FSN #50 8/25/17 - 9/5/17

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Volume 2 • Issue 50

August 25 - Sept 5 2017

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FOOTBALL PREVIEW ORANGE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLS

Photos by Bob Gall

Featuring: West Orange, Foundation, Winderemere Prep, Olympia, and MUCH MORE...

Page 2 Florida Sporting News • 8/25/17 - 9/5/17

Olympia High – Titans WINDERMERE – The past couple of years have been relatively good for the Olympia Titans, mainly thanks to the introduction of head coach Kyle Hayes in 2015. In 2014 the Titans held a disappointing (1-10) record, but since Hayes joined the organization, the Titans have gone (7-4) and (6-5) in 2015 and 2016 respectively. The Titans will be looking to continue their recent success and even improve on it.

On the defensive side of things the Titans do not look weak by any means. Senior T-Roy Golden can be counted on to lead the defense as he averaged 5.2 tackles per game as well as 5 sacks and should be a major concern for any opposing

by Kaden Bauer years, most recently earning a (3-1) record only losing to their rivals, the Dr. Phillips Panthers in 2016. The Titans should be looking to continue with their steady rise and finish with a similar district record this year.

The toughest competition will obviously come from Dr. Phillips, followed by the Oak Ridge Pioneers.

The first regular season game for the Olympia Titans will be against their other rivals, the West Orange Warriors on Friday August 25th at Coach Hayes will West Orange in what not be short on expromises to be an exciting game. This perienced returning upperclassman should prove to be to lead the team. a good test for all of the hard work that the They will be led Titans have underwent by quarterback Joe Milton who threw during the preseason.

The Titans home for an impressive opener will be on Sep1543 yards and 17 touchdowns last tember 1st against the season and rushed Ocoee Knights. This Jordan Underwood, Josh Green, Joe Milton, Ronald Teague, James Lynch, T-Roy Golden, for 42 yards and 3 will be the first opporBrandon Young, Antonio Carter, Clay Adams, & Josh Hearst touchdowns. Miltunity for the students ton should have a of Olympia to see strong wide receiver to throw to in senior Jordan offensive side. Other upperclassman that will be firsthand just how well their team has improved.

Underwood who in 18 receptions, gained 540 making an appearance for the Titans include seWith the season fast approaching, Olympia will yards and 9 touchdowns – the longest of which niors Josh Green, Brandon Young, Josh Hearst, be working hard on and off the field in order to was an impressive 76 yards. The Titans will also and juniors James Lynch JR., Antonio Carter, and make sure that they are fully prepared for the have a deadly running back in senior Ronald Clay Adams. first game. If past seasons are anything to go by, Teague who ran 151 yards and 2 touchdowns in The Olympia Titans have steadily made progress Coach Hayes and the Titans should have a great 26 carries averaging 5.8 yards per carry last seaseason ahead of them. in their district rankings over the past couple of son.

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8/25/17 - 9/5/17 • Florida Sporting News

Dr. Phillips High - Panthers

Michael Fox, Devarius Bargnare, John Campbell, Devodney Alford, Joe Guila

Page 3

Page 4 Florida Sporting News • 8/25/17 - 9/5/17

The First Academy – Royals

by Greyson Everidge

Alex Eleyssami, JL Fleming, Coach Leroy Kinard, Parker Mara, Michael Shanahan ORLANDO – The First Academy, led by Head Coach Leroy Kinard, went (9-0) last regular season, coming up short of a win in the first round of the playoffs after a 28-14 loss to Berkeley Prep. With seven returning offensive players, six returning defensive players and six new players altogether, there is an interesting mix of old and new for the Royals this season.

Senior quarterback Alex Eleysammi, who stands at 6’1 190lbs will head the attacking game for the Royals in his final season for the school. Joining Eleysammi is senior wide receiver and running back Parker Mara. Five more seniors also lead the Royals in tight end Mike Shanahan, fullback JL Fleming, offensive lineman Treylan Barton, defensive lineman Jackson Toth and offensive lineman Dane Harrington.

There are also a good number of underclassmen on the team who will be making their first varsity appearances come the start of this season. This includes defensive end Hunter Smallback, junior, running back Rolous Frazier III, junior, and wide receiver and defensive back Alex Shields, sophomore.

On the field, goals set forth for the season include making a playoff run, something the Royals fell just short of last season. They also want to practice smart, easing in younger players to gain experience while remaining injury free throughout the course of the 2017 campaign.

These players have played well this preseason, and Kinard feels as if it has been going well to this point.

Due to their youth, Kinard also feels as if the Royals will be a stronger team the second half of the year after players get playing time under their belt.

“It’s been a good pre-season and I like what I see.” said Kinard. “We just have to figure out a way to play smart football as our young guys learn how to compete on the varsity level.”

Off the field, Kinard and his staff hope to help accomplish the mission of the school through football, by helping the players to become better men, better husbands, better people, players and fathers.

8/25/17 - 9/5/17 • Florida Sporting News

Apopka High – Darters

Coach Rick Darlington APOPKA – This year’s Fall Kickoff Classic saw two of the most dominant names in central Florida football face off in a match worthy of a state final. The Apopka Blue Darters faced off against the Mainland Buccaneers in an epic match on Friday, August 18th on Apopka’s home turf.

The home field advantage may have helped the Blue Darters as they did come on top of the Buccaneers in an exciting 26-14 game.

The key proponent of the game turned out to be an impressive showing from the Blue Darters running back Cornelius Williams.

Williams, who is only a junior, ran for 181 yards in 10 carriers, including three touchdowns and a head-turning 84 yard touchdown in the first half. Apopka’s defense also showed up to play and stopped the Buccaneers twice inside the red zone.

After a disappointing first half, Mainland started to make a comeback in the second half. The Buccaneers were led by Ocoee transfer Jake Novello who threw for 254 yards and one touchdown while completing 17 of his 31 passes throughout the game. The downside of those impressive stats are the two interceptions that Novello threw. Novello also threw two interceptions which is not all that bad if you consider the fact that he was being chased around the entire game by a persistent Apopka defensive line.

While this is not a regular season game and holds no real consequences, this game was a testament for both teams on their ability to compete against tough opposition.

by Kaden Bauer

Page 5

Page 6 Florida Sporting News • 8/25/17 - 9/5/17

Corner Stone Charter – Ducks ORLANDO – The Corner Stone Charter Ducks had a poor showing in the 2016 year, finishing (1-9) for the year. Not up to par, the school brought in a new Head Coach, Jim Pusateri to help get the Ducks back on a winning track in the 2017. With some new inspired leadership, a mix of experienced and youngers and a desire to win games, the Ducks have a real opportunity to giving the team – and school – a new and improved reputation and look.

Cornerstone are returning 12 players from the 2016 year to help win games this season. Perhaps more interesting is the addition of a hefty bunch of new players, 16 of them, to give Pusateri the advantage and spark he is looking for that the Ducks clearly lacked last season.

Key players for the Ducks include senior defensive and offensive lineman Connor Brannon, and

quarterback Scotty Rashko. Also joining in as a key part of the new attack for the Ducks is wide receiver and senior Tyree Kenon. Senior fullback and line back Micheal Lockhart and senior running back Thomas Gibson are also players to watch this season.

Underclassmen including junior tight end Jacob Rebaja, junior running back Angel Delarose and sophomore defensive end and offensive lineman Jayden Valentine bring youth to the team as they look to breakthrough as key players this year for the Ducks.

In his first year at the school, Pusateri sees creating a new offensive and defensive system as one of the top priorities for Cornerstone. Coach Paul Knight joins the new and exciting coaching staff.

“We hope to get better one day at a time.” said Pusateri. “The goal is to improve on the past

by Greyson Everidge record and establish a tradition of success.”

As far as preseason goes, things are going well for the Ducks.

“Players have bought into the new system of practice, offensive and defensive schemes and have worked very hard at getting better each day.

We are a young team looking to grow as the year proceeds.” said Pusateri.

Contrary to last season, things are looking up and a sense of urgency surrounds the team, which is played in part by the staunch efforts of head coach Pusateri.

The coaching staff, Pusateri and all those involved are looking forward to see their players grow not only as football players, but students and more importantly great young men.

Gabriel Barbosa, Jayden Valentine, Jacob Rabaja, Julio Manley, Coach Jim Pusateri, Andrew Redmond, Thomas Gibson, Michael Lockhart, Noah Washick

8/25/17 - 9/5/17 • Florida Sporting News

Windermere Prep – Lakers

Page 7

by Greyson Everidge

WINDERMERE – The Windermere Prep Lakers Blake Stillwell and Khadry Jackson. Jackson is Doss also brought on a new defensive coordinaand Head Coach Jacob Doss have much to look a transfer from Olympia high school and will tor, whom he hopes will help bolster the defenforward to this 2017 football season. Last season, be playing his first season as a Laker. Stillwell, sive side of the game for the Lakers and create a Doss and his team went (10-1) to reach far into although a Laker last year, will play his first year more aggressive line. the regional championship “We’ve had a great playoffs. preseason camp. We At the end of last season, the have limited numbers Lakers graduated two talentso many the boys are ed offensive linemen, both of having to play both whom are playing in college. sides of the ball.” said As a result, the Lakers have Doss. “It is imperative a young offensive line – with they are in great shape, plenty of ability none the less. so we have been having Key players for Windermere high tempo practices Prep include returning quarwith conditioning built terback Kai Patterson running in practice. We are back Ismael Cortel, who both hoping to stay healthy played key roles for Winderand have another great mere last season and will no season!” doubt continue to perform With experience, reat the top of their game for a turning players, addisecond year. tions on both the player “It is my hope that we can conand coach’s side and a tinue to be successful balancdedicated head coach ing the run and passing game,” with a strong winning Ross Fournet, Mason Russell, Jared Blount, Geo Green, Coach Rob Hollway, Coach Jacob said Doss. “We believe we are record, the WinderDoss, Kai Patterson, Ismael Cortes, Matthew Kane, Will Sealy, Matheus Peres, Black Stillwell going to throw the football mere Lakers look set more to take advantage of our to win their district QB and talented WR’s.” on the football team having been a key player yet again with a run into the regional and state On the note of wide receivers, Windermere for the basketball team at Windermere Prep last playoffs always in the cards. picked up two crucial and talented receivers in year.

Page 8 Florida Sporting News • 8/25/17 - 9/5/17

Foundation Academy – Lions

by Greyson Everidge

Luke Birk, Lance Volan, Connor Carson, Coach Lord, Kenny Ames, Austin Mathis, Eddie Loos, Lance Axson WINTER GARDEN – Fresh off the back of a (9-5) season last year in 2016, Foundation Academy and Head Coach Brad Lord are hopeful for what is to come. Lord, who has been the Head Coach for nine seasons now has amassed a total record of (51-43) over the years. Should his record, paired with previous seasons be an indicator, the Lions are looking at a successful year.

With six offensive and seven defensive returners, familiar faces and playing experience are not hard to come by. Among the returners are seniors Eddie Loos (OL/DB), Kenny Ames (TE/LB), Connor Carson (OL/DB), and Luke Birk (WR/DB). Loos and Ames both brought home All District awards last season, with Loos also capturing the FACA OL/DL award and an All-State team mention.

A strong class of juniors also follow their senior counterparts, through the likes of Gian Reyes (OL/DL), Luke Chase (WR), Cam Gebers (OL/ DL) and Andrew Johns (LB/LS). Chase ran for 575 yards last season, earning him both an All District and an All-State team award. Johns, a special teams player, is ranked 4th in the country for long snapping.

“The offensive line is a strong point for the Lions. We are returning four out of five starting lineman anchored by All-State lineman Eddie Loos. Loos will also be moving guard to center,” said Head Coach Brad Lord.

At quarterback, it is yet to be seen who will start in the Fall Kickoff Classic for the Lions. Henry Austad and Chai Colon spent the spring game battling it out for a starting position, so seeing who gets the nod will be worth watching for.

Adding further depth to the team defensively are Jack Odum, Blake Robinson and Micheal LeMieux – Bott.

In the spring game, key players emerged themselves as players to watch. These players included Grayson Wagner and Luke Brik.

Paired with the usual suspects such as Kenny Ames, Alec Baginski, Elishua Colon and freshman Ricky Smith – who will all become more experienced and regular players come the 2017 season – the Foundation Lions have a very strong offensive lineup going for them.

“Our players know an offensive positon and a defensive positons. This builds depth for us on both sides of the ball. We should be a very physical defense.” said Lord.

Foundation Academy play Lakeland Christian on August 18th for their Fall Kickoff Classic.

“If we stay focused and get better each week we should make a run for the regional championship,” said Lord.

With a new points system in the district in place this season, the four teams with the most points come of the region to state playoffs. With the change, it is important to note that the Lions no longer play Winter Garden rival West Orange.

8/25/17 - 9/5/17 • Florida Sporting News

West Orange – Warriors

Page 9

by Greyson Everidge

WINTER GARDEN – In recent season, the West Or- in at 165lbs has had quite an impact in past seasons which is sure to boost the offensive firepower of the ange Warriors have been a dominant force in district, and looks to have an even bigger impact this year.

Warriors. regional and state football, reaching the State ChamAmong numerous schools interested in the kicker, Yet, the most exciting thing for Coach Bob Head is pionship just two years ago. However after a poor Jacksonville University offered Brickweg his first the returning players, many of whom are upperclassseason last year, the men.

Warriors are looking “We have a lot of returners and to once again reclaim guys that played a lot of snaps last district dominance. season,” said Coach Head. “So, we The first test for the are excited about what we have Warriors will come returning.” against their new The Warriors will remain in the rivals Windermere same district has last year, which High School – who includes the same usual suspects in split West Orange’s terms of competition. Coach Head student population ranked Apopka, Wekiva and Evans as a relief school – In as the toughest opponents in the the Fall Kickoff Clasdistrict. Although Dr. Phillips are sic at West Orange on no longer in the district, Head still August 18th. considers them the team to beat With six returning and the top team in the Central offensive players and Florida area. Barnes, from Apopsix returning defenka and Ingle from Dr. Phillips are sive players, expeconsidered the players to watch by rience is not someWest Orange.

Hawke Forsythe, Seth Janetzke, Franklin Jackson III, Darrell Harding Jr, Davon Earle, Simon-Peter Sutherland thing that is lacking With the first game just around the for the Warriors. corner for West Orange, the team Coach Bob Head can is working hard in pre-season to put his faith in a strong senior class which includes Division 1 offer. be able to win their Fall Kickoff Classic and get on the likes of 6’3 315lbs OL Hawke Forsythe, 6’2 210lbs One new key player for the Warriors is Quarterback a winning track from the start to improve on last OBL Dametri Hill and 6’2 250lbs OL Seth Janetsky.

Elijah Stimmel, who is a transfer from Foundation season’s arguably poor record and return to winning Also among the returning players is kicker Andrew Academy for the 2017 year. Stimmel, who is beginways.

Brickweg. Brickweg, who stands at 5’10 and weighs ning is junior year, stands at an impressive 6’4 200lbs

Page 10 Florida Sporting News • 8/25/17 - 9/5/17

West Orange 8/18

7:00p Windermere

8/25

7:00p Olympia

9/1

7:00p Freedom

9/8

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Dr. Phillips

9/15

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Timber Creek

9/22

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9/29

7:00p Wekiva

10/6

7:00p Jones

Cypress Creek

Corner Stone Christian 8/18 8/25 9/1 9/8 9/15 9/22 9/29 10/13 10/20 10/27 11/3

7:00p 7:00p 7:00 7:00p 7:00p 7:00p 7:00p 7:00p 7:00p 7:00p 7:00p

KOC-Miami Christian CFCA Keswick Christian All Saints Academy Eagles View Faith Christian Warner Christian Father Lopez (Away) Orangewood Christian Four Corners Charter Merritt Island Christian

Lake

Faith Christian Academy 8/25

7:00p

St. John Lutheran

9/1

7:00p

International Community

9/8

7:00p

Trinity Christian Academy

9/15

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Master’s Academy

9/22

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Cornerstone Charter

10/6

7:00p

Orlando Christian Prep

10/13

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Halifax Academy

10/20

7:00p

Ocala Christian

8/25 9/1 9/15 9/22 9/29 10/6 10/12 10/20 10/27 11/3

7:00p 7:30p 7:00p 7:30p 7:30p 7:30p 7:30p 7:00p 7:30p 7:30p

Florida Sportings News - ww

10/13 7:00p Apopka 10/20 7:00p Evans 10/27 TBA Evans 11/3

7:00p Ocoee

Dr. Phillips 8/24

6:00p University

9/1

7:00p

Timber Creek

9/8

7:00p

West Orange

9/15

7:00p Apopka

9/22

7:30p Mainland

9/29

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10/6

7:00p Wekiva

Oak Ridge

10/13 7:00p Freedom 10/20 7:00p Olympia 10/26 7:00p Cypress Creek

Olympia 8/25

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West Orange

9/1

7:00p Ocoee

9/8

7:00p Edgewater

9/15 7:00p Cypress Creek 9/22

7:30p Wekiva

9/29

7:00p Freedom

10/6

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Winter Park

10/20

7:00p

Dr. Phillips

10/26

7:00p

Oak Ridge

11/3 TBA Windermere

Apopka High 8/20

5:00p

Newcastle

8/25

7:00p Ocoee

9/1

7:00p Norland

9/8

7:00p

Lakeland

9/15

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Dr. Phillips

9/22

7:00p Boone

9/29

7:00p Evans

10/6

7:00p Mandarin

10/13

7:00p

West Orange

10/27 7:00p Wekiva 11/3

7:00p

Oak Ridge

Orange County High Sch 8/25 9/1 9/8 9/15 9/22 9/29 10/6 10/13 10/26 11/3

7:00p Wekiva 7:00p Jones 7:00p Evans 7:00p Freedom 7:30p Timber Creek 7:00p Dr. Phillips 7:00p University 7:00p Cypress Creek 7:00p Olympia 7:00p Apopka

Ocoee

Edgewater

Oak Ridge 8/25 9/1 9/8 9/15 9/22 9/29 10/6 10/13 10/20 10/27 11/3

7:00p Apopka High 7:00p Olympia 7:00p Boone 7:00p Edgewater 7:00p East Ridge 7:00p Hagerty 7:00p West Port 7:00p Lake Howell 7:00p BYE 7:00p Lake Minneola 7:00p West Orange

8/18 8/25 9/1 9/8 9/15 9/22 9/29 10/6 10/13 10/20 11/3

7:00p 7:00p 7:00p 7:00p 7:00p 7:00p 7:30p 7:00p 7:00p 7:00p 7:00p

8/25/17 - 9/5/17 • Florida Sporting News

Lake Mary Prep

Nona

Space Coast Gateway Liberty East River St. Cloud Windermere Harmony Celebration Satellite Southeast

8/25

7:00p

Merritt Island Christian

9/1

7:00p

Legacy Charter

9/8

7:30p

Bell Creek Academy

9/15

TBA

Windermere Prep

9/29

7:00p

Orangewood Christian

10/6

7:00p CFCA

10/20

7:00p

International Community

10/27

7:00p

St. Edward’s

Lake Highland Prep 8/25 9/1 9/15 9/22 9/29 10/6 10/13 10/20 10/27 11/3

7:00p Kingdom Prep 7:00p Trinity Catholic 7:00p Avon Park 7:00p Glades Day 7:00p Providence School 7:00p Frostproof 7:30p Astronaut 7:00p Lakeland Christian 7:00p The First Academy 7:00p Berkeley Prep

ww. floridasportingnews.com

Bishop Moore 8/25

7:00p Edgewater

9/1

7:00p Lake Brantley

9/8

7:00p Archbishop Spalding

9/15

7:00p Poinciana

9/22

7:30p South Sumter

9/29

7:00p Jones

10/6

7:00p Melbourne Central

10/13

7:00p Tavares

10/27

7:00p Eustis

11/3

7:00p Seminole

Windermere Prep 8/25

7:00p Saint Stephens

9/1

4:30p Harvest Comm.

9/8

7:00p CFCA

9/15

TBA

9/22

7:30p St. Cloud

9/29

4:00

10/6

7:00p

Int. Comm.

10/12

4:30p

Orangewood

10/20

7:00p

Santa Fe Catholic

Lake Mary Prep

Legacy Charter

Foundation 8/25

7:00p Cambridge Christian

9/1

7:00p The First Academy

9/8

7:00p Carrollwood Day

9/15

7:00p Northside Christian

9/29

7:00p Agape Christian

10/6

7:00p Seven Rivers

10/13

7:00p North Florida Ed.

10/20

7:00p Bishop McLaughlin

10/27

7:00p Poinciana

11/3

7:00p Seffner Christian

The First Academy

hool Football Schedule Winter Park

e High

Page 11

Edgewater Lake None Oviedo Wekiva Colonial Evans Timber Creek Olympia University Boone Lake Mary

8/19 9/2

8/26 9/9 9/16 9/23 10/7 10/14 10/21 10/27 11/4

7:00p Oak Ridge 7:00p Wekiva 7:00p Lake Brantley 7:00p Lyman 7:00p University 7:00p Lake Nona 7:00p Jones 7:30p Timber Creek 7:00p Winter Park 7:00p Colonial 7:30 p Edgewater

Windermere High 8/18 8/25 9/1 9/8 9/15 9/22 9/29 10/6 10/20 10/27 11/3

7:00p West Orange 7:00p Cypress Creek 7:00p Wekiva 7:00p Orlando University 7:00p East River 7:00p St. Cloud 7:00p Lake None 7:00p Harmony 7:00p Liberty 7:00p Celebration 7:00p Olympia

8/25

7:30p West Oaks Academy

9/1

4:30p Foundation Academy

9/8

7:00p Orlando Christian

9/15

7:30p Bayshore Christian

9/22

7:00p Calvary Christian

10/6

7:30p Four Corners

10/20

7:30p Trinity Prep

10/27

7:00p Lake Highland Prep

11/3

7:00p Villages Charter

Page 12 Florida Sporting News • 8/25/17 - 9/5/17

Bishop Moore – Hornets ORLANDO – Longtime head coach Matt Hedrick and the Bishop Moore Hornets are looking at yet another strong year in 2017, with a returning class of five offensive and five defensive players. Hedrick’s winning record currently sits at 127-46 over the span of 15 years as head coach, meaning him and his players consistently expect nothing but the best. Off of the back of a State Championship just two years ago, the Hornets look to set to make yet another exciting year to remember.

Leading the Hornets this year is a senior class made up of nine key players. Sitting at 5,9 175lbs is RB Trilion Coles, who is a third team All-State player. Coles is currently committed to Michigan. Eric Seidelman, a 6’2 290lbs OL made the first All-State team and is currently committed

by Greyson Everidge

to UCF. Caleb McMillan, a wide receiver who stands at 6’3 and weighs in at 200lbs has received offers including those from North Carolina State, Marshall, and Wake Forest.

Not to be outdone is the rest of the senior class, made up of OL Andrew Cannon, WR/DB Adam Netane, QB Keanu Kong, LB Evan Anderson, LB Bjorn Zimmer and DE Aidan McDonald.

RB and junior Jake Kiefer, DB Jess Hartmann and DB Channing Stotts play key roles alongside their senior teammates.

“We think we have a chance to be a good football team. We have a very talented group back on offense and should be good upfront if we can fill in a couple of spots due to graduation.” said Head Coach Hedrick. “Defensively, our backers and secondary will be talented and our defensive line

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As far as changes in this 2017 year, there won’t be much from the Hornets. Sticking with a game plan that has worked in the past will do well for Bishop Moore. In their district, South Lake moved up in classification and will be departing as one of their district opponents. In their place come Jones, who also moved up in a classification spot. Hedrick believes that they are one of the most talented teams in the state, and should prove useful competition for Bishop Moore.

The Hornets fall game will be played out against Timber Creek at Bishop Moore on August 18th at 7 p.m. With strong players and a coaching staff just as strong, the Hornets are set for an undoubtedly good run this 2017 season.

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8/25/17 - 9/5/17 • Florida Sporting News

Lake Highland Prep - Highlanders

Page 13

by Greyson Everidge

Coach Ben Bullock ORLANDO – The Lake Highland Prep Highlanders, led by new Head Coach Ben Bullock dominated their first home game of the season against Gulliver Prep from the Miami-Dade area by a score of 21-0. In his first official game as head coach, Bullock demonstrated great tactics and team play to help give his new team an outstanding and well deserved win. Using new tackling implementations this season for what is called a “safer game” the Highlanders showed poise on defensive play – ultimately holding out for a shutout.

The first scoring action of the game came from the Lakers in the 1st quarter, when senior kicker Brandon A. Nguyen scored a 41 yard field goal to give the Highlanders a 3-0 lead early in the first half. Soon after, safety’s Desmond King, senior, and free safety Nick Deese tackled strongly to help force a turnover for the Highlanders.

Deese made the first tackle which prompted the turnover inside Gulliver’s own 10 yard line.

Quarterback Elijah Lucas combined with Devyn Castor for a 14 yard pass and subsequent run which moved Lake Highland up the field. Brandon Sweet also threw for a 16 yard pass to get the ball rolling at the beginning of the second half.

Followed by a few more drives which saw strong passing play from the Highlanders, wide receiver Elijah Lucas completed a 10 yard run which resulted in a touchdown for Lake Highland.

After a fumble which was recovered in the third quarter, a final touchdown pass was scored to give Lake Highland a 21-0 lead, which they ending up holding until play ended.

Despite a strong offensive showing, it was the defensive side of the team who made such a strong impact, keeping a clean sheet. Bryton Belvin, Sam Audie and Malik

Dixon were voted top three defensive players of the game for the Highlanders. Belvin recovered a fumble and had two sacks, while Dixon made four tackles.

The Highlanders look forward to their next

game, which will be played against Kingdom Prep on August 25th. After a great first game, Lake Highland will look to win their first official game of the regular season.

Page 14 Florida Sporting News • 8/25/17 - 9/5/17

Lake Nona – Lions

by Kaden Bauer

ORLANDO – In the past couple of seasons the season.

Coach Anthony Paradiso is confident in his Lake Nona Lions have been a dominant force in The non-senior returners are just as impressive. team’s ability to score and claims that they will all aspects of Central Florida football. Last year Junior QB Michael Kern stands at 6’2 175lbs and “continue to be one of the best offenses in the the Lions finished (7-4) overall and (4-1) in their threw for 400 yards and 4 touchdowns in the state.” Last year’s stats from players such as Midistrict – which starting this year will include the Spring Classic which saw Lake Nona come out chael Kern and Anthony Queeley certainly back Windermere Prep Lakers. Ninth year head coach on top 35-20 against the Timber Creek Wolves. up this claim. A solid connection between these Anthony Paradiso will two players could potential surely be looking to lead to one of the most improve on his already dangerous duos in the state. impressive record and On the other side of the make it even better. game, Coach Paradiso says The Lions will kick they “have all our secondoff their season with a ary and LB unit coming preseason game against back” which will be a good the Olympia Titans on boost of chemistry to help August 18th during the Lions lock down all the the Fall Kickoff Clasother teams in the district sic. Coach Anthony down on defense.

Paradiso can count on Besides newcomers Windthe plethora of players ermere Prep, Coach Parathat are returning to diso thinks that the district add experience to his rankings by the end of the team and lead them to season will stand as Lake a successful season.

Nona coming out on top, Among those returnfollowed by Saint Cloud, ing players is a strong East River, Celebration, senior class including and Liberty respectively.

6’3 200lbs All-State To make this prediction a wide receiver Anthony reality the Lions have been Logan Hale, Stephen Mullane, Damien Savage, Randall Hepburn, Frank Rodriguez Jr., Queeley who has 78 working hard during the Luis Rodriguez, Anthony Manning, Randy White, & Harrison White receptions for a total pre-season. They will be of 1200 yards and 6’3 able to test just how well 205lbs defensive back Randall Hepburn who With over 200 tackles in his career, 5’10 195lbs their pre-season work has paid off with the Fall holds five Division One offers. The strength of Victor Vega and two-way starter 5’10 205lbs Kickoff Classic against Olympia coming up. the senior class doesn’t stop there with 5’9 170lbs Moises Aracena join Michael Kern as returning Hopefully, the Lake Nona Lions will be able to Anthony Manning, 5’10 205lbs Damien Savage, juniors. Last but not least 6’2 290lbs OL Kade continue with their winning ways in the 2017 5’10 210lbs Joshua Middlebrooks, and 6’2 215lbs Bryant returns as a sophomore after starting his campaign.

Addison Biaggi all returning to the field next freshman year for the lions.

8/25/17 - 9/5/17 • Florida Sporting News

Edgewater – Eagles ORLANDO – Last year was not a year to remember for the Edgewater Fightin’ Eagles football organization. Finishing (1-10) overall and (0-6) in districts is not something to be fond of.

Hopefully, with the introduction of new head coach Cameron Duke, who led Lake Highland Prep to a (7-3) record last year, will help “Restore the Pride” as their new 2017 team slogan states.

The first test for the rebuilding Eagles will be against a traditionally decent Winter Park Wildcats side during the Kick-Off Clas-

sic. Coach Cameron Duke is confident in his side’s ability based off of their preseason trainings saying they’ve “worked hard in the weight room” and have even attended a team FCA camp at Stetson University. Their regular season starts off with the Battle of College Park against the Bishop Moore Hornets on August 25th in what promises to be a great rivalry game. After losing 42-6 last year, Edgewater will be coming back for vengeance. The Eagles home opener will be the following week on September 1st against the Colonial Grenadiers.

Coach Duke believes that he can rely on Quondarrius Whitfield (WR), Joey Miller (DE), Savion Petitfrere (OL), and Jalen Taylor (LB) to be his key players for the season and is expecting big things from them. He also believes that he

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by Kaden Bauer has some lethal new firepower coming into his team in the forms of newcomers DJ Hampton (LB), Hudson Driggers (LB), Jeemiah Chambers (WR), and Earnest Brown (DB). With nine returners from last season, four on defense and five on offense, Coach Duke can count on them to share their experience with some of the new comers.

Overall, Coach Duke expects this season to be a good way to start rebuilding the Edgewater Fightin’ Eagles to their former glory while still making a run at states. When asked what he hopes to gain from the season, Duke answered, “to get better each day, to continue to lay the foundation for the new direction of the program under the new staff, to win the district, to make the playoffs, and overall t0 Restore the Pride.” Obviously, the biggest thing is restoring the pride into the Edgewater football organization and returning them to their former glory of being one of the most feared teams in their district with a possible return to the state playoffs.

Windermere High - Wolverines WEST ORANGE – The West Orange Warriors and the Windermere High Wolverines played out the first of many rivalry games this past Friday night, in the Fall Kickoff Classic for both teams.

Windermere High, who were built for the overcrowding issue at West Orange, took a sizeable chunk of West Orange students with them – which creates divisions among friends, family and former classmates.

In the opening minutes of the first quarter, the Warriors scored an early touchdown to take the lead.

Kicker Andrew Brickweg converted for the Warriors extra point.

From there on out, the Warriors ran the Wolverines ragged, ultimately beating them by an astonishing 70-0. It’s worth noting however, that the Wolverines played without a single senior after the entirety of the 2018 class remained at West Orange for the new school year. Windermere will play with their first senior class next year starting with the 2019 class.

West Orange quarterback Brenden Cyr passed for 312 yards and five touchdowns for the Warriors.

Darrel Harding caught two touchdowns on the night, while Sinica Siglet ran for three touchdowns.

Nemea Hall racked up 125 yards of offensive play for the Warriors, while also scoring a touchdown.

Kicker Andrew Brickweg broke a school record, scoring 8 extra points in a row, failing to miss a single kick. The previous record had stood at 7 extra points in one game. He also had a number of kickoffs for West Orange.

For Windermere, Joshua Colon had a standout 37 yard kickoff return before being tackled by West Orange kicker Andrew Brickweg.

Things were heated with the fans of the two sides, when a Windermere student entered the West Orange student section flying a Windermere High shirt on a noise maker. No major incident occurred, but the student was escorted out by administration.

Based on Friday’s game, the rivalry will only get more intense as competition becomes stiffer for the two sides.

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Page 16 Florida Sporting News • 8/25/17 - 9/5/17

Oak Ridge – Pioneers

by Kaden Bauer

ORLANDO – Traditionally, the Oak Ridge The Fightin’ Tigers are lacking in returning rance Walthour, Malik Davis, Tytus Jackson, and Pioneers have been one of the teams to beat in players, with only three offensive players and Marvae Myers all to get plenty of playing time in district, regional, and state football, making it to two defensive players making a return. Howorder to gain some experience that can be added the state playoffs two of the past three years. Last ever, Oak Ridge are not lacking upperclassman to next year’s team. Coach Johnson believes that year was the one exception, it was the first time with seniors Marcus Taylor, Darvion Bailey, Connor Parks, Darvion Bailey, Kevin Moran, the Pioneers have put Tyler Towns, and Tytus up a negative overall Jackson are going to record in quite some be his key players and time-2008 to be exact. hopes that they will help Head coach Clint his team show a high Johnson will be looklevel of competition and ing to get his team regain district domiback at the top of the nance. food chain for the Regaining that district upcoming season. dominance is going to The Pioneers start be no easy task for the off the season with Oak Ridge team. State a home non-conferrunner ups Dr. Phillips ence game against are going to be their bigthe Wekiva Mustangs gest competition while who had a very good the Olympia Titans and season last year. This Cyprus Creek Bears are will be the first true not going to be a cake test for the Pioneers walk either. to see just how well No matter how the they have prepared season pans out, Coach during the preseaJohnson hopes to put son in which Coach out a high level of Jaquez Chambers, Kevin Moran, Cavauris Bing, Christion Johnson, Coach Cling Johnson, Johnson seems to be competition and make Lawarren Meadows, Darvion Bailey, Tyler Towns, Marcus Taylor impressed from. The the Oak Ridge Fightin’ two teams face off on Tigers a tough team to August 25th. The following weeks matches Oak Christion Johnson, Kevin Moran, Cavarius Bing, beat no matter who they go up against. ReclaimRidge against longtime rivals, the Jones Fightin’ Jacquez Chambers, and Lawarren Meadows all ing their district dominance and making it back Tigers in what promises to be a tough match for making an appearance. Coach Johnson will be into the state playoffs would not be so bad as a both sides. hoping to get some of his juniors, such as Tergoal in the eyes of any Oak Ridge fan either.

8/25/17 - 9/5/17 • Florida Sporting News

Winter Park – Wildcats WINTER PARK – The Winter Park Wildcats are set to have yet another strong season in the 2017 school year. In past years, the Wildcats have established their program as one of the stronger teams in the area, going (9-4) overall last season. In addition to the winning record, the Wildcats won their district and made it into the playoff round. With a total of 12 returning players for the fall season, Head Coach Timothy Shifflet is in a good position to make an even stronger run this year then him and his team did the last.

Winter Park quarterback Cameron Legree is returning to help drive the offensive game for the Wildcats. He will be helped in his efforts by wide receiver and defensive back Cameron Brown in addition to receiver Brian

The final key component to the attack for the Wildcats will come from Jordan Manning, who plays at wide receiver and defensive back.

With an even split of returning players, six on offense, six on defense, Shifflet is looking forward to what the season has in store.

When asked what he hoped to gain from this season, Shifflet responded “We are looking to defend our district title and get into the playoffs.”

Jordan Manning, Brian Gomez, Cameron Legree, Cullen Honohan, Cameron Brown, King Joyner, EJ Jiminez, Juanye Tillman, Embry Jones,

After a preseason which has seen the players work hard each day, striving to get better and improve, the Wildcats are no doubt in a great position prior to opening day.

by Greyson Everidge tian this year include Makai Burris, Nathan Henderson, Jason Terry, PJ Gonzalez, Andre Cooper, Zak Thomas and AJ Marshall. The rest of the team could easily make the list, and will also play a key part in the upcoming season.

One of the main goals, noted by Head Coach Andre Dobson is to make a playoff run.

ORLANDO – One of the strongest private school football schools in Central Florida, the Faith Christian Academy Lions look likely to have yet another strong season. If past seasons, returning players and coaching staff are any indicator of what is likely to come for the Lions, only good things can be expected in the 2017 year.

Some of the returning players who will play a crucial role in successes for Faith Chris-

by Greyson Everidge Gomez. Looking forward, the trio should prove to be lethal on the attack.

Faith Christian Academy – Lions

This year, the Lions have a large base of returning players. With 16 in total, and 2 new players added to the roster there is strength to pull from on all areas of the field. With more experience and training under their belt, the returning players are guaranteed to be stronger than they were before last season.

Page 17

One of the only downsides to the team this year is that they are low in numbers. However preseason has shown that they are fully capable and Dobson is confident in his team and what they can accomplish this season.

Nathan Henderson, Ma Kai Burris, Jason Terry, Pedro Gonzalez Jr.

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The schools motto, “Equipping students to become Christian leaders” plays right into what Faith Christian are hoping to accomplish this season throughout inspired leadership by both seniors and coaching staff alike.

Page 18 Florida Sporting News • 8/25/17 - 9/5/17

Lake Mary Prep – Griffins LAKE MARY – The Lake Mary Prep Griffins struggled last year, but things are looking up and hopeful this season for the Griffins. Under the influence of Head Coach Zachary Carter and a handful of senior and junior players, Lake Mary Prep are to certain to improve their record from the 2017 season, which ended in nine losses out of ten regular season games come the end of the year.

In 2017, the Griffins will be led by a group of six key seniors whom Coach Carter takes great pride in coaching.

The first Class of 2018 player in the group his quarterback Walker Dycus, in the past two seasons, Dycus has thrown for 30 touchdowns and 3,900 yards. Carter notes Dycus as one the “cornerstones of the program” and looks forward to an attack headed by Dycus.

Judah Winfrey will join Dycus in the attack as a wide receiver, helping capitialize on chances created by the quarterback.

Andy Allison is another senior wide receiver who will contribute, although Allison also plays as an outside linebacker. Evan Dvorchik plays with the special teams as a long snapper, as well as acting as an offensive lineman. Jacob Ungaro is a defensive end and offensive lineman who will be a part of the key defensive game for Lake Mary. The last senior in the defensive line is offensive lineman Seth Cloutier.

LJ Matos is a junior, and all-around athlete whom Carter thinks will play a great role in winning game for the Griffins. Matos is in company with his junior counterpart Andy Browning, who plays offensive lineman.

Lake Mary have a visibly strong upperclassmen defensive line. In total, 14 players are returning for the 2017 year.

Carter notes that about 6-8 kids tried out for the first time in the spring although they already students at Lake Mary.

In addition to those new players, 4-5 new students to the

by Greyson Everidge school have shown interest in the football team potentially adding to their numbers.

“We are looking to continue to build Lake Mary Prep’s football program the right way. This will be Lake Mary Prep’s 4th year having a football program back on campus.” said Carter. “This is by far the deepest team we have had in quite some time. I am especially looking forward to seeing these seniors compete their hearts out for the next 10 weeks. It is an exciting year for Lake Mary Prep football.”

This preseason has gone well for the Griffins, too. With the largest numbers on the football team since Carter has taken over, there are plenty of talented players to develop and work with.

“The depth across the board has afforded us the opportunity to increase the physicality and tempo to practice.” said Carter. “Hopefully this will pay us dividends once the regular season comes around.”

Judah Winfrey, Jacob Ungaro, Camden Desch, Coach Zac Carter, LJ Matos, Walker Dycus

8/25/17 - 9/5/17 • Florida Sporting News

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Page 20 Florida Sporting News • 8/25/17 - 9/5/17