Local Sports

The Laker/Lutz News prep football season outlook

September 6, 2017 By Kevin Weiss

The 2017 high school football season is finally underway. As the games unfold, here’s a look at some of the teams and players to watch in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area:

Teams to Watch:

Steinbrenner head coach Andres Perez-Reinaldo is looking for his third straight winning season. (File)

Steinbrenner High Warriors

Coach: Andres Perez-Reinaldo (sixth year)

Despite some key departures from last year’s 5-4 squad — including starting quarterback Colin Wray’s defection to Clearwater Central Catholic— the Warriors look primed for a third straight winning season. That was evident in their Aug. 28 season opener, a 19-0 road shutout of Freedom High School. If that game is any indication, Steinbrenner features a strong running game led by senior Dionte Waldron and freshman Deon Silas, and big-play receivers in senior Brandon Garcia and sophomore Aidan Bitter. The Warriors have no shortage of playmakers on defense, either. Besides the return of a pair of tackling machines in senior linebacker/safety Charles Stephens (99 tackles in 2016) and senior defensive tackle Juan Batista (87 total tackles in 2016), the Warriors have others — including senior end Cade Murray and junior linebacker Logan Kilburn— capable of making stops behind the line of scrimmage.

The Warriors still need to find a steady, reliable presence at quarterback, especially with difficult matchups remaining against the likes of Jesuit, Bradenton Manatee, Sarasota Riverview and Tampa Catholic high schools.

Sunlake has seven straight winning seasons under head coach Bill Browning. (Courtesy of Tom Ketchum, PascoCountyfb.com)

Sunlake High Seahawks

Coach: Bill Browning (11th year)

It’s tough to doubt the Sunlake Seahawks and its run of seven straight winning seasons — each with at least seven victories. However, the consistent program may be in for a slight rebuilding campaign after losing numerous contributors on offense and defense from last year’s 7-3 squad. Besides developing a new quarterback in either senior Ryan Kasper or junior Hunter Watts, dynamic playmakers on offense also need to emerge. Similar questions remain on defense, as the Seahawks replace three of its top four tacklers from last season. Meanwhile, Sunlake’s schedule doesn’t get any easier, with matchups against Wiregrass Ranch, Springstead, Brooksville Central and River Ridge high schools.

Wiregrass Ranch looks to be one of the top teams in Pasco County. (Courtesy of Tom Ketchum, PascoCountyfb.com)

Wiregrass Ranch High Bulls

Coach: Mark Kantor (third year)

Wiregrass Ranch appears to be one of the top teams in the Tampa Bay area, even after a tumultuous offseason that saw three of its top players — cornerback Shamaur McDowell, athlete Raymond Woodie III, tailback Da Da McGee — transfer elsewhere. The team’s strength was evident in the Bulls memorable 31-29 season-opening victory over Zephyrhills High, where their talent and moxie reigned supreme. Junior quarterback Grant Sessums, in his first year as a starter, could emerge to become one of the county’s most productive signal-callers, especially with a senior-laden group of pass-catchers, in A.J. Brown, Devaun Roberts and Daniel Biglow. Establishing a capable running game also could go a long way in Sessums’ and Wiregrass’ success. The Bulls, meanwhile, return one of the region’s top players in versatile, ball-hawking cornerback Jordan Miner, a Penn State University commit. Besides roaming the defensive backfield, the 6-foot-1, 180-pound athlete also is utilized on offense and kickoff returns.

Zephyrhills is seeking their fourth straight playoff appearance. (Courtesy of Tom Ketchum, PascoCountyfb.com)

Zephyrhills High Bulldogs

Coach: Nick Carroll (second year)

One of the county’s most successful programs of late, Zephyrhills has the talent and depth to secure a fourth straight playoff appearance. It all starts with senior dual-threat quarterback Charles Harrison III, the county’s top returning signal-caller (2,038 total yards, 26 total touchdowns, five interceptions in 2016). And, there’s no lack of weapons at Harrison’s disposal, with the return of leading rusher Elijah Thomas (649 yards, five touchdowns) and leading receivers Tre’Pavis Mobley (39 catches, 802 yards, 11 touchdowns) and Ja’quan Sheppard (25 catches, 443 yards, six touchdowns).

Defensively, the Bulldogs return two of their top pass rushers from 2016 — Sterlin Williams (8.5 sacks) and Ja’varrius Wilson (eight sacks)— along with senior middle linebacker Zac Masci (66 tackles, 2.5 sacks) and senior safety Myles Carter (25 tackles, five tackles for loss, two interceptions).

Meanwhile, the rest of the season sets up relatively nicely for the Bulldogs, with manageable matchups against teams like Ridgewood, Fivay, Gulf, Anclote and Pasco high schools.

Zephyrhills Christian is looking to build off last season’s 7-2 mark. (Courtesy of Zephyrhills Christian Academy)

Zephyrhills Christian Academy Warriors

Coach: Mike Smith (third year, 11-man)

The Warriors are proving last season’s 7-2 mark wasn’t a fluke, especially after downing Bishop McLaughlin 35-6 in its Aug. 25 home opener. The Warriors, competing in Class 2A for the first time, feature one of the county’s most prolific ground attacks, led by seniors Calvin Samuel (695 yards, seven touchdowns in 2016) and Alonzo Sampson, and Pasco High transfer Javion Hanner — each capable of explosive plays. The Warriors, too, feature a handful of impact players on defense, anchored by 300-pound sophomore defensive lineman Malik Jones and 215-pound junior linebacker/defensive end Jalen Spencer. One of the more intriguing tests for the Warriors will be on Oct. 13, when they face Carrollwood Day School at home.

Wesley Chapel returns several key pieces from last season’s 7-2 squad. (Courtesy of Tom Ketchum, PascoCountyfb.com)

Wesley Chapel High School Wildcats

Coach: Tony Egan (second year)

Besides having arguably the county’s top do-everything athlete in Isaiah Bolden (University of Oregon commit), the Wildcats have several pieces returning to a team that won its first seven games in 2016, before faltering down the stretch with road losses to Zephyrhills and River Ridge high schools.

It has a potent running game led by 1,000-yard rusher Dexter Leverett and Malik Melvin (358 yards, seven touchdowns).

With Bolden returning at cornerback, the Wildcats defense also features several other standouts, including inside linebacker Austen Wittish (93 tackles in 2016) and 6-foot-7 defensive end/Florida State University commit Chaz Neal.

The looming question is finding consistency at quarterback following the graduation of two-year starter Jacob Thomas.

Players to Watch:

Athlete — Isaiah Bolden, Wesley Chapel High senior

The 6-foot-3, 185-pound versatile athlete might be the top football prospect in all of Pasco County. The University of Oregon commit — with nearly 30 other scholarship offers— is a consensus four-star recruit widely regarded as one of nation’s top 20 cornerback prospects for the Class of 2018. Besides roaming the defensive backfield, Wesley Chapel High coaches utilize Bolden as a quarterback, punter and return man. He’ll also sometimes line up at running back and receiver.

Cornerback — Jordan Miner, Wiregrass Ranch High senior

Like Bolden, Miner is another a blue chip, four-star cornerback committed to a high-profile college program (Penn State University). Nationally, the 6-foot-1, 180-pound Miner is ranked among the top 30 corners for the 2018 recruiting class, where he’s lauded for his quickness, physicality and ball skills. He’s also an impact player on special teams, as he averaged 33 yards per kick return in 2016.

Defensive Back — John Dixon, Wharton High junior

The 5-foot-11, 170-pound Dixon is quickly hopping on the radar of some of the nation’s premier college programs. His junior season just underway, Dixon already boasts offers from the likes of Alabama, Auburn, Florida, Florida State, Ohio State, Tennessee, South Carolina, South Florida and Maryland universities. Multiple recruiting outlets — like 247Sports and ESPN.com— rank Dixon as a four-star prospect and one of the nation’s top 25 cornerback prospects for the 2019 class. Dixon tallied 44 tackles and two interceptions in 2016.

Receiver — Ja’quan Sheppard, Zephyrhills High junior

One of Zephyrhills High’s many offensive playmakers, the 6-foot-2, 176-pound Sheppard is a dynamic threat, both as a receiver (25 catches, 443 yards, six touchdowns in 2016) and ball carrier (325 yards, five touchdowns). Besides having reliable hands, Sheppard has shown the capability for chunk plays of 40 yards and 50 yards. He currently has an offer from Samford University, a Division I Football Championship Series (FCS) program in Homewood, Alabama.

Running back/defensive back — Dexter Leverett, Wesley Chapel High senior

The 5-foot-10, 170-pound Leverett was Pasco County’s third-leading rusher in 2016, tallying 1,254 yards and 10 touchdowns on just 165 carries (7.6 yards per carry). And, he displayed consistency, with nine games of at least 100 yards.

Wesley Chapel head coach Tony Egan summed up Leverett’s rushing ability in an interview last season: “He’s got it all. He’s a power back, he’s explosive, and he’s got that top-end speed—the kid runs a 4.53 40 (yard dash). He’s just a really quick kid…and he can make cuts in the open field.”

Leverett is not just an offensive star. He’s also a key cog on defense, where he posted 75 total tackles last season.

Ten more to watch:

Athlete — Calvin Samuel, Zephyrhills Christian Academy senior

Cornerback — A.J. Hampton, Wharton High senior

Linebacker — Myron Bloom, Land O’ Lakes High junior

Linebacker— Adam Jarvis, Sunlake High senior

Linebacker— Matthew Wood, Gaither High senior

Offensive Tackle — Donovan Jennings, Gaither High senior

Offensive Tackle — Lavel Dumont, Wharton High senior

Quarterback — Charles Harrison III, Zephyrhills High senior

Running back/Linebacker — Dylan Gonzalez, Academy at the Lakes senior

Wide Receiver — Tre’Pavis Mobley, Zephyrhills High junior

Statistics compiled by MaxPreps.com

The Laker/Lutz News coverage area includes the following schools from Hillsborough and Pasco counties:

Hillsborough:
Carrollwood Day School Patriots (Class 2A-Region 3)

Freedom High School Patriots (Class 7A-Region 8)

Gaither High School Cowboys (Class 7A-Region 8)

Steinbrenner High School Warriors (Class 8A-Region 6)

Wharton High School Wildcats (Class 7A-Region 8)

Pasco:
Academy at the Lakes Wildcats (8-man-Florida Christian Region 2)

Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School Hurricanes (Independent-Sunshine State Athletic Conference (SSAC)

Cypress Creek Middle High School Coyotes (Class 4A-Region 3)

Land O’ Lakes High School Gators (Class 6A-Region 6)

Pasco High School Pirates (Class 6A-Region 6)

Sunlake High School Seahawks (Class 6A-Region 6)

Wesley Chapel High School Wildcats (Class 5A-Region 8)

Wiregrass Ranch High School Bulls (Class 7A-Region 8)

Zephyrhills High School Bulldogs (Class 5A-Region 8)

Zephyrhills Christian Academy Warriors (Class 2A-Region 2)

What’s New?
The Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) passed a new system last September that bases football postseason berths on a points system in Class A-4A. The new format, beginning this season, is designed to reward teams for winning records and strength of schedule.
In the FHSAA’s biggest four classes (5A-8A), the district champion still automatically qualifies for regionals, with the remaining 16 spots decided by points.

Published September 6, 2017

Local youth barefoot water-skier wins national title

August 30, 2017 By Kevin Weiss

Brett Swanbom can be considered a rising star in the extreme sport of barefoot water-skiing.

The 11-year-old, who lives in Land O’ Lakes, has the medals to prove it.

Swanbom won first overall in the boys B Division (12 & under) at the 2017 United States Barefoot Nationals on Aug. 5 in Polk City. There, he claimed gold medals in jump and slalom events, and a silver medal in tricks.

Land O’ Lakes’ Brett Swanbom won first overall in the boys B Division (12 & under) at the 2017 United States Barefoot Nationals, on Aug. 5 in Polk City. The 11-year-old barefoot water-skier claimed gold medals in jump and slalom events, and a silver medal in tricks. (Courtesy of Bob Swanbom)

In April, Swanbom entered — and won — his first-ever tournament — the 2017 PGA Opener in Palm Beach Gardens.

He also went on to win a handful of other tournaments in Florida and Texas over the summer.

Those achievements paled in comparison to capturing the boys B Division national barefoot title, however.

“It didn’t really feel like it did at nationals; people come from all over America (to compete),” said Swanbom, a sixth-grader at Pine View Middle School.

A relative newcomer to the sport, Swanbom began barefooting just about a year-and-a-half ago. He first learned from his father, Bob Swanbom, a former show skier on the Wisconsin-based Tommy Bartlett water-ski team.

It became clear Swanbom was a natural.

“He just excelled real fast,” his father said.

Barefoot skiing, also referred to as “barefooting,” is water-skiing behind a motorboat without the use of water skis. It requires skiers to travel at higher speeds than conventional water-skiing (30 to 45mph); the necessary speed required to keep the skier upright varies by the weight of the barefooter.

There are three events in traditional barefooting:

Tricks: The skier has two passes of 15 seconds to complete as many different tricks as possible. All tricks have specific point values depending on difficulty. The skier also is awarded points for the start trick they performed to get up.
Slalom: The skier has two passes of 15 seconds to cross the wake as many times as possible. The skier can cross the wake forward or backward, and on two feet or one foot.
Jump: The skier travels over a small, fiberglass jump ramp. They have three jumps and the longest one successfully landed counts.

Swanbom already has earned a name for himself in barefoot water-skiing.

He’s one of just 23 sponsored skiers by the World Barefoot Center (WBC) in Winter Haven, where he receives training and equipment perks.

There, he’s been called Brett ‘Slalom’ Swanbom, for his masterful displays in the wake slalom event.

Brett Swanbom is currently ranked 27th in the world in the boys junior division (17 and under), according to the World Barefoot Council’s latest rankings. He’s won several events since competing in April.
(Kevin Weiss)

“He’s very, very good at the slalom ski,” Brett’s father said. “They think someday he’ll beat (two-time World Barefoot Champion) Keith (St. Onge) in the world slalom record.”

David Small, one of Swanbom’s instructors at the World Barefoot Center, is spellbound by the 11-year-old’s slalom skills.

“As soon as he could stand up beyond the boat, he’d be tearing up the slalom,” said Small, the world’s top-ranked barefooter and a six-time world barefoot champion.

“Natural ability helps him. The power-to-weight ratio on that kid is unbelievable. He’s so strong, and he weighs next to nothing.”

Besides his moniker, Swanbom’s abilities spawned a new rule allowing the barefoot jump event for boys under 12 years old, colloquially referred to as the ‘Brett Rule.’

“…They didn’t allow 11 year olds to jump, so I said, ‘Well, how can he ever win boys B Division?’” Brett’s father recalled telling barefooting officials. “Now if you qualify, and they see you’re really a good barefooter, they’ll let you jump. You have to go through some qualifications. They just don’t want somebody to go out there and get hurt.”

Swanbom is currently ranked 27th in the world in the boys junior division (17 and under), according to the World Barefoot Council’s latest rankings. Many ranked higher are 15, 16 and 17 years old.

“I’m very proud of him,” his father said. “He’s accomplished a lot in a short period of time and, with the guys at WBC, he’s learning from the best.”

Swanbom stays humble, realizing there’s ways to go to reach the world’s elite.

“I’m not there yet,” he said, modestly. “I haven’t really mastered tricks. I haven’t really mastered slalom, either.”

Doing so is contingent on flawless barefooting technique.

“He’s progressed fast,” Small said, “so it’s our job to keep him mentally grounded so that he doesn’t act up, and really to solidify the fundamentals of the sport…so he can really push forward and compete at a high level.”

Meanwhile, Swanbom has incorporated several sophisticated tricks to his repertoire.

That includes ‘tumble-turns’ — a 360-degree spin while butt-sliding on the water, then coming back around with feet planted — and ‘toe-ups’ — where a skier, with one leg locked onto the ski handle, rocks their body up on the water on one foot, without using hands.

“When you learn new tricks and you finally get it after a long time, you’re relieved, but proud of yourself at the same time,” Swanbom said. “Some part makes you proud, some part makes it fun.”

During events, Swanbom focuses on setting personal-bests, rather than his opponents.

“It’s not about going against another person — it’s (about) going against you,” Brett said. “First, you try to beat yourself, then you worry about the other person. But, I don’t really do that much.”

“If you win or not, it doesn’t matter. It’s just like if you had fun,” he said.

“With the kids, it’s all about them having fun,” added Small. “He really enjoys the sport. So, it’s not like he’s going out there and training and not having fun.”

Swanbom someday hopes to compete professionally and set a world record “at least in one event.”

A more immediate goal is joining the United States World Team, perhaps even the 2018 junior squad.

“I don’t see why he can’t be on the U.S. team for the junior world championships, and start actively competing against the rest of the world,” Small said. “As long as he keeps enjoying it; he’s got the mental ability, and the physical ability to do it.”

It also doesn’t hurt that Swanbom resides in Central Florida, often referred to as the “Water Ski Capital of the World.”

“Florida’s a great place to water-ski because you can ski year-round,” Bob Swanbom said. “You can’t do that in Wisconsin, and you might not be able to do that in Utah, and in Texas you can’t, sometimes.”

Interestingly, Land O’ Lakes is home to a pair of the sport’s most recognizable names, as both Don Mixon Sr. and Don Mixon Jr., live in Lake Padgett. Mixon Sr. is the past president of the American Barefoot Waterskiing Association and a former coach of the United States Barefoot Team. Mixon Jr. is a former barefoot professional, winning the 1994 World Barefoot Championship in Sydney, Australia.

Published August 30, 2017

Land O’ Lakes coaches named nation’s best

August 23, 2017 By Kevin Weiss

The accolades haven’t stopped for the Land O’ Lakes High Gators softball program, months after winning its first-ever fast pitch state title.

The latest award spotlights the team’s coaches.

The Gators coaching staff has been named the 2017 National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) High School Coaching Staff of the Year. The award came on July 27, and the Land O’ Lakes coaches beat out staffs from other top-tier programs in California, New Jersey, Illinois and Kansas.

The 2017 Land O’ Lakes varsity softball team show off their Class 6A state championships rings, during an Aug. 10 celebration at Beef O’ Brady’s at Wilderness Lakes. (Courtesy of Vinny Guarracino)

The recognition went to Gators third-year head coach Mitch Wilkins and assistants Edwin Rodriguez, Janet Sciales and Vinny Guarracino. They helped to guide the varsity team to a 29-3 mark, including a 3-1 victory over Plantation American Heritage in the Class 6A title game on May 20 in Vero Beach.

The staff previously was honored by the NFCA as South Region Coaching Staff of the Year on July 12.

Wilkins said the most recent NFCA honor was “completely surprising.”

“We were astounded to even be regional winners,” Wilkins said. “We were honored to just be nominated for regionals; I didn’t expect anything after that.”

Wilkins said he is glad the national honor recognized not only him, but his trio of assistants, too.

The entire staff, he noted, is diversified, each providing a crucial role in the team’s culture and achievements.

For instance, Rodriguez, the head junior varsity coach, instills discipline through development. Sciales, a hitting specialist, serves as a female soundboard for players. And Guarracino, the first-year volunteer assistant, provides the day-to-day exuberance.

“A lot of personalities that really work out well,” Wilkins said of the staff. “We’re all team players.”

“We each have our strengths and our skills,” added Sciales, who’s coached with Wilkins for six years, dating back to their stint at Hillsborough High School. “We all have our place and we function as a well-oiled machine, and none of us try to step on the other one’s toes. None of us bring a gigantic ego to (coaching).”

Guarracino concurred, saying the staff “works like one unit.”

The Land O’ Lakes Gators softball coaching staff was named the 2017 NFCA (National Fastpitch Coaches Association) High School Coaching Staff of the Year on July 27
From left, are Vinny Guarracino, Edwin Rodriguez, Mitch Wilkins and Janet Sciales. (Courtesy of National Fastpitch Coaches Association)

Part of that is the staff’s overall commitment to teaching the sport, explained Rodriguez, who has coached with Wilkins for three seasons.

“The passion that we have for coaching the girls and passing on knowledge makes us come together,” Rodriguez said. “It’s the love that we have working with the girls, because they’re receptive to (learning).”

But, the staff’s coexistence all starts with Wilkins, a retired Tampa police officer turned high school social studies teacher.

Besides the state title run—the first for any Pasco County school since 1992 — the Gators have gone a remarkable 80-9-1 in three seasons under Wilkins’ leadership, and they have firmly cemented themselves as a softball powerhouse beyond the Bay Area.

Guarracino, fresh to the coaching profession, described Wilkins as “a genius” and the main influence on starting his career.

“Coach is a little bit like a psychologist,” Guarracino explained. “He’s there for us, and he adapts his style of learning. I’m a big fan. He’s done a lot for me, and he’s been a big instructor for me.”

“Mitch knows more about ball than anybody I know, ever,” Sciales, a longtime coach herself, said. “He genuinely lives, eats and breathes softball. He thinks of things that I never even think of. He’s thinking two games in advance, three, five, seven games down the road. I’m thinking, ‘Let me just get to the next inning.’

“He’s always going to coaching seminars — anything he can do to get better.”

Sciales also noted Wilkins truly cares for each of his players.

“He’s so great with the girls, and he doesn’t yell,” Scales said. “I learned a long time ago that girls have to want to play for you. They need to want to perform for you, and he knows that. And, he’s very consistent with them, he never lies to them; he’s the fairest guy.”

She continued: “You will never find another coach that works harder to get his girls scholarships than him. He takes them to (softball) showcases, and he does that so they can get scholarships, and I don’t see a lot of other coaches doing that.”

For Wilkins, leading the Gators softball program is not about accolades or recognition.

Instead, “it’s all about the girls,” he said.

“Anything we can to do help them compete,” Wilkins said, “whether it’s helping them get a college scholarship, whether it’s helping them get prepared to move into college. Since I came aboard, every senior that’s come through the softball program and graduated (high school) has gone on to enroll in college.”

He stressed education “is first and foremost” for his players.

So, too, is “helping them become better people.”

“I just try and be that role model for them,” he said. “Show them that you don’t have get loud, and yell and scream and demean people, to get them to be motivated.”

Of course, the program’s success isn’t all about its coaches.

It’s about its deep roster, too.

“If we didn’t have the talent, then it’s almost impossible to get where we did,” Wilkins said. “What we do is try to develop their talent and do everything we can do to make sure they’re prepared for whatever situation comes up in a game.”

“You can’t win a race if you don’t have the horses,” Scales agreed. “It’s a combination of excellent athletes, great parents, and coaches being on the same page.”

Meanwhile, Gators players are appreciative for the makeup of the program’s coaching staff, and how each manages the team in practices and games.

“They’re really laid back compared to other coaches; they’re not going to yell at you,” said recent graduate Jessie McCallister, a standout centerfielder on the state title team.

“Obviously, when we do things wrong they’re going to get on us, but most of the time they’re really understanding,” said Destiny Rodriguez, a junior utility player.

“They all help us differently; they always give us good advice,” said junior ace pitcher Callie Turner. “It’s good because there’s no yelling involved in it. Like, I don’t remember a time, especially in the past few years, of them yelling. It helps us, especially as girls, when we’re not yelled at.”

Published August 23, 2017

Wiregrass Ranch High loses top rusher

August 16, 2017 By Kevin Weiss

One of Pasco County’s top running backs is taking his talents south — to Hillsborough County.

Senior 1,000-yard rusher Da Da McGee has transferred from Wiregrass Ranch High School to Hillsborough High School, just weeks before the start of the 2017 prep football season.

Senior running back Da Da McGee, pictured far left, has transferred from Wiregrass Ranch High to Hillsborough High. McGee was one of the top rushers in Pasco County last season, totaling 1,063 yards and 11 touchdowns on 180 carries. He is the latest high-profile transfer from Wiregrass Ranch, joining cornerback Shamaur McDowell and athlete Raymond Woodie III, who left the program in June. (Courtesy of Tom Ketchum, PascoCountyfb.com)

McGee was one of seven tailbacks in Pasco County to eclipse the 1,000-yard mark last season, rushing for 1,063 yards and 11 touchdowns on 180 carries.

And, he was one of just three tailbacks in east Pasco to accomplish the feat, joining Wesley Chapel’s Dexter Leverett (1,249 rush yards, 10 touchdowns) and Bishop McLaughlin’s Luis Valentin (1,072 rush yards, 11 touchdowns).

The 5-foot-9, 180-pound McGee also led Wiregrass Ranch in rushing his sophomore year (333 yards, three touchdowns), despite missing five games with a shoulder injury.

Losing McGee, a 2016 SAC (Sunshine Athletic Conference) East All-Conference First-Team Selection, marks a significant and the latest — blow to the Wiregrass Ranch football squad.

In June, the Bulls saw two other top players — cornerback Shamaur McDowell and athlete Raymond Woodie III— exit the program.

McDowell — a three-star prospect and University of Minnesota commit — transferred to IMG Academy in Bradenton, while Woodie III — a four-star prospect boasting over 20 scholarship offers — moved to Eugene, Oregon, with his family.

Yet, Wiregrass Ranch — coming off its best season in school history (7-3, District 7A-8 runner-up) — still remains a solid team, under third-year coach Mark Kantor.

The Bulls return senior cornerback Jordan Miner, a Penn State University commit and four-star prospect regarded as one of the premier players in the Tampa Bay area.

At Hillsborough, McGee will play for Earl Garcia, the winningest active coach in Hillsborough County with 236 victories. Garcia has produced more than 200 scholarship student-athletes. He’s also coached 15 players who went on to make NFL active rosters. (Courtesy of Hillsborough High School)

The Bulls also appear to have a promising starting quarterback in junior Grant Sessums.

With McGee’s departure, senior fullback Chase Oliver (443 yards, 7 touchdowns in 2016) figures to garner additional carries, as a between-the-tackles power runner.

McGee, meanwhile, joins a Hillsborough High program steeped in tradition since head coach Earl Garcia took over in 1993.

Garcia, the winningest active coach in Hillsborough County with 236 victories, has produced more than 200 scholarship student-athletes. He’s also coached 15 players who went on to make NFL active rosters.

Hillsborough High went 8-2 last season, but lost several key playmakers, including defensive end Zachary Carter (University of Florida signee) and running back Duran Bell Jr. (University of South Florida signee).

Besides Bell Jr., Hillsborough High graduated its other top two rushers in Drequan McCullough (494 rush yards, four touchdowns) and Russell Booth (192 rush yards, four touchdowns), giving McGee the inside track to become the team’s starting tailback.

–Stats compiled by MaxPreps.com–

2017 Kickoff Classic schedule
Schedules for the 2017 Statewide Kickoff Classic preseason football games have been released. All kickoff classics are scheduled for 7 p.m. Here’s a list of games involving Pasco County teams in the The Laker/Lutz News coverage area:

Aug. 17
Land O’ Lakes High School at Wesley Chapel High School

Aug. 18
Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School at Superior Collegiate High School
Cypress Creek Middle High at Fivay High School
Mitchell High School at Zephyrhills High School
Ridgewood High School at Pasco High School
Wiregrass Ranch High School at Clearwater Central Catholic High School
Gulf High School at Zephyrhills Christian Academy
Lakewood High School at Sunlake High School

Published August 16, 2017

Cypress Creek football readies for inaugural season

August 9, 2017 By Kevin Weiss

With the high school football season just around the corner, one school in Wesley Chapel is gearing up for its inaugural season.

The Cypress Creek High Coyotes began practices last week, in preparation for its first regular season home opener on Aug. 25 against the Gulf High Buccaneers.

The looming matchup brings intrigue, as it pits the upstart Coyotes against a Gulf program that has gone winless the last two seasons (0-20 combined in 2015 and 2016).

Mike Johnson, the Coyotes first-year head coach, expects the opener to be surreal, for players, coaches and fans alike.

The Cypress Creek High Coyotes began practices July 31 to prepare for the team’s regular season home opener on Aug. 25 against the Gulf High Buccaneers.
The Coyotes have about 40 players, enough to fill a varsity and junior varsity squad. The varsity program will play in Class 4A for at least two years. (Kevin Weiss)

“To be able to walk on the field for the very first time — that’s going to be a cool feeling for everybody,” Johnson said. “That first Friday night is going to be pretty cool. …Whether they (Gulf) break a long losing streak or we win the first game in school history, that’s going to pretty neat, whichever way it does go.”

The Coyotes currently have about 40 players, enough to fill varsity and junior varsity teams; the varsity team will play in Class 4A for at least two years.

The school’s first football team features no seniors though because only underclassmen from Wesley Chapel and Wiregrass high schools were rezoned to Cypress Creek.

The school, located 8701 Old Pasco Road, will have nearly 1,500 students in grades six through 11 this year.

For some players, like Logan Bercaw, switching schools was an adjustment.

Bercaw, a junior lineman, spent the past two years at Wiregrass Ranch.

“It was a little difficult,” he said, “because you started your first two years playing football at one school, thinking you’re going to finish there, and then you get switched out to a different school. It’s nice, because it’s a brand-new school, but it’s a pretty big change.”

Besides Bercaw, much of the 2017 team is composed of freshman and sophomores.

“We’re very young,” said Kevin LaChance, an assistant who coaches running backs and linebackers. “We’re just trying to get something built, start laying a foundation…and to do the best we can.”

With such a youthful roster, the Coyotes’ coaching staff spent much of the first week addressing basic fundamentals, such as safe tackling and blocking techniques, and focusing on running formations and ball protection.

Learning a new playbook and hitting the weight room were emphasized, too.

“We’re breaking it down to the very basics,” Johnson said. “All those basic fundamentals are really going to help them out in the long run.”

Inexperience aside, the head coach is pleased with the team’s results in workouts and practices thus far.

“We’ve been getting after it,” Johnson said. “They’ve come out and put in the work. I was very pleased with the amount of players we had out here and the effort they were giving. It’s definitely a positive.”

The summer practices are especially valuable, considering most of the roster didn’t participate in the program’s spring drills — occupied with other sports and activities at their former schools.

The early returns show the Coyotes have workable talent — particularly at skill positions.

“I think we’ve got some speed, which I enjoy,” said Johnson. “We’re loaded at running back. I think we’ve got quite a few running backs/receiver types.”

One of those is sophomore running back Keith Walker.

The Wesley Chapel transfer made varsity his freshman year, and earned playing time in a crowded backfield that featured Dexter Leverett (1,249 yards on 165 carries), Malik Melvin (358 yards on 53 carries) and Ellrie Allen (117 yards on 23 carries). There, Walker flashed breakaway speed on handoffs (136 yards on 13 carries) and as a receiver (102 yards on four catches).

The Coyotes also have found a viable starter at quarterback, in sophomore Jehlani Warren, a transfer from Wiregrass Ranch. “He’ll be able to run the ball a little bit, too,” Johnson said.

Cypress Creek, meanwhile, marks Johnson’s first varsity head coaching gig.

He previously coached at Stuart Middle School and served as an offensive line coach at Wesley Chapel High School, under former head coach Ben Alford.

He believes he’s up to the task of leading a high school program.

“I learned over the years the process of how to manage and how to handle (a team),” said Johnson, also a former defensive back at Division III Eureka College in Illinois.

That includes conforming to a foundation he calls the “5Cs”— Commitment, Consistency, Courage, Communication and Compassion.

“I’m a big guy on, ‘Be here on time, show me effort in practice, and we’ll find a place for you,’” Johnson explained. “You’ve got to be here, and you’ve got to give me 100 percent all the time, and we’ll definitely find a spot for you, somewhere.”

What the program may lack in initial experience — coaching and playing — it makes up in its new digs.

Cypress Creek offers multiple practice fields adjacent to its football stadium, as well as a Fieldhouse and state-of-the-art weight room measuring nearly 2,300 square feet.

Locker rooms, moreover, features ample space to accommodate both high school and middle school teams.

“It’s very nice,” LaChance said of the facilities. “Everything looks fresh and new; the weight room looks amazing.”

“It’s phenomenal; you can’t beat it,” added Johnson. “If you’re enrolled here, I wouldn’t see why you wouldn’t want to play here. If you have any type of passion to play football, you’d want to be here and involved with that weight room and those practice facilities.”

“It’s definitely a fantastic opportunity for me and the coaching staff and the players,” he said.

Published August 9, 2017

Pasco County football schedules released

August 9, 2017 By Kevin Weiss

The 2017 Florida high school football season is just a few weeks away. Here are the 2017 football schedules for Pasco County schools in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area:

ACADEMY AT THE LAKES WILDCATS
(8-man-Florida Christian Region 2)(All kickoff times are 7 p.m., unless otherwise noted.)

Week 1: Aug. 25 — at Citi Christian Academy (4 p.m.)
Week 2: Sep. 1 — Bye Week
Week 3: Sep. 8 — Eastland Christian
Week 4: Sep. 15 — at Golden Rule Academy
Week 5: Sep. 22 — Canterbury
Week 6: Sep. 28 — Solid Rock Community
Week 7: Oct. 6 — Bye Week
Week 8: Oct. 13 — Lakeside Christian
Week 9: Oct. 20 — at Donahue Catholic
Week 10: Oct. 27 — Seacoast Christian Academy
Week 11: Nov. 3 — at Hernando Christian Academy

BISHOP MCLAUGHLIN CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL HURRICANES
(Independent-Sunshine State Athletic Conference(SSAC)
(All kickoff times are 7 p.m., unless otherwise noted.)

Week 1: Aug. 25 — Zephyrhills Christian
Week 2: Sep. 1 — at First Academy-Leesburg
Week 3: Sep. 8 — Seffner Christian
Week 4: Sep. 15 — Ocala Christian
Week 5: Sep. 22 — Bye Week
Week 6: Sep. 29 — Santa Fe Catholic
Week 7: Oct. 6 — Bayshore Christian
Week 8: Oct. 13 — at Mount Dora Christian
Week 9: Oct. 20 — at Foundation Academy
Week 10: Oct. 27 — SSAC Playoff/Crossover
Week 11: Nov. 3 — SSAC Playoff/Crossover

CYPRESS CREEK MIDDLE HIGH SCHOOL COYOTES
(Class 4A-Region 3)
(All kickoff times are 7:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted.)

Week 1: Aug. 25 — Gulf
Week 2: Sep. 1 — at Ridgewood
Week 3: Sep. 8 — at Hudson
Week 4: Sep. 15 — at Pasco
Week 5: Sep. 22 — Land O’ Lakes
Week 6: Sep. 29 — Bye Week
Week 7: Oct. 6 — at Sunlake
Week 8: Oct. 13 — Tampa Catholic
Week 9: Oct. 20 — at Springstead
Week 10: Oct. 27 — Mulberry
Week 11: Nov. 3 — at Anclote

LAND O’ LAKES HIGH SCHOOL GATORS
(Class 6A-Region 6)
(All kickoff times are 7:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted.)

Week 1: Aug. 25 — at Ridgewood
Week 2: Sep. 1 — at Anclote
Week 3: Sep. 8 — Hernando (7 p.m.)
Week 4: Sep. 15 — at Sunlake
Week 5: Sep. 22 — at Cypress Creek
Week 6: Sep. 29 — Bye Week
Week 7: Oct. 6 — at Lakeland Christian
Week 8: Oct. 13 — at Springstead
Week 9: Oct. 20 — Pasco
Week 10: Oct. 27 — Mitchell
Week 11: Nov. 3 — Fivay

PASCO HIGH SCHOOL PIRATES
(Class 6A-Region 6)
(All kickoff times are 7:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted.)

Week 1: Aug. 25 — Hudson
Week 2: Sep. 1 — at Gulf
Week 3: Sep. 8 — Wesley Chapel
Week 4: Sep. 15 — Cypress Creek
Week 5: Sep. 22 — Bye Week
Week 6: Sep. 29 — Mitchell
Week 7: Oct. 6 — at Superior Collegiate
Week 8: Oct. 13 — at Sunlake
Week 9: Oct. 20 — at Land O’ Lakes
Week 10: Oct. 27 — Springstead
Week 11: Nov. 3 — at Zephyrhills

SUNLAKE HIGH SCHOOL SEAHAWKS
(Class 6A-Region 6)
(All kickoff times are 7:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted.)

Week 1: Aug. 25 — Wesley Chapel
Week 2: Sep. 1 — Zephyrhills
Week 3: Sep. 8 — at Wiregrass Ranch
Week 4: Sep. 15 — Land O’ Lakes
Week 5: Sep. 22 — Bye Week
Week 6: Sep. 29 — at Springstead
Week 7: Oct. 6 — Wesley Chapel Cypress Creek
Week 8: Oct. 13 — Pasco
Week 9: Oct. 20 — at Mitchell
Week 10: Oct. 27 — Brooksville Central
Week 11: Nov. 3 — at River Ridge

WESLEY CHAPEL HIGH SCHOOL WILDCATS
(Class 5A-Region 8)
(All kickoff times are 7:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted.)

Week 1: Aug. 25 — at Sunlake
Week 2: Sep. 1 — Wiregrass Ranch
Week 3: Sep. 8 — at Pasco
Week 4: Sep. 15 — Fivay
Week 5: Sep. 22 — Gulf
Week 6: Sep. 29 — at Anclote
Week 7: Oct. 6 — at Ridgewood
Week 8: Oct. 13 — at Hudson
Week 9: Oct. 20 — Zephyrhills
Week 10: Oct. 27 — River Ridge
Week 11: Nov. 3 — Bye Week

WIREGRASS RANCH HIGH SCHOOL BULLS
(Class 7A-Region 8)
(All kickoff times are 7:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted.)

Week 1: Aug. 25 — Zephyrhills
Week 2: Sep. 1 — at Wesley Chapel
Week 3: Sep. 8 — Sunlake
Week 4: Sep. 15 — at Sickles
Week 5: Sep. 22 — Wharton
Week 6: Sep. 29 — Bye Week
Week 7: Oct. 6 — at Gaither
Week 8: Oct. 13 — at Freedom
Week 9: Oct. 20 — Leto
Week 10: Oct. 27 — Plant
Week 11: Nov. 3 — at Auburndale

ZEPHYRHILLS HIGH SCHOOL BULLDOGS
(Class 5A-Region 8)
(All kickoff times are 7:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted.)

Week 1: Aug. 25 — at Wiregrass Ranch
Week 2: Sep. 1 — at Sunlake
Week 3: Sep. 8 — Bye Week
Week 4: Sep. 15 — at Ridgewood
Week 5: Sep. 22 — Fivay
Week 6: Sep. 29 — at Gulf
Week 7: Oct. 6 — Anclote
Week 8: Oct. 13 — River Ridge
Week 9: Oct. 20 — at Wesley Chapel
Week 10: Oct. 27 — Hudson
Week 11: Nov. 3 — Pasco

ZEPHYRHILLS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY WARRIORS
(Class 2A-Region 2)
(All kickoff times are 7 p.m., unless otherwise noted.)

Week 1: Aug. 25 — at Bishop McLaughlin
Week 2: Sep. 1 — Seffner Christian
Week 3: Sep. 8 — at Bradenton Christian (7:30 p.m.)
Week 4: Sep. 15 — St. John Lutheran
Week 5: Sep. 22 — at Tenoroc (7:30 p.m.)
Week 6: Sep. 29 — Bye Week
Week 7: Oct. 6 — at Victory Christian
Week 8: Oct. 13 — Kissimmee Avant Garde
Week 9: Oct. 20 — Indian Rocks Christian
Week 10: Oct. 27 — Kingdom Prep
Week 11: Nov. 3 — at Admiral Farragut

Local athlete aspires to play major league soccer

August 2, 2017 By Kevin Weiss

Adam Hassan is a step closer to his goal of playing professional soccer.

Hassan is bypassing his junior year at Steinbrenner High School to enter the D.C. United U-17 Academy, a youth and development program for the Major League Soccer (MLS) club D.C. United.

Hassan, a 5-foot-9, 150-pound defender, is regarded for using both feet equally, along with his athleticism and tactical strength.
(Courtesy of Kelly and Melissa Hassan)

He will be among a rare group of about 20 players chosen to join the Academy, which scouts regionally and internationally for young talent exhibiting pro potential.

Hassan, a 5-foot-9, 150-pound defender, will have access to top-caliber coaching and advanced training methods, and play in arguably the most competitive league in North America, the United States Soccer Developmental Academy.

Via the Academy’s residency program, Hassan will board at The Calverton School in Huntingtown, Maryland, located about 25 miles outside Washington D.C.

For him and others, the developmental academy helps provide a more systematic route to play in college, and perhaps, reach the pro ranks.

In 2016, D.C. United sent 16 players to Division I soccer programs. Additionally, eight Academy players have gone on to professional homegrown contracts since its inception in 2005.

Months ago, Hassan sent out his resume and game film to multiple MLS academies.

The footage caught the eye of D.C. United staff, which invited him for a trial period. He performed well enough to earn a formal offer to join the topflight program.

Hassan will receive structured soccer training, at a higher frequency than high schoolers typically receive.

It means practice sessions twice a day, plus more instruction, more drills, more workouts and more competitive matches.

Simply, he’ll be placed in a pro-like soccer environment.

Adam Hassan was just 9 when he began playing for the Lutz-based Tampa Ranger soccer club. (Kevin Weiss)

He doesn’t plan to shy away from the added workload. He intends to elevate his game.

“I want to improve every aspect of my game,” Hassan said. “I want to try to be the best that I can be. Of course, I have to get faster, stronger and jump higher, and I have to be able to control the ball better.”

Hassan leaves for Washington D.C. on Aug. 5, temporarily saying farewell to family and friends in Lutz.

It’s a sacrifice he’s willing to make, to follow his dream through.

“This is something that I’ve always wanted to do,” said Hassan, who started playing soccer at 3 years old.

“As a soccer player, there’s always room to learn and take in new things. You always can be building your game. “His parents, understandably, are still adjusting to the realization their teenage son is leaving home, for the Mid-Atlantic.

His mother, Melissa, said they didn’t expect to be empty-nesters so soon. “But, we’re very proud of him,” she said.

“We’re supporting him pursuing his dream,” added his father, Kelly. “He made a tough decision to leave. Those opportunities are few and far between, so you’ve got to capitalize. It will better prepare him for a chance for the pros, or if not, he’ll be college-ready.”

Hassan played varsity soccer at Steinbrenner the past two seasons.

He was the only sophomore in the team’s starting lineup last season, where he played a total of 1,350 minutes — more than any 10th-grader in school history.

He also was named the team’s Most Improved Player, morphing into a standout on a regional-qualifying team that went 18-5-2.

Simultaneously, Hassan played for the Lutz-based Tampa Rangers soccer club.

It’s where he says he developed most, since joining at age 9.

“I became a better player,” Hassan said of his Rangers experience. “The curriculum that you’re learning ends up paying off, and that’s what I’ve always liked about the club.”

Sean Coniglio, one of Hassan’s first Rangers coaches, saw the defender’s potential early on.

Coniglio, who played at the University of Tampa (1989-1990), says Hassan stood out for his tenacity and ability to attack the ball.

Adam Hassan is bypassing his junior year at Steinbrenner High to enter the D.C. United U-17 Developmental Academy, a youth and development program for the Major League Soccer (MLS) club D.C. United. He’ll join a rare group of about 20 players chosen to the D.C United Academy, which scouts regionally and internationally for young talent that exhibits pro potential. (Courtesy of D.C. United)

Hassan’s work ethic impressed, too.

“He spent a lot of time on his own, outside of training, to develop his abilities and skills,” Coniglio said. “He was one of those that I knew, at home, he was working out and doing things to get better, and it made a difference as he get older.”

“Adam’s always been an ambitious player for us, and showed the effort that he always wanted to be a better player at his position a central defender,” added Rangers club director Mike Connell. “He’s been a good student of the game, and I think those are the key demands on players that want to get to the next levels, knowing that they still have to keep learning.”

Hassan, a natural lefty, today describes himself as instinctual and mentally tough, on the field.

“I can keep my head in the game,” he said. “I can stay focused, I don’t really get shaken up a lot, and I can read passes well.”

And, those qualities are critical for reaching the highest levels, explained Connell, a 10-year veteran of the Tampa Bay Rowdies.

“Soccer, like any other sport, is about how much sport intelligence you have,” Connell said. “You can’t be one-dimensional on the field, and just run and kick and fight. I think that’s really the difference when it comes to our country versus the rest of the world — they’re spending more time with the game, therefore their (soccer) intelligence is greater.”

Connell added the prospect of Hassan playing professionally is “all available to him.”

However, Connell acknowledged it’s also about capitalizing at every opportunity.

“He needs the breaks, but he has the ambition, and he has the ability,” Connell explained. “It’s just being there at the right time to do the right thing and play at the highest possible standard, because at that level you can’t not show up.”

For Hassan, heading overseas may be one way to break into the pros.

He was born in Egypt, before his immediate family settled in Lutz when he was about a year old.

Those Egyptian roots, Connell noted, “opens up another avenue” for reaching the pros.

“USA is an opportunity, but Egypt becomes a big difference-maker,” Connell said. “A lot of Americans don’t have that opportunity, because they don’t have that family connection to the homeland. This opens up a greater opportunity for the game.”

Meantime, Hassan isn’t the only Tampa Ranger headed to a soccer academy this fall.

Julio Plata, 13, was awarded a two-year scholarship to Brooke House soccer academy in Market Harborough, England.

Founded in 2008, the program boasts more than 70 players ages 13 to 19 filling four club teams that play in the Junior Premier League and other leagues, while also competing in various cups across Europe.

Plata, a midfielder, is a Lutz resident who most recently attended Liberty Middle School.

Q&A with Adam Hassan
What drew you to the game of soccer?“When I was younger, I used to watch my dad play. He would play with his adults, and I’d always go watch him play. So, at a young age I was already watching the game.”

Why do you enjoy soccer?
“In soccer, everything’s going, and it’s just exciting. You’re working together as a team, united with other people to accomplish one goal. And then when you end up accomplishing that goal, it’s a thrilling experience.”

Which professional soccer player do you model your game after?
“I’d have to say (Paris Saint-Germain Football Club defender) Thiago Silva. He’s not the biggest guy on the field, but he commands, he’s strong, and he holds downs his defense. I’ve always liked him.”

Published August 2, 2017

Hillsborough County football schedules released

August 2, 2017 By Kevin Weiss

The 2017 Florida high school football season is less than a month away. Here are the 2017 football schedules for Hillsborough County schools in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area:

Carrollwood Day School Patriots (Class 2A-Region 3)
(All kickoff times are 7 p.m., unless otherwise noted.)

Week 1 — Friday Aug. 25 — Northside Christian
• Week 2 — Friday Sep. 1 — at Foundation Academy
• Week 3 — Friday Sep. 8 — TBA
• Week 4 — Friday Sep. 15 — Seffner Christian (7:30 p.m.)
• Week 5 — Friday Sep. 22 — Bayshore Christian
• Week 6 — Friday Sep. 29 — TBA
• Week 7 — Friday Oct. 6 — at Bradenton Christian
• Week 8 — Friday Oct. 13 — TBA
• Week 9 — Friday Oct. 20 — Clearwater Calvary Christian
• Week 10 — Friday Oct. 27 — Cambridge Christian
• Week 11 — Friday Nov. 3 — at Maclay

Freedom High School Patriots (Class 7A-Region 8)
(All kickoff times are 7:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted.)

Week 1 — Friday Aug. 25 — Steinbrenner
• Week 2 — Friday Sep. 1 — at Riverview
• Week 3 — Friday Sep. 8 — Spoto
• Week 4 — Friday Sep. 15 — at Gaither
• Week 5 — Friday Sep. 22 — Sickles
• Week 6 — Friday Sep. 29 — Wharton
• Week 7 — Friday Oct. 6 — at King
• Week 8 — Friday Oct. 13 — Wiregrass Ranch
• Week 9 — Friday Oct. 20 — at Plant
• Week 10 — Friday Oct. 27 — at Leto
• Week 11 — Friday Nov. 3 — Bye Week

Gaither High School Cowboys (Class 7A-Region 8)
(All kickoff times are 7:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted.)

Week 1 — Friday Aug. 25 — Chamberlain
• Week 2 — Friday Sep. 1 — at Brandon
• Week 3 — Friday Sep. 8 — at Lennard
• Week 4 — Friday Sep. 15 — Tampa Freedom
• Week 5 — Friday Sep. 22 — at Plant
• Week 6 — Friday Sep. 29 — at Leto
• Week 7 — Friday Oct. 6 — Wiregrass Ranch
• Week 8 — Friday Oct. 13 — Sickles
• Week 9 — Friday Oct. 20 — Bye Week
• Week 10 — Friday Oct. 27 — at Wharton
• Week 11 — Friday Nov. 3 — Tampa Bay Tech

Steinbrenner High School (Class 8A-Region 6)
(All kickoff times are 7:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted.)

Week 1 — Friday Aug. 25 — at Tampa Freedom
• Week 2 — Friday Sep. 1 — Jefferson
• Week 3 — Friday Sep. 8 — Jesuit
• Week 4 — Friday Sep. 15 — at Sarasota Riverview
• Week 5 — Friday Sep. 22 — Manatee
• Week 6 — Friday Sep. 29 — Riverview (Hillsborough County)
• Week 7 — Friday Oct. 6 — at Tampa Catholic (7 p.m.)
• Week 8 — Friday Oct. 13 — Newsome
• Week 9 — Friday Oct. 20 — at Alonso
• Week 10 — Friday Oct. 27 — at Palm Harbor University
• Week 11 — Friday Nov. 3 — Bye Week

Wharton High School (Class 7A-Region 8)
(All kickoff times are 7:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted.)

Week 1 — Friday Aug. 25 — at Brandon
• Week 2 — Friday Sep. 1 — at Blake
• Week 3 — Friday Sep. 8 — Plant City
• Week 4 — Friday Sep. 15 — Leto
• Week 5 — Friday Sep. 22 — at Wiregrass Ranch
• Week 6 — Friday Sep. 29 — at Tampa Freedom
• Week 7 — Friday Oct. 6 — Plant
• Week 8 — Friday Oct. 13 — Jefferson
• Week 9 — Friday Oct. 20 — at Sickles
• Week 10 — Friday Oct. 27 — Gaither
• Week 11 — Friday Nov. 3 — Bye Week

Local athlete relishes national team experience

July 26, 2017 By Kevin Weiss

Alexis Kilfoyl has had a busy summer, as a member of the 2017 USA Softball Junior Women’s National Training Team.

The Academy at the Lakes pitching sensation is one of just 24 athletes on the prestigious roster, which features some of the nation’s top players under 19 years old.

After a weeklong training camp in mid-June, Kilfoyl and her Team USA comrades participated in a round of friendlies and exhibition games against elite travel teams from California, Florida, Massachusetts and Washington.

Alexis Kilfoyl is one of just 24 athletes on the 2017 USA Softball Junior Women’s National Training Team. She made the team in January, following a two-day selection process in Clearwater. (Courtesy of USA Softball)

They also competed in the World Cup of Softball XII in Oklahoma City earlier this month, squaring off against some of the top international teams, including Australia, Canada and Japan, among others.

Kilfoyl, who mainly served in a relief role, pitched in six games, posting a 5.04 ERA over 8.1 innings.

The toughest team faced?

“Japan really stood out,” Kilfoyl said. “They have a lot of talent.”

Altogether, the Team USA experience has been enjoyable and unique.

At 16, the right-hander is easily the youngest, and one of just three Floridians on the roster.

She made the team in January, following a two-day selection process in Clearwater.

“It’s very different,” she said. “Just knowing all the girls from all around the country and how they play and meeting them, it was really fun. Knowing (some) of the girls are already in college, the competition is legit.

“I’ve learned like how really high up on the scale the talent is,” she added.

Building relationships and making new friends has proven worthwhile, too.

Kilfoyl previously was familiar with just two other players — University of Alabama’s Elissa Brown and Kaylee Tow.

“I love meeting new people,” Kilfoyl said. “Pretty much everyone was new. Some were friends of friends, but it was my first time meeting them.”

The U.S junior national team is currently in Clearwater, competing in the 26-team WBSC (World Baseball Softball Confederation) Junior Women’s World Championship.

The summer experience also has given Kilfoyl the opportunity to receive top-level coaching, from the likes of Oregon State head coach Laura Berg, Arizona State head coach Trisha Ford, and University of Texas-Arlington head coach Kristie Fox.

“They’ve given us little tips that’ve helped, some in pitching, but definitely more in fielding,” Kilfoyl said. “It’s been more about fixing up little things.”

She added: “I was working just on having everything ready, like having all of my pitches ready when I throw them in a game. Coming up this season for softball, I’m actually going to work on my weaker points, like my rise ball.”

The U.S. squad is currently in Clearwater through July 30, competing in the 26-team WBSC (World Baseball Softball Confederation) Junior Women’s World Championship, trying to defend its 2015 title.

Kilfoyl, however, will be traveling to California, as a member of the Georgia-based East Cobb Bullets Fastpitch travel team. (The U.S. junior team roster was recently pared down to 17 players, with Kilfoyl named one of seven alternates.)

She’ll rejoin the U.S. junior national team Aug. 9 and Aug. 10 in Cincinnati, Ohio, for an exhibition game at the MLB RBI (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities) World Series. The RBI program is Major League Baseball’s youth initiative designed to provide young people from underserved and diverse communities with opportunities to play baseball and softball.

One of Tampa Bay’s elite softball prospects, Kilfoyl has always stood out on the diamond.

She’s played varsity softball since the seventh grade, and committed to Alabama her freshman year.

At 6-foot-1, she stands nearly a foot taller than most of her high school teammates.

She has the game to match, with a 68-mph fastball and signature drop-ball pitch.

Kilfoyl won 16 games as a sophomore last season, posting a 0.85 ERA and striking out 201 batters in 115.3 innings — guiding Academy at the Lakes to the Class 2A regional final.

The campaign earned her a nod to the Miracle Sports Class 2A All-State First Team.

“I worked on hitting my spots more consistently,” Kilfoyl said of her sophomore season. “Freshman year, I was kind of chaotic. I would just throw the pitch for no reason, and was a little more careless. But, this year we were playing better teams, where you have to step up your game and start throwing stuff for a purpose.”

Meanwhile, her development —along with fellow AATL teammates—excites her for the 2018 season.

Besides Kilfoyl, the Wildcats are stacked with gifted, young hitters, including freshman Brooke Blankenship (.522 average, six home runs) and Kendra Falby (.537 average, six doubles), and sophomore Jessica Mott (.522 average, nine doubles).

“People are definitely working harder,” she said. “Like all of the girls are playing in really good travel teams this summer, and traveling the country playing in the best tournaments. So, next year everyone’s going to come out a better player, and I think we have a chance to move on to states next year.”

Alexis Kilfoyl’s Academy at the Lakes varsity stats
Sophomore
Pitching: 16 wins, 0.85 ERA, 201 strikeouts in 115.2 innings
Hitting: .517 average, with five home runs, eight doubles and 36 RBIs

Freshman
Pitching: 11 wins, 1.36 ERA, 163 strikeouts in 103 innings
Hitting: .561 average, three home runs, six doubles, 20 RBIs

Eighth grade
Pitching: 12 wins, 0.72 ERA, 111 strikeouts in 87.1 innings
Hitting: .458 average, four home runs, eight doubles, 25 RBIs

Seventh grade
Pitching: 14 wins, 2.61 ERA, 118 strikeouts in 115.1 innings
Hitting: .309 average, four doubles, 12 RBIs

Alexis Kilfoyl’s other accomplishments:

First year Team USA member
2016 Junior Olympic Cup Champion,
Placed third at 2015 USA Softball 14U Nationals
Named 2015 Team MVP at Gainesville GOLD USA Softball Nationals
Competed at 2013 USA Softball 12U Nationals
Played for the East Cobb Bullets Schnute 18U and Gainesville Gold McFadyen 16U

Q-and-A
What it means to represent the United States: “It’s a dream come true. It’s the biggest honor to wear the letters ‘USA’ across your chest.”

What she enjoys most about softball: “I love working together as a team and the friendships that I have made. I love how everyone is different and works hard in their position. I love the feeling of striking people out and know that if I don’t, I have a team behind me that has my back.”

How she got started playing softball: “I first watched my older brother play baseball when I was 5 years old, so I gave softball a try and absolutely hated it. My dad asked if I would continue to play if he coached the team, and I agreed. I was 7 years old at the time.”

-Stats compiled using maxpreps.com

Published July 26, 2017

Local gridiron star makes college announcement

July 19, 2017 By Kevin Weiss

One of the area’s top football players plans to head north for his college career.

Jordan Miner, a rising senior defensive back at Wiregrass Ranch High School, has verbally committed to Penn State University, a Division I FBS (Football Bowl Subdivision) program in State College, Pennsylvania.

He made the announcement on July 6, during a broadcast on Spectrum Sports Florida television network.

“I want to win states, so (making a decision) would be extra pressure off my back,” Miner said during the broadcast.

He added that academics was one of the biggest factors in his decision.

The four-star recruit — who claims nearly 30 scholarship offers — chose the Nittany Lions over University of Maryland, University of Oregon, University of Tennessee and University of Florida, among others.

In a later statement, Miner wrote, “…I would like to thank all of the coaches that took a chance on me in this recruiting process, but after all this time and prayer, I have decided it is best for me to attend college at Penn State.”

Miner (6-foot-1, 177 pounds) is widely regarded as one of the best players in Tampa Bay and throughout the state, based on various recruiting publications.

According to 247Sports, Miner is the nation’s No. 30 cornerback and the No. 49 prospect in Florida, ranked among the top 300 prospects for the 2018 recruiting class.

Other outlets, including Rivals.com, Scout.com and ESPN.com, have likewise rated Miner among the nation’s elite.

Jordan Miner was one of the key pieces that helped guide Wiregrass Ranch to a 7-3 mark and playoff appearance last season — its first winning campaign since 2010.
He finished the 2016 season with 38 tackles, hauled in three interceptions and forced a fumble last season. Also a standout on special teams, Miner averaged over 33 yards per kick return. (File)

“Miner flashes impressive ball skills by high-pointing the ball, but also does a nice job of transforming into an offensive weapon once tucking it away,” a Scout.com evaluation report reads. “He also impresses with his ability to adjust and track the ball through the air. Miner has to continue to strengthen up his frame, but is a tough kid who is willing to come downhill with physicality. He does a good job of reading and reacting, and then closes on the ball in a hurry. Miner is not a blazer, but does a nice job of accelerating away from opponents.”

Miner, meanwhile, was one of the key pieces that helped guide Wiregrass Ranch to a 7-3 mark and playoff appearance last season — its first winning campaign since 2010.

He finished the 2016 season with 38 tackles, hauled in three interceptions and forced a fumble last season. Also a standout on special teams, Miner averaged over 33 yards per kick return.

He isn’t the only blue-chip football prospect in Wesley Chapel, however.

Isaiah Bolden, a rising senior at Wesley Chapel High School, is another highly rated, four-star cornerback prospect.

Bolden (6-foot-2, 175 pounds) verbally committed to the University of Oregon in April.
According to 247Sports, Bolden is rated as the nation’s No. 20 cornerback and the No. 37 prospect in Florida, and ranked among the nation’s top 200 prospects for the entire 2018 recruiting class.

If Miner ultimately signs with Penn State, he will join one of the nation’s most recognizable college football programs — and one that’s on the rise under fourth-year head coach James Franklin. Last season, Penn State went 11-3 and made a Rose Bowl appearance after winning the Big Ten Conference championship. (Courtesy of Penn State Athletics)

All verbal commitments are nonbinding until prospects sign national letters of intent or financial aid papers. This year, prospects can sign as early as Dec. 20, due to the new early signing period. That 72-hour window runs from Dec. 20 to Dec. 22.

If Miner ultimately signs with Penn State, he will be joining one of the nation’s most recognizable college football programs — and one that’s on the rise under fourth-year head coach James Franklin.

Last season, Penn State went 11-3 and made a Rose Bowl appearance after winning the Big Ten Conference championship.

And, Miner likely won’t be the only athlete from The Laker/Lutz News coverage area on the Penn State football roster come 2018.

Gaither High School product Amani Oruwariye is entering his redshirt junior season with the Nittany Lions, as a defensive back.

Followers of the Pasco County prep football scene may recognize the Miner name.

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

Published July 19, 2017