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Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Local Sports

Why not usher in 2024 by trying a few new activities?

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If you’re new to the area, or a lifelong resident, you’ll find plenty of choices for staying fit and having fun within our local communities.

And, with 2024 just beginning, it might be the right time to try something new.

Here’s a sampling of sports and recreation offerings that you might find appealing.

TreeHoppers is an aerial adventure park, at 27839 St. Joe Road, in Dade City, which offers rope courses and obstacles — up in the trees. (File)

Treehoppers
If you like to swing through the trees, check out TreeHoppers
TreeHoppers, at 27839 Saint Joe Road, in Dade City, offers rope nets to climb, rope bridges to scale and zip lines to glide at what has been described as Central Florida’s largest aerial adventure park. 

Bill Morissey, 84, stands in the landing field at Skydive City in Zephyrhills, watching as divers come in from a jump. Morissey, a resident of Zephyrhills, helped develop the tandem skydiving technique in 1983. The venue attracts skydivers from all over the world.

Think it would be fun to jump out of an airplane?
If you’ve often wondered what it feels like to jump out of an airplane, you can satisfy that curiosity by taking the plunge at Skydive City, at 4241 Sky Dive Lane, at the Zephyrhills Municipal Airport.

This legendary place has attracted skydiving enthusiasts from around the globe.

The center trains skydivers at all levels, from beginners to seasoned veterans, and offers all types of skydiving activity, including tandem jumps, group jumps and water landings.

How about trying your hand at curling?
The Tampa Bay Curling Club has competitive leagues at AdventHealth Center Ice, 3173 Cypress Ridge Boulevard, in Wesley Chapel. The club also offers lessons for people interested in the sport. To find out more, call Tampa Bay Curling at 813-758-2279.

Do you like to golf?
Of course, there are dozens of golf courses within the region, including Saddlebrook in Wesley Chapel, Silverado Golf Club in Zephyrhills and Heritage Harbor in Lutz, but there are some local putt-putt courses, too.

One of those putt-putt ventures is called PopStroke Tampa, at 25297 Sierra Center Blvd., in Lutz.

It offers two 18-hole putting courses designed by Tiger Woods. The synthetic grass, bunkers, rolling hills and undulated greens aim to challenge golfers of all ages.

The putt-putt golfing destination also offers a dining area, with a full menu and craft beer, wine and signature cocktails. It has an ice cream parlor, outdoor game area and a playground, too.

Max Ludey, 13, right, tries to sprint past Alexa Zummo, 13, during a Friday night game in the Pirate Bay Flag Football League, at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex. The league has games on Fridays and Sundays, with a new season for the spring beginning in February. The league is part of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Flag Football Network. It also has partnered with the Pasco County Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources Department.

Hey, how about a little flag football?
Those looking to try a new sport may want to check out the Pirate Bay Flag Football League that operates out of the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, 3032 Collier Parkway, in Land O’ Lakes. Hundreds of girls, from kindergarteners through high schoolers, are competing in the league, which began with 16 girls.

Now, five years after it was founded, Pirate Bay League has had to branch out to add a boys’ division because it has become so popular.

The league will begin its two spring seasons March 3, with a mandatory Player Combine on Feb. 18. Registration deadline is Feb. 9.

For more information or to register, visit PirateBayFlag.com.

Ever thought about fencing?
The Land O’ Lakes Fencing Academy, which meets at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, 3032 Collier Parkway, began last summer. But it’s an expansion of the Tampa Bay Fencing club that has been operating out of Northdale for about 30 years. Both clubs have dual members. The idea of expanding to the Land O’ Lakes complex was to provide space and opportunities for fencing enthusiasts to hone their skills and prepare for competitions.

For more information, visit LandOLakesFencingAcademy.com, or contact Alex Kossmann at 813-841-0984 or .

Dalton Gerbase is shown here leading Evan Hall. They are riding on the Tampa BMX Track at Lake Park in Lutz.

Check out this BMX race track
Lake Park, at 17302 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Lutz, has several activities available all year long, including the Tampa BMX track where bikers of all ages can ride.

Tennis or pickleball, anyone?
The Sarah Vande Berg (SVP) Tennis Center, at 6585 Simons Road, in Zephyrhills, features courts for tennis and pickleball, and fitness center, too. Several youth programs also are available through the center.

To find out more, visit SVBTennisCenter.com.

There is also a pair of pickleball enthusiasts, Kathay McCausey and Val Thomopalos, who call themselves PickelballFanatics. They are working to expand opportunities for people to play the sport. They offer lessons, run tournaments and coordinate impromptu meetups. To find out more, visit PickleballFanatics.biz, or email

Need some more ideas? Check with the Pasco County Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources Department, the Dade City Armory, area recreation centers, local hospitals and local YMCAs to find out what low-cost or free activities are available to help you to have fun, and stay fit.

Russ Thor, of New Tampa, slides a stone across the ice on a rink at AdventHealth Center Ice in Wesley Chapel during a practice session of the Tampa Bay Curling Club.
Ten-year-old fencing student Arianna Bobe works on her en garde, attack and parry moves during a session of the Land O’ Lakes Fencing Academy, which meets twice a week at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex. The fencing academy, which began in the summer of 2023, provides instruction for experienced and novice fencers, teaching them techniques and helping them hone their skills for competitions.
Isabella Little, of Spring Hill, watches her return shot sail over the net and into ‘The Kitchen’ during her match on the second day of a pickleball tournament at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PopStroke Tampa is a state-of-the-art putt-putt experience with courses designed by Tiger Woods. It also offers dining, cocktails, an ice cream parlor and game area.
Preparing to return a serve by his coach, former tennis pro Thomas Grinberg, Bautista Durrells (foreground), of Wesley Chapel, tries out one of the new tennis courts at the Sarah Vande Berg Tennis & Wellness Center.

Vroom, vroom at the Croom

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Surprisingly, a big dirt field is a tourist attraction.

It’s the Croom Motorcycle Area (CMA) and avid riders come from miles (and locally) to use the 2,600-acre wide-open area located within Withlacoochee State Forest in Brooksville.

Austin Lavo, a tour-guide and instructor with Wolfpack ATV Riding, takes a look at Croom Motorcycle Area — a 2,600-acre, wide-open area specifically designed for dirt bikes, ATVs and more. Located in the Withlacoochee State Forest in Brooksville, the area is open daily and provides plenty of space, and wooded trails, for off-highway vehicle enthusiasts to ride around, as well as Lavo and Wolfpack to provide ATV rentals for tours and rides. (Mike Camunas)

Open daily, rain or shine, the area even offers wooded trails to enjoy some nature. And it sees tourists, and locals, come to spend a day riding around for adventure and enjoyment.

“We get like 80% tourists,” said David Collins, owner and operator of Wolfpack ATV Riding.

Collins, for nearly five years now, has run his ATV Riding business out of CMA, giving off-highway vehicle enthusiasts a chance to free ride or even take a guided tour. Collins says some people — especially those from Tampa and Pasco County — will bring their own ATV or dirt bike or four-wheeler, but since he ends up renting to a lot of tourists, he knows coming to CMA to ride for the afternoon is a popular destination.

“We get people from all over — from Orlando, from down south,” he continued. “A lot of people come to Florida, and maybe they don’t want to go to the beach or (in the winter) maybe it’s too cold to be at the beach, but they want to be out and ride around, and even ride through the woods. This way, they can get out for the afternoon and ride. … People are on vacation, and we market to that, so they come out and it’s something a little different, but it’s a great area and track and it’s always a popular spot.”

Collins added that while people will trailer or haul out in their own ATV or four-wheelers, his rental business is not different from, say, a company that rents out boats or kayaks on the water. Meaning, it’s an easy way for people to experience the CMA, but not worrying about towing a trailer or even the maintenance that comes with owning a four-wheeler.

Austin Lavo, left, and David Collins come around on a dune at the Croom Motorcycle Area in Brooksville. The 2,600-acre, wide-open area allows dirt bikes, ATVs and more to rev up and ride through hills and mounds, as well as wooded trails in the Withlacoochee State Forest.

“There’s not many places to go and do this, at least a wide-open space with trails, some for dirt bikes or even for kids in the back,” he added. “This is a pretty popular spot, even in a state park, so it’s really the place to go.” 

There are specific areas for inexperienced riders that are 12 and under, and vehicles must be 1,500 pounds or less, as there will be a variety of off-roading vehicles in the park.

Collins says they offer guided tours, but usually people are content to just jump on a four-wheeler and zoom around the Croom.

“Everyone loves to get out there and take full advantage of the 2,600 acres,” he said. “Locals, tourists, people coming over from a nearby county — it’s a popular spot and there are hardly any times when it’s truly dead. There are busier times than others, but if you can’t find some space or aren’t happy enough with 2,600 acres, then you’re at the wrong place.”

Croom Motorcycle Area
Where: 6420 La Rose Road, Brooksville
When: Open daily, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: Day passes start at $14. Annual passes available.
Details: Off-highway vehicle enthusiasts in Central Florida will find miles of trails within the 2,600-acre Croom Motorcycle Area (CMA) at Withlacoochee State Forest. The wide-open area features hills and turns and dunes for dirt bikes, ATVs and more. Renting ATVs also is available, from companies such as Wolfpack ATV Riding, which has hourly rates in the CMA starting at $125.
For more information on the CMA, visit tinyurl.com/ycxbz2mj.
For more about WolfPack rentals, visit TampaATVRiding.com.

Published January 03, 2024

Austin Lavo, left, and David Collins come around on a dune at the Croom Motorcycle Area in Brooksville. The 2,600-acre, wide-open area allows dirt bikes, ATVs and more to rev up and ride through hills and mounds, as well as wooded trails in the Withlacoochee State Forest.
An ATV rider prepares to head out to the Croom Motorcycle Area — a 2,600-acre, wide-open area specifically designed for dirt bikes, ATVs and more, located in the Withlacoochee State Forest in Brooksville.
An ATV rider zooms through the Croom Motorcycle Area — a 2,600-acre, wide-open area specifically designed for dirt bikes, ATVs and more, located in the Withlacoochee State Forest in Brooksville.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

David Collins walks past some of his ATVs he rents through his company, Wolfpack ATV Riding, which runs out of Croom Motorcycle Area in Brooksville.
Croom Motorcycle Area is a 2,600-acre, wide open area specifically designed for dirt bikes, ATVs and more, located in the Withlacoochee State Forest in Brooksville.
What’s up is that ATV rentals, from the likes of Wolfpack ATV Riding, are available for hourly rates at Croom Motorcycle Area — a 2,600-acre, wide-open area located in the Withlacoochee State Forest in Brooksville.

Favorite Sports Stories of 2023

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Here at the Community Sports Section of The Laker/Lutz News, we enjoy telling stories of local individuals — the people who live and grow up in our coverage area — and their accomplishments when it comes to the wide world of sports. From the shuffleboard in Zephyrhills to the Little Leagues in Lutz to the PAL football in Wesley Chapel to the watersports in Land O’ Lakes to the outdoor adventures in Dade City, here are a handful of our favorite sports stories from 2023.

(Mike Camunas)

Crumbley wins game No. 800
Published on April 19, 2023

In four decades and counting, longtime baseball coach John Crumbley has accumulated a lot of accolades, including four state titles. He is the winningest Hillsborough County baseball coach by a mile. He’s in three separate Hall of Fames, and now, thanks to a win on April 12 vs. Land O’ Lakes High, Crumbley became the first Hillsborough County coach to reach 800 wins. 

“God has put a special blessing on me, my career and my family,” Crumbley told The Laker/Lutz News in April. “The results, the titles, the lifelong friendships with players and coaches — it’s been really something. … It’s been neat, and I’ve been blessed for every year and every win.”

(Mike Camunas)

Former Gaither baseball player now hitting coach for Rays
Published July 4, 2023

Brady North is one of two Gaither High grads coaching the Tampa Bay Rays. But North is quickly establishing himself as a valuable member of the team’s coaching staff, just finishing up his second season with the Rays. North rose the ranks in the Rays’ organization after joining the team in 2019, with the rookie-level team, and then the COVID-canceled 2020 season with the Charlotte Single-A team. The Rays added North to the coaching staff in late 2021, leaning on his keen hitting eye and his ability, because he’s bilingual, to talk freely with the team’s many Latino players.

“You can never get complacent with things,” North told The Laker/Lutz News in June. “You always have something to learn, no matter what environment it is. … I’m just trying to be the best assistant hitting coach I can be and learn everything I can.”

(Mike Camunas)

Local centenarians going strong
Published May 24 and July 19, 2023

Roy Caldwood, of New Tampa, and LaVerne Pace, of Lutz, aren’t about to stop their activities because of their age. Both are over 100, and they’re still going strong. Caldwood, a World War II Buffalo Soldier, can be found a few times a week at AdventHealth Wellness Center in

(Mike Camunas)

Wesley Chapel, where he works with a trainer and puts others half his age to shame. Pace is the same way, but she’s over at Jazzercise in Lutz, where she attends classes several times a week with close friends.

“I don’t feel 100 — I’ve never been 100 before, so I don’t know what it’s supposed to feel like!” Caldwood told The Laker/Lutz News in May. “But I’m going to keep working out and hopefully I’ll reach 101.”

“Oh yeah, I’m going to keep coming, probably until I drop dead here at Jazzercise (laughs). I’ve been very blessed with good health and family and friends,” Pace told The Laker/Lutz News in July. “I really never thought I’d reach 100 and I don’t know anyone else who has!”

 

(Courtesy of Aliyah Hill)

McGough wins MVP, back-to-back titles
Published June 14, 2023

Alex McGough doesn’t mind being a local celebrity and he’s been one in his hometown — the Lutz/Wesley Chapel/Tampa area. But now, he is more than a local celebrity. He’s a back-to-back USFL Champion for the Birmingham Stallions, guiding that team as quarterback. He’s also an MVP, after a monster season in which McGough led the Stallions to an 8-2 record, completing a league-high 67.4% of his passes for 2,104 yards, with 20 passing touchdowns and only five interceptions, plus he rushed for 403 yards and five scores. McGough also had 307 total yards and four touchdowns in Birmingham’s championship win, which got him a brand-new contract with the Green Bay Packers. While he didn’t make the roster, he is on the team’s practice squad.

“That’s why they call it glory days, right?” McGough told The Laker/Lutz News in May. “The goal was always to make it to the NFL and play at the highest level. I’m just trying to win games, like I always have either back home or here in Birmingham.”

(Mike Camunas)

Steinbrenner track athlete excels single handedly
Published March 8, 2023

Dani Kanas only needs one arm. She’s proved it her whole life, especially as a one-armed javelin thrower that has competed at the top levels, including abroad. The now Warriors graduate was selected as one of 30 athletes to represent Team USA in the International Wheelchair and Amputee Sports (IWAS) World Games. On that world stage in November 2022, in Portugal, Kanas brought home three medals — a gold in javelin, a silver in discus and a bronze in shot put. Now, Kanas is on the University of Alabama Para Track and Field Team.

“My goal is to show others — who may have a similar story to mine, who may be in a similar situation as me — that they shouldn’t let their disability stop them,” she told The Laker/Lutz News in February. … I want them to know that this community (of adaptive athletes) exists and they shouldn’t just assume they can’t do it because they’re not able-bodied.”

Published December 27, 2023

All-Star Football Game returns with smash-play

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It was their last time to get rowdy out on the field and the players took full advantage of it.

In a trash-talking, chippy game overwhelmed with penalties, the ninth annual FCA Pasco County All-Star Football Game saw “Best of the East vs. Best of the West” senior football players take things to the extreme, as the two teams battled it out for bragging rights.

At the end of a game that was called early due to fights, the East won 31-14 over the West.

In 2022, the game featured additional nearby counties and its players.

Founded in 2015, the game was a chance for senior football players from Pasco’s 13 public schools and two private schools with 11-man football teams to showcase their final year and have a friendly match. However, this season, the game was smash-mouth from the start, with the teams combined for 245 yards worth of penalties.

The game, organized by the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, had Wiregrass Ranch coach Mark Kantor leading the East Team, comprised of fellow schools Wesley Chapel, Cypress Creek, Pasco, Zephyrhills, Sunlake and Zephyrhills Christian. The West — with schools Gulf, Anclote, Mitchell, River Ridge, Bishop McLaughlin, Hudson, Fivay and Land O’ Lakes — was led by Gulf head coach Sean Eperjesi.

The game also honored all-star cheerleaders from their respective schools.

Since its inception, the East leads the series over the West 5-3.

Cypress Creek senior running back Malachi Askin, who was fourth in Pasco County in 2023 with 1,106 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns, darts through the defensive line during the ninth annual FCA Pasco County All-Star Football Game on Dec. 8 at Sunlake High. The annual game pits the ‘Best of the East vs. Best of the West’ of Pasco County senior football players, giving them a chance to show off their talents in one final high school game. (Mike Camunas)
Zephyrhills senior quarterback Brendyn Colella, who was fifth in Pasco County in 2023 with 2,167 passing yards and 23 passing touchdowns, scrambles for some yards during the ninth annual FCA Pasco County All-Star Football Game on Dec. 8 at Sunlake High.
Wiregrass senior lineman Travis Brown, left, and Cypress Creek senior lineman David Kirk, right, line up before a play during the ninth annual FCA Pasco County All-Star Football Game on Dec. 8.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cypress Creek senior defensive back Milton Garcia, who had 41 tackles and an astounding 10 interceptions in 2023, lines up for a play in the ninth annual FCA Pasco County All-Star Football Game.
Zephyrhills Christian senior wide receiver Jayden Ramos makes a catch and tries to avoid defenders in the ninth annual FCA Pasco County All-Star Football Game.
Land O’ Lakes senior defensive tackle Khris Cruz, who led the Gators with eight sacks in 2023, lines up for a play at the line of scrimmage during the ninth annual FCA Pasco County All-Star Football Game on Dec. 8 at Sunlake High.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2023 All-Star Football Rosters
East
2 – Milton Garcia, DB, Cypress Creek
5 – Zach Merriman, ATH, Sunlake
6 – Traivon Hill, DB, Wesley Chapel
8 – Jaylen Smith, WR, Zephyrhills
9 – Jakobe Campbell, DB, Zephyrhills
10 – Jack Niemann, QB, Cypress Creek
11 – Roman Sercu, DB, Cypress Creek
14 – Brendyn Colella, QB, Zephyrhills
18 – Cameron Canard, K, Cypress Creek
20 – Malachi Askin, RB, Cypress Creek
21 – Jeremiah Julmiste, RB, Wiregrass Ranch
23 – Emil Drake, DB, Wiregrass Ranch
24 – Rodney Smith, RB, Zephyrhills
25 – Angel Miles, DB, Pasco
27 – Alexavier Hairston, RB, Zephyrhills Christian
34 – Fred Maixner, LB, Zephyrhills
38 – Coy Martin, LB, Cypress Creek
44 – Kolin Murphy, LB, Sunlake
45 – Jaiden Barron, LB, Wiregrass Ranch
51 – Ricky Mingo, DL, Wesley Chapel
53 – Evan Miller, OL, Cypress Creek
54 – David Kirk, DL, Cypress Creek
55 – Brayden Larson, LB, Zephyrhills Christian
56 – Wesley Young, LB, Wesley Chapel
60 – Austin Slusher, OL, Cypress Creek
61 – D.J. Pope, DL, Pasco
62 – Khalial Buckenroth, DL, Wiregrass Ranch
63 – Bradley Kovac, OL, Sunlake
64 – Tyreese Grose, DL, Pasco
65 – Logan Lagrone, OL, Zephyrhills
70 – Jaeden Ortiz, OL, Wiregrass Ranch
73 – Travis Brown, OL/DL, Wiregrass Ranch
74 – Christian Velasquez, OL, Zephyrhills
77 – Connor Libby, OL, Wesley Chapel
80 – Shawn Smith, WR, Cypress Creek
82 – Theodore Sands, WR, Zephyrhills
83 – Jayden Ramos, WR, Zephyrhills Christian
84 – Noah Coats, TE/WR, Zephyrhills Christian
86 – Sidney Allen, TE, Pasco

West
2 – Michael Ruffin, DB, Gulf
3 – Chris Roman, WR, Gulf
5 – A.J. McFarlane, WR, Hudson
6 – Jeff Mason, LB, Land O’ Lakes
11 – Edwin Gonzales, DB, Gulf
12 – Riley Blevens, QB, Hudson
14 – David Acosta, QB, Fivay
15 – Kyle Horvath, QB, Land O’ Lakes
16 – Ah’Vaughn Hatchett, DB, Fivay
18 – Joe Franklin, DB, Hudson
19 – Sammy Hagen, K/P, Hudson
21 – Logan Shawell, RB, Hudson
22 – Josiah Pickens, DB, Gulf
23 – Damien Spencer, RB, Anclote
27 – Cody Gwinn, RB, Land O’ Lakes
28 – Jamarian Miller, RB, Fivay
38 – Idris Ofray, LB, Anclote
41 – Michael Ruffin, DB, Gulf
42 – Kaden Padilla, LB, Gulf
44 – Sam Walls, LB, River Ridge
45 – Tank Hadsell, LB, Hudson
50 – Devin Gilbertson, LB, Land O’ Lakes
52 – Tyler Jensen, LB, River Ridge
53 – Anthony Rollins, OL, Gulf
54 – Nico Mastrosimone, OL, Mitchell
55 – Narselles Lett, LB, Hudson
56 – Bryce Widman, DT, River Ridge
60 – Alex Rauschenberg, DT, Bishop Mclaughlin
61 – Javon Jones, OL, Mitchell
62 – Khris Cruz, DT, Land O’ Lakes
63 – Alexander Manos, OL/DL, Gulf
64 – Jaxson Allen, DT, Gulf
67 – K.J. Moses, DT, Land O’ Lakes
68 – Elias Williams, DT, Hudson
70 – Chris Forsell, OL, Hudson
72 – Cam Council, DT, Mitchell
73 – Nick Mowry, OL, Mitchell
74 – Ahman Cooper, DT, Mitchell
75 – Mauricio Anton, OL, Mitchell
77 – Jesse Newman, OL, Anclote
82 – Noa Paselio, WR, Gulf
83 – Sam Monfre, WR, Fivay

Published December 20, 2023

Flagging down the football competition

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It’s a pirate’s flag football life for them.

Hundreds of local girls — as young as kindergarteners and as old as high schoolers — are bringing their talents to the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex. The competitors are showing the area that flag football is not only a growing sport, but popular enough to expand.

Max Ludey, 13, right, tries to sprint past Alexa Zummo, 13, during a Friday night game in the Pirate Bay Flag Football League, at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex. The league has games on Fridays and Sundays, with a new season for the spring beginning in February. The league is part of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Flag Football Network. (Mike Camunas)

They are part of the Pirate Bay Flag Football League that has been operating out of Land O’ Lakes since 2018, but now is also part of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Flag Football Network. The league also has partnered with the Pasco County Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources Department.

The organization has grown so much from its humble beginnings that it now has two coinciding seasons with various age groups. It even has teams that travel nationally to compete.

“When it started, there were just 16 girls,” one of the organizers Justin Spiegel said. “Now, we have 20-plus teams on both days.”

League founder Bobby Fox set out to create a league through i9 Sports, but that organization didn’t think he’d be able to get enough players. Now, more than five years later, Pirate Bay actually had to start a boys branch of the league because it became so popular.

It was only recently that Pirate Bay — its name since nearly the beginning — joined the Bucs Network, which was able to get help with some cost offsets, such as uniforms and equipment that carry the Bucs logos.

Nine-year-old flag footballer Parisa Jenner, center, heads through a couple defenders, including Veronica Gambino, 12, right, during a Pirate Bay Flag Football game on Dec. 1, at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex.

“(Being partnered with the Bucs) gives us more visibility, too,” Spiegel said. “We were also able to go down and practice in the training facility (in West Tampa), which was great. Even on opening day, the cheerleaders came out and took pictures with everyone, so the Bucs have been so supportive and great.”

In the league, there are games played Fridays, in which registration is handled by the Pasco Parks Department, and features four age divisions, including middle and high school teams, which play 7v7 on full fields.

On Sundays, there are seven age divisions, starting at age 4 and maxing out at 17, but all those teams play 5v5.

The next season begins in February and registration is underway.

Cora Hernandez, 10, takes the snap and drops back to pass during a Dec. 1 flag football game.

The league’s popularity — with its ability to attract players from as far as Westchase and Riverview — has Spiegel, Fox and company wondering what it will take for Pasco County Schools and its Athletic Department to implement girls flag football teams at the middle and high schools, just like its Hillsborough County Schools counterparts do at schools such as Wharton and Steinbrenner high schools.

The league, with backing from the Bucs, is working on getting a program in Pasco schools, but Spiegel and the rest don’t know what’s holding that up.

But these representatives do know, and have plenty of proof, that it would be a welcome addition to the Pasco schools.

“My daughter just went into ninth grade and there’s nothing for her. We’ve really been pushing 7v7 at the middle and high levels, we just don’t know why it doesn’t keep happening,” Spiegel said. “The rumor is it’s a financial thing, but the Bucs said they would kick in the backing to fund it, so we just don’t know why from the other side.

Faith Dizon takes a stance at the line of scrimmage and prepares to run a play during practice before a flag football game at Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex.

“But, I can tell you, the girls want that. I know my daughter does, because I’m sure every high school in Pasco would be able to or even want to be able to field a varsity girls flag football team. I guess we always think, if Hillsborough (County) can, why can’t Pasco (County)?”

Pirate Bay Flag Football
Where: Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, 3032 Collier Parkway
Cost: $139 per player
Details: The league will begin its two spring seasons March 3, with a mandatory Player Combine on Feb. 18. Registration deadline is Feb. 9. There is a Friday night league that plays games from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., and a Sunday morning/afternoon league that plays games from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. All players registered will be drafted. The league, on Sundays, has seven different age divisions, while on Fridays, it has four different age divisions. Note: the Friday night league is through the Pasco County Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resource Department and that registration information can be found on Pirate Bay’s web site.
For more information or to register, visit PirateBayFlag.com.

Published December 13, 2023

Alinah Remmer, 7, gears up at the line of scrimmage to run a practice play as part of the Pirate Bay Flag Football League.
Scarlett Gonzalez, 9, drops back to pass to one of her teammates.
Coach Erin Campbell, right, gives out the play to his team during a Pirate Bay Flag Football League game.

No place like home

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Shannon Aitken shrugs off her accolades.

While her awards and accomplishments decorate her office at Steinbrenner High, that’s still a lot of shrugging by the Warriors girls soccer coach.

“A lot of people even say, you should (talk about your soccer accomplishments) more, but I don’t know — I don’t like the attention,” Aitken said. “I played because I loved playing. … All the stuff up in my office, it was just sitting in a box in the garage, so after like three years of white walls, I figured I put it up (laughs).”

It’s only then that her players realize just how big a deal Aitken was, and still is, to the local soccer scene.

Arguably one of the most decorated student athletes ever at Land O’ Lakes High, Shannon Aitken is now in her ninth season as Steinbrenner High’s girls soccer coach. While playing for the Gators, she was integral to the Gators girls soccer team as the goalkeeper and winning the Class 2A state championship in 2003. After setting the Pasco County record for saves (551) and shutouts (70), Aitken went on to play for the University of Tampa and become the Spartans most decorated goalkeeper in program history, being named National Player of the Year as keeper for the Division II National Championship Team in 2007. (Mike Camunas)

She’s a state champion. A national champion and player of the year. A record holder and a hall of famer.

“All of her awards she put up, so when you walk into her office, you’re like, ‘Oh, OK!’” junior forward Aaliyah Pitts said.

“I personally didn’t know until I saw the national championship banner and there’s her face!” added senior defender Maddie Green. “She’s been a great coach, especially for me because she used to be a goalkeeper. She’s been able to help me with my position and help me grow into a leader on the team.

“I wouldn’t be in the place that I am if it wasn’t for her.”

The same goes for Aitken.

All on her own
When Aitken was just 15 years old, she moved out due to family issues, knowing it would be best for her future.

She bounced around friends’ homes until a teacher finally let her move in until she graduated from Land O’ Lakes High in 2004, as arguably one of the most decorated Gator athletes ever. Aitken was a three-sport athlete, but it was soccer that brought her fame and glory. 

A four-year starting goalkeeper, she was integral for the Gators winning the Class 2A state championship in 2003 — a team inducted into the Land O’ Lakes Hall of Fame in 2016. She won every award, including Sunshine Athletic Conference Player of the Year and was named to the Class 5A All-State team as a senior. She had the Pasco County record for saves (551) and shutouts (70) during her high school career.

She would then move on to the University of Tampa (UT) and become the Spartans most decorated goalkeeper in program history. In 2007, she was named National Player of the Year as keeper for the Division II National Championship Team. After 59 wins and 197 saves in college, she was inducted into UT’s and the Sunshine State Conference Hall of Fame in 2014 and 2018, respectively. In October, Aitken was inducted into Land O’ Lakes’ Hall of Fame, as well.

At Steinbrenner, Aitken is 106-34-8 in the midst of her ninth season with the Warriors, but it was a long road getting there, starting out by being a substitute at Pine View Middle in Land O’ Lakes — also Aitken’s alma mater.

“After the (Land O’ Lakes) Hall of Fame (ceremony), someone asked me, ‘Why are you still a high school coach?’” Aitken said. “I was just thinking about it and I want to help girls with whatever they need help with. I want to help the girls on my team, helping them the way I needed help when I was in high school. 

“I love high school soccer,” she added. “There’s something about putting together 20 girls and getting them to bond and figuring out which puzzle pieces can play with each other the best.”

As Steinbrenner’s coach, she’s respected and not because of all her accolades.

“She’s always going to be there for us,” Pitts said. “Even if we have a bad game, she’s not going to put us down in any way and having a supportive coach is a big thing. She’s the best.”

And being the best, she learned from the best.

Living legends
Aitken is a Hall of Famer who played for a Hall of Famer.

Land O’ Lakes’ longtime coach Vicky King also is in the school’s hall of fame, being Aitken’s high school coach and now friendly rival in nearby schools. And while scheduling a yearly game between Steinbrenner and Land O’ Lakes is difficult because of the conflicting county athletic rules, the coaches try to get in a preseason match, if possible.

“When we do play each other,” King, in her 37th season, said, “I like to introduce Shannon to our current team because the girls don’t know a lot of history, but we enjoy it — it’s always a friendly match.

“I wouldn’t say surprised (Aitken became a coach), it’s not something that I saw coming,” King added. “Sometimes players don’t want anything to do coaching, but she implements things she learned a long time ago, like giving back to the team or community.

“She has put that into her coaching philosophy and that makes you proud.”

Aitken admits she never saw herself as a coach, certainly not when she was playing. In fact, she was in nursing school while tending goal on her way to a national championship. However, the day of the title game, she opted to miss her sixth clinical, knowing she would either have to restart nursing school or pick a different career path.

Aitken has no regrets about her decision.

“Playing, and winning, a national championship is great — it’s awesome and the best thing you ever want to win, no matter the division,” she said. “I wouldn’t trade UT for anything else in the world.”

Adding to the accolades
If there’s one accolade Aitken won’t be shrugging off, it’s another state title, this time as coach.

While Steinbrenner girls soccer already has a state championship — Class 4A in 2011 — Aitken wants another banner for the Warriors, however, this time it would be in 8A, the highest classification in the FHSAA (Florida High School Athletic Association).

It’s why she’s turned down collegiate assistant coach jobs. Aitken’s time at Steinbrenner is not done, nor is her job. 

Not until she gets one more accolade.

“You walk around the halls at school and no one knows you because you play club (soccer) — they know you because you’re always on the news or the morning announcements,” Aitken said. “I love being at Steinbrenner and working with the girls, being able to check in on them. That’s what I want, but sometimes you want the next step, too.

“I think about going somewhere else, but it’s hard to leave. I’ve spent nine years here building this program, and sure, Vicky has me beat by a ton, but I’m trying to catch up to her. I want to catch up to her — our state championship!”

Published December 06, 2023

Local club is all fenced in

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Alex Kossmann took a stab at starting a fencing club — with just a little poke.

Land O’ Lakes 10-year-old fencing student Arianna Bobe works on her en garde, attack and parry moves during a session of the Land O’ Lakes Fencing Academy, which meets twice a week at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Center. The fencing academy, which began in the Summer of 2023, provides instruction for experienced and novice fencers, teaching them techniques and helping them hone their skills for competitions. (Mike Camunas)

“I just thought it was time to try something new — to, as a club, I needed to branch out and do my own thing,” the Land O’ Lakes resident said. “I just felt it was time to start (a fencing club) here (in Land O’ Lakes).”

Kossmann started the Land O’ Lakes Fencing Academy, in early summer with his goal to expand off the club, Tampa Bay Fencing (TBF), which has been operating out of Northdale for about 30 years. While both clubs have dual members — with Kossmann’s expanding steadily — the new club is providing space and opportunities for local fencing enthusiasts, both new and experienced, to hone their skills, compete against others and prepare for competitions.

“The TBF has been there 30 years,” Kossmann said. “As much as I have helped them and coached there with them, I just wanted to start a new club out here.

“We’re here (at Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex) and we’re practicing and teaching,” he added. “It depends on the day, in which when we start warming up, if they’re doing well, there won’t really be a lesson, but if they’re not, then maybe a quick lesson. They may ask me for some lessons, but usually I’ll bout them myself and we’ll work on techniques.

Isabelle Bobe, left, and Land O’ Lakes Fencing Academy founder and instructor Alex Kossmann parry with each other during a session at Land O’ Lakes Recreation Center on Nov. 11.

“It’s all about having a place and club and meetup for fencers, and one in this area.”

Kossmann, who fenced at the University of South Florida, has been fencing most of his adult life. He grew up watching his father, Raymond, fence and who also instructs at the academy.

“I kind of — kind of — taught him everything. Well, not everything, but most of it (laughs),” Raymond said. “I don’t think I can teach him anymore, but it’s great to watch him here and with Tampa Bay Fencers in Northdale.

“It’s incredible to see him start a club here (in Land O’ Lakes).”

Raymond appreciates the academy focuses on actual techniques and forms, especially since some new, younger members have just taken up the sport and are there to prepare for competitions locally and out of state.

“A lot of people think it’s just swatting around, but there’s plenty of technique, plenty of strategy,” Raymond said. “If you ever watch Olympic fencing, it’s kind of hard to keep up with it because they are so good. But like I was saying, I think that most people don’t realize how much goes into it.

Land O’ Lakes Fencing Academy meets twice weekly at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Center, 3032 Collier Parkway.

“Not just practicing, but again, not just swatting at people or opponents. There’s a dance to it and it’s fun to watch, even if you don’t know the moves.”

The new academy has about a dozen members so far and meets twice a week, with Alex hoping to get in more meetups and sessions weekly. Raymond, who has been fencing for about 20 years, understands that it’s a hard sport to get into, not just because of its difficulty, but also the cost.

Like many other high-end sports — equestrian, rowing and even golf — expenses add up, including swords — foils, épées and sabres, all of which are electronic to connect with the scoring machine — and the gear, from coats to masks.

“It is expensive, but a lot of sports are,” Raymond added. “If you’re passionate, though, you find a way, and you’d be surprised how many people end up loving fencing.”

With the Land O’ Lakes Fencing Academy, there’s even a youth movement. Local youngsters are taking up “the blade,” donning a mask and finding themselves readying to compete in swashbuckling fashion.

Just ask this pair of siblings.

Land O’ Lakes Fencing Academy instructor Raymond Kossmann takes a poke during a lesson.

“I have a cousin who fences,” 10-year-old Land O’ Lakes resident Arianna Bobe said. “That’s why we started doing it, but we really like it now. It’s fun to be able to fence against our cousin and others, too.”

Her sister, Isabelle, 13, agrees.

“It’s fun — we really do like fencing,” she added. “What other sport is there where you get to poke someone?!”

Land O’ Lakes Fencing Academy
When: Tuesdays and Saturdays
Where: Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, 3032 Collier Parkway
Cost: $20 per session; $5 for college students
Details: The sessions are run by Alex Kossmann, a two-time Central Florida Division Champion, and Raymond Kossmann, runner-up for veterans (40+) Central Florida Divisional Championship. Experienced and budding fencers are able to attend the sessions to learn the sport and hone their skills.
Info: Visit LandOLakesFencingAcademy.com, or contact Alex Kossmann at 813-841-0984 or .

Published November 29, 2023

2023 Sunshine Athletic Conference Fall Awards

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The Sunshine Athletic Conference, which is made up of the 14 public high school athletic programs in Pasco County, announced its 2023 Fall All-Conference Teams and Players, voted on by the sports’ respective coaches. The awards are split into East and West divisions of the county. Here are the East Division first teams and the players and coaches of the year.

Wiregrass Ranch senior quarterback Luke Knight was one of Pasco County’s top offensive players, throwing for 3,872 yards, 43 touchdowns and just seven interceptions, while leading the Bulls to a 9-3 record and regional semifinals berth. (Mike Camunas)

Football

Team Champion: Zephyrhills

Offensive Player of the Year: Luke Knight, Wiregrass Ranch

Defensive Player of the Year: Milton Garcia, Cypress Creek

Coach of the Year: Nick Carroll, Zephyrhills

Offense

QB – Luke Knight, Wiregrass Ranch

RB – Malachi Askin, Cypress Creek

RB – Cody Gwinn, Land O’ Lakes

WR – Isaiah Riggins, Wiregrass Ranch

WR – D.J. Pickett, Zephyrhills

TE – Zach Merriman, Sunlake

OL – Jaeden Ortiz, Wiregrass Ranch

OL – Austin Slusher, Cypress Creek

OL – Christian Starkey, Wiregrass Ranch

OL – Juan Torres, Pasco

OL – Logan Lagrone, Zephyrhills

K – Cameron Canard, Cypress Creek

P – Trevor Harden, Land O’ Lakes

UTL – Tristan Lennon, Zephyrhills

Defense

DL – David Kirk, Cypress Creek

DL – D.J. Pope, Pasco

DL – Khalial Buckenroth, Wiregrass Ranch

DL – Khris Cruz, Land O’ Lakes

LB – Ola Omoloye, Wiregrass Ranch

LB – Coy Martin, Cypress Creek

LB – Lukas Colella, Zephyrhills

LB – Leroy Vickers, Pasco

DB – D.J. Pickett, Zephyrhills

DB – Milton Garcia, Cypress Creek

DB – Roman Sercu, Cypress Creek

Volleyball

Team Champion: Sunlake

Player of the Year: Brooke Ashkenase, Wesley Chapel

Coach of the Year: Elyse Garcia-Zapata, Sunlake

First Team

Brooke Ashkenase, Wesley Chapel

Annabella Grace Korta, Wesley Chapel

Izabella Horruitiner, Land O’ Lakes

Amelia Snider, Sunlake

Sofia Sierra, Sunlake

Emily Teets, Wesley Chapel

Zayda Thomas, Sunlake

Prior to a 10th place finish at the Class 2A state tournament, the Wesley Chapel Boys Golf Team also took home the SAC title. (Courtesy of Josh Raskopf)

Boys Golf

Team Champion: Wesley Chapel

Golfer of the Year: Connor Newbold, Cypress Creek

Coach of the Year: Josh Raskopf, Wesley Chapel

First team

Connor Newbold, Cypress Creek
Colin Mead, Wiregrass Ranch

Tien Do, Wesley Chapel

Carter Boynton, Wesley Chapel

Max Haines, Sunlake

Girls Golf

Team Champion: Sunlake

Golfer of the Year: Alyssa Mixon, Sunlake

Coach of the Year: Austi Dial, Sunlake

First team

Alyssa Mixon, Sunlake

Hailey Stricker, Sunlake

Skylar Lee, Cypress Creek

Darien Jeffrey, Pasco

Brooklyn Beckstead, Wiregrass Ranch

Zephyrhills distance runner Will Poe nabbed Boys Cross-Country Runner of the Year for the second consecutive season. (Mike Camunas)

Boys Cross-Country 

Team Champion: Sunlake

Runner of the Year: Will Poe, Zephyrhills

Coach of the Year: Randal Reeves, Sunlake

First team

Will Poe, Zephyrhills

Skylar Manatt, Cypress Creek

Dylan Powell, Cypress Creek

Sunlake High junior cross-country runner Cade Culpepper and senior runner Abigail Williams both named First Team honors in this season’s SAC awards. (Mike Camunas)

Christian Hindman, Sunlake

Cade Culpepper, Sunlake

Aaron Barnes, Cypress Creek

Joshua Hindman, Sunlake

Girls Cross-Country 

Team Champion: Sunlake

Runner of the Year: Ava Schmitt, Wiregrass Ranch

Coach of the Year: Randal Reeves, Sunlake

First team

Ava Schmitt, Wiregrass Ranch

Abigail Williams, Sunlake

Katelin Wilcox, Sunlake

Natalia Gaona-Zelaya, Wiregrass Ranch

Lydia Vincent, Zephyrhills

Thalia Kushman, Land O’ Lakes

Kaitlyn Zabrocki, Sunlake

Boys Swimming

Team Champion: Sunlake

Swimmer of the Year: Cayden DeTillo, Sunlake

Diver of the Year: Blake Zevin, Sunlake

Coach of the Year: Guerby Ruuske, Sunlake

First team

200 Medley Relay – Cayden Detillo, Brayden Morsey, George Patrocinio, Connor Canfield, Sunlake

200 Freestyle – Cayden DeTillo, Sunlake

200 Individual Medley – Juan Benitez, Sunlake

50 Freestyle – Huy Duong, Sunlake

100 Freestyle – Connor Canfield, Sunlake

100 Butterfly – Juan Benitez, Sunlake

500 Freestyle – Jackson Porter, Wiregrass Ranch

200 Freestyle Relay – Owen Kerrigan, Braden Morsey, George Patrocinio, Connor Canfield, Sunlake

100 Backstroke – Cayden DeTillo, Sunlake

100 Breaststroke – George Patrocinio, Sunlake

400 Freestyle Relay – Huy Duong, Cayden DeTillo, Connor Canfield, Juan Benitez, Sunlake

Girls Swimming

Team Champion: Land O’ Lakes

Swimmer of the Year: Regan Bright, Sunlake

Diver of the Year: Emily Coss, Land O’ Lakes

Coach of the Year: Jill Hebert, Land O’ Lakes

First team

200 Medley Relay – Regan Bright, Reagan Faiella, Ava Edwards, Jena Ruste, Sunlake

200 Freestyle – Ava Edwards, Sunlake

200 Individual Medley – Regan Bright, Sunlake

50 Freestyle – Jordyn Rolle, Wesley Chapel

100 Butterfly – Regan Bright, Sunlake

100 Freestyle – Callie Trussler, Sunlake 

500 Freestyle – Sadie Minich, Wesley Chapel

200 Freestyle Relay – Abigail Hahm, Katie Purcell, Emily Coss, Emelia D’Allesio, Land O’ Lakes

100 Backstroke – Kylie Naramore, Cypress Creek

100 Breaststroke – Sadie Minich, Wesley Chapel

400 Freestyle Relay – Regan Bright, Ava Edwards, Callie Trussler, Jena Ruste, Sunlake

Published November 22, 2023

Wildcats get a taste of states, seek more next season

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The Wesley Chapel Boys Golf Team visualized its shot — as golfers do — and took full swing at it. In the end, the team’s shot at the state tournament landed perfectly.

The Wildcats knew what it would take to get to the two-day Class 2A State Tournament that started Nov. 7 in Howey-in-the-Hills. And, they took full advantage of a young, talented roster and secured a spot through tough play and arguably the best season in program history.

From left: Members of the Wesley Chapel Boys Golf Team sophomore Jacob Doonan, sophomore Carter Boynton, sophomore Tien Do, senior Michael Hale and sophomore Camden Battey pose for a team photo following their two-day appearance at the Class 2A State Tournament, at Mission Inn Resort & Club in Howey-in-the-Hills, where the Wildcats finished tied 10th with an overall score of 663. It was the program’s first state tournament since 2011 after the team won the Sunshine Athletic Conference Championship, the Class 2A-District 9 and an at-large regional tournament bid. (Courtesy of Josh Raskopf)

They finished 11-1, including a Sunshine Athletic Conference Championship and a Class 2A-District 9 title, and capped off the season with a 10th place finish at states, with sophomore Carter Boynton finishing 10th overall individually thanks to a 151 (7 over par).

“The season was tough, but down the stretch at conference, at districts and regionals, we started having fun, as a team, as players,” said Boynton, who shot a 76 and 75, respectively, at the state tournament. “Once we got to states, and since it was our goal all season, we didn’t really have any expectations (on how’d we finish). We just wanted to get there and we did, and we had fun.

“The whole year,” he added, “we talked about making it to states and we finally did after working for it all season — it felt great. As a team, we’re friends and look to have fun on the course, which is why I think we’re so successful.”

Coming into the season, the Wildcats had lofty expectations and goals, which, of course, included making the program’s first state tournament appearance since 2011. Thanks to adding Boynton, a Minnesota transfer, and fellow sophomore Tien Do, a transfer from New York, it was mission accomplished.

“Sure, they work a lot and have swing coaches, but they play as a group of friends on a weekly basis,” coach Josh Raskopf said. “They just love golf and they’re just going to get better, and by next season, I expect they will be even better.”

Despite some great results, the players do expect to top their 2023 state tournament scores. 

Do finished 31st with a two-day 159 total, while fellow sophomores Jacob Doonan (172) and Camden Battey (187) finished 71st and 93rd, respectively. The team’s lone senior, Michael Hale, who narrowly missed a trip to states in 2022, finished 86th with a 181.

But, as golfers do, they want their scores to be better.

Wesley Chapel sophomore Carter Boynton follows through on a shot during the Class 2A State Tournament, at Mission Inn Resort & Club in Howey-in-the-Hills, where he shot a two-day 151 (7-over par) and a tie for 10th place.

“I take away (from our state tournament appearance) on how it went, how our team did and how our team is going to come back and try to take hardware,” Boynton said. “It’s the state tournament, so you’re a little nervous at first, but you try to stay focused and play your game.

“But (next year’s) goal is already there. We’re going back by just playing golf with friends.”

These golf buddies came together before the season and bonded, allowing them to put together a near-perfect season. Despite the Wildcats one loss — falling to nearby district rival Cypress Creek by two strokes — it missed coming in second at the regional tournament after a four-hole playoff. The team made the state tournament as an at-large bid due to its successful season.

“We had to stay focused all season because if we missed our shot at states with one of (the two) regional (winner spots), we knew our most clear path would be to win districts and have a great regular season,” Raskopf said. “We made sure we went out there every match and kept that hyperfocus through the whole season. It can be draining, but we knew that we were always going to put up competitive numbers.”

Raskopf already has big ambitions for next season. With four of the team’s top five golfers just sophomores, and now with state tournament experience, he expects those golfers just to get better.

And to continue to take their shots at the state tournament.

“Absolutely, the expectation next year is, realistically, in the top three or five,” Raskopf said. “The new expectation is making (states) for the next two years with this group of boys. (Making states) was always the question if we were really going to do it, but it’s not a question anymore. We know we have the talent and drive to get to the next level and break through.

“By their senior years, they’ll want to be holding the top spot that year, but, honestly, they want it next year.”

Additional State Qualifiers, Results

Class 3A
Boys
Jack Vanderschuur, Steinbrenner – 74, 77 – 151 (T-19th)

Girls
Alyssa Mixon, Sunlake – 72, 73 – 145 (T-4th)
Dannika Hines, Steinbrenner – 68, 77 – 145 (T-4th)

Class 2A
Girls
Fasauni Marshall, Freedom – 97, 96 – 193 (83rd)

Class 1A*
Boys
Conor Whalen, Bishop McLaughlin

*(Class 1A state tournament results not available at time of publication).

Published November 15, 2023

Running till they’re dead tired

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Cindy Bray is scared of zombies.

Little zombie Matthew Fisher, 4, cheers on other participants at the inaugural Run For Hope … And Your Life! Zombie 5K and 1K Fun Run on Oct. 28 at the Tampa Premium Outlets in Lutz. Runners took to the course in the shopping center’s parking lot and ran to avoid zombies — local teens that volunteered their time to make for a frightful trek that raised money to go to HOPE Services scholarship funds. (Mike Camunas)

So, while the founder and executive director of HOPE Services — a vocational service provider for those with disabilities — decided to hold a 5K where zombies jump out and even chase the runners, Bray wanted no part of the undead.

“When we created this event, we knew it would be fun, but Cindy gets scared — I’m scared of zombies,” Bray said with a laugh. “All our zombies were volunteers — all teenagers, but high school kids aren’t that scary.”

The frights, and delights, were abundant when HOPE Services held its Run For Hope … And Your Life! Zombie 5K and 1K Fun Run on Oct. 28 at the Tampa Premium Outlets in Lutz. It was the inaugural fundraising event for the provider that has been helping teens and adults living with disabilities and special needs secure and maintain meaningful, competitive and integrated employment since April 2003.

The funds raised from the nearly 100 participants went into the nonprofit’s scholarship fund.

Wesley Chapel High teenage zombie Amya Cooper chases after Tammy Spires in the parking lot of the Tampa Premium Outlets during the Run For Hope … And Your Life! Zombie 5K and 1K Fun Run.

In February, HOPE Services opened a state-of-the-art Life Skills & Vocational Training Center in Land O’ Lakes, and Bray says fundraisers like the 5K — and the  yearly Dance Your Dream “prom” event — support their efforts to help those needing assistance in learning life skills.

“We don’t want anyone to walk in the doors at HOPE and not be able to afford it,” Bray said. “This run and our dance help us achieve the funds to help anyone who walks in the door and get them meaningful employment.”

In the early morning of the run, participants came out and ran through the parking lot of the shopping center. About a dozen zombified teens from Land O’ Lakes and Wesley Chapel high schools were scattered along the route and did their best “Walking Dead” impersonations as runners passed by. A few younger kids, who ran the race, were also zombified, and top overall finisher, Carol Geddes, completed the race in 20:09.

Zombie Gloria Xiao, a Land O’ Lakes High volunteer, hides behind the bushes, patiently waiting for runners in the Run For Hope … And Your Life! Zombie 5K and 1K Fun Run to bring their delicious brains to her.

Bray said in the few days leading up to the event that they got more than 50 sign-ups, as well as morning walk-ups. However, she was surprised at the zombie turnout.

“We got way more volunteers — zombies than I thought we would,” she added. “But we are thankful for that because they looked great as zombies and that they came out and volunteered their time as zombies. I’m just glad they’re not real zombies (laughs).”

HOPE Services Life Skills & Vocational Training Center
Where: 5426 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes
Details: A training center providing teens and adults living with disabilities and special needs on-site training in culinary arts/food safety, construction, customer service/retail, hospitality, computers/technology and GED education. With these skills and certifications, individuals will be able to earn higher wages, find sustainable careers and set a solid foundation for self-sufficiency.
For more information about HOPE Services, visit HOPEGetsJobs.com.

Published November 08, 2023

Nearly 100 runners participated in the inaugural Run For Hope … And Your Life! Zombie 5K and 1K Fun Run on Oct. 28 at the Tampa Premium Outlets in Lutz. The event benefited HOPE Services.
Every participant in the Run For Hope … And Your Life! Zombie 5K and 1K Fun Run on Oct. 28 at the Tampa Premium Outlets in Lutz received a medal for not being devoured by teenage zombies.
Land O’ Lakes High teen Carolyn Delphin shuffles along the course of the Run For Hope … And Your Life! Zombie 5K and 1K Fun Run on Oct. 28 at the Tampa Premium Outlets in Lutz.