Land O' Lakes High School

McGough, other local athletes get NFL shots

May 9, 2018 By Kevin Weiss

The 2018 NFL Draft has come and gone, and one athlete from The Laker/Lutz News Coverage area had the privilege of hearing his name called during the three-day event from April 26 to April 28 — Gaither High School product Alex McGough.

McGough was selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the seventh round (220th overall) as a quarterback out of Florida International University.

Florida International University/Gaither High quarterback Alex McGough was selected in the seventh round (220th overall) by the Seattle Seahawks in the 2018 NFL Draft. (File)

A four-year starter, the 6-foot-3, 214-pound McGough cemented his legacy as FIU’s most decorated passer, completing 807-1335 passes (60.4 percent completion rate) for 9,091 yards, 65 touchdowns and 37 interceptions. He also rushed for 535 yards and 16 touchdowns.

Last season, he guided FIU to an 8-5 record — the program’s third-ever winning season and first since 2011 — a mark achieved in Butch Davis’ first season as FIU head coach.

“I couldn’t be happier for Alex,” Davis said, in a released statement on McGough’s draft selection. “His passion, leadership and performance last year was incredible. He played a huge role in our team’s success, and he has absolutely earned this opportunity to play in the NFL.”

In a post-draft media conference call, McGough said he’s “beyond grateful” to get chosen by the Seahawks, adding he’s “ready to get to work.”

Said McGough, “I wanted to come into the draft just kind of open-minded, and obviously, whatever happened, happened…The only thing I could control was the work I put in. I’m very happy with what I put in, and Seattle saw that and they took me.”

Though he didn’t earn an invite to the NFL Scouting Combine in March, many NFL draft analysts viewed McGough as a late-round sleeper, spotlighting his physical tools, poise, and red zone accuracy, while also spotlighting his limitations.

An ESPN.com draft analysis characterized McGough as “a good athlete with a good frame, though his hands (9 1/8 inches) are on the smaller side. His 30:19 touchdown-to-interception ratio over the past two seasons isn’t ideal.”

Seattle brought McGough in for a private workout a few weeks prior to last month’s draft. During his visit McGough said he developed a connection with quarterbacks’ coach Dave Canales and came away overall impressed with the organization.

“It’s an organization full of great people, and they want to win bad,” McGough said.

McGough was one of 13 quarterback prospects taken in this year’s draft and the

first by the Seahawks since Russell Wilson was selected in the third round of the 2012 draft.

Besides Wilson, Seattle’s starting quarterback and a four-time Pro Bowler, the roster includes two other quarterbacks — seven-year veteran Austin Davis and second-year player Stephen Morris.

McGough likely will have to beat out one of those backups in training camp and preseason to solidity a roster spot.

“I’m a competitor that wants to win and I’ll do everything to win,” McGough said. “I just want to play football and succeed.”

Though he’s facing a relative uphill battle, McGough is no stranger to perseverance, nor proving doubters wrong.

He most recently underwent a full recovery from a broken left collarbone he suffered in the Bad Boy Mowers Gasparilla Bowl in December.

And, despite a noteworthy high school career — amassing more than 5,100 career passing yards and 52 touchdown passes in four varsity seasons — McGough was rather under-looked. He earned just two football scholarship offers (FIU and Colgate University, in upstate New York). He went on to achieve instant success at FIU, setting numerous school passing records and then becoming the program’s eighth player to be drafted in its 14-year football history.

Meanwhile, McGough joins rare company as just the fifth player from a Hillsborough County high school to be drafted as a quarterback in the last 50 years. The others are Robinson’s John Reaves (1972), Leto’s Gary Huff (’73), Chamberlain’s Dean May (’84) and Plant’s Aaron Murray (2014). (McGough transferred from Wesley Chapel High School to Gaither following his freshman year.)

Besides McGough, a handful of other athletes with ties to The Laker/Lutz News coverage area have been given shots with various NFL teams, signing as either priority undrafted free agents or invited tryout players.

Each will have an opportunity to stick with their respective teams at rookie mini-camps, which run from May 11 through May 14.

Here’s a closer look at the others:

Janarion Grant, receiver — Baltimore Ravens (mini-camp tryout invitation)
College: Rutgers University (Piscataway, New Jersey)
High School: Pasco High School; graduated in 2013

When healthy, the 5-foot-9, 177-pound receiver was one of the most electrifying offensive playmakers in college football, chiefly in the return game. But, Grant struggled to stay on the field of late, playing in a combined 11 games the last two seasons, dealing with an ankle injury and other nagging ailments. Despite limited action in 2016 and 2017, Grant

became Rutgers’ all-time kickoff return-yardage leader (2,857 yards) and tied for the NCAA record for combined kick return touchdowns (eight). That skill on special teams perhaps gives him a leg up on other tryout players the Ravens signed.

Before college, Grant left a lasting legacy at Pasco High School, where he was a four-year starter and still holds the county record for most career touchdowns (77) by a skill player. He was also a two-time All-State selection.

Also notable, Grant is the grandnephew of Lacoochee native Jim “Mudcat” Grant, a 14-year MLB veteran and two-time All-Star, who, in 1965 became the first black pitcher to win 20 games in a season in the American League and the first black pitcher to win a World Series game for the American League.

Trey Johnson, defensive back—Pittsburgh Steelers (priority undrafted free agent)
College: Villanova University (Villanova, Pennsylvania)
High School: Steinbrenner High School; graduated in 2013

(Courtesy of Villanova University Athletics)

A standout defensive back at a small school in the FCS ranks — 45 total tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, one interception and 13 pass break-ups in 2017 — Johnson further landed on NFL scouts’ radars after showcasing elite athleticism at Villanova’s Pro Day in late March. At the sanctioned workout, the 5-foot-11, 177-pound Johnson touched 36 inches in the vertical jump, reached 10-foot-8 in the broad jump and posted a sizzling 4.37-second 40-yard dash.

Johnson becomes the first Steinbrenner High graduate to sign an NFL contract. There, Johnson earned four varsity letters in football, as well as three in basketball and two in track. He was also inducted into the National Honor Society.

Jacob Pugh, linebacker — Seattle Seahawks (priority undrafted free agent)
College: Florida State University
Schools: Godby High School (Tallahassee); Jefferson County High School (Monticello, Florida); Pasco Middle School (Dade City native)

(Courtesy of Florida State University Athletics)

A decorated high school player and highly-touted blue chip prospect who won state championships at two different north Florida programs, the Dade City native never seemed to fully blossom at Florida State, where he posted a combined 108 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, seven sacks and two interceptions across four seasons.

Solid numbers, sure, but a bit anticlimactic considering Pugh was named an Under Armour High School All-American and widely viewed as one of the nation’s top five linebacker prospects in the 2014 recruiting class.

Blessed with length, agility and athleticism in a sturdy 6-foot-4, 246-pound frame, Pugh has moldable traits to stick on an NFL roster.

Pugh attended Pasco Middle School before his family moved to the Panhandle, where he began, and ended, his prep career.

His ties to east Pasco run deep. His uncles, Darren and Troy Hambrick, led Pasco High to the county’s only state championship (1992) before spending five years each in the NFL. He’s also related to Pasco High alums Janarion Grant (Rutgers) and Josh Johnson, a former NFL who now plays in the Canadian Football League. Pugh is also cousins with fellow Auburn wide receiver Nate Craig-Myers, a Dade City native who attended Tampa Catholic, where he was one of the most prized football recruits to come out of the Tampa Bay area in years.

Shaheed Salmon, linebacker—Tampa Bay Buccaneers (mini-camp tryout invitation)
College: Samford University (Homewood, Alabama)
High School: Land O’ Lakes High School; graduated in 2014

The 6-foot-2, 232-pound outside linebacker solidified himself as one of the most dominant tacklers in the FCS ranks the last two seasons, racking up a combined 202 tackles, 28.5 tackles for loss, and 5.5 sacks in 2016 and 2017. Though an undrafted player from a lower-level division of college football, a path to the NFL isn’t out of the question for Salmon, as more than 150 FCS players made NFL active rosters in 2017.

At Land O’ Lakes, Salmon was a four-year starter and an All-State selection as a senior. He also competed in basketball and track.

Published May 9, 2018

Connerton — Much More Than Just A Place To Live

April 25, 2018 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

In the heart of Pasco County in Land O’ Lakes, the community of Connerton continues to grow, as hundreds of new homes are built for people of all ages, fulfilling their dreams to live in a community that offers much more than just a place to live.

Connerton provides more for its residents than other planned communities because it has been designated a “New Town” by the Florida Legislature. Being a New Town means Connerton can create opportunities for a diverse tax base and future job generation, offering residents a community where they can live, work and play!

More Amenities.
Club Connerton serves as the community’s social hub and sports recreation center. Its resort-style pool and its unique giant water bucket is a favorite of Connerton youngsters, who rush to get drenched by the fast-falling water. An outdoor grill and game area were recently added for residents’ enjoyment, and the latest in exercise equipment is found at the Fit and Flourish room. Tennis, pickleball and basketball courts are part of the amenity complex, where residents are always welcome to join in pickup games.

More Family Fun.
A full-time activities director and support staff offer a complete spectrum of activities designed to please the little ones, teenagers and adults. These include yoga, Pilates, girls’ night out, cigar night, dive-in movies, community yard sales, Winter Wonderland and the annual Independence Day Celebration that draws more than 7,000 attendees.

In January, Connerton was the proud recipient of the 2018 Gold Award for Best Lifestyle Program for a Community during the National Association of Home Builders Sales and Marketing Awards gala in Orlando. Entries were submitted from around the nation, and Connerton walked away with the top award, edging out communities from California, Texas and South Florida.

More Nature and Trails.
With Connerton’s appreciation of nature, green space and conservation areas, residents enjoy more than 7 miles of trails and oversized sidewalks to bike, walk or simply enjoy a family stroll. A scenic 2-mile trail winds its way through natural wilderness, lakes and wetlands, and includes elevated boardwalks for bird watching and viewing other Florida wildlife.

Adjacent to Connerton is Conner Preserve — almost 3,000 acres of wildlife habitat donated by Connerton and managed by the Southwest Florida Water Management District. Biking, camping, hiking, equestrian use and model airplane flying are some of the recreational activities found in the Preserve.

More Quality Schools.
Connerton Elementary is conveniently located within its borders and offers many school-based activities, including band and chorus, a Fall Festival, Science Fair and PTA special events. Residents can also register their children at close-by Sanders Memorial Elementary, a STEAM magnet school specializing in science, technology, engineering, art and math.

Older students attend Pine View Middle School, which has the distinct honor of being Pasco County’s first International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme Candidate School. Land O’ Lakes High School is located right down the road and is the assigned high school. An A-rated school and designated International Baccalaureate World School, Land O’ Lakes High has been named ‘One of America’s Best Public Schools’ by U.S. News & World Report. Private, charter and parochial schools are also in the area.

More Parks.
Who doesn’t love a park? Residents looking for a place to picnic, or just a quiet place to read, visit one of the many neighborhood parks – Connerton Cove, Garden Party Park, Magnolia Park or Storybrook Park, which is also home to the community dog park.

More for All.
It’s easy to see why Connerton is “The Community of More…” If you’re looking to move, a visit to Connerton is well worth your time to visit. Five quality builders offer many floors plans and homesites. Models by M/I Homes, Lennar, Homes by WestBay and Inland Homes are open seven days a week. Luxury custom homebuilder Arthur Rutenberg Homes has 90-foot homesites available in the gated area of Rose Pointe.

For additional information, call (813) 996-5800, or visit Connerton.com.

Published April 25, 2018

Sunlake High student named Foot Locker scholar-athlete

April 25, 2018 By Kevin Weiss

Sunlake High School’s Andrea Wallace is more than just a star basketball player who can score and rebound at will, and dazzle in the post, with her 6-foot-1 frame.

She’s also a standout in the classroom, maintaining a 4.0 grade-point average all through high school.

Besides athletics and academics, Wallace, too, strives to make an impact in the community. It’s why she founded a school club her junior year called Pass It Forward, which focuses on empowering young girls in Land O’ Lakes to use their voice, display their strengths and encourage one another.

“She’s that kid that wants to be great,” said Reesa Hendrix-Pledge, Sunlake athletic director and girls head basketball coach.

Sunlake High’s Andrea Wallace was one of just 20 student-athletes nationwide honored this year in the Foot Locker Scholar-Athletes Program, selected from a competitive pool of over 13,000 applicants. Wallace was recognized for her academic and athletic excellence, along with her service to the community. She will play basketball next season at St. Petersburg College, with plans to transfer to a university in a year or two. (Courtesy of Sunlake High School)

In her seven-plus years at Sunlake, Hendrix-Pledge says no student-athlete better exemplifies “excellence” in all aspects of life than the senior forward.

“She’s kind of the model student,” the coach said.

Wallace’s leadership skills, too, “are like no other” — evidenced in being a three-time team captain on the girls varsity hoops team.

“A coach couldn’t ask for somebody else that can actually talk it then back it up at the same time,” Hendrix-Pledge said.

To other Sunlake teachers and administrators meanwhile, Wallace is simply “an awesome kid.”

To those who know her, it’s not far-fetched that Wallace recently became one of just 20 student-athletes nationwide honored this year in the Foot Locker Scholar-Athletes Program. She was selected from a competitive pool of over 13,000 applicants.

As a Foot Locker Scholar Athlete, Wallace was awarded a $20,000 scholarship in a surprise lunchtime ceremony on April 18 at the high school.

Wallace was told she’d be giving a presentation to district board members on her school club, Pass It Forward. However, while giving her speech in an administration room, Wallace was abruptly overcome with emotion when a pair of Foot Locker representatives entered the room and diverted her attention with a large check — literally — that read “Twenty Thousand (dollars.)”

Wallace recalled the eventful moment afterwards: “It was actually pretty funny, because when I walked in everybody had their cameras out. I was like, ‘I’m not anybody. I’m not that special.’ But, because I thought it was for the district board — that’s what I was told — so I came in and gave the speech, but when they brought the check I almost started crying. …It’s amazing. I didn’t even think that I’d be able to get that.”

Wallace’s mother, Anne-Marie, was also in attendance at the ceremony and was likewise shocked by the scholarship reveal. She used her lunch break to visit the school even though she wasn’t given the reason.

“I was completely caught off guard,” Wallace’s mother said. “This is going to be so much of a big help for her, because with (college) loans, at least it’ll be less on her. I am very grateful; very grateful. I was not expecting this…”

Though remaining humble about her daughter’s accomplishments, Anne-Marie noted her academically and athletically gifted daughter has always displayed strong work ethic and leadership qualities.

“She’s a pretty good girl,” Anne-Marie said. “Andrea, she just works very hard, and she’s disciplined, and she has such a good attitude.”

Wallace applied for the scholarship in mid-November at the behest of Hendrix-Pledge. Her coach received a call from Foot Locker on a random Friday evening, five months later.

“It was kind of out of sight, out of mind, and then she had been chosen,” said Hendrix-Pledge, who noted she wasn’t totally taken aback, as her star pupil met all the qualifications to win the prestigious scholarship.

Wallace will play basketball next season at St. Petersburg College, with intentions to transfer to a university in a year or two. She plans to study pre-law with hopes of becoming a lawyer and a judge someday.

It all follows what’s been a momentous four-year varsity career, including her senior campaign, where she averaged a double-double (13.3 points, 10.6 rebounds) en route to Sunlake’s first 20-win season and the 7A regional finals. After the season, Wallace was awarded the Sunshine Athletic Conference East Girls Basketball Player of the Year, along with first team All-Conference honors.

Wallace made major strides on the court after her freshman season, motivated to improve after the team lost in the first round of the district playoffs.

“I was upset that we lost…so I was like, ‘I really like playing basketball, and I like being on the team, so what is a good way for me to get better?’ So, I just kind of worked that whole summer just to get better and be in a position to play.”

That she did — developing into one of the Bay Area’s top post players, and leading the Seahawks to three straight winning seasons and regional appearances.

Of her 81 career games played, one she’ll never forget is defeating Land O’ Lakes High her sophomore year in the district semifinals, 54-20. (Sunlake later defeated Springstead to capture the Class 6A district title). Said Wallace, “That was like a moment that I’ll always remember forever because we’d never, ever won anything like that. …To win our district championship and beat Land O’ Lakes High School was like really, really big.”

Meanwhile, Wallace said balancing all her commitments and responsibilities—academically, athletically, socially — at times “gets really, really difficult.”

But, she doesn’t let the pressure rattle her.

“It’s really easy to just say, ‘You know what, I’m not going to do that today.’ Like, it’s super easy to give up, so you just have to stay focused on the bigger goal,” she said.

It’s a message she often bestows on others, including her fellow teammates on achieving their dreams: “If you want to be the best, then you have to do something about it. …What can you do to push yourself to a bigger level?”

The Foot Locker Scholar Athletes program began in 2011, which has resulted in

140 total scholarship recipients over that time.

Published April 25, 2018

She wants to make sure girls’ voices are heard

April 25, 2018 By B.C. Manion

Lindsey Turnbull, a former resident of Land O’ Lakes, has been named one of the University of Central Florida’s 30 Under 30 alumni award winners.

Turnbull was recognized for her work as the founder and CEO of MissHeard Media, a platform that offers teen girls the opportunity to elevate their voices and to create community.

MissHeard Media connects girls across the globe by giving them a place to share their stories and experiences, as well as an opportunity to learn new skills that will help them to chart their own course in life.

Lindsey Turnbull, a former resident of Land O’ Lakes, has been honored for her work to give young girls a chance to express themselves.
(Courtesy of Kathy Cabble)

This year’s class of 30 Under 30 award winners includes marketing and communications professionals, entrepreneurs, engineers, software specialists, attorneys, education leaders, doctors, nurses and a football star. Amber Mariano, who represents District 36 of the Florida House of Representatives, which includes a portion of Pasco County, is also on the list, according to a UCF news release.

Turnbull studied history, anthropology and women’s studies at UCF. She also served as the program coordinator for the Young Women Leaders Program.

MissHeard, with its board of teen girls and youth-related professionals, focuses on girl-centered and girl-created content to foster empowered, girl-positive communities.

MissHeard Media seeks “to create a world where all teen girls feel understood, prepared, confident, and most of all, heard,” according to its website.

Turnbull said her parents moved to Land O’ Lakes when she was 7. She attended Sanders Memorial Elementary School, Pine View Middle School and Land O’ Lakes High School.

She received her undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Central Florida before moving to the Washington D.C. area to pursue a career in history and museum studies.

But, a government sequester, which placed a hard cap on government spending, closed off employment opportunities she had hoped to pursue, so she launched MissHeard Media.

MissHeardMedia is an outgrowth of Turnbull’s experience at the University of Central Florida, where she worked closely with teenage girls.

“What I really discovered was that all of these teen girls were really smart and funny, and had all of these really interesting things to say, but nobody was really asking them what they thought,” Turnbull said.

“I thought to myself: One day, I’m going to do something so everyone will know how awesome teen girls are,” she said.

That day came sooner than she expected.

She created MissHeardMedia.com to give girls a platform for girls to share their stories.

But, she also realized that she missed working directly with girls, so she began offering workshops. She also does speaking engagements.

“Most of what I do is in the D.C. area, right now,” she said.

Soon, she’ll be offering a summer workshop, which will focus on mixing creativity with technology, she said.

“We’re going to do an overview of all kinds of different ways to be creative,” she said.

“We still have the blog, which has stories from girls around the world. We have a teen advisory board, and they submit a lot of the writing,” she said.

Turnbull wants to create the opportunity for girls to be heard — both by their peers, but also by society, in general.

“I think what a lot of people may not realize is that teen girls are very aware of what’s going on in the world, and they want to make a difference and see change. I don’t think a lot of adults realize that.

“I know when the Parkland activists started speaking out after the shooting, all of these adults were like, ‘Teenagers don’t care about this. Why should they have a say? Why should we listen to them?

“And, as someone who has been working with girls for 10 years, I was like, ‘Of course they have things to say. You probably had things to say when you were 16,” Turnbull said.

To find out more about Turnbull’s work, visit MissHeardMedia.com.

If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Turnbull at (727) 491-3922 or email .

Published April 25, 2018

Spring football preview for area teams

April 25, 2018 By Kevin Weiss

Spring football practices are underway at high schools across the state — though the first games of the 2018 season remain several months away.

Florida high schools are allowed a maximum of 20 practice sessions from April 23 to May 31, according to Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) guidelines.

Here are five points to consider as spring practices ramp up:

How does Academy at the Lakes follow last year’s championship season?
The Academy at the Lakes Wildcats capped off a remarkable 11-1 season by winning the school’s first-ever eight-man state football championship.

Academy at the Lakes won the FCAPPS (Florida Christian Association of Private and Parochial Schools) eight-man state title en route to an 11-1 season in 2017. (File)

What will they do for an encore?
For starters, the Wildcats will need to manage without running back/linebacker Daniel Gonzalez, one of the most dominant two-way players in the Florida 8-man ranks. Besides rushing for more than 1,000 yards and scoring 25 total touchdowns, the team captain was equally dominant on defense with138 total tackles and 7.5 sacks. Gonzalez isn’t the only significant departure. The Wildcats also must find reinforcements for other All-State players including wideout Isaiah Smith, kicker Zachary Moore and All-Conference center Evan Lutz.

But, the cupboard isn’t totally bare on either side of the ball.

Key returnees include sophomore quarterback Jalen Brown (684 passing yards, 19 total touchdowns, one interception); senior tailback Jamaal Johnson (725 scrimmage yards, nine total touchdowns); and a pair of All-State honorees in senior defensive lineman Dylan Price (98 total tackles, 15.5 sacks) and sophomore offensive lineman Andrew Kilfoyl.

Also working in the Academy’s favor is the return of head coach Shawn Brown, who was recently named Florida Christian Association of Private and Parochial Schools (FCAPPS) Football Coach of the Year. Many of his assistants are expected to return, too.

Chad Walker, a former college coach, is Land O’ Lakes High’s new varsity football coach.
(File)

Can Land O’ Lakes turn the corner with its new coaching staff?
With new head coach Chad Walker in place, Land O’ Lakes hopes to reverse its streak of four consecutive losing seasons. Even at just 34, Walker brings a wealth of experience as a former college coach and professional player in Europe — knowledge he’ll use to try to inject excitement to one of the county’s most historic programs.

The Gators — coming off a 4-5 mark last year under former coach Brian Wachtel — won’t require a complete rebuild; they likely will feature some different schemes and wrinkles under the new coaching staff. Working in the program’s favor is a sizable senior class that includes 1,000-yard running back Kyle Leivas, leading pass catcher Nate Howard (14 receptions, 202 yards, one touchdown), and top defender Myron Bloom (76 total tacklers, five tackles for loss, two sacks). The role of quarterback, however, remains a question because of Ethan Forrester’s transfer to Wharton High School. Forrester, a rising junior, threw for nearly 800 yards along with five touchdowns and seven interceptions.

Will Cypress Creek show improvements in the program’s second year?
First-year sports programs typically struggle.

Cypress Creek High went 0-10 in their inaugural football season in 2017. (Courtesy of Cypress Creek Football)

Such was the case with newer Pasco County programs like both Sunlake and Wiregrass Ranch high schools back in 2007, when those programs went 0-10 and 1-9, respectively.

The same was true, more recently, for Cypress Creek, which completed its inaugural slate of 10 games without a single win. A new, young coaching staff combined with a senior-free roster and a mix of challenging opponents made Year One a long one, in which the Coyotes failed to score in seven games.

But, don’t be surprised to see the tide to shift a little in 2018 under second-year head coach Mike Johnson. He’ll finally have a large group of seniors at his disposal, including a talented pair of offensive playmakers in Devin Santana (10 receptions, 134 yards) and 6-foot-4 target Trevor Maxwell (10 receptions, 75 yards). Of course, development at the quarterback spot will be key. Rising junior Jehlani Warren completed just 37 percent of his passes and threw seven interceptions last season.

Can Zephyrhills continue winning without Charles Harrison III?
Whoever is named Zephyrhills High’s next starting quarterback no doubt has big shoes to fill.

The Zephyrhills High Bulldogs must replace graduating quarterback and three-year starter Charles Harrison III. (File)

For the past three years, the Bulldogs were fortunate to have one the county’s most prolific athletes under center in Charles Harrison III. He guided the Bulldogs to three consecutive playoffs appearances, including its first 10-win season in more than 20 years. Along with his on-field leadership, Bulldogs fans won’t soon forget the left-handed quarterback’s flashy playmaking ability with his arm and legs. That was most evident in last season, when Harrison III tallied 47 total touchdowns and more than 3,100 yards — numbers good enough to earn him Sunshine Athletic Conference Offensive Player of the Year.

He won’t be the only major departure from the defending District 8-5A champions, however. The Bulldogs also lose 1,000-yard rusher Elijah Thomas and several key defenders, including Zac Masci, Myles Carter and Sterlin Williams.

Even so, don’t be surprised if Zephyrhills finds a way to notch an eighth-straight winning season. Besides a steadying coaching presence in third-year head coach Nick Carroll, the Bulldogs have arguably the county’s most talented and explosive receiving corps in Ja’Quan Sheppard, Tre’Pavis Mobley, Cartrell Strong and Tyrese Wigfall. Both Sheppard and Strong hold Division I FBS offers.

Is Pasco in store for a winning season?
The Pasco High Pirates are looking to avoid a fourth-consecutive losing season. They were on track early in 2017 winning their first two contests. But, they ended the season on a six-game losing streak — including a 42-13 sour defeat to crosstown rival Zephyrhills in the season finale.

Pasco High is looking to avoid a fourth-straight losing season in 2018.
(Courtesy of Pasco High Football)

On the surface, the Pirates have the offensive talent to find more success this time around. Experienced senior quarterback Dylan Wood should have ample help with senior running backs Early Knight (778 yards, six touchdowns) and Jacquez Mobley (551 scrimmage yards, four touchdowns), along with one of the county’s most lethal receiving threats in junior wideout Darrion Robinson (25 receptions, 577 yards, eight touchdowns) — who’s also a threat in the defensive secondary (four interceptions, three passes defensed).

Defense as a whole, however, could once again pose issues as the Pirates graduate its top 11 tacklers from last season, including All-Conference linebacker Cameron Smith. The Pirates allowed nearly 30 points per game last season.

A challenging 2018 schedule won’t help matters, either. Just three if its 10 opponents (Gulf, Cypress Creek, Sunlake) had losing campaigns a year ago.

Five players to watch:

Chris Butash, quarterback, Carrollwood Day School, senior
Dylan Ridolph, linebacker, Wiregrass Ranch, junior
Jeromy Reid, running back, Gaither, senior
Deon Silas, running back, Steinbrenner, sophomore
Javion Hanner, running back/cornerback, Zephyrhills Christian Academy, senior

Schools in Laker/Lutz News Coverage Area (and their 2017 records)
Hillsborough County:

Carrollwood Day School Patriots (Class 2A-Region 3): (2-7 overall, 1-2 district)
Freedom High School Patriots (Class 7A-Region 8): (3-6 overall, 2-4 district)
Gaither High School Cowboys (Class 7A-Region 8): (7-4 overall, 5-1 district)
Steinbrenner High School Warriors (Class 8A-Region 6): (2-7 overall, 1-5 district)

Pasco County:

Academy at the Lakes Wildcats (8-man-Florida Christian Region 2): (11-1 overall, 7-0 district)
Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School Hurricanes (Independent-Sunshine State Athletic Conference (SSAC): (3-7 overall, 2-2 district)
Cypress Creek Middle High School Coyotes (Class 4A-Region 3): (0-11 overall, 0-0 district)
Land O’ Lakes High School Gators (Class 6A-Region 6): (4-5 overall, 1-3 district)
Pasco High School Pirates (Class 6A-Region 6): (4-7 overall, 0-4 district)
Sunlake High School Seahawks (Class 6A-Region 6): (4-6 overall, 2-2 district)
Wesley Chapel High School Wildcats (Class 5A-Region 8): (6-4 overall, 4-3 district)
Wiregrass Ranch High School Bulls (Class 7A-Region 8): (9-3 overall, 4-2 district)
Zephyrhills High School Bulldogs (Class 5A-Region 8): (10-2 overall, 7-0 district)
Zephyrhills Christian Academy Warriors (Class 2A-Region 2): (8-3 overall, 0-1 district)

Spring game schedule
May 17
Zephyrhills Christian Academy at Cypress Creek, 7 p.m.
Lecanto at Land O’ Lakes, 7 p.m.
Mitchell at Wesley Chapel 7 p.m.
Zephyrhills at East Ridge, 7 p.m.
Jamboree: Alonso, Gaither, Steinbrenner at Sickles, 6 p.m.
Jamboree: Freedom, Hillsborough, King at Wharton, 6 p.m.

May 18
Hernando at Sunlake, 7 p.m.
Wiregrass Ranch at Tampa Catholic, 7p.m.
Pasco at Fivay, 7 p.m.

May 19
Carrollwood Day at Bishop McLaughlin, 1 p.m.

May 24
Jamboree: Lakeside Christian, Solid Rock, Academy at the Lakes at Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, 6 p.m.

Published April 25, 2018

Wiregrass Ranch boys lacrosse thrives in first FHSAA campaign

April 18, 2018 By Kevin Weiss

As several Pasco County schools this year fielded inaugural FHSAA (Florida High School Athletic Association) varsity lacrosse programs, one newcomer stands above the rest.

The Wiregrass Ranch High School boys lacrosse team recently clinched the No. 2 seed in District 15 — best among all Pasco County schools.

And, a win in the district playoffs this week guarantees a spot in the regional tournament on April 27.

The Wiregrass Ranch High boys lacrosse program has experienced immediate success in its transition to Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) competition. The team is 12-2 and 7-1 in district play, as of April 15. A win this week in the district playoffs qualifies them for regional play, which begins April 27. (Courtesy of Danielle Leggett)

As of April 15, the team stands with a 12-2 record and 7-1 district mark.

A club team last year competing in the Florida Gulf Coast Lacrosse League, the Bulls have had little trouble transitioning to FHSAA play under second-year head coach T.J. Fitzsimons.

Its success is evident by the Bulls’ current nine-game win streak and its ease in dismantling other Pasco schools, including Sunlake (14-2 win on Feb. 28; 15-5 win on March 16); Wesley Chapel (11-4 win on March 29); and Mitchell (14-6 win on April 4).

Meanwhile, its lone defeats have been at the hands of well-established Hillsborough County programs at Sickles and Newsome, who stand 15-2 and 13-2, respectively.

“We had some thoughts from people that we’d be good, but nobody expected us to be where we’re at,” said Fitzsimons, a former NCAA Division III lacrosse player at State University of New York Maritime College in the Bronx.

“We’ve turned a lot of heads this year,” he said.

The coach credits a large, skilled group of upperclassman—nine seniors and eight juniors—many who have played for years through the Wesley Chapel Athletic Association youth lacrosse program.

Fitzsimons explained: “Most of the guys that are seniors this year have been playing together for almost eight years now…since they started at like 10 years old. We’ve got a solid group of about 16 solid players—and you only need 10 to play the game.”

Senior defender Patrick Sullivan noted the group’s leadership, too, has proved critical to its winning ways.

“We…keep people going. “We’ve got some really good guys who get people excited,” Sullivan said.

One of those seniors leading the charge is attacker Jeremy Handman, also a team captain.

Handman, who leads the team with 41 goals, has signed to play NCAA Division II lacrosse at South New Hampshire University — the Bulls only committed college player.

He follows in the footsteps of his older brother, Jeffrey, who’s a senior lacrosse player at NCAA Division II Lincoln-Memorial University in Harrogate, Tennessee.

Handman, a lacrosse player for about seven years, said his game “skyrocketed” into a bona-fide college prospect.

“I’m a much better player,” Handman said, comparing his game to his freshman year.

“My passing has been a lot better, and my shooting accuracy has been a lot better.”

Though his contributions on offense don’t go unnoticed, Handman is quick to credit the team’s defensive prowess.

The Bulls average about 11.4 points, while allowing just 6.4 points per game.

“Defense has been huge,” Handman said, applauding the team’s new defensive coach Seth Kanowitz for improvements and adjustments. “He put in the defense, and it’s just gotten so much better since.”

Handman also lauds Fitzsimons for implementing varied offensive combinations and formations, based upon each opponent. “He knows how to change up the offense depending on the defense, so he does a pretty good job with that,” Handman said.

Sanctioning lacrosse at Wiregrass Ranch and other Pasco schools has been in the works the past few years.

In 2016, the Pasco County Lacrosse Alliance (PCLA), a nonprofit organization, announced an agreement with Pasco County Schools to manage the transition of a select number of high school boys and girls lacrosse from a club sport to a FHSAA-sanctioned sport, beginning with the 2018 spring season.

In addition to Wiregrass Ranch, other FHSAA varsity programs in Pasco include Land O’ Lakes (girls team only), Mitchell, Sunlake and Wesley Chapel. Cypress Creek will have an FHSAA-sanctioned girls team in 2019.

The agreement was similar to a three-year pilot program approved for 10 schools in Hillsborough County in 2014.

“It’s one of the fastest growing games in the country,” Fitzsimons said. “Because of the way football is declining, basketball and lacrosse are taking off. The fact that there’s girls and boys on both sides of it is a very good Title IX adjuster.”

Known primarily in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, lacrosse has recently made waves in the Sunshine State.

According to the National Federation of High Schools, Florida saw a 70 percent increase in participation to about 8,600 players from 2008 to 2013.

Moreover, more than 150 Florida schools are currently sanctioned to play for state titles in both girls and boys lacrosse. In 2005, there were 52 schools playing boys lacrosse in the FHSAA and 42 schools playing girls lacrosse.

“What used to be a very Northern sport is getting a lot popular down here,” Sullivan said.

“I think it helps that people come down here a lot from the north, and people pick it up. I know my neighbors started playing. I see young players playing all the time.”

Growing up playing baseball, soccer and football, Sullivan found his true calling with lacrosse and its nonstop action.

“Lacrosse is great because it mixes everything I like about sports,” Sullivan explained. “It’s fast. You get to run. You get into (contact with) people. It doesn’t stop all the time. It’s very fluid. It’s just on the fly.

“It helps to just have a good strategic understanding of how to play the game. It’s critical thinking. You have to be able to think on the fly, because you’re adapting to situations. You’re always adapting to something new,” he said.

The Wiregrass Ranch boys team actually has three players on the roster who never played sanctioned lacrosse and another two who picked up the stick again after not playing for several years.

Fitzsimons said mastering the sport takes ample practice and determination.

“It’s a pretty tough game,” Fitzsimons said.

“Lacrosse is not one of those (easy) games because in order to be out on a field, you have to learn how to throw and catch, you have to learn how to cradle, and how to move the stick; and all that stuff takes time,” the coach explained.

Florida District 15 boys lacrosse standings, as of April 15

Sickles (5-0; 15-2 overall)
Wiregrass Ranch (7-1; 12-2 overall)
Steinbrenner (4-2; 9-8 overall)
Tampa Catholic (0-2; 8-7 overall)
Mitchell (2-3; 5-7 overall)
Sunlake (1-5; 1-7 overall)
Wesley Chapel (0-6; 0-14 overall)

Published April 18, 2018

Land O’ Lakes band trip to states a long time coming

April 4, 2018 By Kevin Weiss

It’s been over a decade since the Land O’ Lakes High School band performed at states.

That wait is over.

The school’s symphonic band will join more than 40 other Florida high schools on April 23 at the State North High School Concert Band Music Performance Assessment (MPA) at Flagler Palm Coast High School, in Palm Coast.

Mitchell High School is the only other public school in Pasco County performing at the meet.

The Land O’ Lakes High School band will perform at the state meet for the first time since 1994. The school’s symphonic band will join more than 40 other Florida high schools on April 23 at the State North High School Concert Band Music Performance Assessment (MPA) at Flagler Palm Coast High School, in Palm Coast. (Courtesy of Johnathon Mulder)

Land O’ Lakes qualified for the state competition after earning straight superior ratings—the highest mark possible — at a district MPA meet in early March at Hernando High School.

The program has met state performance requirements for the meet in previous years, but hasn’t made the trip in 14 years, for a variety of reasons.

First-year Land O’ Lakes band director Johnathon Mulder said one of his main objectives heading into the school year was to take the band to states, if the ensemble qualified.

“This is a big deal to the program because they haven’t gone to the tournament in a really long time,” said Mulder, who previously served as a band teacher for six years at Lakeland’s Kathleen Middle School.

The Land O’ Lakes band consists of more than 70 students, including 19 seniors.

With such a large group, the school district’s fine arts program coordinator, Tom Viking recently helped offset the cost for a second school bus so each student could make the three-hour trip to Palm Coast.

But, the band director also wants to provide meals for each student for the daylong affair. He has set a fundraising goal of $1,100 by April 13.

Band students also have been given sponsorship sheets to raise money.

“We’re just looking for the community to kind of rally behind us and support us, and help those families that can’t fully afford meals,” Mulder said.

At the state competition, Land O’ Lakes will play three prepared pieces before a panel of judges made up of college professors and retired music directors.

With it being the band’s first trip to state since 2004, Mulder has set reasonable expectations, hoping students relish the experience and just try their best.

“While it would be wonderful to go and get straight superiors again at the state level, this is a new experience for all of us,” Mulder said. “For us, what’s going to be successful is going there, preparing the best we can, and putting on the best performance possible. If that results in straight superiors, awesome. And, if it doesn’t, then you know what…I just hope we walk off the stage happy with what we did.”

Besides reaching states, the band performed well throughout the year at events like Lion’s Pride Festival at King High School and Festival of Winds at the University of South Florida, Mulder said.

Individual students were named to all-state and all-county teams, too.

Mulder credited the students’ hard work and dedication, and faith in him as a bandleader, as some reasons for success.

“They blow my mind a lot,” the teacher said. “Since Day One, I’ve kind of had it in my head that this is one of those bands in Pasco County that should be phenomenal.”

Senior band captain Jacob Barber is excited for the group to be making its first trip to states.

“As seniors, the fact we get to go to state MPA is a pretty big deal; it feels pretty good,” said Barber, who has had three different band directors in four years.

“I feel like there’s been a lot more growth this year than there has been in previous years… so I think we’re headed in the right direction.”

Junior saxophone leader Josh Mellin said, “It’s humbling because we haven’t been to a prestigious thing like this in a while.

“Mr. Mulder this year has introduced a lot of new opportunities to us to take as musicians,” added Mellin, whose father is Ric Mellin, principal at Land O’ Lakes High.

“The experience for this year has been unlike my freshman or sophomore year. I’ve had a lot more fun. I’ve seen a lot of people grow, and I hope that (Mulder) stays here for a long time,” he added.

For questions and to donate to the band trip, email .

Anonymous donations also can be mailed to the school, at 20325 Gator Lane in Land O’ Lakes, Florida, 34638.

Published April 5, 2018

Sunshine Athletic Conference awards announced

April 4, 2018 By Kevin Weiss

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

Selections were made for both the East and West division.

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

This is a listing of the recipients within The Laker/Lutz News coverage area:

Winter Sports-Boys
2017-2018 SAC EAST All-Conference

Boys’ Basketball Coach of the Year: Mike Novak, Zephyrhills
Player of the Year: Mekhi Perry, Land O’ Lakes

First-Team All-Conference

Mekhi Perry, Land O’ Lakes, sophomore
Elijah Ramsey, Wiregrass Ranch, junior
Isaiah Ramsey, Wesley Chapel, sophomore
Roney Webster, Pasco, senior
Kurt Robbins, Zephyrhills, senior

Second-Team All-Conference 

Chase Farmer, Land O’ Lakes, sophomore
Jamal Wright, Sunlake, junior
Derico Quiles, Zephyrhills, sophomore
Daniel Biglow, Wiregrass Ranch, senior
Justin Rush, Wiregrass Ranch, senior

Honorable Mention

Trevor Maxwell, Cypress Creek, junior

2017-2018 SAC EAST All-Conference Soccer

Boys’ Soccer Coach of the Year: David Wilson, Wiregrass Ranch High
Offensive Player of the Year: Justin Amis, Wiregrass Ranch
Defensive Player of the Year: Royce Luedde, Wiregrass Ranch

First-Team All-Conference

Justin Amis. Wiregrass Ranch, freshman
Royce Luedde, Wiregrass Ranch, senior
Tyler Dueker, Pasco, senior
Ethan Sternberg, Sunlake, freshman
Ian Flores, Wiregrass Ranch, senior
Malcolm Lewis, Wiregrass Ranch, sophomore
Grant Dresson, Sunlake, senior
Jackson Trudel, Wiregrass Ranch, senior
Anthony Rodriguez, Sunlake, senior
Ryan Al-Khatib, Wiregrass Ranch, senior
Santiago Esparza, Sunlake, senior

Second-Team All-Conference

Jacob Hill, Wiregrass Ranch, senior
Jason Nicolette, Pasco, junior
Javier Todd, Sunlake, junior
JP Torres, Wiregrass Ranch, senior
Jake Rodriguez, Sunlake, sophomore
Collin Corrao, Land O’ Lakes, junior
Jake Bierhurst, Wiregrass Ranch, sophomore
Adam Mihalek, Wiregrass Ranch, freshman
Martin Montoya, Pasco, senior
Sebastian Victoria, Sunlake, freshman
Carter Corrao, Land O’ Lakes, sophomore

Honorable Mention

Carlos Morales, Zephyrhills, sophomore
Tyler Richmond, Wesley Chapel, junior
Marco Svolinsky, Cypress Creek, freshman

2017-2018 SAC EAST All-Conference Wrestling 

Coach of the Year: Sergio Matos, Sunlake
Wrestler of the Year: Khaled Khatib, Wiregrass Ranch

The Sunlake Seahawks wrestling team captured the Sunshine Athletic Conference (SAC) championships in February. Eight Sunlake wrestlers earned All-Conference honors, and their coach, Sergio Matos, was named SAC East Coach of the Year. (File)

First-Team All-Conference 

106-pound: Ross Jennings, Sunlake, senior
113-pound: Sullivan Harris, Sunlake, sophomore
120-pound: Jacob Thornton, Pasco, sophomore
126-pound: Travis Knowlton, Pasco, sophomore
132-pound: Colson Mullis, Pasco, sophomore
138-pound: Sean Gratten, Land O’ Lakes, junior
145-pound: Jake Koener, Sunlake, junior
152-pound: Scott Kren, Land O’ Lakes, junior
160-pound: Khaled Khatib, Wiregrass Ranch, senior
170-pound: Mark Kialer, Wiregrass Ranch, sophomore
182-pound: Tyler Estep, Sunlake, senior
195-pound: Troy Royal, Wesley Chapel, senior
220-pound: Cayman Wiseman, Sunlake, sophomore
Heavyweight: Demetrius Wright, Zephyrhills, sophomore

Second-Team All-Conference

106-pound: Morgan Ray, Land O’ Lakes, freshman
113-pound: Kyle Eldridge, Land O’ Lakes, sophomore
120-pound: Dante Reese, Land O’ Lakes, sophomore
126-pound: Alex Alvarez, Wiregrass Ranch, junior
132-pound: Victor Graves-Velez, Sunlake, junior
138-pound: Alex Hall, Sunlake, junior
145-pound: Victor Nelson, Land O’ Lakes, junior
152-pound: Caleb Dakin, Wesley Chapel, senior
160-pound: Matthew Paduani, Sunlake, junior
170-pound: Greyson Plummer, Land O’ Lakes, senior
182-pound: Cyrus Baker, Land O’ Lakes, sophomore
195-pound: Tim Johnson, Pasco, junior
220-pound: Anthony Jay, Land O’ Lakes
Heavyweight: Tevon Davies, Sunlake, junior

Honorable Mention

Tyson Gillott, Cypress Creek, junior

Winter Sports-Girls
2017-2018 SAC EAST All-Conference Soccer 

Coach of the Year: Mark Leonard, Wesley Chapel
Offensive Player of the Year: Sydny Nasello, Land O’ Lakes
Defensive Player of the Year: Abigail Monken, Sunlake

Six athletes from the Land O’ Lakes girls soccer team earned All-Conference honors. From left, Emma Skantze, Morghan Craven, Brooke Hannigan, Sydny Nasello, Avery Wild and RaeAnna Casler. (Courtesy of Jennifer Craven)

First-Team All-Conference

Sydny Nasello, Land O’ Lakes, senior
Jordan Kadlub, Pasco, junior
Morghan Craven, Land O’ Lakes, senior
Jennifer Luna, Pasco, senior
Karissa Olsen, Wesley Chapel, senior
Brooke Hannigan, Land O’ Lakes, senior
Abigail Monken, Sunlake, senior
Juliana Ponce, Wiregrass, senior
Emma Skantze, Land O’ Lakes, senior
Samantha Gasbarro, Wesley Chapel, senior
Mackenzie Spurling, Wiregrass Ranch, junior

Second-Team All-Conference 

Isabella Jaramillo, Wesley Chapel, senior
Rylind Robinson, Wiregrass Ranch, senior
Nathalie Sawczuk, Pasco, senior
Jessica Amis, Wiregrass Ranch, junior
Avery Wild, Land O’ Lakes, sophomore
Brianna Luna, Pasco, junior
Vyctoria Boger, Wesley Chapel, senior
Ysa Novak, Wiregrass Ranch, junior
Isabella Vazquez, Sunlake, senior
RaeAnna Casler, Land O’ Lakes, junior

Honorable Mention

Caitlyn Leavines, Cypress Creek, junior
Jaydean Ireland, Zephyrhills, sophomore

2017-2018 SAC EAST All-Conference Girls Basketball 

Coach of the Year: Reesa Pledge, Sunlake
Player of the Year: Andrea Wallace, Sunlake

First-Team All-Conference 

Andrea Wallace, Sunlake, senior
Kiara Broner, Pasco, senior
Kasia Ramirez, Sunlake senior
Zoi Evans, Wiregrass Ranch, freshman
Niya Darby, Land O’ Lakes, senior

Second-Team All-Conference 

Alexis Bolden, Wiregrass Ranch, senior
Mary Mora, Sunlake, senior
Valeria Burbano, Wesley Chapel, senior
Alexis Couzens, Wiregrass Ranch, freshman
Chelsea Jones, Zephyrhills, junior

Honorable Mention

Cassidy Middleton, Cypress Creek, junior

2017-2018 SAC EAST All-Conference Competitive Cheerleading 

Coach of the Year: Karlee Roach, Land O’ Lakes
Cheerleader of the Year: Taylor Watson, Wesley Chapel

First-Team All-Conference 

Mikiah Peeples, Sunlake, senior
Juliette Pacheco, Sunlake, sophomore
Hannah Kilmer, Sunlake, sophomore
Taylor Pudoka, Wiregrass Ranch, senior
Emily Weiser, Pasco, senior
Hope Wainraich, Land O’ Lakes, senior
Claire Gottermann, Land O’ Lakes, senior
Reagan Steele, Land O’ Lakes, junior
Taylor Watson, Wesley Chapel, senior
Ashley Regan, Zephyrhills, junior

Second-Team All-Conference 

Taylor Broderick, Sunlake, senior
Hannah Ahonen, Sunlake, senior
Brooke Hodge, Sunlake, junior
Alyssa Loo, Wiregrass Ranch, senior
Alyssa Rodriguez-Urich, Pasco, senior
Emma Runkel, Land O’ Lakes, freshman
Emily Bendert, Land O’ Lakes, senior
Chloe Covington, Wesley Chapel, senior
Zion Morgan, Wesley Chapel, junior
Taryn Clower, Cypress Creek, freshman

Honorable Mention

Paige Zimmer, Zephyrhills, junior
Olivia Michalski, Pasco, senior

2017-2018 SAC East All-Conference Weightlifting 

Coach of the Year: Denise Garcia, Sunlake High
Weightlifter of the Year: Veronica Salazar, Land O’ Lakes

First-Team All-Conference

101-pound: Prestine Carter, Pasco, junior
110-pound: Madison Burnstein, Land O’ Lakes, freshman
119-pound: Madison Kaylor, Pasco, senior
129-pound: Loah Castro, Sunlake, junior
139-pound: Gianna Levy, Sunlake, sophomore
154-pound: Paige Berryman, Sunlake, junior
169-pound: Veronica Salazar, Land O’ Lakes, junior
183-pound: Abigail Schmook, Sunlake, sophomore
199-pound: Jessica Guadarrama, Zephyrhills, senior
Unlimited: Abby Shaffer, Zephyrhills,

Second-Team All-Conference 

101-pound: Allison Price, Wiregrass Ranch, senior
110-pound: Savannah Lee, Wesley Chapel, sophomore
119-pound: Maria Espinal, Sunlake, senior
129-pound: Valerie Busot, Sunlake, junior
139-pound: Juliette Pacheco, Sunlake, sophomore
154-pound: Grace Hrenko, Sunlake, senior
169-pound: Abigail Monticco, Wesley Chapel, senior
183-pound: Alyssa Kramer, Land O’ Lakes, sophomore
199-pound: Antoinette Farmer, Sunlake, sophomore
Unlimited: Cynthia Wilkes, Zephyrhills, junior

Honorable Mention

Amanda Reyes, Cypress Creek, junior

Published April 4, 2018

Offense, cohesion carry Cypress Creek softball

March 28, 2018 By Kevin Weiss

In east and central Pasco County, softball programs such as Academy at the Lakes, Land O’ Lakes, and Sunlake have garnered much of the attention of late.

And, rightly so.

As of March 25, there’s just a single loss combined among the three schools—Sunlake suffered its lone loss to Land O’ Lakes on March 2— and each team ranks among the state’s top 20 or so softball programs.

But, there’s another local program on the rise — quickly proving itself as a force in the Tampa Bay region.

The Cypress Creek Middle High Coyotes sit at 9-4 overall and 6-2 in district play.

The team entered spring break on a four-game winning streak.

Instant success hasn’t come without adversity, however.

A first-year program with no seniors, the Coyotes were forced to play much of their pre-spring break schedule on the road because the team’s new softball field wasn’t game-ready until a week ago.

Team captains, left to right, Anna Margetis, Neely Peterson and Ashley Nickisher are all transfers from Wesley Chapel High School. The trio is no stranger to winning, helping guide the Wildcats to its first winning season and first playoff appearance in 2017.
(Courtesy of Gigante Productions)

Ongoing maintenance also prevented the upstart Coyotes from participating in fall practices together; instead many were forced to train with their respective travel squads up through January, until they were able to practice with Coyotes coaches.

The team also suffered an unexpected depth setback before the season began, forcing a freshman into action and reducing the varsity roster to just 10 regulars.

Outfielder Cassidy Middleton, a .308 hitter as a sophomore last season at Wesley Chapel High School, tore her ACL while playing on the Cypress Creek girls basketball team. She’s been replaced in the lineup by Emma Coon, who’s batting .381 through 46 plate appearances as the team’s lone freshman.

Challenges aside, Cypress Creek sits just a game back of Nature Coast Tech for second place in the District 7-5A standings; each are chasing division-leading Hernando High (10-2 overall, 8-0 districts).

First-year head coach Mike Peterson credited the group’s effort, teamwork, and perseverance for contributing to the team’s strong start.

“They’re working hard in practice, knowing it’s not where we start, it’s where we end. They’re all on the same page. There’s nothing but fight in the girls, which is nice,” Peterson said.

Despite its thin roster, Cypress Creek is heavy on talent.

Opponents facing them quickly discover that the Coyotes feature some of the hottest bats in the region.

The team is batting a combined .403 and averaging about 10 runs per game.

The most potent of the bunch is junior catcher Neely Peterson, the head coach’s daughter and one of the team’s many transfers from Wesley Chapel.

A Colorado State University commit, Peterson sports a whopping .636 average with four home runs, 10 doubles and 29 RBIs — all team highs. Her batting average is second in all of Pasco, trailing only River Ridge’s Hailey Smith (.708).

The standout catcher said she’s become more comfortable and relaxed at the plate, after batting .443 as a sophomore and .290 as a freshman, respectively.

Becoming more relaxed, at the plate
“As I grow older, the less pressure I put on myself the better that I’ll do, because I know that my freshman year, I was really tense to like, ‘I need to make a statement,’ but now I just let my play speak for me,” Neely Peterson said.

Other Coyotes batting over .400 include sophomore first baseman Anna Margetis (.485) and junior infielders Payton Hudson (.471) and Jasmine Jackson (.429).

Juniors Jordan Rosenberg (.382) and Ashley Nickisher (.333, two home runs) join Coon as players hitting above .300.

That menacing offensive skill has helped gain early, sizable leads in road games, putting stress on home teams by making them play catch-up the rest of the way.

Employing that score early-score often strategy, the team has come to embrace road games, Neely Peterson said.

“We almost didn’t like playing at home because when you’re on the road you get to hit first so we like putting up those runs, so we kind of got acclimated to playing on the road. But, we like playing here (at home), obviously,” Neely Peterson said.

A prime example came in a recent 16-0 road victory against Fivay High School. The Coyotes scored 10 runs in the first inning and six in the second to mercy rule the host Falcons in three innings.

“When you’re able to score the first runs in the first inning you get that confidence of, ‘Oh, we’ve got this,’ whereas, at home, you have to hold them first and then go,” Nickisher said.

“Playing games on the road, you really have to get your mind set because you’re going into their house. And, you want to show what you have,” Margetis said.

Cypress Creek’s pitching—somewhat of a question mark entering the season—has also proven resourceful.

Junior Avery Lee—a Wiregrass Ranch High transfer—has a 2.47 ERA and 25 strikeouts in 68 innings pitched.

“We have a solid foundation. Avery’s come in and has given us solid innings, solid outings, worked on her mental toughness; she’s been terrific,” Mike Peterson said.

Sticking together is key to success
While the team prides itself on strong hitting and crafty pitching, the Coyotes head coach stressed improvements must be made on the defensive end in order to hang against better competition. The team has committed 23 errors this season.

“I have no doubt that we can hit with any team. It’s just we get a couple of mental lapses in the field that have hurt us in a couple of games. We clean that up, we’ll be fine,” Mike Peterson explained.

“I tell them, ‘There’s nothing you guys can’t accomplish if you stick together as a team, play as a team, ” he added.

With their cohesiveness and unwavering attitude, players are confident the team can make some noise come playoff time in late April.

Many know the feeling because they were members of last year’s Wesley Chapel varsity squad that experienced its first winning season and playoff appearance in program history. That team went 19-7 and advanced to the regional semifinals.

“We work together and we trust each other…and we’re just able to work together and have each other’s back,” Nickisher said, acknowledging she was initially upset to leave Wesley Chapel.

“Everyone on this team wants to help each other, no matter if we’re doing good or not,” she added.

“I think we’re having a lot of fun with it, and that’s a big part,” Neely Peterson said. “I think that our mindset really is to win and, if we don’t, we’ll make it difficult for the other team to beat us. I think we’re all really competitive in the sense that we really want to win. We’ve had some tough losses, but we know that we’re going to play them again — teams like Hernando and Nature Coast — so we get a second chance so that’s good.”

Margetis added: “These games—they matter—but when districts come around, I feel like we’ll dig deep and find out what we really have to do to beat the opponents.”

School pride also is at stake.

Other boys and girls sports programs at Cypress Creek have mainly struggled in their first year, but the softball team is bucking that trend.

“It’s just wanting to be the team…that everybody can look to and say, ‘Hey, they’re doing something right.’” Neely Peterson said.

Cypress Creek Coyotes varsity softball roster

Alexis Aponte, outfielder, sophomore
Emma Coon, outfielder, freshman
Payton Hudson, middle infielder junior
Jasmine Jackson, middle infielder, junior
Avery Lee, pitcher, junior
Anna Margetis, first baseman, sophomore
Cassidy Middleton, outfielder, junior
Paige Mulford, outfielder, junior
Ashley Nickisher, third baseman, junior
Neely Peterson, catcher, junior
Jordan Rosenberg, utility/pitcher, junior

District 7-5A Standings (as of March 25)
Team records

Hernando — (10-2 overall, 8-0 district)
Nature Coast Tech — (9-5 overall, 7-1 district)
Cypress Creek — (9-4 overall, 6-2 district)
Hudson — (6-7 overall, 2-3 district)
Gulf — (3-9 overall, 2-5 district)
Central — (2-9 overall, 2-6 district)
Fivay — (0-12 overall, 0-6 district
Ridgewood — (1-13 overall, 0-7 district)

Published March 28, 2018

Solid year for local hoops

March 14, 2018 By Kevin Weiss

Florida high school basketball has wrapped up, and while no teams from The Laker/Lutz News coverage area won a state title, several boys and girls squads nonetheless achieved impressive performances during the 2017-2018 season.

Here’s a look back at some of the teams and players who stood out:

Boys
Carrollwood Day School Patriots (Class 4A)
Record: 24-4 overall, 8-1 district 4-4A

Four more points — that’s how much Carrollwood Day School needed to clinch a win to reach the Class 4A Final Four.

The Patriots lost to Oviedo Master’s Academy 71-68 in the region finals on Feb. 27.

Yet nothing should be taken away from first-year coach Teddy Owens, a former assistant at the University of Nebraska.

Owens tripled the Patriots’ win total from the prior year — the team went 8-12 during the 2016-2017 season — and steered the program to its first winning season since 2012.

A bevy of talent helped, too.

The Patriots had one of the Tampa Bay area’s most electrifying players in 6-foot-1 junior guard Malcolm Whitlow, who averaged a whopping 32 points, seven assists and nine rebounds per game, and set a school-record 47 points during a game against Durant High in January. The program also received major contributions from 6-foot-3 guard Edgar Ziegler (17.5 points, 4.6 rebounds) and 6-foot-8 senior center Owen Mixon (10.9 points, 10.5 rebounds).

Keystone Prep Knights (Class 2A)
Record: 20-10 overall, 10-3 district 4-2A

Keystone Prep boys basketball celebrated its first 20-win season and first district championship. The Odessa-based school was also just one win away from reaching the Class 2A state semifinals. (Courtesy of Keystone Prep High School)

It was a year of firsts for Keystone Prep.

The Odessa-based school celebrated its first 20-win season, first district tournament win, first district championship, first playoff win and first region final appearance — and was just one win away from the Class 2A state semifinals.

It was an utter turnaround from last season, when the Knights won just four games.

Keystone Prep was particularly dominant throughout district play, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 36 points.

The team was led by a trio of seniors in Myikel Wilson (19.6 points, 5.7 assists, 5.3 rebounds, 5.7 steals), Ryan Sanders (14.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, 3.1 steals) and Jairen Embry (10.4 points, 3.8 assists, 3.5 rebounds, 3.3 steals).

Despite losing a strong senior class, the Knights may to be in good shape next season should they return juniors James Pursley (14 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.3 blocks), Jalon Pittman (11.9 points, 9.7 rebounds, 1.7 blocks) and Mario Lovett (8.8 points, 4.7 rebounds).

It also helps that the program has a young, up-and-coming coach in Matt Grossenbach. An alumnus of Academy at the Lakes, Grossenbach was that school’s first player — male or female — to score more than 1,000 career points (1,189). He later served as an assistant coach at the Academy before taking the Keystone Prep gig.

Wharton High Wildcats (Class 8A)
Record: 23-6 overall, 11-3 district 8-8A)

Under longtime head coach Tommy Tonelli, Wharton High once again showed itself as one of Tampa Bay’s most consistent hoops programs, by surpassing the 20-win mark for the ninth straight season.

They did so in exciting fashion, too.

In addition to a nail-biting 51-50 victory over Bartow High in the Class 8A region quarterfinal, Wharton finally downed crosstown rival Plant High to capture its first district crown since 2014. The Wildcats lost to Plant twice earlier in the season before getting revenge a third time around.

The Wildcats next season will be without three players who are 6-foot-4 or taller in

team captains Ryan Anders and DJ Henderson, and Nate Barnes.

However, the team will return top player and Division I prospect Darin Green Jr., a 6-foot-4 junior shooting guard, who claims scholarship offers from a handful of mid-majors, including Cal State-Fullerton, Florida Gulf Coast and Rider universities.

Other notable boys teams:

Land O’ Lakes High Gators (18-8 overall, 4-2 district 8-7A)
Wiregrass Ranch High Bulls (17-9 overall, district 8-8A)
Wesley Chapel High Wildcats (16-11 overall, 10-6 district 8-6A)
Zephyrhills High Bulldogs (20-9 overall, 14-4 district 8-6A)

Other notable boys players:

Elijah Howell, junior, Wiregrass Ranch: 12.4 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 1.8 APG, 1.7 SPG
Mekhi Perry, sophomore, Land O’ Lakes: 17 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 4.3 APG, 1.3 SPG
Isaiah Ramsey, sophomore, Wesley Chapel: 18.7 PPG, 4.9 RPG
Angelo Sardegna, junior, Steinbrenner: 12.6 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 1.7 APG, 1.3 SPG
Roney Webster, senior, Pasco: 18.3 PPG, 6.3 RPG
Jamaal Wright, junior, Sunlake: 15.5 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 1.4 SPG, 1.3 BPG

Girls

Carrollwood Day School Patriots (Class 4A)
Record: 28-4 overall, 8-1 district 4-4A

After a resounding 32-point victory over Gainesville P.K. Yonge in the Class 4A state semifinals, it appeared as though Carrollwood Day School was well on its way to a state championship. Alas, the Patriots run fell just short after losing to Miami Country Day — with that team claiming its fifth straight state title.

Even so, the Patriots are no flash in the pan.

Its entire roster is comprised of six sophomores, two eighth-graders, a junior and a freshman. Four of those players — each a sophomore— averaged double figures in scoring: Tarriyonna Gary (15 points), Tiasia McMillan (14 points), Nabaweeyah McGill (12.6 points) and Cairah Mays (10.1 points).

Additionally, the team is coached by Karim Nohra, one of the most successful girls basketball coaches in Tampa. The Patriots also won 28 games last year — Nohra’s first with the program after leaving Academy at the Lakes.

Sunlake High Seahawks (Class 7A)
Record: 20-8 overall, 6-1 district 8-7A

Buoyed be a senior-laden group of contributors, Sunlake won 20 games for the first time in school history, captured its third straight district title, and fell just one win shy of reaching the Class 7A Final Four. They also earned a four-game sweep of district rival Mitchell High.

Its ability to force turnovers proved troubling for opposing offenses all season long. The Seahawks allowed just 39 points per game and gave up 50 or more points in just five contests.

Like last season — when the team won 18 games — the Seahawks were carried primarily by the same four players: 6-foot-1 forward and double-double machine Andrea Wallace (13.3 points, 10.6 rebounds) and guards Kasia Ramirez, Mary Moran and Elizabeth Moran. All seniors, finding capable replacements will be a must for the team to have a fourth straight winning season in 2019.

Wiregrass Ranch High Bulls (Class 8A)
Record: 20-9, 11-3 district 8-8A)

Wiregrass Ranch celebrated yet another 20-win season— it’s fifth straight and sixth in the last seven years under head coach John Gant. No small task as the Bulls play in a tough district that also features Plant, Steinbrenner and Freedom high schools. More striking, perhaps, is the Bulls’ extremely young roster. Outside of senior guard Alexis Bolden (10.8 points), the 2018 team was composed entirely of freshman and sophomores. That means Wiregrass should be exciting to watch for the next several years, thanks in part to the freshman duo of 6-foot-2 forward Zoi Evans (11.6 points, 11.4 rebounds) and 5-foot-7 guard Alexis Couzens (9.9 points, 4 rebounds).

Other notable girls teams:

Steinbrenner High (15-10 overall, 10-4 district 8-8A)

Other notable girls players:

Kiara Broner, senior, Pasco: 14.6 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 2.6 APG, 2.6 SPG
Valeria Burbano, senior, Wesley Chapel: 9.9 PPG, 12.1 RPG, 5.2 SPG
Regina Henry, senior, Wharton: 8.1 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 2.0 SPG
Isabella Prada, freshman, Bishop McLaughlin: 16 PPG, 3.2 APG, 3 RPG, 4 SPG
Ashauna Jones, freshman, Zephyrhills Christian Academy: 10.8 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 2.1 SPG
Lexi Kilfoyl, junior, Academy at the Lakes: 11 PPG, 10.4 RPG, 5 BPG

–Stats compiled using MaxPreps.com—

Published March 14, 2018