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Wesley Chapel/New Tampa Sports

Record 3-point shooter adds new challenges

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Justin Dargahi, a record-holding three-point shooter, has added a few new challenges for 2016 and beyond.

First: Turn around the struggling Gaither High girls varsity basketball program.

Next: Set the world record for most three pointers made by a pair, in one minute.

Dargahi — the Guinness World Record for the most 3s made from NBA range (23 feet, 9 inches) in one minute (26) — first hopes to bring some cache to the Gaither High’s girls basketball program.

It won’t be easy for the former Land O’ Lakes High girls head JV (junior varsity) coach.

The Cowboys—which went a combined 5-38 the last two seasons—have had six straight losing seasons.

Yet, that doesn’t deter Dargahi, who will be the program’s fourth head coach in six years, once tryouts begin Oct. 24.

“I’m definitely looking forward to the challenge,” he said. “I love proving people wrong.”

He relishes it.

“You have room to improve. If you take over a great team, what are you trying to accomplish?” he said.

“Hopefully, we can increase our win total a lot just this coming year alone.”

It will be tough, he acknowledged, considering Gaither High plays in a highly competitive eight-team district (Class 8A, District 8).

It’s one stacked with perennial prep powerhouses in Wiregrass Ranch, Plant, Freedom and Steinbrenner high schools.

“It’s hard to win and advance anywhere when you have four or five great teams out of eight,” said Dargahi. “Luckily, we have a good three weeks of practice before the first game (Nov. 15).

His blueprint starts with building around junior Janae Lyle, the team’s top returning player (7.6 points per game, 4.9 rebounds per game, 1.9 steals per game).

“It is a lot of specifying toward your players’ talents,” said Dargahi, a former basketball player at Cambridge Christian School. “I refuse to go into the first game not having specified positions.”

It also includes implementing a pressure man-to-man defense to help close out one-possession games.

“I love pressing,” he said. “I love getting steals, turnovers. That’s how you score points,” he said.

“I think the best (coaching) aspect is game management,” he added.

When not on the sidelines, meanwhile, Dargahi will be spending ample time at the three-point line. The new Gaither coach is teaming up with Teddy Dupay — a former Florida Gators basketball standout (1998-2001) and current boys basketball coach at Cambridge Christian School — to break the Guinness World Record for most three-pointers made by a pair in one minute.

The current record is 19, set by Harlem Globetrotters’ Cheese Chisholm and Ant Atkinson. The previous record (15) was set by NBA all-stars Kevin Durant (Golden State Warriors) and Dirk Nowitzki (Dallas Mavericks).

Though Dargahi hasn’t set an official attempt date, he figures it will “definitely be before Thanksgiving (Nov. 24).”

Dargahi, who claims he makes anywhere from 75 percent to 80 percent of attempted 3-pointers, said the feat largely boils down to each participant making 10 shots. It’s possible, he said, considering both his and Dupay’s shooting prowess. (Dupay ranks 10th all-time in Florida Gators history for career 3-point field goals made with 188.)

“We’re both very confident with our shooting,” Dargahi said. “The good thing about this record — both shooters have to be awesome. You can’t have one guy carry it.”

But the difficulty, he said, lies in get enough shots up in 60 seconds.

“I don’t even know how many shots we can get up, to be honest. I’m guessing 25 to 30, at the most,” said Dargahi.

The strategy, he added, will include court positioning — the wings or the top-of-the-key — and conserving energy across multiple attempts.

“I think we’ll at least try it for an hour, or an hour-and-a half,” Dargahi said.

Perhaps one aspect working in the duo’s favor: home court advantage.

“I’ve shot more balls at Cambridge than any other gym,” he said. “There’s a little bit of a comfort zone.”

Additionally, Dargahi has been approved by Guinness to attempt world records for most individual free throws in one minute (51) and most individual three-pointers in two minutes (44).

“The free throw one is tough,” Dargahi said. “I just tried it once just to see, and I didn’t even get up 51 shots. I definitely have to speed it up to shoot. If I could get up just 55 (shots), I like my chances.”

Published Oct. 19, 2016

 

 

 

 

 

Wesley Chapel’s first-year coach finds early football success

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If the first four games are any indication, the Wesley Chapel High School Wildcats are on pace to have their first winning season since 2011.

Beyond that, the Wildcats (4-0)—the lone undefeated team in Pasco County— have the makings of a team capable of finding triumphs not seen since the early ‘00s, when the team was coached by John Castelamare.

First-year head coach Anthony Egan, far left, teaches the finer points of an offensive play during a Wildcats practice. (Courtesy of Wesley Chapel High football)
First-year head coach Anthony Egan, far left, teaches the finer points of an offensive play during a Wildcats practice.
(Courtesy of Wesley Chapel High football)

The Wildcats went a combined 35-8 from 2001 to 2004, and brought home three district championships.

In recent years, Wesley Chapel has been a bottom-feeder in Pasco County. Since their 6-4 season five years ago, the Wildcats went a combined 7-33 from 2012-2015.

But, under first-year coach Anthony Egan, the Wildcats’ recent struggles appear to be a distant memory.

Egan, a former offensive/defensive line coach at River Ridge High School in New Port Richey, has guided the team to instant success—including a 50-0 thrashing of Gulf High School on Sept. 23.

While many might be surprised by the Wildcats’ blazing start, don’t count Egan as one of them.

“Once I got here and we started to put in the work, I knew we had a good group of guys,” the Wildcats coach said. “We were working our butts off in the weight room, and everything that we’ve asked them to do, they’ve been very good at making sure they get it done.

“I knew they would be a lot better football team than they were last year, and the year before.”

The team’s individual talent is better, too, starting with junior running back Dexter Leverett, who sat out last season after transferring from Eastside High School in Taylors, South Carolina.

The 5-foot-9, 163-pound playmaker ranks 11th in the state in rushing yards (684), averaging 8.6 yards per carry.

“He’s got it all,” Egan said. “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.”

Complementing Leverett is junior tailback Malik Melvin (202 yards, four touchdowns) and senior fullback Ellrie Allen (53 yards, two TDs).

“We like all our running backs,” Egan said. “Dexter’s just a guy in the spring that really stood out to us.

“We just have a multi-facet approach back there, and we’ve got three guys that can really tote it pretty well for us right now.”

Seeing the depth in the backfield allowed Egan to seamlessly transition from a spread offense to a power-run game over the course of the team’s offseason.

The move has paid off, with the Wildcats averaging an eye-popping 292 rushing yards per game.

“We saw the athletes we had and said, ‘We’ve got to focus more on the run game and get this line blocking’… and it’s paying dividends right now on offense,” Egan said.

The Wildcats’ defense, too, has quickly made significant strides.

In 2015, the Wildcats—under former coach Tico Hernandez—allowed 30.2 points per game. Through four games in 2016, the unit has surrendered just 11.5 points per game.

“Defensively, I saw a lot of issues (from 2015) on film with tackling and pursuit, so…we drill the heck out of that every day,” Egan explained. “We preach intensity, tackling, pursuit, and the guys really work hard at that.

“We don’t see many breakaway runs,” the coach added. “We’ve been able to get good angles on guys and make tackles, and limit those (would-be) 60-yard touchdowns to 15-yard plays.”

Two key cogs shoring up that side of the ball are a pair of juniors in highly touted defensive back Isaiah Bolden and middle linebacker Austen Wittish.

Bolden, a transfer from Bartram Trail High School in Jacksonville, is a consensus four-star recruit, boasting more than 20 Division I college offers.

Bolden’s range and pure athleticism Egan said, is a major deterrent to opposing quarterbacks in throwing to his side of the field.

“If he gets his hands on the ball, he’s gone,” Egan said. “It’s kind of passer beware—if you’re going to throw it over there to that guy, there’s a good chance he gets his hands on it and makes a huge play for us.”

Meanwhile, Wittish—who notched 14 tackles against Ridgewood on Sept. 16—was praised by Egan for his ability to shed blocks and fill gaps to limit opposing running games.

“He…just has a good nose for the football,” Egan said.

The Wildcats don’t appear to show signs of slowing down, especially considering how the rest of their schedule lines up.

With its next two games against Fivay (0-4) and Hudson (2-1), the Wildcats have an opportunity to remain undefeated going into their bye week on Oct. 14.

To do so, Egan said the team must continue to dominate games from start to finish.

“We want to make sure we set the bar high,” he said, “and keep playing to that level.”

Winning Wildcats
A look at Wesley Chapel’s wins so far:

  • 13-3 road win against Land O’ Lakes High (Aug. 26)
  • 34-21 home win against Pasco High (Sept. 9)
  • 42-22 home win against Ridgewood High (Sept. 16)
  • 50-0 road win against Gulf High (Sept. 23)

Q&A with Coach Anthony Egan
What’s the transition been like going from an assistant to a head coach?
“Being the head guy in charge has its big benefits and its…challenges to the job. It’s a ton of responsibility—paperwork, fundraising—a lot of things…you’re in charge of. It’s been very challenging at times, but, the risk is worth the reward. Everything that we’re doing out there, and all the time that the kids are putting in and giving it back to us, it makes it worth it.”

How has senior quarterback Jacob Thomas adjusted from a spread-oriented offense to a run-based offense?
“He’s bought into everything we’re trying to do. He’s getting the touchdowns and stats. He’s getting the yardage; he’s just not having to throw 40 times. …He’s all on board with throwing the ball five times (per game) for two or three touchdowns.”

Are you comfortable with the team’s depth through the remainder of the season?
“Right now, we’ve got guys in certain positions that we’ve got good depth at, and we’re a little thin in other places. We’re always trying to rectify that. We don’t want to sell the farm, so to speak, and bring up our (junior varsity players), but we’ve got a lot of depth down there—kids that can come up and help us right away. But, they’re freshman, and we want to make sure that they’re getting their reps. “In the program, we have plenty of depth, but week-to-week, we’re kind of stretched thin sometimes. …By the end of the season, when we bring some of these guys up, we’ll have plenty of depth.”

Published September 28, 2016

 

‘Baseball Ranch’ opens in Wesley Chapel

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A new baseball and softball performance academy has sprung up in Wesley Chapel.

The RockStar Baseball & Softball Ranch, which had its grand opening on Sept. 10, is owned and operated by Ryan Pryor, a former varsity assistant coach at Bishop McLaughlin and Wiregrass Ranch high schools.

Ryan Pryor is the owner and operator of the RockStar Baseball & Softball Ranch, 8931 Elkmont Lane in Wesley Chapel. He is a former assistant varsity coach at Bishop McLaughlin and Wiregrass Ranch high schools. (Photos courtesy of Ryan Pryor)
Ryan Pryor is the owner and operator of the RockStar Baseball & Softball Ranch, 8931 Elkmont Lane in Wesley Chapel. He is a former assistant varsity coach at Bishop McLaughlin and Wiregrass Ranch high schools.
(Photos courtesy of Ryan Pryor)

Situated on a five-acre property off of Old Pasco Road and Hadlock Drive, the indoor/outdoor ranch is equipped with several training amenities. It has six batting cages and machines; a pitching arena with five bullpens; various drill fields and ranges; and, 300-foot long toss/throwing lanes.

Pryor, who initially began training players out of his garage several years ago, refers to the ranch as an “old-school” training environment.

That philosophy starts in the “fit pit,” where players utilize medicine balls and flip tires for total body strength and conditioning workouts.

“They’re swinging hammers, they’ve got (water) pails they’re lifting, they’re doing movements…to do the things they need to play this game, because they don’t do that anymore,” explained Pryor. “They’re playing more because of the culture of travel ball and tournaments, and (focusing) less on the physical side — they don’t climb trees, they don’t ride bicycles, they’re not using their shoulders.”

Because of that, Pryor noted “throwing injuries have quadrupled over the last 30 years.”

Pryor, who compiled a 123-34 record in five years as an assistant high school coach, said the ultimate goal of the ranch is to “bridge the gap” between a player’s potential and his current performance.

Pryor, also a former collegiate baseball player at Fresno State University in California, said he doesn’t just seek out the top talent to develop. Instead, he assists those who’ve either been cut from teams, or the types of players who are “always stuck in right field.”

“I take a lot of those kinds of kids that aren’t in the mainstream, and I develop them,” he said. “I take kids that can’t walk and chew bubblegum, and turn them into really good talent, for them to basically reach their full potential.”

He also noted: “I see things in kids that other coaches don’t see in them.”

Throughout the year, the membership-driven ranch will feature age-specific classes, clinics, team practice opportunities, coaching workshops and advanced high school boot camps.

Private lessons and video evaluations also are available.

The RockStar Baseball & Softball Ranch provides instruction and training to youth ages 6 to 18.
The RockStar Baseball & Softball Ranch provides instruction and training to youth ages 6 to 18.

One noteworthy ranch feature is the expanded use of wiffle ball drills for live batting practice.

Pryor explained wiffle balls help collect useful data on a particular hitter’s strengths and weaknesses.

“It shows the spin—backspin, topspin, sidespin,” he said.

“It gives you the spread,” he said. “Are they missing the ball? Are they popping up? Are they hitting ground balls? Are they hitting the top of the ball?”

In terms of teaching, Pryor said he benchmarks instruction “at the major league standard and works it backwards” to each specific age group, from ages 6 to 18.

“I’m going to provide them with the tools, and the training they need,” said Pryor. “We’re speeding up the process.”

His key slogan is: “See it, Do it, Repeat it, Play it.”

“See it and do it at the ranch, repeat it at home with the parents, and play it in the games in various leagues,” he elaborated.

“Within a year or two, (my trainees) are passing everybody because they become more technically sound — they’re able to just move better, take better angles, and understand the concept (of the game) better.”

At the ranch, Pryor said he won’t just teach baseball lessons, but will instill life lessons, too.

Responsibility, for instance, is a major focal point.

“There’s a lot of life lessons out here,” explained Pryor. “The kids are responsible for their own water — and we hold them accountable for that kind of stuff.

“Throughout all of our training, that’s the kind of stuff that we teach out here: getting kids to be better people, and own up to their responsibilities and do what they’re capable of in their own control,” Pryor said.

For more information, visit RockStarBaseballRanch.com.

To reach Ryan Pryor, email , or call (813) 992-1030.

RockStar Baseball Ranch
Some of the features of the RockStar Baseball Ranch:

  • Five-acre indoor/outdoor property
  • Hitting stables with six batting cages and machines
  • Pitching arena with five bullpens
  • Long-toss throwing lanes
  • Practice drill fields
  • Golf-style batting tee ranges
  • Outfield range
  • Strength and conditioning corral
  • Full video evaluations

Published September 14, 2016

Freedom golf seeks a fourth district crown

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The expectations are high once again for the Freedom High School boys golf team, as it enters the 2016 campaign seeking its fourth consecutive Class 3A-District 10 title.

If it pulls off the noteworthy feat, it would Freedom’s first sports team to win four consecutive district championships.

Armed with the district’s past two individual medalists in senior Tyler Bray and junior Cy Storlien, plus a superbly talented freshman in Cooper Smith, the Patriots appear to have a solid nucleus with their season kickoff against Wharton scheduled on Aug. 23.

The Freedom Boys golf team is seeking their fourth consecutive district title. From left, Cooper Smith, Matt Daniello, Cy Storlien, Nick Mitchell, Tyler Bray and Sam Smith. (Courtesy of Chris Bray)
The Freedom Boys golf team is seeking their fourth consecutive district title. From left, Cooper Smith, Matt Daniello, Cy Storlien, Nick Mitchell, Tyler Bray and Sam Smith.
(Courtesy of Chris Bray)

Bray, expected to consistently be one of Patriots top one or two scorers, said this year’s squad has a similar profile to the one that reached the state tournament in 2013 — when he was a freshman.

“The last two years, we’ve kind of just been like one guy short, but I feel like we’re a lot stronger this year, for sure,” the senior said. “We have a new freshman on the team, Cooper Smith — he’s going to really help us out.”

He added: “We’re definitely focused on districts and regionals, and hopefully we’ll make it to states again.”

Michael Passarelli, Freedom’s golf coach, said this year’s group “absolutely” has the potential to not only win districts, but also make a solid showing at regionals, and possibly advance to states in late October.

“We’ve got a couple of really, really good golfers,” Passarelli said. “The goal is definitely there.”

The work ethic and commitment to reach those goals is, too.

“They’ve got a club in their hands at all times,” Passarelli said. “These guys practice every aspect — they hit a ton of balls, they chip and putt a thousand balls, they play all the time.

“They work unbelievably hard.”

Perhaps one concern heading into the season is the team’s depth, or lack thereof. As opposed to a roster that goes nine or 10 deep, the Patriots will need quality play from the likes of seniors Nick Mitchell and Sam Smith, if they plan on making a deep postseason run.

“The two guys behind our top three are the ones that need to step up and be consistent, solid contributors,” Passarelli said. “If those two guys can play the way they are capable of, then we have a real shot.

“Those ‘No. 4’ and ‘No. 5’ guys know that at least one of them has got to score for us.”

With just six players on the varsity roster, Passarelli said the main key is ensuring everyone’s “mental approach is sound” throughout the course of the season.

“They all just need to make sure they play within themselves, and their expectations are real,” Passarelli said. “It’s just a matter of understanding of how to deal with things if a certain aspect of the game is not there on a given day.

“When you’re as talented as some of these kids are — the game is there, every single shot in the bag is there — it’s just about being able to manage a round of golf from a mental standpoint to make sure that mistakes remain one mistake, and not two or three.”

Freedom golf coach Michael Passarelli
On freshman Cooper Smith: “He gets the ball out there for a little guy, but what makes him so dang good is his short game is ridiculous — you get that kid around the green and he has a chance to make anything happen.”
On senior Tyler Bray:  “Tyler is the only one that’s been here for four years (as a letterman.) He’s pretty much the leader of this team.”
On senior Nick Mitchell: “This kid has worked so hard. He’s come such an unbelievably long way — it’s really crazy to think about where he was two years ago and where he is right now because he’s a heck of a golfer. …He’s going to be one of the guys that we’re going to count on, and he knows it.”

Class 3A-District 10
Freedom High
Hillsborough High
Leto High
Tampa Bay Tech
Wharton High
Wiregrass Ranch High

Freedom boys golf roster:
Tyler Bray, senior (4-year Letterman, 2014 District 3A-10 champion, 2015 District runner-up)
Matt Daniello, junior (2-year letterman)
Nick Mitchell, senior (3-year letterman)
Cooper Smith, freshman (projected starter)
Sam Smith, senior (2-year letterman)
Cy Storlien, junior (3-year letterman, 2015 District 3A-10 champion)

Published August 24, 2016

Area fall football preview: Hillsborough County

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The 2016 high school football season is just around the corner, and several teams in The Laker/Lutz News’ Hillsborough County coverage area enter the year with intriguing storylines, standout players and must-see matchups.

Carrollwood Patriots
Coach: Lane McLaughlin (10th year)
2015 record: 7-4
Spring Game result: 14-7 loss to Victory Christian

Freedom Patriots
Coach: Floyd Graham (1st year)
2015 record: 3-7
Spring Game result: 7-0 win over King High

Gaither Cowboys
Coach: Jason Stokes (6th year)
2015 record: 4-6
Spring Game result: 7-0 win over Sickles High

Steinbrenner Warriors
Coach: Andres Perez-Reinaldo (5th year)
2015 record: 9-2
Spring Game result: 18-0 loss to Alonso High

Wharton Wildcats
Coach: David Mitchell (12th year)
2015 record: 8-2
Spring Game result: 14-0 loss to Hillsborough High

Three teams to watch:

 

The Carrollwood Day School Patriots are loaded with talented playmakers on offense. (Courtesy of Carrollwood Day School)
The Carrollwood Day School Patriots are loaded with talented playmakers on offense.
(Courtesy of Carrollwood Day School)

Carrollwood Patriots
The Patriots, coming off a 7-4 season, appear to be one of the more interesting teams in Tampa this year. Despite being a smaller school, their youthful talent rivals many of the area’s larger schools. Armed with a bevy of playmakers on offense — quarterback Raymond Woodie III, tailback Yahsin Wooten, and receivers Nazir Achecar and Markeis Colvin — the Patriots are likely to rack up a lot of yards and touchdowns against foes. But, in order to take the next step forward, the Patriots must find a few pass-rushers on defense that can pressure opposing quarterbacks and generate sacks, due to the departures of Zac Watson-Parcels (team-leading 11 sacks), Devon Connors (10 sacks) and Corey Shamley (seven sacks).

 

The Gaither High Cowboys are looking for a bounce-back season in 2016. (File Photo)
The Gaither High Cowboys are looking for a bounce-back season in 2016.
(File Photo)

Gaither Cowboys
Despite coming off a disappointing 4-6 season, the Cowboys should have plenty to be excited about in 2016. After ending the 2015 campaign on a three-game win streak, the Cowboys return several impact players, including senior running backs Alex Rodriguez (805 yards, five touchdowns) and TJ Williams (391 yards, three touchdowns), and senior linebackers Decalon Brooks (114 tackles, five sacks) and Estefano Feliciano (73 tackles, six sacks). Though the team has several experienced playmakers on both sides of the ball, Gaither’s success may be determined by quarterback play — which must become more efficient. Gavin Deboer, the team’s incumbent quarterback from last season, struggled at times as a sophomore (48 percent rate, 10 interceptions.) If he can improve his touchdown-to-interception ratio and find a few reliable pass-catchers, Gaither may be in store for a winning season.

Steinbrenner High’s Warriors look to build off their stellar 9-2 mark in 2015. (Courtesy of Steinbrenner High football)
Steinbrenner High’s Warriors look to build off their stellar 9-2 mark in 2015.
(Courtesy of Steinbrenner High football)

Steinbrenner Warriors
Coming off a breakout 9-2 season, the Warriors are looking to keep the upward momentum going in the 2016 campaign. With holes to fill on offense and defense, Coach Andres Perez-Reinaldo will need several players to step up this season. Gone are the team’s top two offensive skill players — running back Jay Dantley (1,269 yards, 13 touchdowns) and wide receiver Justin Moffatt (41 receptions, 641 yards, 8 touchdowns) — and the team’s top four leading tacklers from last season. On a positive note, junior quarterback Colin Wray looks to build off his stellar sophomore season (56 percent completion rate, 1,634 yards, 13 touchdowns) with a few reliable targets at his disposal in seniors Brett Bitter (35 receptions, 600 yards) and Carson Kaleo (34 receptions, 277 yards). Helping the Warriors immediately is the addition of hybrid linebacker Devon Connors (53 tackles, 10 sacks), a 6-foot-3, 234-pound senior transfer from Carrollwood Day School.

Three players to watch:
Gaither senior linebacker Decalon Brooks
Decalon Brooks, the son of former Tampa Bay Buccaneer great and NFL Hall of Famer Derrick Brooks, is quickly making a name for himself. Brooks, who led the Cowboys in tackles (114) in 2015, holds several Division I offers, most notably from Florida State University and the University of Louisville. An inside linebacker at Gaither, the undersized Brooks (5-foot-10, 197-pounds) figures to transition to the safety position in college. Brooks, a consensus three-star recruit, is lauded by scouting services for his “aggressiveness, agility, athleticism and blitzing ability.”

Carrollwood sophomore quarterback Raymond Woodie III
Raymond Woodie III, the son of University of South Florida defensive coordinator Raymond Woodie Jr., will be a name to remember for the next several years. Just a sophomore, the 6-foot-1, 185-pound dual-threat quarterback already has seven Division I offers, highlighted by the University of Southern California. In 2015, Woodie III put together a stellar season (1289 yards, 11 touchdowns.) More refined, he’ll likely raise his completion percentage (53 percent) and cut down on turnovers (nine interceptions) in 2016. Recruiting services praise the young quarterback for his “strong arm” and “ability to extend plays with his feet.”

Steinbrenner senior kicker Noah Ruggles
It’s not often a kicker makes a player-to-watch list, but Noah Ruggles is a rare case, considering he’s one of the top prep kickers in the nation. According to KohlsKicking.com, Ruggles is ranked No. 5 for the class of 2017, and holds an offer from Vanderbilt University. The 6-foot-3, 175-pound senior is known for his “leg speed and athletic frame.” Last season, Ruggles made 37-of-38 extra-point attempts and 8-of-13 field goals with a long of 51 yards for Steinbrenner. Kicking runs in the family — Ruggles’ older brother, Michael, earned a scholarship as a punter for the University of Texas at El Paso in 2013.

Three games to watch:
Sickles High at Steinbrenner High, Aug. 19, 7:30 p.m.
Two teams coming off terrific 2015 seasons face off in a Week 1 rivalry game. Steinbrenner has the benefit of not having to matchup against former Sickles quarterback Chris Oladokun (1,390 yards, 15 touchdowns), who recently graduated. The last time these teams met was in 2014 — Steinbrenner won 15-7.

Tampa Catholic High at Gaither High, Aug. 19, 7:30 p.m.
Gaither appears to be overmatched in this contest, but fans will get to see a lot of Division I talent on the field for both sides. If Gaither can play a ball-control game, leaving the prodigious Tampa Catholic offense on the sidelines, they have a chance to keep it close.

Carrollwood Day School at Cambridge Christian School, Oct. 28, 7:30 p.m.
With ample experience on offense, Carrollwood will look to avenge last season’s 21-12 defeat to Cambridge Christian School. It won’t be easy, considering Cambridge returns most of their impact players from its 12-1 team in 2015. Also of note, Cambridge was undefeated (8-0) at home last season. Nevertheless, expect to see a lot of big plays and offensive highlights in this contest.

Published August 17, 2016

Area fall football preview: Pasco County

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The 2016 high school football season is just around the corner and several teams in our coverage area enter the year with intriguing storylines, standout players and must-see matchups.

Pasco Pirates
Coach: Tom McHugh (9th year)
2015 Record: 4-6
Spring Game result: 40-6 loss against Wiregrass Ranch

Land O’ Lakes Gators
Coach: Brian Wachtel (6th year)
2015 Record: 3-7
Spring Game result: 45-0 win over Gulf High

Sunlake Seahawks
Coach: Bill Browning (9th year)
2015 Record: 8-3
Spring Game result: 54-13 win over Hernando High

Wesley Chapel Wildcats
Coach: Anthony Egan (1st year)
2015 record: 2-8
Spring Game result: 54-20 win over Weeki Wachee

Wiregrass Ranch Bulls
Coach: Mark Kantor (2nd year)
2015 record: 2-8
Spring Game result: 40-6 win over Pasco High

Zephyrhills Bulldogs
Coach: Nick Carroll (1st year)
2015 record: 8-3
Spring Game result: 17-2 win over Crystal River High

Zephyrhills Christian Academy (ZCA) Warriors

Coach: Mike Smith (2nd year, 11-man)
2015 Record: 4-4
Spring Game result: 32-12 win over Lakeland Santa Fe

Three teams to watch:

 

Sunlake enters 2016 with six consecutive winning seasons. (File Photo)
Sunlake enters 2016 with six consecutive winning seasons.
(File Photo)

Sunlake Seahawks
The Seahawks enter the 2016 campaign with plenty of momentum, especially after a 54-13 thrashing of Hernando High School in their spring game. The Seahawks look to build on that May 20 victory, as well as their 8-3 mark in 2015. Sunlake returns several key pieces on offense and defense, starting with pro-style quarterback Justin Hall, a 6-foot-4, 220-pound senior capable of filling up a stat sheet (1,729 yards, 17 TDs, 3 interceptions) Hall will have plenty of weapons at his disposal, led by scatback Justin Metzger (577 yards, 5 TDs) and three receivers with at least 20 receptions (Ryan Clark, Cris Galdos, Tyler Peretti.) On defense, three of the team’s top four tacklers return, led by Galdos, a senior linebacker who makes plays all over the field. One major question for the Seahawks is how quickly a makeshift offensive line will gel after the graduations of three anchors—Leo Baez, Bryce Cooley and Joe Russum.

 

Staying healthy will be key for Wiregrass Ranch in 2016. (File Photo)
Staying healthy will be key for Wiregrass Ranch in 2016.
(File Photo)

Wiregrass Ranch Bulls
If not an improved team, Wiregrass Ranch High School should at least be an interesting one. The Bulls, who haven’t had a winning season since 2010, are stacked with Division I prospects — led by juniors Jordan Miner and Shamaur McDowell. Several new faces are expected to make an impact, as well, starting with former AATL two-way player Daniel Biglow, and A.J. Brown, a rangy wide receiver from Carrollton, Texas. Another player to keep an eye on is sophomore quarterback Grant Sessums, who’s opened eyes at various statewide football camps this summer. While a talented bunch, the biggest key to having more success is staying healthy all yearlong. Last season, Mark Cantor’s Bulls suffered 19 season-ending injuries, virtually crawling to a lethargic 2-8 finish.

Players like Myles Carter (No. 3) will be expected to step up for a Zephyrhills team that lost several impact players from last season. (File Photo)
Players like Myles Carter (No. 3) will be expected to step up for a Zephyrhills team that lost several impact players from last season.
(File Photo)

Zephyrhills Bulldogs
The Bulldogs are entering the 2016 season with a first-time head coach and several unproven players. Nick Carroll — a longtime Sunlake High School assistant — has big shoes to fill in taking over for the revered Reginald Roberts (39-23 in six seasons). The pressure to win immediately will be elevated, considering the program’s recent triumphs. But, winning won’t come easy, considering the Bulldogs’ top offensive playmaker — running back Antwione Sims — will miss several games due to injury. Moreover, the Bulldogs must find more impactful reinforcements after the graduations of their top receiver (Jackie Tucker Jr.) and top three tacklers (Kevin Lee, Arttonyo Lee Jr., Leonardo Guzman) from last year’s 8-3 team. The team will also be without defensive end Zander Lemay (47 tackles, 3.5 sacks), who recently transferred to Tampa Catholic High School — forcing the new coaching staff to find yet another replacement heading into the season.

Three players to watch:

Zephyrhills senior running back Antwione Sims
Depending on when one the of the area’s most electrifying playmakers returns to the field, fans will surely flock to the stands to see the 5-11, 196-pound Sims (2,093 rushing yards, 24 TDs.) The senior is likely to miss “most of the season” after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in March, but a possible late-season return could prove vital for the Bulldogs down the stretch. Once he returns to the gridiron, it will be interesting to see if Sims still has the same quickness and speed he showed in 2015. A consensus three-star recruit, Sims has 11 scholarships offers, which includes Boston College and Navy.

Sunlake senior receiver/linebacker Cris Galdos
What Galdos lacks in measurables, he more than makes up for with his production. The 5-foot-7, 170-pound do-it-all playmaker is widely viewed as one of the most versatile football players in Pasco County. His offensive statistics (21 receptions, 224 yards, 2 TDs) coupled with his defensive prowess (81 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, four sacks, four interceptions) are a key to Sunlake’s continued success. His workout numbers are also impressive: 4.60 40-yard dash, 30-inch vertical jump, 290-pound bench press and 405-pound squat. Galdos recently received his first scholarship offer (University of Saint Francis in Indiana) and is likely to receive a few more by the season’s end.

Wiregrass Ranch junior defensive back Jordan Miner
Pasco County typically doesn’t produce many Division I football prospects on an annual basis, so it’s always worth noting when a player entering just his junior year already has five DI offers— Bowling Green University, Middle Tennessee State University, University of South Florida, University of Toledo and Tulane University. At 6-foot-1, 185-pounds, Miner has the size that major college programs crave in a defensive back. In seven games last season, Miner made an impact in both the secondary (35 tackles, 1 interception) and as a kick returner (34 yards per return.) It won’t be a surprise if Wiregrass Ranch foes avoid the passing game, considering one of Miner’s teammates in the secondary — cornerback Shamaur McDowell — is also a Division I prospect, with several offers. Naturally, football runs in Miner’s family — his older brother, Jaye Miner, is a linebacker at Florida Atlantic University, a Division I school.

Three games to watch:
Wiregrass Ranch @ Gaither (Oct. 21, 7:30 p.m.)

  • Two teams loaded with college prospects face off in a late-season game that’s sure to bring several recruiters to North Tampa.

Mitchell @ Sunlake (Oct. 21, 7:30 p.m.)

  • Sunlake looks for revenge at home after Mitchell handed the Seahawks their lone district loss last season. The matchup also pits two of Pasco’s top quarterbacks against each other in Mitchell’s Larry Dalla Betta and Sunlake’s Justin Hall.

Zephyrhills @ Pasco (Nov. 4, 7:30 p.m.)

  • Though last season’s 9-Mile-War was lopsided in favor of the Bulldogs; this year’s matchup should be a closer affair.

Published August 10, 2016

Former Wharton standout back in Tampa Bay

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It’s not often a local high school football star is drafted in the NFL.

It’s even less likely for a prep star to be drafted his hometown NFL franchise in the first round of the draft.

But that’s what happened when former Wharton High cornerback Vernon Hargreaves III was picked 11th overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2016 NFL Draft on April 28.

Hargreaves, who graduated from Wharton High in 2013, still reminisces the three years he spent on the Wildcats’ varsity football team, playing for longtime Wharton head coach, David Mitchell.

Wharton High alum Vernon Hargreaves III was drafted in No. 11 overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2016 NFL Draft on April 29. (Courtesy of Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
Wharton High alum Vernon Hargreaves III was drafted in No. 11 overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2016 NFL Draft on April 29.
(Courtesy of Tampa Bay Buccaneers)

“Those were great,” Hargreaves said about his Wharton playing days, during a recorded media conference. “You know, Coach Mitchell’s a great coach. …He taught me how to work hard, he taught me how to be a great player, how to be the best and I’m excited to be back home.”

The opportunity to “be back home” was a dream come true for Hargreaves, who played three collegiate seasons with the Florida Gators before declaring for the NFL Draft.

“It’s surreal. It was the best thing I ever could have asked for,” the two-time All-American said. “It doesn’t get better than to get drafted by your home team. …I’m 40 minutes away from the facilities and it’s great. I can see my mom (Jackie) when I want to now, it’s awesome.”

Hargreaves, the son of Vernon Hargreaves Jr. — a linebackers coach at the University of Arkansas — believes he has the skillset and football acumen to make an immediate impact for the Bucs as a rookie.

“Playing in the SEC (Southeastern Conference) gave me the experience and the opportunity to cover guys of that (NFL) caliber. Seeing them already…gives me a place to start on how I can slow these guys down,” he said.

“I’m very confident in myself, very confident in my abilities.”

Listed at 5-foot-10, some pundits feel Hargreaves lacks the desired height to succeed against taller receivers at the next level.

Jason Licht, Bucs general manager, disagrees with those sentiments.

“There have been a lot of Pro Bowl corners – a lot – that have been his size: 5-10 and a half,” Licht said during the media conference. “Great players come in a lot of different sizes and different packages. We feel that his thickness and his build, he’s a sturdy player, he can press, he can tackle and he’s very quick and athletic and has good ball skills. Vernon is a guy that we feel brings a lot of versatility.”

“I’m just an overall good football player,” Hargreaves said. “Love to play ball, can adapt to any type of defense, any type of receiver. I’ve covered them all. I can play bump-coverage, can play man-coverage. All of that is in my game.”

At Wharton, Hargreaves was widely considered one of, if not, the best high school cornerback in the nation for the 2013 recruiting class. During his time in a Wildcats varsity uniform, Hargreaves racked up 203 tackles and nine interceptions. He was also a standout track athlete, where his long jump (22’ 3.50) ranks second in school history, and his 100-meter dash (11.17 seconds) ranks fifth in school history. His natural athleticism, combined with his on-field football prowess made him a consensus five-star recruit boasting more than 50 college scholarship offers, before he chose the University of Florida.

Though he’s just months removed from his college career and a few years removed from his high school career, Hargreaves isn’t shy about stepping into the NFL spotlight.

“It’s going to be exciting,” he said. “I’m ready to showcase my skills.”

What experts are saying about former Wharton High standout Vernon Hargreaves III:

“He has as many tools and attributes for long-term NFL success as any defensive back in the (2016) draft class: speed, range, aggression, good hands and short-area quickness. If he is able to dial back his more passionate tendencies, avoid thinking too much about contact and focus on his assignment more often, Hargreaves could easily show up as an perennial Pro Bowler and a legit No. 1 shutdown guy.” –Doug Farrar, Sports Illustrated.com

“He’s the best corner maybe I’ve seen in two or three years. Now he’s only 5-foot-10, but he’s thick. Great feet and change of direction. He finds the football in the air.” –Mike Mayock, NFL.com

“Hargreaves is an undersized cornerback who is one of the most instinctive and natural man coverage cornerbacks in the 2016 draft class. …Overall, he has the football intelligence, the movement skills and the willingness in run support to develop into a quality starting cornerback outside the hashes or become one of the better nickelbacks in the NFL.” –Kevin Weidl, ESPN.com

“Hargreaves plays with a decisive reactor to maintain proper positioning and make plays on the ball (38 career passes defended), but his timing and spacing have room for improvement. Although he has only ordinary size, Hargreaves is above average in three main areas for the position: play speed, instincts and competitive toughness.” –Rob Rang, CBSSports.com

“He does it all—tackles, passes defensed. He has the hands to flip the field and create turnovers. But, what I like most about him is his explosion and agility on short routes. He takes away targets…and I think he’s going to be a playmaker because of that in the NFL.” -Matt Miller, BleacherReport.com

Published May 11, 2016

Area spring football preview: Pasco County

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Spring football practices are underway for high schools across the state. While the first games of the 2016 season are still several months away, Florida high schools are allowed a maximum of 20 practice sessions between April 25 to May 31, according to FHSAA (Florida High School Athletic Association) guidelines.

 

Here’s a look at what schools in our coverage area are working with:

Land O’ Lakes High School
Coach: Brian Wachtel (6th year)
2015 Record: 3-7                

The Land O' Lakes Gators are looking to avoid a third straight losing season. A more manageable season in 2016 should help. (File photos)
The Land O’ Lakes Gators are looking to avoid a third straight losing season. A more manageable season in 2016 should help.
(File photos)

Last season was rough for the Gators, who failed to win a home game at “The Swamp,” and were shutout by their primary rival in Sunlake High. Playing five consecutive road games didn’t help the cause, either. To relive their magical 8-2 season back in 2013, the Gators must find some consistent play at the quarterback position, whether that is from rising senior Spencer Childress or rising junior Jude May. Though the team loses their top two rushers from last season in Rashawn Kindell (526 yards rushing, 5.7 yards per carry) and Tommy Farmer (417 yards, 7 TDs), the Gators may have a breakout candidate in tailback Quintin Smith, who’ll be a senior. On defense, the Gators return standout safety Justin Kren, a capable tackler (51 solo tackles) and ballhawk (five interceptions).

Pasco County High School
Coach: Tom McHugh (9th year)
2015 Record: 4-6

A difficult schedule and some tough breaks steered the Pirates into a losing 2015 season. Despite starting the year 3-0, Pasco High ran into some tough competition in the middle of the season, losing four straight games to North Marion, Jesuit, Mitchell and Sunlake high schools. A heartbreaking 44-43 overtime loss to Springstead High added fuel to the fire. While the win-loss total doesn’t show it, the Pirates were loaded with talent, including cornerback Jayvauhn Myers (Auburn signee), offensive lineman Jamal Mention (Coffeyville (Kansas) Community College signee) and tight end Nick Bryant (Middle Tennessee signee). Coach McHugh must find a way to replace those productive players, and find a reliable quarterback after Michael Penix Jr. transferred to Tampa Bay Tech.

Sunlake High School
Coach: Bill Browning (9th year)
2015 Record: 8-3

The Sunlake Seahawks are looking to have their seventh straight winning season. To do so, Coach Bill Browning will have to replace several starters on the offensive line.
The Sunlake Seahawks are looking to have their seventh straight winning season. To do so, Coach Bill Browning will have to replace several starters on the offensive line.

Another year, another terrific record. That’s been the narrative for the Seahawks over the past six seasons under the leadership of head coach Bill Browning. Since 2010, the team has a combined record of 53-13. Though the team returns several players at the skill positions, one of the big questions leading into the season is how the team will fare on the offensive line, with the departures of Bryce Cooley (Angelo State signee), Joe Russum (Black Hills State signee) and Leo Baez (Bluefield College). If the Seahawks can create cohesion and provide enough protection in the trenches for standout pro-style quarterback Justin Hall (1,729 yards, 17 TDs, 3 INTs), they should be in store for another winning season.

Wesley Chapel High School
Coach: Anthony Egan (1st year)
2015 record: 2-8

The Wildcats have suffered four straight losing seasons, and now it’s up to first-year head coach Anthony Egan — a former River Ridge High assistant — to turn the program around. Luckily for Egan, the cupboard isn’t bare. Signal-caller Jacob Thomas (44 percent completion, 1,825 yards, 17 TDs, 13 INTs) returns as well as pass-catchers Ben Goins (31 receptions, 403 yards) and Devin Singletary (23 receptions, 240 yards). On defense, the Wildcats return their top three tacklers in Marcus Gillott, Ellrie Allen and Christian Austin. To improve their record, the Wildcats must find a way to develop a consistent rushing attack (rushers averaged just 2.6 yards per carry) and they must win close games (the team lost three games by seven points or fewer in 2015.)

Wiregrass Ranch High School
Coach: Mark Kantor (2nd year)
2015 record: 2-8

Coach Mark Kantor embarks on year two of what is perhaps a long-term rebuilding job. Prior to Kantor’s hiring in 2015, the Bulls had three coaches in four years, combining for an 8-32 record during that span. To improve in 2016, the Bulls must find a way to stay healthy (19 season-ending injuries were suffered in 2015) and significantly improve on offense. The team averaged just 10.6 points per game in 2015, and was shutout in half of their games. If the Bulls can’t muster up better production from the quarterback position, it’ll be tough to secure a winning record.

Zephyrhills High School
Coach: Nick Carroll (1st year)
2015 record: 8-3

The Bulldogs notched their fourth straight winning season in 2015, but they’ll enter the 2016 season with a new head coach in Nick Carroll, a former Sunlake High assistant. Carroll will try to duplicate the success of former coach Reggie Roberts, but will have a challenge on his hands. Running back Antwione Sims, the team’s leading offensive playmaker, tore his ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) over a month ago, and will likely miss several games in 2016. Additionally, Carroll must find a way to get Bulldogs players to gel, and learn the style of offense and defense he’s implementing. Carroll expects several incoming freshmen and sophomores to make an impact in his first season.

Zephyrhills Christian Academy
Coach: Mike Smith (2nd year, 11-man)
2015 Record: 4-4    

The Warriors had a respectable 2015 season, if you consider it was their first season playing 11-man football after they dominated the 6-man ranks for several years. However, the team may be in for a setback in 2016, as they’ll be without their top offensive player, wide receiver Issac Johnson (62 receptions, 1,013 yards), and top defensive player, defensive lineman J’ Won Pickett. Both Johnson (Iowa Western Community College) and Pickett (Minnesota State Community College) are playing football at junior colleges next season. The Warriors will also have to develop a new quarterback with the impending graduation of Matthew Iovine, an accurate passer (67 percent completion, 1,475 yards). Being without last year’s quarterback and top receiver may open the door to additional carries for returning running backs such as John Emmanual, Dwight Thomas and Mykh’ael Chavis.

Published May 4, 2016

 

Freedom High names new football coach

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A former longtime Tampa Bay area football coach has been hired to lead the Freedom High Patriots program in 2016.

Floyd Graham, a former head coach at both Steinbrenner High (2009-2011) and Newsome High (2004-2005), was named as the Patriots’ new head football coach on April 1.

He replaces Todd Donohoe, who was fired after compiling a 15-25 combined record in four seasons. The team finished the 2015 season with a 3-7 record.

Floyd Graham is Freedom High School’s new head football. He was named to the position on April 1, but his first day on the job won’t be until April 18. Previously, he coached at Steinbrenner and Newsome high schools. (Courtesy of Freedom High School)
Floyd Graham is Freedom High School’s new head football. He was named to the position on April 1, but his first day on the job won’t be until April 18. Previously, he coached at Steinbrenner and Newsome high schools.
(Courtesy of Freedom High School)

Graham most recently was a defensive line coach at Carroll High School in Ozark, Alabama. He stepped down at Steinbrenner in 2012 to help take care of his cancer-stricken mother in Alabama, who passed away in January.

“Tampa’s basically my second home, because I was there for so many years. My wife and I were real happy when we were at Steinbrenner,” Graham said.

“It was always in our mind to come back.”

With many new head coaching hires made in January or February, Graham will have to make a quick turnaround to implement his program and coaching philosophy.

While it may be a disadvantage to start the job in the spring, it doesn’t compare to what Graham was forced to do at both Newsome and Steinbrenner high schools, where he built the football teams from scratch.

“To me, it’s already a luxury that we’ve already got all of our helmets, we’ve already got all of our equipment, we’ve already got coaches on staff and the kids have already been lifting,” Graham said. “I’ve been in situations where we’ve been so disadvantaged or were already fighting uphill that right now, this is something that’s going to be different and less challenging.”

“It’s going to be exciting to go into an already established program with athletes that have been doing something for awhile and have been together for awhile,” he added. “It’s not one of these things where we’re trying to build an identity, so I’m real excited about that.”

Graham’s first day on the job will be April 18, where his first duties will include keeping the current assistant coaching staff together and overseeing offseason workouts for Patriots players. He also plans to bring one of his former assistants at Steinbrenner, Cedric Roberts, in to coach defensive backs.

Graham has leafed through the roster and watched some game film on last year’s squad. He’s already noticed one team quality that gives him confidence in the team’s outlook for success.

That quality is speed, Graham said, with a tinge of glee in his voice. “They have a tremendous amount of potential. The athletes are there. The kids are there. It’s just that we have to start them at a young age and keep them on the right track. As long as they buy in and believe in us in what we’re trying to do, it will happen.”

As Graham tries to boost Freedom’s record in the win-loss column, he will have to make sure he can keep his player’s academically eligible.

“We’re going to put academics first, because the bottom line is my job is to try to create better men, which will create better fathers and husbands,” he said.

“That’s what I try to do, and we’re going to take every step that we can to make it happen.”

Perhaps what excites Graham the most is the opportunity to transition a downtrodden team into a superior one.

“The process is fun,” he said. “You can win all kinds of games, and you can lose all kinds of games. But, the process of making something from nothing and making those kids — that come in as ninth-graders — where they leave playing and understanding the game and being a better man, that’s what’s fun.”

Published April 13, 2016

Standout catcher paces Wiregrass Ranch softball

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From her powerful bat to her leadership behind the plate, Kameron Aitken’s talent is evident the moment she steps on the Wiregrass Ranch softball field.

So evident, in fact, that several major in-state universities—South Florida, Central Florida, Florida Gulf Coast and North Florida — showed interest in the junior catcher last season.

Aitken opted to verbally commit to Florida International University (FIU) in Miami on Dec. 1, 2015 — after visiting the campus on an unofficial visit and quickly realizing the school “just felt like home.”

Wiregrass Ranch junior catcher Kameron Aitken is one of the top players in Pasco County. She has a verbal commit to play softball at Florida International University (FIU) in Miami after she graduates in 2017. (Courtesy of Wiregrass Ranch Softball)
Wiregrass Ranch junior catcher Kameron Aitken is one of the top players in Pasco County. She has a verbal commit to play softball at Florida International University (FIU) in Miami after she graduates in 2017.
(Photos courtesy of Wiregrass Ranch Softball)

“I felt like I could go to the team and be welcomed right away,” Aitken said about choosing FIU, a Division I school. “I had been looking at it for two years. The coaches made me feel like that’s where I wanted to be.”

A varsity softball player at Wiregrass Ranch since her freshman year, Aitken broke out as a sophomore, batting .379 with 17 doubles and 39 RBIs.

“I’m a lot stronger player now than I was my freshman year,” Aitken said about her development. “I’ve learned to recognize pitches better.”

Through 10 games this year, the slugger is picking up right where she left off, batting .379 with a team-leading two home runs and 13 RBIs.

“She’s a big, strong girl. A very intelligent player,” said Tyler Finn, assistant coach for Wiregrass Ranch. “Thank God we’re going to get her for another year.”

Teammates describe Aitken, who bats cleanup, as a player that provides vocal leadership and contributes in critical moments of games.

“Her offense is a big key. She really comes through in big situations,” said senior third baseman Tylah Remaley.

“She is a clutch hitter, and gets those hits that you need that help you out in the end of games,” said junior second baseman Alexis Ridolph.

“She pushes others. If you’re struggling, she’ll say, ‘Hey, keep your head up, and just keep going,’” junior Samantha Hiley said.

In addition to her hitting ability, Aitken provides a calming influence as a catcher, where she works closely with a young pitching staff that includes three freshmen.

“She has great leadership and is always communicating with her teammates,” said Wiregrass Ranach head coach Yamani Vazquez. “She’s a catcher, so she’s the brains of the operation. She’s what you would expect from a catcher, basically.”

Coach Finn echoes Vazquez’s sentiment, calling Aitken a “tremendous, tremendous catcher.”

Kameron Aitken’s production at the plate skyrocketed as a sophomore, when she batted .379 with 17 doubles and 39 RBIs. Aitken is picking up right where she left off this season with a .379 batting average through 10 games.
Kameron Aitken’s production at the plate skyrocketed as a sophomore, when she batted .379 with 17 doubles and 39 RBIs. Aitken is picking up right where she left off this season with a .379 batting average through 10 games.

“She’s been a catcher her whole life. She’s a leader behind the plate. She’s got a rocket arm that’s accurate,” the Wiregrass assistant explained. “She’s going to play Division I (softball) for a reason.”

While Aitken is a natural playing softball, she is always trying to improve — even during the course of a ballgame.

According to Vazquez, in a recent game, Aitken struggled in her first at-bat, and had her mother record the plate appearance so she could analyze her swing mechanics for her next time up to hit.

As it turned out, Aitken figured out the problem. She had “dropped her shoulder” during her swing path.

“I’ve never seen that — just trying to better yourself in the same game,” her head coach said.

Aitken’s willingness to correct mistakes on her own—and handle it with a positive attitude—is what makes her special, Vazquez added.

“She has that drive. She has that intrinsic drive that you can’t really teach,” he explained. “It comes from just knowing what you want and knowing your goals. And that’s what she has going on. She has that intrinsic drive to get better more than anyone else on this team, I would say.”

Published March 9, 2016