ADVERTISEMENT

Q&A with Sumner defensive tackle Jordan Bellamy

How did the high school football season go overall?
“It went great! Finished 12-2 and went to the 3rd round of the playoffs. Overall great season.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“As of now working out with the team and doing speed work with my Coach at the gym. Also doing some technique work with some of my teammates after practice and on the weekend.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think we will be State Champions, we have the coaches, the players, and everything we need to succeed. It's up to us as a team to finish the job.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I feel like Armwood will be our toughest game. They have some guys over there like (Roymarr Thomas & Girard Pringle) that can make an impact.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Girard Pringle, he’s a great player overall it’s going to be a game for sure playing against him.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes of course, I want to keep playing football.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“Schools that have been recruiting me are USF, Bowling Green, Marshall, Kansas, Louisville, and some other schools have been in contact with me.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“I would say the school that’s recruiting me the hardest is USF, I’ve been there a few times, went to a few games, and talked to the whole coaching staff.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Not yet but I will be attending some soon.”

Do you have plans for any trips soon?
“Yes, I plan to be in Louisville and Bowling Green in April.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Clemson has been my favorite school since I was 9.”

Q&A with Sumner offensive tackle Ziyare Addison

How did the high school football season go overall?
“My junior year was lit! I didn't allow a single sack all season and served as our team captain. Additionally, I earned a spot on the All-Region Team. As a team, we finished with an impressive 11-2 record and had a legitimate shot at the state championship. Unfortunately, we had some key injuries that played a role in the outcome. Despite that, it was a truly great season overall.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“I just finished a successful wrestling season where I went 8-2. Now, I'm gearing up for the track season while also competing with the California Power travel team.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I'm extremely excited about our team's prospects next year. We return some exceptional players like Tyler Williams and Cam White and we recently welcomed a talented quarterback, Joel Morris who transferred to our school.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Honestly, I believe our toughest opponent will be ourselves. If we can maintain focus and play disciplined football, I don't see anyone stopping us.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“At this point, no specific player comes to mind.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Absolutely, I want to play college football.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“A lot of schools have been recruiting me. I have over 40 offers.”

What schools are recruiting you the hardest?
“Colorado, Georgia, Florida State, Miami, USC, Oregon, Penn State, Oklahoma, Clemson, UCLA, Florida, Tennessee, Nebraska, and Syracuse.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Yes, I've visited Clemson, FSU, Miami, Florida, Penn State, Oklahoma, UCLA, USC, Tennessee, and Texas A&M.”

Do you have plans for any upcoming trips?
“I have upcoming visits scheduled for Miami, Oregon, Colorado, Georgia, Clemson, FSU, and Nebraska.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Auburn was my favorite team growing up.”

Q&A with Riverside quarterback Jaidan Delaune

How did the high school football season go overall?
“Overall my season didn’t go as I expected but I did have a solid freshman season.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“To work on my pocket presence and to study the game more so I can make better decisions as a QB.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think we as a team will do good. We have a lot of key players returning next season, who are putting in the work during the off season.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Raines High School probably will be our biggest competition because they have a really good defense and they are very well coached.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Jaime French from Mandarin High School is probably the toughest competitor we will face. He is the defense's worst nightmare.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes, I want to play football in college.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I’m a prospect and on a few radars but nothing as of yet.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“Unaware of any.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“No, not yet.”

Do you have plans for any trips soon?
“Yes, I do have plans to visit a few schools in Florida in the next month or so.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Yes, I’m from Louisiana, so I’ve always been a LSU Tigers fan.”

Q&A with Atlantic Coast edge Darnell Malpress

How did the high school football season go overall?
“We had an alright season but compared to last year it’s an improvement, and a step in the right direction.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“I plan on doing track, and I have d-line training every Sunday and I’m also playing 7on7.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“We will dominate, we will go to the playoffs and make a run for state.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Our rival Mandarin, it’s always a tough game.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“The 5-star offensive tackle at Raines, we struggled against him this past season, I’m looking forward to competing against him this year.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes I will play football at the next level, my dream school is Alabama.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I’ve received graphics from UConn, UNLV, and Kennesaw State.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“I’d say Kennesaw State, they’re the most consistent.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“No.”

Do you have plans for any trips soon?
“I plan on going to some local spring practices/ junior days.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Yes it was Florida State.”

Q&A with Spanish River middle linebacker Dominick Pacheco-Bates

How did the high school football season go overall?
“It went very well. We finished the season 7-4 and made the playoffs for the first time in 23 years.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“My plan is to recover and get stronger.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel like we are going to do even better than last season.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Toughest team might be Palm Beach Central but we will get through all obstacles.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Not sure yet.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes, my dream is to play sports in college. I want to play at UCF.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“Not sure.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“Not sure.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Yes I have made plenty of college trips.”

Do you have plans for any trips soon?
“I might go on a college tour this summer.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Yes, my favorite college is University of Miami.”

Fla Varsity Recruiting Updates

Find out what colleges are recruiting Dominick Pacheco-Bates, Darnell Malpress, Jaidan Delaune, Ziyare Addison, and Jordan Bellamy now!


......................................................................................................


Q&A with Spanish River middle linebacker Dominick Pacheco-Bates​


Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes, my dream is to play sports in college. I want to play at UCF.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“Not sure.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“Not sure.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Yes I have made plenty of college trips.”

Do you have plans for any trips soon?
“I might go on a college tour this summer.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Yes, my favorite college is University of Miami.”


......................................................................................................


Q&A with Atlantic Coast edge Darnell Malpress​


Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes I will play football at the next level, my dream school is Alabama.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I’ve received graphics from UConn, UNLV, and Kennesaw State.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“I’d say Kennesaw State, they’re the most consistent.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“No.”

Do you have plans for any trips soon?
“I plan on going to some local spring practices/ junior days.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Yes it was Florida State.”


......................................................................................................


Q&A with Riverside quarterback Jaidan Delaune​


Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes, I want to play football in college.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I’m a prospect and on a few radars but nothing as of yet.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“Unaware of any.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“No, not yet.”

Do you have plans for any trips soon?
“Yes, I do have plans to visit a few schools in Florida in the next month or so.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Yes, I’m from Louisiana, so I’ve always been a LSU Tigers fan.”


......................................................................................................


Q&A with Sumner offensive tackle Ziyare Addison​


Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Absolutely, I want to play college football.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“A lot of schools have been recruiting me. I have over 40 offers.”

What schools are recruiting you the hardest?
“Colorado, Georgia, Florida State, Miami, USC, Oregon, Penn State, Oklahoma, Clemson, UCLA, Florida, Tennessee, Nebraska, and Syracuse.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Yes, I've visited Clemson, FSU, Miami, Florida, Penn State, Oklahoma, UCLA, USC, Tennessee, and Texas A&M.”

Do you have plans for any upcoming trips?
“I have upcoming visits scheduled for Miami, Oregon, Colorado, Georgia, Clemson, FSU, and Nebraska.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Auburn was my favorite team growing up.”


......................................................................................................


Q&A with Sumner defensive tackle Jordan Bellamy​


Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes of course, I want to keep playing football.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“Schools that have been recruiting me are USF, Bowling Green, Marshall, Kansas, Louisville, and some other schools have been in contact with me.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“I would say the school that’s recruiting me the hardest is USF, I’ve been there a few times, went to a few games, and talked to the whole coaching staff.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Not yet but I will be attending some soon.”

Do you have plans for any trips soon?
“Yes, I plan to be in Louisville and Bowling Green in April.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Clemson has been my favorite school since I was 9.”


......................................................................................................

Fla Varsity High School Football Talk

Find out what some of the top players in the state are saying about football and sports now!


......................................................................................................


Q&A with Spanish River middle linebacker Dominick Pacheco-Bates
How did the high school football season go overall?
“It went very well. We finished the season 7-4 and made the playoffs for the first time in 23 years.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“My plan is to recover and get stronger.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel like we are going to do even better than last season.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Toughest team might be Palm Beach Central but we will get through all obstacles.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Not sure yet.”

......................................................................................................
Q&A with Atlantic Coast edge Darnell Malpress
How did the high school football season go overall?
“We had an alright season but compared to last year it’s an improvement, and a step in the right direction.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“I plan on doing track, and I have d-line training every Sunday and I’m also playing 7on7.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“We will dominate, we will go to the playoffs and make a run for state.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Our rival Mandarin, it’s always a tough game.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“The 5-star offensive tackle at Raines, we struggled against him this past season, I’m looking forward to competing against him this year.”

......................................................................................................
Q&A with Riverside quarterback Jaidan Delaune
How did the high school football season go overall?
“Overall my season didn’t go as I expected but I did have a solid freshman season.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“To work on my pocket presence and to study the game more so I can make better decisions as a QB.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think we as a team will do good. We have a lot of key players returning next season, who are putting in the work during the off season.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Raines High School probably will be our biggest competition because they have a really good defense and they are very well coached.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Jaime French from Mandarin High School is probably the toughest competitor we will face. He is the defense's worst nightmare.”

......................................................................................................
Q&A with Sumner offensive tackle Ziyare Addison
How did the high school football season go overall?
“My junior year was lit! I didn't allow a single sack all season and served as our team captain. Additionally, I earned a spot on the All-Region Team. As a team, we finished with an impressive 11-2 record and had a legitimate shot at the state championship. Unfortunately, we had some key injuries that played a role in the outcome. Despite that, it was a truly great season overall.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“I just finished a successful wrestling season where I went 8-2. Now, I'm gearing up for the track season while also competing with the California Power travel team.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I'm extremely excited about our team's prospects next year. We return some exceptional players like Tyler Williams and Cam White and we recently welcomed a talented quarterback, Joel Morris who transferred to our school.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Honestly, I believe our toughest opponent will be ourselves. If we can maintain focus and play disciplined football, I don't see anyone stopping us.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“At this point, no specific player comes to mind.”

......................................................................................................
Q&A with Sumner defensive tackle Jordan Bellamy
How did the high school football season go overall?
“It went great! Finished 12-2 and went to the 3rd round of the playoffs. Overall great season.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“As of now working out with the team and doing speed work with my Coach at the gym. Also doing some technique work with some of my teammates after practice and on the weekend.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think we will be State Champions, we have the coaches, the players, and everything we need to succeed. It's up to us as a team to finish the job.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I feel like Armwood will be our toughest game. They have some guys over there like (Roymarr Thomas & Girard Pringle) that can make an impact.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Girard Pringle, he’s a great player overall it’s going to be a game for sure playing against him.”

......................................................................................................

Q&A with Clearwater Academy International pro-style quarterback Joaquin Kavouklis

How did the high school football season go overall?
“Considering all the injuries to key starters, it started slow but ended amazing. We grew as a team and finished the season strong.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“Body development is a key aspect to my off-season goals. Morning weight workouts with the team 4 days a week. Film study during lunch and throwing/speed work 4 days a week with my receivers and QB Coach Baylin Trujillo.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“Considering how many starters are returning and with the younger guys having so much game experience I feel confident we can be and will be competitive playing a nationally ranked schedule.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Every team we play is a quality and motivated team. To give one preference to one team would be unfair. We played one of if not the toughest schedule I’ve seen. We played 5 state championship teams from Florida and top 10 ranked teams from Tennessee and South Carolina in 2023. Lakeland and Venice were our toughest opponents last year.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“George Mckyntire from Brentwood Academy is a great Quarterback. We beat them last season but he was definitely a great player along with Keon Young from Lakeland. He was good as well.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes football.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“Arkansas offered and I have had interest through my coaches from Florida, Miami, USF, Alabama, UNC, Mississippi State and Michigan but only offered so far from Arkansas.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“Because of my class, 2027, contact with me is very restricted but they have been contacting my Head Coach and my quarterback coach. Since Arkansas is the first offer I have to say Arkansas for now.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Yes. USF, UCF, Miami and Florida.”

Do you have plans for any trips soon?
“Nothing formal yet but this summer I will be scheduling trips.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“My whole family is Gator fans. My dad played at UCF so we follow them as well. If I had to say my favorite, it would be Florida.”

Q&A with Winter Park quarterback Grant Conner

How did the high school football season go overall?
“It was an okay season, I had a senior transfer in and got the job. I played an okay amount and made good out of what I got. Went undefeated and won the district, didn't make it far in the playoffs, but had a very enjoyable season.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“We are starting up spring workouts now so it’s a nonstop grind from here until May. We are running track and doing workouts right after school.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think this upcoming season, we will be very prepared. The way we went out last season left a bad sting with us. It was awful. So, having that happen to us, will make us work harder than before.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I think the hardest team on our upcoming schedule will be Jones. They have a lot of great talent coming in and it will be a hard-fought game.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“The toughest player I think we will play against is Vernell Brown at Jones. He is very versatile and agile. He also has a lot of speed, so it will be a challenge.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes, I do want to play college, and I would say my dream college is Florida, but anywhere in the SEC would be amazing and anywhere in college would be a blessing.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I have had many coaches follow me but not much recruiting going on yet, but staying patient is the key.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“N/A.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Again, I have been to Florida and Miami's Junior days, which were both a lot of fun.”

Do you have plans for any trips soon?
“I plan to go to some colleges in the summer for their camps.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“UF has always been my favorite college, as most of my family has gone to UF.”

Q&A with Mandarin wide receiver Josiah Watkins

How did the high school football season go overall?
“We had a great season overall, even though we fell short of our goal of winning state. We had a ton of success that season, we had an amazing playoff run as we traveled throughout South Florida. I believe even though we lost a lot of players we can still make a run for state and win it.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“My plan is to work on speed and getting stronger and doing the basics such as working on catching, route running, releases, reading defenses etc.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I believe if we do our job and execute every play, we can come back to states even though we may be a young team.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I’m not sure who exactly is on our schedule but from previous seasons, I would say Creekside and Bartram will be a test for us.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I do not know of any other players that we will face off against.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes I’ve always wanted to play at the collegiate level and the school I would love to play for is Georgia.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“UNC Charlotte, Wake Forest, Kennesaw State. And many more schools follow me but have not reached out to me.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“The school that is recruiting me the hardest is UNC Charlotte, because they offered me in the summer going into the 2023 season.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“I went to a lot of camps in the summer going into the 2023 season such as OSU, South Carolina, Wake Forest, Vanderbilt, Stanford etc.”

Do you have plans for any trips soon?
“I plan to attend the All-American Bowl as I was invited to it and I have registered already.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“My favorite college growing up was Georgia.”

Q&A with Seminole defensive back Kaeden Reyes

How did the high school football season go overall?
“I believe our season went great up until the playoffs. Losing in round 3 was devastating especially for such a close game.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“My plans are to work relentlessly and continue to do more than what’s expected. It’s my final season and considering my recruitment situation I need to make the most of it.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel Seminole is set for greatness this year. We got quality transfers in Mike and Lil Gator, along with our team gathering more chemistry overtime. We’re destined to be State Champions.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Our schedules are not official, however, I do know Lake Mary will be on the schedule and they’ve given us some very tough games. For the past four years it has been one possession games down the wire.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“The best individual player would more than likely be Noah Grubbs, he’s proven to be one of the best in High School and he’s made big time throws against us.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I would love to play football in college. It’s been a dream since I was little and with that, it doesn’t matter who and what I play for. Anyone who gives me the opportunity to shine is what I want.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“The schools that have been recruiting me are Penn, Valdosta, Liberty, Saint Anselm, and NDSU.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“The school that has been recruiting me the most is Saint Anselm. I’ve received graphics, texts, phone calls, and camp invites.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“The only college trip I’ve made was to Liberty, it was a great time. I wish I could've done more there. They had a great game too. Old Dominion stood no chance.”

Do you have plans for any trips soon?
“I do not have any plans to make any college trips for the moment.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“My favorite college growing up was Florida State because my whole family is Florida State fans. It kind of just grew on me.”

Q&A with Durant wide receiver Damari Styles

How did the high school football season go overall?
“The season went good for me and the team, my stats were up to par, sadly we lost to Sumner in the second round of the playoffs.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“My plans are to get way stronger and faster and work on my stamina because I will most likely go both sides this year [I’ll] definitely [need to improve] my endurance.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel we are going to succeed next season, we had 27 juniors last year so lots of returning players for this year.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I don’t know our schedule yet but I know we have Bartow in our district so that will be a very important game for us for sure.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“[Toughest] individual I believe will be Jake Morris from Lake Gibson, very talented quarterback.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes I want to play football at the next level for sure.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I have talked to USF, Syracuse, NDSU, Princeton and Duke.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“NDSU for sure, they sent me lots of graphics and [I’ve] talked to some of their coaches, Duke also has been on my trail.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“I took a visit to USF Freshman year, and also went up to Duke on a game visit to watch them play Clemson.”

Do you have plans for any trips soon?
“I have no planned visits right now.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“My favorite college growing up was definitely the Florida Gators just because it’s my hometown and why not, [it’s] the famous Swamp.”

Fla Varsity Recruiting Updates

Find out what colleges are recruiting Damari Styles, Kaeden Reyes, Joaquin Kavouklis, Josiah Watkins, and Grant Conner now!


......................................................................................................


Q&A with Durant wide receiver Damari Styles​


Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes I want to play football at the next level for sure.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I have talked to USF, Syracuse, NDSU, Princeton and Duke.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“NDSU for sure, they sent me lots of graphics and [I’ve] talked to some of their coaches, Duke also has been on my trail.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“I took a visit to USF Freshman year, and also went up to Duke on a game visit to watch them play Clemson.”

Do you have plans for any trips soon?
“I have no planned visits right now.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“My favorite college growing up was definitely the Florida Gators just because it’s my hometown and why not, [it’s] the famous Swamp.”


......................................................................................................


Q&A with Seminole defensive back Kaeden Reyes​


Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I would love to play football in college. It’s been a dream since I was little and with that, it doesn’t matter who and what I play for. Anyone who gives me the opportunity to shine is what I want.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“The schools that have been recruiting me are Penn, Valdosta, Liberty, Saint Anselm, and NDSU.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“The school that has been recruiting me the most is Saint Anselm. I’ve received graphics, texts, phone calls, and camp invites.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“The only college trip I’ve made was to Liberty, it was a great time. I wish I could've done more there. They had a great game too. Old Dominion stood no chance.”

Do you have plans for any trips soon?
“I do not have any plans to make any college trips for the moment.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“My favorite college growing up was Florida State because my whole family is Florida State fans. It kind of just grew on me.”


......................................................................................................


Q&A with Clearwater Academy International pro-style quarterback Joaquin Kavouklis​


Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes football.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“Arkansas offered and I have had interest through my coaches from Florida, Miami, USF, Alabama, UNC, Mississippi State and Michigan but only offered so far from Arkansas.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“Because of my class, 2027, contact with me is very restricted but they have been contacting my Head Coach and my quarterback coach. Since Arkansas is the first offer I have to say Arkansas for now.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Yes. USF, UCF, Miami and Florida.”

Do you have plans for any trips soon?
“Nothing formal yet but this summer I will be scheduling trips.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“My whole family is Gator fans. My dad played at UCF so we follow them as well. If I had to say my favorite, it would be Florida.”


......................................................................................................


Q&A with Mandarin wide receiver Josiah Watkins​


Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes I’ve always wanted to play at the collegiate level and the school I would love to play for is Georgia.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“UNC Charlotte, Wake Forest, Kennesaw State. And many more schools follow me but have not reached out to me.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“The school that is recruiting me the hardest is UNC Charlotte, because they offered me in the summer going into the 2023 season.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“I went to a lot of camps in the summer going into the 2023 season such as OSU, South Carolina, Wake Forest, Vanderbilt, Stanford etc.”

Do you have plans for any trips soon?
“I plan to attend the All-American Bowl as I was invited to it and I have registered already.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“My favorite college growing up was Georgia.”


......................................................................................................


Q&A with Winter Park quarterback Grant Conner​


Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes, I do want to play college, and I would say my dream college is Florida, but anywhere in the SEC would be amazing and anywhere in college would be a blessing.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I have had many coaches follow me but not much recruiting going on yet, but staying patient is the key.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“N/A.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Again, I have been to Florida and Miami's Junior days, which were both a lot of fun.”

Do you have plans for any trips soon?
“I plan to go to some colleges in the summer for their camps.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“UF has always been my favorite college, as most of my family has gone to UF.”


......................................................................................................

Fla Varsity High School Football Talk

Find out what some of the top players in the state are saying about football and sports now!


......................................................................................................


Q&A with Durant wide receiver Damari Styles
How did the high school football season go overall?
“The season went good for me and the team, my stats were up to par, sadly we lost to Sumner in the second round of the playoffs.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“My plans are to get way stronger and faster and work on my stamina because I will most likely go both sides this year [I’ll] definitely [need to improve] my endurance.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel we are going to succeed next season, we had 27 juniors last year so lots of returning players for this year.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I don’t know our schedule yet but I know we have Bartow in our district so that will be a very important game for us for sure.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“[Toughest] individual I believe will be Jake Morris from Lake Gibson, very talented quarterback.”

......................................................................................................
Q&A with Seminole defensive back Kaeden Reyes
How did the high school football season go overall?
“I believe our season went great up until the playoffs. Losing in round 3 was devastating especially for such a close game.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“My plans are to work relentlessly and continue to do more than what’s expected. It’s my final season and considering my recruitment situation I need to make the most of it.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel Seminole is set for greatness this year. We got quality transfers in Mike and Lil Gator, along with our team gathering more chemistry overtime. We’re destined to be State Champions.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Our schedules are not official, however, I do know Lake Mary will be on the schedule and they’ve given us some very tough games. For the past four years it has been one possession games down the wire.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“The best individual player would more than likely be Noah Grubbs, he’s proven to be one of the best in High School and he’s made big time throws against us.”

......................................................................................................
Q&A with Clearwater Academy International pro-style quarterback Joaquin Kavouklis
How did the high school football season go overall?
“Considering all the injuries to key starters, it started slow but ended amazing. We grew as a team and finished the season strong.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“Body development is a key aspect to my off-season goals. Morning weight workouts with the team 4 days a week. Film study during lunch and throwing/speed work 4 days a week with my receivers and QB Coach Baylin Trujillo.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“Considering how many starters are returning and with the younger guys having so much game experience I feel confident we can be and will be competitive playing a nationally ranked schedule.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Every team we play is a quality and motivated team. To give one preference to one team would be unfair. We played one of if not the toughest schedule I’ve seen. We played 5 state championship teams from Florida and top 10 ranked teams from Tennessee and South Carolina in 2023. Lakeland and Venice were our toughest opponents last year.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“George Mckyntire from Brentwood Academy is a great Quarterback. We beat them last season but he was definitely a great player along with Keon Young from Lakeland. He was good as well.”

......................................................................................................
Q&A with Mandarin wide receiver Josiah Watkins
How did the high school football season go overall?
“We had a great season overall, even though we fell short of our goal of winning state. We had a ton of success that season, we had an amazing playoff run as we traveled throughout South Florida. I believe even though we lost a lot of players we can still make a run for state and win it.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“My plan is to work on speed and getting stronger and doing the basics such as working on catching, route running, releases, reading defenses etc.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I believe if we do our job and execute every play, we can come back to states even though we may be a young team.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I’m not sure who exactly is on our schedule but from previous seasons, I would say Creekside and Bartram will be a test for us.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I do not know of any other players that we will face off against.”

......................................................................................................
Q&A with Winter Park quarterback Grant Conner
How did the high school football season go overall?
“It was an okay season, I had a senior transfer in and got the job. I played an okay amount and made good out of what I got. Went undefeated and won the district, didn't make it far in the playoffs, but had a very enjoyable season.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“We are starting up spring workouts now so it’s a nonstop grind from here until May. We are running track and doing workouts right after school.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think this upcoming season, we will be very prepared. The way we went out last season left a bad sting with us. It was awful. So, having that happen to us, will make us work harder than before.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I think the hardest team on our upcoming schedule will be Jones. They have a lot of great talent coming in and it will be a hard-fought game.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“The toughest player I think we will play against is Vernell Brown at Jones. He is very versatile and agile. He also has a lot of speed, so it will be a challenge.”

......................................................................................................

Recent Track Meet results at Lakewood Ranch

!st meet of the year so times will only get better

100 Meters

1.) Arontae Wesley - Senior, Charlotte HS - 11.06
2.) KeiShawn Smith - Junior, Manatee HS - 11.12
3.) Ramsey Cole - Junior, Manatee HS - 11.15 (ran a 10.88 last year
4.) Ty'ron Jackson - Junior Manatee HS - 11.27

Couple of freshmen for Manatee times
Jerimiah Paterson - 11.69
Keith Smith - 11.93

4X100 Relay

1.) Manatee - (Bean, Jackson Cole, Smith) - 42.72 -(This group ran a 41.45 at state finals last year)
2.) Lennard - (Merrit, Fields, Sampson, Burns) - 43.49
3.) Braden River - (Langley, Anders, Peters, Wilrid) - 44.83

Lake Minneola 2024

Got to watch them play last year and came away impressed with program in general, but what really caught my eye was a trio of Soph OL and how well they played in general against a fairly talented Manatee DL for the entirety of the game. All I feel will have P5 college recruiters looking to secure their services, but why I felt it important to bring attention to them now is Florida in general doesnt normally generate as much talent on the OL as it does at the skilled positions. Lake Minneola lost almost all of its skilled talent at QB and the WR position last year, but appears to be returning almost all of its OL and its starting RB, if your strong in the trenches I believe you've got a chance to be very good football team!
Returning OL for the 2024 season:
2026 - Chancellor Barclay 6'4" 280lbs (had 51 pancake blocks for the 2023 season)
2026 - Sean Kentish 6'4" 270 lbs ( had 14 pancake blocks for the 2023 season)
2026 - Cashman McCoy 6'4" 260 lbs (had 23 pancake blocks for the 2023 season)
2025 - Noah Devine 6'2" 275 lbs (had 46 pancake blocks for the 2023 season )

Returning Skilled talent on offense:

2025 - RB Uriah May 5'9" 180 lbs rushed for 462 yards on 62 carries
2025 - WR Greg Mckinnon 5'10" 170 lbs recieved 462 yards on 22 catches
2025 - RB Dane Tompkins 5'9" 180 lbs rushed for 1857 yards on 255 carries, caught 11 passes for 153 yards

On defense I note just 4 returning players with signifcant playing time last season

Q&A with Menendez offensive lineman Christian Bond

How did the high school football season go overall?
“Not very good, I think we definitely exceeded expectations because we had 3 seniors starting and everyone else was a sophomore or a freshman, very few juniors. Next year [we] should be pretty good though.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“I have been grinding this off season and think it will pay off for this upcoming season. I work out every day except Sundays and will be starting to throw shot put soon.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think we will be special and I believe we have the team to go to states and 100% the playoffs. My QB Cash Downey is special, and with a year under me and his high school football career we are locked in this upcoming season.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I really don’t know because all the teams we are playing are good teams but I truly think Ponte Vedra, Bishop Kenney, and St Augustine High Schools will be the hardest competition this upcoming season.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“St. Augustine has a lot of talent, I would say Trenton Jones, Carl Jenkins, and Locklan Hewlitt will be some tough players to stop for sure.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes I am aiming to play football in college, it has been my dream since I was little.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“FAU has interest in me and so does UF and the University of Northern Colorado. These are the schools that have shown some interest in me so far.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“No school yet is recruiting me because I am not fully developed nor fully grown but when that time comes I feel a lot of schools will hopefully bless me and give me a chance.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“I have been to UF so far, that is the only college I have visited, yet I plan on visiting a few schools for camps this off season.”

Do you have plans for any trips soon?
“I do not have any trips planned yet but I will possibly this summer.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Yes the Georgia Bulldogs have been my team since I was a baby and have always been a fan.”

Q&A with Spanish River wide receiver Jayden Phipps

How did the high school football season go overall?
“Football season went fairly well, individually I would have loved to play a lot more but injury held me back, but team-wise [it] was a great season and hard-fought to end in the playoffs.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“Just focus on recovery and get better at all the little things.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“We will perform highly, possibly even better than our recent season.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Palm Beach Central.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“N/a.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes I would like to attend college and play football.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“N/a.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“N/a.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“N/a.”

Do you have plans for any trips soon?
“N/a.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“UNC.”

Q&A with Hagerty running back Jalon Lewis

How did the high school football season go overall?
“It was good! There was a lot of improvement in our plays and execution, especially with us being a young team. We went 6-4 and made the playoffs.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“Well for workouts, I want to get bigger and stronger. Overall, I really want to improve my skills and continue my work ethic.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“If we keep at the rate we are going, we will do much better than our last season record. Although records were broken, we really just want to improve on the small things at the end of the day and accomplish the goals we set.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I’m not really worried about tough competition. That’s what helps us grow! As long as we do what we need to do and execute, then we will be fine.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Again, everyone who wants to be on the field works hard out there. I am not worried about other players or teams. As a team leader, I am focused on what we need to do as a team to accomplish our goals.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes, I would love to play college football. That is my ultimate goal.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I continue to get emails from Ivy league schools and local Florida schools. I am open to all possibilities at this time.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“Again, I have obtained some interests from schools ranging from Ivy League schools to the D3 level. I am open to everything and really just focusing on my grades and my current part-time job. I really want to continue to build my work ethic as a student, athlete, and hard-working person overall.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Sure, I’ve been to Old Dominion University, Virginia Tech, Georgetown, UCF, Miami, Liberty, Hampton U, Warner U, Southeastern U, and Navy.”

Do you have plans for any trips soon?
“I am just now getting that schedule together and talking to some recruiters so stay tuned.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Well, I was born and raised in Virginia. Being a young football player attending summer camps like Kids Tech University at Virginia Tech was a huge thing for me. I remember getting gloves from RB Marshawn Williams until this day.”
  • Like
Reactions: Lewisjr34

Q&A with Monarch quarterback Jack Spaeder

How did the high school football season go overall?
“The 2023 season went well. I ended up with 20 TDs, 1513 pass yards, and 255 rush yards in a little over seven games. 128 passer rating.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“In the off season I work out a few times a week with my QB coach Oliver Bozeman, I’m lifting, and working with Tony Villani at XPE sports on my speed.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think Monarch is looking very good heading into the fall, we have a good team and we’ve picked up a few transfers and I think we’ve got a solid shot to go deep into the playoffs and states again.”

What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Our fall schedule isn’t out yet, but Saint Thomas is definitely the toughest team we played this year, although we lost, we played hard as a team and I threw for 285 pass yards and 2 TDs against them.”

Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I can’t name any individual players that are tough to go against but we are in South Florida where there are great athletes and players on every team, so every team presents its own set of problems.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I definitely want to play college football, and it would be a dream to play [in a] power 5.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I have an early offer from Bethune Cookman, and have had some coaches talk to my coaches from other schools about me, so there definitely has been some interest. We’ll see what happens after spring.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“See above.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Last year I hit a lot of college camps.”

Do you have plans for any trips soon?
“I plan on hitting all the camps I am invited to this year.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“I was born in Tallahassee, but moved to Pennsylvania for a while so I’m a Penn State fan.”
ADVERTISEMENT

Filter

ADVERTISEMENT