, senior

500 Freestyle: Daniela LaFlamme, Wiregrass Ranch, senior

200 Freestyle Relay: (Land O’ Lakes)—Jessica Adcock, Amaya Henry, Jennifer Zartman, Rowan Rees

100 Backstroke: Jessica Adcock, Land O’ Lakes, junior

400 Freestyle Relay: (Wiregrass Ranch)— Daniela LaFlamme, Delaney Smith, Kieligh Grace, Kyra Johnson

Diver: Alexa Scalchunes, Sunlake, junior

Honorable Mention:
Gianna Nuguit, Cypress Creek, freshman

Mykenzy Neal, Zephyrhills, sophomore

Abigail Fisher, Pasco, junior

Published December 27, 2017

Zephyrhills Police undergoes restructuring

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The Zephyrhills Police Department is shaking up its command staff — a measure it hopes will improve efficiency and communications throughout the law enforcement agency.

The department is adding an operations lieutenant and an administrative lieutenant, while eliminating a captain’s position and a detective sergeant’s position — roles that have been vacant for months.

The lieutenants’ positions already have been advertised internally and will be filled from the current group of sergeants. The starting salary for both is $53,584.  The starting salary for the eliminated captain and detective sergeant positions were $57,975 and $47, 696, respectively.

The new positions are expected to be filled by the end of the year or in early 2018, Zephyrhills Police Chief Derek Brewer said.

The Zephyrhills City Council approved the staffing proposal last month.

In a memo to the council and City Manager Steve Spina, Brewer said it offers a number of benefits, including, “better span of control, improved unity of command, opportunities for employee advancement and potential cost savings.”

The department’s command staff in the past has been budgeted for a chief, two captains and five sergeants, as well as 25 sworn officers.

One of those captain’s position has been vacant since June, however. The detective sergeant’s position also has remained vacant since the promotion of Capt. Reggie Roberts, at around the same time.

Because of that, Roberts has been the liaison for the agency’s operations and administrative divisions, without the benefit of another captain or detective sergeant to reduce the burden.

Adding two lieutenants — to report to Roberts — will “level out” supervision for both divisions and improve agency directives, the police chief explained.

“By placing some lieutenants in between the sergeant and the captain, it allows for information to flow a little better, and also for the captain not to be stretched so thin,” Brewer said.

Once in place, the operations lieutenant will directly oversee three departments: uniform patrol, criminal divisions and special operations — which encompass reserve, honor guard, bike patrol.

The administrative lieutenant, meanwhile, will oversee communications and administrative support and services, ranging from property and evidence management, record keeping, accreditation and training, fleet maintenance and so on.

Brewer, a 15-year veteran of the department and a former lieutenant, said the idea to reshuffle the command staff arose while he was serving as interim chief from June to September.

He was officially sworn-in as the city’s police chief in October, replacing former chief David Shears, who retired in May.

Brewer pointed out many similar-sized agencies, such as the New Port Richey Police Department, “adopt that model of more layers in-between.”

It gives the command structure “a more linear approach,” he said.

“One thing I’ve kind of noticed with the chief and the two captains over the years is that span of control is still pretty wide, so I kind of felt like this was the best way to approach the span of control, as well as just making sure things move more fluid,” the chief added.

The shuffling may also reduce agency overtime costs.

Besides assisting with administrative duties, the lieutenants would also support patrol functions by filling gaps in supervision should unforeseen needs arise from shift supervisors, such as sick time. Instead of calling in another supervisor for coverage, a lieutenant could cover the open shift to eliminate the need to call in a sergeant or officer in charge on the opposite side of the schedule.

Brewer explained, “A lot of times when sergeants accumulate overtime, we don’t have that ability to adjust their schedule, but having lieutenants may allow us to fill those gaps, so as they accumulate the overtime, we can kind of adjust their schedule and save in overtime.”

In 2014, independent consultant William Liquori, from the Florida Police Chiefs Association (FPCA), recommended reinstituting lieutenants within Zephyrhills Police.

In his report, Liquori, a 44-year law enforcement veteran from Altamonte Springs and past president of the statewide association, said communication was a major concern among all employees, and that command staff needed to address the issue.

Brewer said that report further “reinforced the need to bring (lieutenants) back.”

By hiring lieutenants from within, Brewer said it allows for additional opportunities for promotion and internal movement for the department’s employees.

“We thought that it would create better morale; that was another thing we had looked at,” Brewer said.

Published December 20, 2017

Financial expert presents mixed U.S. economic outlook

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One Tampa-based financial expert sees a positive economic outlook for 2018, yet also remains cautious about decades ahead.

John Largent, chief investment strategist at Members Trust Company, was the featured speaker at a Dec. 13 business-networking event hosted by the San Antonio Federal Credit Union.

He offered an encouraging assessment of the current U.S. economy.

John Largent was the featured guest speaker at a Dec. 13 networking event presented by the San Antonio Federal Credit Union. Largent is the chief investment strategist at Members Trust Company in Tampa. (Courtesy of Members Trust Company)

“We’re at a stock market all-time high,” Largent told an audience of small business owners at the Scotland Yards Golf Club.

“Yields are low. Housing prices are back. All those great things like that are going on,” Largent said.

But, he cautioned that how the foreign-owned U.S. debt market is managed is something “to worry about a little bit.”

Last week, the Federal Reserve (Fed) raised interest rates by 0.25 percent, the third increase in 2017.

The decision to raise interest rates, raising the cost of borrowing, takes the Fed farther away from the ultra-low rates it put in place during the financial crisis to boost economic activity.

Even so, Largent explained the Fed’s policy to keep “artificially low” interest rates for too long — combined with negative interest rates in several European countries — could wreak havoc sometime over the next several decades.

“There will be consequences,” said Largent, who’s been an active panelist for Morningstar Advisor, Index Universe, and S&P Dow Jones Indices.

“Hopefully they won’t be as bad as ‘07 and ‘08 with the housing deal, because (investment banks) are not leveraged in this…but, our governments are really, really leveraged.”

Largent began his career on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. He has more than 30 years of experience in the financial services industry and is past president of Chartered Financial Analyst Tampa Bay.

Since joining Members Trust Company in 2004, his team has grown managed assets from $60 million to over $2 billion.

Besides the global economy, Largent also discussed the recently finalized “Tax Cut and Jobs Act.”

The Republican plan is the largest one-time reduction in the corporate tax rate in American history — from 36 percent down to 21 percent. The bill also lowers taxes for the vast majority of Americans and small business owners — at least until the cuts expire after eight years.

Largent said the deal generally “could be a positive thing for corporations, to make it a little more competitive.”

He added the movement to 21 percent “is not a big deal,” as the Effective Tax Rate of all companies in the United States “is about 22 percent.”

“If you’re at a 36 percent tax bracket, you’ve got a windfall. However, if you’re at 15 (percent), you may be at (21) percent, and that’s not so good,” Largent explained.

He does, however, anticipate the tax plan yielding “unintended consequences” in due time.

“The law of unintended consequences is something that is absolutely very real when you move from 36 (percent) to 21 (percent),” Largent said, “and you did it so fast that you didn’t think of the consequences of this thing…”

The speaker also briefly touched on the bitcoin phenomenon that’s created a global stir.

Bitcoin is the first decentralized digital currency, created and held electronically.

He suggested it’s not really something U.S. consumers should be concerned with, even though it debuted on the world’s largest futures exchange.

“It’s a massive marketing success story,” Largent. “It’s one of the best marketing success stories ever.”

While fascinated by the cryptocurrency, Largent noted bitcoin doesn’t have a value; rather it’s just a medium of exchange.

“It’s kind of fun; that’s about it,” Largent said.

Published December 20, 2017

Land O’ Lakes swim teams celebrate ‘dream’ season

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Land O’ Lakes High School’s 2017 swim season was a memorable one.

The Gators thrived in the Class 2A swim meet last month, earning medals and shattering school records in jaw-dropping fashion.

The girls squad finished fifth (out of 47 teams), while the boys placed 10th (out of 39 teams) — marking the highest combined finish at states on record for both teams.

They collectively earned eight medals and set five school records.

The Land O’ Lakes High School Swimming & Diving team wrapped up perhaps its most successful season ever. At the Class 2A swim meet last month, the girls squad finished fifth (out of 47 teams), while the boys placed 10th (out of 39 teams) — marking the highest combined finish at states on record for both teams. Both teams also won conference and districts meets, and were regional runners-up. (Courtesy of Land O’ Lakes Swimming & Diving Team)

The state championships capped an otherwise noteworthy campaign for the Gators, consistently one of the county’s top high school swim programs.

They won district and Sunshine Athletic Conference titles, and were regional runners-up. The conference titles marked the 17th straight for the boys team and ninth straight for the girls.

Both teams also went undefeated (7-0) in their dual-meets this season.

Those moments and more were celebrated during the program’s end-of-year banquet on Dec. 5

“We’ll never have another season like this; this is like your dream season,” boys coach Brian Vaile said, of the 2017 campaign.

Ramsey reflects on historic career
Senior Jabari Ramsey was already a household name, but his final go-round further cemented himself as one of the Gators most accomplished swimmers.

He earned his third straight state gold medal in the 100 breaststroke, with a time of 56:11.

And with that, he became the first boy swimmer from Pasco County to win three straight titles in the same event.

“This whole season went incredibly well. It’s something that as swimmer you dream of,” Ramsey said.

His favorite memory though, was that of being a key member of the Gators 200 medley relay team.

He joined forces with Patryk Pilkowski, Zachary Davis and younger brother Zuri Ramsey to win the state 200 medley relay in 1:35.97 — smashing last year’s school record of 1:39.09 —becoming the first-ever Pasco County relay team to win gold at the Class 2A state championships.

“It still gives me goose bumps,” Ramsey said of the event. “It’s amazing to do it with the team. To win it is great, but to win it with individuals who care just as much as you do just means that much more.”

Ramsey’s four gold medals altogether is also a new county record — surpassing former Mitchell standout Devin McCaffrey, who earned three individual titles during his prep career.

The accomplished Gator has received looks from several universities since the season ended, from the likes of Nevada-Las Vegas and Grand Canyon, as well as Florida and Florida State.

Wherever Ramsey lands, he won’t soon forget a remarkable high school career and the countless relationships forged.

“The group of people, especially this year, has been amazing. It’s been a dream come true,” Ramsey said. “It’s been my pleasure to be a part of a team like this. We’re not selfish. We treat everyone equally. From the slowest person to the fastest person, everyone comes together.”

Beyond the pool, Ramsey will be remembered for his leadership qualities. He’s been a team captain since sophomore year.

He said his goal was just to make the team better and not necessarily become the “best swimmer.”

“I wanted to put the team in a better place every single year,” Ramsey said. “To be able to, after four years, being with a team like this, making the memories, records, everything altogether — it’s been a true blessing.”

Ramsey, who is home-schooled, just recently began taking a few classes on campus. It never deterred him from setting positive examples, however.

“I’ve seen him develop a lot as a leader; he has great leadership skills,” said Vaile, who’s coached high school swimming since 1997.

Vaile noted many home-schoolers can be shy and withdrawn, but insists “Jabari is not that.”

Said Vaile, “He’ll be a good coach. He loves swimming. His knowledge of swimming…is really good, and he generally likes helping people that don’t know. Yes, he got faster, but he developed more as a person.”

Foreign student makes immediate splash
Ramsey wasn’t the only individual boys swimmer to reach the state podium. 

Pilkowski was another recognized medalist, earning third place in the 100 backstroke (51:75) — a time that broke the previous school record by a full 3 seconds.

He also set a school record in the 100 free (47.66) earlier this season.

The junior this year moved from Poland to Land O’ Lakes, staying with his aunt so he could study in the United States.

An accomplished swimmer in his native country, Pilkowski’s arrival was a pleasant surprise for the team, which was in need of a backstroke specialist.

“Talk about a godsend,” Vaile said, “because he is fast.”

The Gators coach still recalls when Pilkowski showed up for the team’s first practice; tryouts had already taken place.

The Gators boys 200 medley relay team became the first-ever Pasco County boys relay team to win gold at the Class 2A state championships. From left: junior Patryk Pilkowski, senior Jabari Ramsey, senior Zachary Davis and freshman Zuri Ramsey.

“I looked at him and could tell he was a swimmer,” Vaile said.

The coach said the English language was often a barrier for Pilkowski, but noted “it got better as the year went by.”

Pilkowski explained it was his “dream” to one day study in America, when he visited the country two years ago.

He acknowledged being on the swim team eased the transition culturally.

“I met a lot of friends here,” Pilkowski said. “Everyone helped me because I’m coming from a different country, and it’s stressful. Everyone was very friendly. Everyone smiled and every time would say to me, ‘Good Luck.’”

Pilkowski is still deciding whether he’ll remain at Land O’ Lakes for his senior year or return to Poland.

“I’m just going to say a little prayer, see if Patryk can maybe bring a friend of two,” Vaile said, jokingly.

Proper sendoff for Schmitz, Schrader
The girls team’s fifth place finish at states was its highest ever — and a marked improvement from previous years.

The group finished 13th last year and 11th in 2015.

It was also a sendoff of sorts for third-year coach Tanner Schmitz, who is stepping away to pursue a master’s degree and a career as a school administrator.

“It was such a great way to finish,” said Schmitz, who previously coached at Wiregrass Ranch and Mitchell high schools.

“We walked out of (states) with our heads high, and the girls were ecstatic to be able to accomplish that.”

The Gators girls 200 free relay team became the first-ever Pasco County girls relay team to finish top three at the state championships. From left: junior Taylor Ward, senior Ashley Schrader, junior Margarita Czupryn and junior Romina McCloskey. 

The team medaled in five events at states — 200 freestyle, 100 freestyle, 500 freestyle, 200 relay and 400 relay.

And, it was all was done by just four girls — juniors Taylor Ward, Romina McCloskey, Margarita Czupryn and senior Ashley Schrader.

The quartet became the first girls relay team in Pasco County history to record a top-three finish at states after they placed third in the 200 free relay in 1:39.71—a school record.

The feat was something Schmitz predicted would happen when he witnessed the budding talent on his first day of practice three years ago.

“I’d been looking at their times and the very first day, I crouched down next to the lane where they were at and I said, ‘Look at each other. Before you graduate, you will be the first Pasco County relay team to finish in the top three.’ …To have that goal that they set as freshman and then do exactly what they set out to do, just as a coach, it doesn’t get better.

“It’s been a really amazing group of girls, to watch and mature through their high school years,” he added.

The 2017 season is likewise nostalgic for Schrader, the relay team’s lone senior.

“This was definitely my favorite year,” she said.

Schrader exits Land O’ Lakes as a three-time state qualifier and a part of three school records (200 medley relay, 200 free relay, 400 free relay).

She plans to swim at New York University next season.

“It’s so sad being gone because now I won’t be there for them anymore, but it was so much fun,” she said of the 2017 season. “There were so many memories. It was just a really good experience.”

Schrader will also miss Schmitz’s coaching influence the past few years. She noted he “helped bring the team all together” after longtime coach Robin Hilgenberg retired in 2015.

Unfinished business for Ward
Besides being a key cog on the Gators 200 and 400 free state relay teams, junior Taylor Ward also delivered a pair of silver medals in the 200 and 500 freestyle races.

Now, she has gold in her sights.

“Definitely the goal for next season is to win a state title,” Ward said.

Her title aspirations seem well within reach.

The 500 free could be wide open considering three of the top four medalists (besides Ward) were seniors.

Meanwhile in the 200 free, Ward again will likely compete against Bayshore junior Ryley Ober (first place) and Clay freshman Sara Stotler (third place).

“If I had money to bet on it, I think she’s going to get a state championship next year,” Schmitz said of Ward.

“That’s her ultimate goal. She came so close this year… .I think she’ll break through next year.”

Ward’s dedication to the sport certainly won’t hurt. She trains year-round, only taking a week off in the summertime.

In addition to swimming daily, her regimen consists of two-a-day practices, or “doubles” on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. She also lifts weights and runs twice a week, to boost strength and endurance.

Yet her biggest strides in the water have been cerebral.

“I feel like I’m definitely stronger physically, but not only physically, but mentally with my swimming,” Ward said. “I feel like I’m a lot more strategic with my races…so rather than swimming harder, I’m swimming more smarter.”

Land O’ Lakes High School Swimming & Diving
Class 2A state medalists

Boys
200 Medley Relay (1:35.97; first place): Patryk Pilkowski (junior), Jabari Ramsey (senior), Zachary Davis (senior), Zuri Ramsey (freshman)

100 Breaststroke (56.11; first place): Jabari Ramsey

100 Backstroke (51.75; third place): Patryk Pilkowski

Girls
200 Freestyle (1:50.27; second place): Taylor Ward

100 Freestyle (53.07; sixth place): Romina McCloskey

500 Freestyle (4:56.57; second place): Taylor Ward

200 Free Relay (1:39.71; third place): Romina McCloskey (junior), Margarita Czupryn (junior), Ashley Schrader (senior), Taylor Ward (junior)

400 Free Relay (3:38.54; fourth place): Margarita Czupryn,

Romina McCloskey, Ashley Schrader, Taylor Ward

Published December 20, 2017

Academy at the Lakes wins state football title

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They reached their goal.

Academy at the Lakes weathered chilly conditions and an undefeated opponent from Jacksonville to capture the school’s first-ever eight-man state football championship.

Offensive coordinator Landon Smith, a former National Football League player, was as happy as the team, as he holds the trophy bringing bragging rights to the school after winning the 2017 Florida Christian Association of Private and Parochial Schools (FCAPPS) state championship. (Fred Bellet)

An unwavering defensive performance — along with four combined touchdowns from freshman quarterback Jalen Brown and senior running back/linebacker Daniel Gonzalez — propelled the Wildcats to a 30-9 victory over the Old Plank Christian Academy Defenders in the Florida Christian Association of Private and Parochial Schools (FCAPPS) state championship on Dec. 9, at Southeastern University in Lakeland.

It was evident early, the Wildcats were the better team.

Academy at the Lakes scored on its first offensive possession —a 30-yard touchdown pass from Brown to freshman Jordan Oladokun, less than 7 minutes into the first quarter.

Brown added to the Wildcats lead late in the second quarter, diving into the end zone on a one-yard quarterback sneak — set up by his own 30-yard improvised run just a few plays earlier.

The team’s second scoring drive marked the “turning point” of the game, Wildcats head coach Shawn Brown said.

Academy at the Lakes head football coach Shawn Brown holds both trophies that he and his team won after defeating Jacksonville’s Old Plank Defenders at Victory Field in Lakeland.

“I think things were kind of going back and forth, then (Jalen) made that big run,” he said. “It was 8-0, then he kind of made that big run. I think it changed the whole momentum at that point.”

Old Plank had chances to narrow the gap, but was continuously plagued by its own mistakes in the form of penalties and turnovers, giving the Wildcats solid field position and extra offensive possessions.

A prime example: with the clock winding down in the second quarter, Old Plank quarterback Daniel Bosque fumbled just short of the end zone as time expired, preserving the Wildcats 16-0 lead at the half.

A costly turnover early in the second half made matters worse for the visiting Defenders, who entered the game 8-0.

Old Plank’s John Kilpatrick fumbled a punt return at the 25-yard line that was recovered by the Wildcats. The ensuing drive led to a 16-yard rushing touchdown by Gonzalez, just minutes into the third quarter.

Old Plank’s undisciplined play became chippy at times; the team was flagged for multiple late hits and facemasks.

Players, coaches and managers pose for a quick group shot after beating Old Plank. It’s the team’s first eight-man state title.

The Wildcats didn’t let some heated moments affect them, however.

“It could’ve gotten bad, and we could’ve lost our composure, and I think if we lose our composure, we lose that game,” Shawn Brown said. “We stayed true to what we do, kept the kids positive, and tried to walk away without losing their temper, and I think if we lose our temper, then we lose that game.”

Up 22-0, the Wildcats held the Defenders scoreless into the fourth quarter, until 244-pound fullback Quinton Sterling rushed two yards for a touchdown at the 9:22 mark.

“I think our defense, inevitably, is what won us this game, no doubt,” Gonzalez said. “We got some really key interceptions and really key three-and-outs, and that’s what won us this game. It wasn’t just the offense this game; we came together as a team.”

Gonzalez, named the game’s Most Valuable Player (MVP), for extra measure scored his second rushing touchdown of the night with less than 5 minutes left, all but sealing the win.

The two schools last met during the 2016 regular season, where Old Plank defeated Academy at the Lakes in that matchup, 41-20.

Academy at the Lakes head football coach Shawn Brown gets a second drenching by his son and team quarterback, No. 2 Jalen Brown.

Even with the three-score margin, the state championship was closer than most Wildcats games this season; they won their first two playoff games by 48 and 40 points, respectively.

“This is the best defensive team we’ve ever played this season,” Gonzalez said of Old Plank. “I’ve got to give them credit, but in the end we were the better team.”

And, despite making monumental plays on offense and defense, Gonzalez credited younger teammates for the team’s historic victory.

“It’s really interesting because the players that stepped up were all the young guys,” said Gonzalez, a senior team captain.

“We got the corner, Jordan Oladokun. We got Jalen Brown. And, those were the two people that really stepped up on offense and defense. They stepped up on both sides of the ball, and that’s the coolest part. It was the young people that stepped up.”

Brown, who took several big hits at quarterback, said the team never gave up.

“When we got knocked down, we got back up,” the freshman quarterback said. “The game started off a little tough, but we pushed through it, and our momentum carried us to this good victory.”

Chilly weather did not stop the Academy at the Lakes fans, as the bleachers were filled with supporters who found it was worth the drive to Lakeland to watch their Wildcats.

Gonzalez, who sported a ‘victory cigar’ after the game, was one of many players overwhelmed with excitement and joy in postgame festivities.

“I can’t even describe the feeling right now. I got the MVP. I got it all right now. I wouldn’t want anything more,” he said. “This is the best way to end my year. This is the best way to end a football season.”

He is one of the nine seniors on the roster and one of a handful who’ve been with the program since their freshman year.

The other seniors are: Thomas Kramer, Joel Eason, Evan Lutz, Tanner Bianchi, Isaiah Smith, Zachary Moore, Jack Passero and Cooper Weber.

Some, including Gonzalez, had never played organized football before joining the Wildcats program.

Academy at the Lakes No. 7 Daniel Gonzalez had no problem getting by the Old Plank Defenders. Gonzalez was the game’s most valuable player. The game is part of the 2017 Florida High School Football Playoff Brackets – FCSA 8-Man tournament.

“It’s awesome, because that’s my first true graduating class. They’ve come a long way,” said Shawn Brown, who’s in his fourth season as head coach.

The 2017 campaign signaled a complete turnaround for the Wildcats football program.

Academy at the Lakes went 2-8 in 2016, after finishing 4-7 and 3-5 the prior two seasons.

Coach Brown added: “To watch these kids as freshman, and some of them not knowing anything at all with football, to being like that doormat and getting pounded on. There are no words I’ve got to explain it. I’m speechless. I thought I’d have more to say. We reached our goal.”

The football program’s last state title came in 2006, when Academy at the Lakes played in the six-man ranks.

Academy at the Lakes athletic director Tom Haslam underscored the importance of the state title for the Land O’ Lakes private school.

“It’s great for everybody across the board, not just sports, but it transcends everything,” Haslam said. “So much dedication and hard work goes into it, and other kids see that and other kids want to be a part of that, whether it’s football, basketball or chorus, or whatever. And, it’s just kind of contagious.”

Academy at the Lakes Wildcats 2017 roster (By jersey number)
1—Jordan Oladokun, freshman

2—Jalen Brown, freshman

3—Tioma Stepanets, junior

4—Isaiah Smith, senior

5—Jamaal Johnson, junior

7—Daniel Gonzalez, senior

8—Jack O’ Malley, senior

9—Caleb Yann, freshman

10—Thomas Kramer, senior

11—Cole Lallanilla, sophomore

12—Denzyl Downing, sophomore

13—Anthony Quintana, sophomore

15—Joel Eason, senior

17—Zachary Moore, senior

18—Elijah Freedman, sophomore

22—Dylan Price, junior

23—Jack Passero, senior

47—Tanner Bianchi, senior

48—Andrew Kilfoyl, freshman

52—Matthew Martin, sophomore

54—Cooper Weber, senior

55—Jordan Witt, sophomore

60—Evan Lutz, senior

98—Jacon Ayoub, freshman

99—Dwight Downing, freshman

Inactives:
8—Jack O’ Malley, senior

20—A.J. Panepinto, eighth grade

81—Terrell Woods, eighth grade

87—James Elverson, eighth grade

Coaches:
Shawn Brown, head coach/defensive coordinator

Kevin Barrett, assistant coach/offensive & defensive line

Ben Donatelli, assistant coach/ line coach

Kirk Downing, assistant coach/stats

Steve Hagenau, assistant coach/trainer

Landon Smith, assistant coach/offensive coordinator

Jesus Solar, assistant coach/quarterbacks

Henry Oladokun, assistant coach/defensive backs

Troy Williams, assistant coach

Manager(s): A.J. Panepinto, Hunter Price

Ball Boy/Girl: Payton Williams, Katie Erin McCormick

 

Game-by-game results:
Aug. 25: at Citi Christian Academy (40-22 win)
Sept 7: Eastland Christian (50-35 loss)
Sept. 22: Canterbury (48-16 win)
Sept. 28: Solid Rock Community (80-0 win)
Oct. 2: at Saint Lucie Christian (49-12 win)
Oct. 13: Lakeside Christian (40-21 win)
Oct. 20: at Donahue Catholic (36-0 win)
Oct. 27: Seacoast Christian Academy (68-7 win)
Nov. 3: at Hernando Christian Academy (57-29 win)
Nov. 17: Canterbury (54-6 win)
Dec. 1: Eastland Christian (46-6 win)
Dec. 9: Old Plank Christian Academy (30-9 win)

 

Scoring Plays
First quarter
(5:35) — Academy at the Lakes (AATL) quarterback Jalen Brown completes a 30-yard touchdown pass to receiver Jordan Oladokun; two-point conversion good (8-0, AATL leads)

Second quarter
(2:51) — Brown rushes one yard for a touchdown; two-point conversion good (16-0, AATL leads)

Third quarter
(7:52)— AATL running back Daniel Gonzalez rushes 16 yards for a touchdown; extra point no good (22-0, AATL leads)

Fourth quarter
(9:22)— Old Plank Christian Academy fullback Quinton Sterling rushed two yards for a touchdown; two-point conversion attempt no good (22-7, AATL leads)

(4:40) — Gonzalez rushed three yards for a touchdown; two-point conversion good (30-7, AATL leads)

(1:10) – Old Plank credited for a safety (30-9, AATL leads)

Final: 30-9, AATL wins

Published December 13, 2017

They hit the water to solve crimes, make rescues

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A Pasco Sheriff’s Office team has been trained to respond to emergency calls involving water rescues, and to search for evidence in lakes, rivers and other water bodies.

The tactical units, called the Underwater Recovery/Swift Water Response Team, includes divers, rescue swimmers and deputies who pilot boats.

“We really can do anything that needs to be done on the water,” said Lt. Jay Galassi, who oversees the Marine Unit.

The Underwater Recovery/Swift Water Response Team held a training exercise on Dec. 4 at SunWest Park on Old Dixie Highway in Hudson, to practice its new waterborne skills. The unit was deployed over the summer during Hurricane Irma to assist residents living in flood-prone areas, such as the Elfers community in Pasco County. They also recovered items and debris in the November plane crash of former Major League Baseball pitcher Roy Halladay. (Kevin Weiss)

The 18-member team became nationally certified in November, after completing advanced swift water training through Dive Rescue International.

The certification means the team is ready to serve a wide range of scenarios, from safety and security, to special waterborne operations — even in strong water currents.

Officials say no mission is too large, whether its retrieving cars crashed in bodies of water, rescuing drowning victims, or looking for evidence or weapons underwater.

The certification also allows it to assist in Federal Emergency Management Agency-related response efforts, on a local, regional and national level.

“We could deploy to Texas, we could deploy to South Florida, North Florida, wherever…and then still have a team here that could effectively deal with issues in Pasco County,” Galassi said.

The Pasco Sheriff’s Office began the task of creating and implementing a Swift Water Recovery Team in late 2016 for rescue and recovery operations in areas that frequently flood in the county.

The team initially planned to include just four members who would respond to any swift water event in Pasco County. But, as the process of creating the team evolved, the Sheriff’s Office obtained funding from private citizens allowing the agency to dedicate more than a dozen fully trained and equipped personnel to the team.

The unit has been deployed for several high-profile occasions this year.

For instance, they assisted during Hurricane Irma to provide aid to residents living in flood-prone areas, such as the Elfers community.

They also recovered items and debris from the November plane crash of former Major League Baseball pitcher Roy Halladay.

They also conducted underwater searches in Wesley Chapel in a recent missing persons case.

The team held a training exercise on Dec. 4 at SunWest Park on Old Dixie Highway in Hudson, to practice and maintain its new waterborne skills.

Mitch Bollenbacher is a member of the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office’s Swift Water Response Team. The team’s 18 members retrieve cars crashed in water, rescue drowning victims, conducting evidence and weapons searches underwater and handle other water-related duties.

Team members tested three new 12-foot long INMAR inflatable/recovery boats purchased from private community donations.

As part of the drill, they assembled the boats — which involved inflating them and connecting motors — and then they operated them on the water.

They also practiced setting up what’s called a highline, a rope that connects to the boat and is controlled by someone on land. The rope line helps stabilize the boat for rescue and recovery operations in high waters or strong currents.

“We just kind of keep current on getting the speed down of getting the boats out and getting them in the water. The water here is nice and clean, so we just run the boats out here and get the motors all cleaned up,” Galassi said of training at SunWest Park.

The boats, equipped with 25-horsepower Suzuki motors, are designed to hold steady control in all bodies of water, fighting against heavy winds and currents.

They are being used instead of the larger, bulkier boats the team previously used, said Mitch Bollenbacher, a member of the team.

“These are easier to maneuver. They sit very still,” Bollenbacher said. “You can anchor the boat, and then a diver can dive off the back of it. The boats aren’t really affected by the wind or the current. They kind of maintain control in the water.”

Bollenbacher also said the boats can traverse tight-access areas, including lakes, canals and retention ponds — where someone might discard a body, weapons or another type of criminal evidence.

“It’s definitely something that we needed at the Sheriff’s Office,” said Bollenbacher, who’s been with the agency more than four years.

“We can now definitely search an area and say, ‘No, it’s not here.’ You can 100 percent say, ‘There’s no one here, there’s no object here, and we searched it,’”

said Bollenbacher, who is a swimmer and a diver, and has been around the water since he was a teenager.

To be considered for the special unit, deputies must pass a standard test for their water skills.

Even with his skills, Bollenbacher said there’s still trepidation in and around water, with the presence of alligators and other unknowns.

“It’s Florida. There’s always a fear,” he said.

The team takes precautions to stay safe.

“The biggest thing is safety, double-check and use the right equipment for the right job,” Bollenbacher said.

By year’s end, the agency looks to also have its Underwater Recovery Team, or tactical dive team, certified as a specialized unit of the Division of Homeland Security. It would allow the Sheriff’s Office to assist federal task forces in waterborne operations, including: antiterrorism and maritime dignitary protection, drug interdiction, underwater crime scene, special response team support, and maritime surveillance.

Published December 13, 2017