High School Sports Blog

South Florida kickers get a leg up on the competition

At a time of year when players across south Florida are getting exposure that camps, combines and 7-on-7 events provide, thrusting them into the spotlight, there is a very important part of a football team that works just as hard, but never receives that media and recruiting attention.

Welcome to the world of a special teams punter, snapper and kicker. Positions that are never embraced until a game-winning kick or a precision punt is made. This is indeed a group of athletes who have elevated their standing over the years - with more and more scholarships being awarded.

While there are several former kickers and punters who have gotten into the business of teaching and bringing these athletes along, there is nobody who has done more for the positive attention than St. Thomas Aquinas coach Tim Conrad.

So well respected is Conrad that college coaches flock to his practices every year, and with a track record that began in 2002 with St. Thomas punter Jay Ottovegio going to Stanford and Deerfield Beach standout C.J. Koegel, who achieved All-America status before heading out to the University of Massachusetts, this is someone who has truly been a pioneer in developing top-fight kickers.

Through his BIGFoot Kicking Academy, Conrad has been able to bring along some of the top prospects in the country. His reputation that included working with such standouts as Michigan State's Brett Swenson (St. Thomas), Auburn's Wes Byrum (St. Thomas), Minnesota's Chris Secrest (McArthur), Notre Dame's Ben Turk (St. Thomas) and Tennessee's Michael Palardy (St. Thomas) among others, has helped pave the way for some up and coming standouts.

"The one thing that I tell every young man and their parent before starting with us, is if you aren't here to work, this may not be for you," Conrad said. "You get to be the next Marshall Morgan (Georgia), Josh Brisk (FIU) and Justin DuVernois (Illinois) by making sacrifices and improving."

While Conrad understands that the life of a special teams player is often taken for granted, he also comprehends that his kickers or punters will have the chance to steal the spotlight - at least for a moment.

Swenson was one of the best kickers in NCAA history, and shattered Michigan State records. Morgan had a solid freshman year with the Bulldogs.

Through the years, the special teams players from south Florida began to show up at schools such as Toledo, Arkansas, Duke, UCF, FAU, Louisiana Lafayette, Wagner, Michigan, Towson and others.

As the 2013 season is set to get under way with spring football coming up over the next two months, there are some impressive legs getting ready to show what they can do.

The Class of 2014 in Broward is going to be tremendous. Miami-Dade also has some prospects, but they figure to emerge in the next two classes.

Here is a look at the top five for the Class of 2014:

• Vince Burburan, P, Parkland Douglas. Vince has the ability to be the top punter in the state of Florida. Needs to work on consistency and get-off time but one of the most committed players I have worked with in the 13 years I have coached here in south Florida.

• Andrew DiRocco, Punter/Kicker, Fort Lauderdale University School. DiRocco has been training with Coach Conrad since he was 12 years-old. He is the first kicker from south Florida to receive a scholarship offer in the class of 2014 (offered by University of Hawaii).

• Blake Horn, PK, Davie Western: Horn was a first team All-County selection at kicker from the Herald last season and has an absolute cannon for a leg. Early interest from the Ivy League schools already as he is a top student in the classroom too. This kid should be a big time kicker this year!

• John Semerene, PK, Weston Cypress Bay. As thousands have already watched on You Tube, here is a young man with one of the strongest legs in the state. If he is able to develop more consistency he will be one of the best kickers in the nation. 

• Scott Wade, PK/P, Plantation American Heritage. Yet another of those All County selections from a year ago, Wade has the chance to be the best dual specialist, kicking and punting, in the county this upcoming season. 

A FEW MORE FOR 2014 : 

• Alejandro Cardenas, PK, Miami LaSalle.
• Zach Cicero, PK, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas.
• Charles Courtney, PK, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas.
• Adrian Izquierdo, PK, South Miami.
• Jeff Keller, P/PK, Fort Lauderdale University School.
• Grant Kurzner, PK, Miami Gulliver Prep.
• Emilio Morales, PK, Miami Mosnignor Pace.
• Jorge Powell, PK, Miami Belen Jesuit.
• Preston Seiler, PK, Fort Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons.

RISING JUNIORS

• Uriel Hernandez, PK, Homestead. Outstanding leg strength and power. Develops accuracy and fine tunes his game/commitment – he could be one of the best in 2015.

• Isaac Mercado, PK, Davie Western. Extremely consistent and incredible form – needs to develop more strength and he will be one of the best in south Florida his senior year.

• Declan Rodriguez, PK/P, Fort Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons. Similar to Mercado - with outstanding form and consistency. Needs to work on developing flexibility and strength.

CLASS OF 2016

Conrad believes that this is going to be one of the better years locally:

• Michael Grehl , PK, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas. Grehl has outstanding consistency and great leg strength for a freshman. Needs to be committed to the art of kicking.

• Austin Laszewski, PK, Southwest Ranches Archbishop McCarthy. Here is certainly a kicker who has everything you need. Will mature and has the chase to rise to the top.

•James (Seamus) McCord, PK, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas. Another prospect with potential, but it's very early and the commitment needs to be there - all of the time!

• Corey Pastor, PK, Miami Coral Reef. Big time leg, and if he develops, has the potential to be one of the top kickers in the nation.

We are always looking to help promote our area recruits for the current Class of 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017. All you have to do is send a video link and information about the athlete to Floridakids1@aol.com. 

Follow Larry on Twitter at twitter.com/larryblustein.

South Florida's Class of 2015 is loaded with talent!

No sooner did the 2012 season come to an end when the focus began shifting to the Class of 2014. It was to be one of the most talent-rich groups of seniors we had seen come through this region of the state in a long time.

 From outstanding running backs and quality quarterbacks to the usual group of defensive secondary performers that leave a mark, this was a senior class that was going to get all the recognition it deserved. But with every outstanding senior class, there has to be a group of juniors who will push them, making them better.

This year's rising junior class - the 2015 group - has certainly proven so far that there will be enough standouts to keep south Florida in a talent spotlight that it has basked in for decades. This tremendous crop of football players in Miami-Dade and Broward - most who already have been in the spotlight for over a year - will be the next that colleges across the country will keep an eye on.

"I thought the Class of 2014 would be one that would set standards," said Dana Wiley of Prep Films. "But the more I get out and watch these rising juniors compete at camps and in 7-on-7 tournaments, it really gets me thinking."

The Class of 2015 is much like this group of rising seniors. Gifted athletes on both sides of the ball. Talent that dominated at the youth football level and has found a way to translate that to the varsity level in high school.

With a long way before the Class of 2015 graduates, here is a look at 10 elite prospects – plus additional players who have already been turning heads - nationally: 

Calvin Brewton, S, 6-1, 175, Miami Central: This one-time Christopher Columbus standout makes the move over to the defending 6A state champions and brings with him a world of talent and plenty of skill level.  

Leeward Brown, OL, 6-3, 300, Miramar: Will be one of the nation’s elite line prospects over the next two years. Very quick, strong and agile. Has the chance to be Florida’s best in this class.

Tyrek Cole, 5-10, 175, Miramar: You may not have to go far to find the No. 1 cover-corner in the country in this class. Very gifted athlete who has been singled out by college coaches, already.

Torrance Gibson, QB, 6-3, 195, Plantation American Heritage: Called one of the most dynamic athletes in this class. He can play up to six positions on the football field. Could put up huge numbers in the Patriots’ offense.

Timothy Irvin, RB, 5-9, 175, Miami Westminster Christian: One of the most gifted players in a class that certainly has plenty of talent. Just a great football player, who has been getting it done for a long time!

Jacquan Johnson, 5-11, 175, Miami Killian: There may not be a better football player in America. Was an All-State selection as a freshman for the Cougars. Big time prospect who has been recruited since his 9^th grade year.

Kendrell McFadden, S, 6-3, 185, Hollywood McArthur: Yet another big time prospect who has played 20 varsity games already – before his junior year has started. Very physical and athletic. 

De’vante Phillips, WR, 6-1, 175, Miami Central: When this gifted athlete puts it all together, you will not find any better. Has the potential to one of the best in the country. 

Trevon Sands, RB, 5-9, 175, Southwest Miami: Those who have watched this quality talent play believe that this may be one of the best this school has had since Lamarcus Joyner. Very explosive athlete who can do it all.

Jordan Scarlett, RB, 6-0, 200, Fort Lauderdale University: Size, athletic ability, big game experience and world class speed make this one of those rare running backs. Will only get better!

Here is one of those prospects who has a tremendous future ahead of him. Gets up field .

Ten more to watch include Shawn Burgess-Becker (DB, 6-2, 175, Coconut Creek Monarch), Davante Davis (WR, 6-3, 180, Homestead), Keivonnis Davis (DE, 6-3, 225, Miami Jackson), Jovon Durante (WR, 6-0, 175, Miami Jackson), Johnnie Hankins (RB, 5-10, 190, Homestead), Tarvarus McFadden (DB, 6-3, 185, Plantation American Heritage), Davante Peete (WR, 6-5, 190, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas), Deltron Sands (RB, 5-7, 175, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas), Devonaire Scott (TE, 6-4, 220, Miami Southridge) and Dominic Sheppard (LB, 6-2, 210, Miami Gulliver Prep).

OTHERS TO KEEP AN EYE ON:

There are a number of rising juniors who we will keep an eye on and continue to promote. Here are a few more prospects on the rise:

• Malik Adelson, DB, 6-1, 175, Miami Springs.
• Maurice Alexander, QB, 6-0, 170, Homestead.
• Alex Anderson, RB, 6-0, 200, Miramar
• Menyelek Austin, RB, 5-8, 175, Fort Lauderdale Dillard.
• Brandon Boyce, DL, 6-0, 240, Fort Lauderdale University.
• Rashad Broadway, LB, 5-10, 200, Miami Westminster Christian.
• Rashard Causey, DB, 6-0, 185, Fort Lauderdale University. 
• Patrick Coats, QB, 6-2, 210, South Miami.
• Rob Foy III, WR, 5-10, 170, Davie Western.
• Alexander Fifelski, WR, 5-10, 180, Ft Lauderdale Calvary Christian.
• Steven Claude, WR, 6-2, 180, Miami Norland.
• Jordan Cronkite, RB, 5-11, 180, Miami Westminster Christian.
• Jerimiah Dinson, DB, 5-9, 165, Miami Norland.
• Deonta Fair, DB, 5-11, 170, Miramar.
• Emilio Gibbs, LB, 6-3, 215, Coral Gables. 
• Shaquille Green, WR, 5-8, 165, Miami Booker T. Washington.
• Calvin Hammett, WR, 6-3, 165, Miami Killian.
• Jeffrey Hill, 5-9, 160, Miramar.
• Ronnie Hoggins, 5-9, 170, Coconut Creek Monarch.
• Akeem Jackson, LB, 5-10, 205, Miami Washington.
• Andrew James, WR, 6-0, 160, Fort Lauderdale Westminster Academy.
• Cedric Joseph, S, 5-10, 145, Miami Ransom Everglades.
• James King, DE, 6-2, 195, Miami Beach. 
• Keddrick Labady, LB, 5-10, 190, Miami Edison.
• Gerald Lane, RB, 5-7, 160, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas.
• Edward Loveland, WR, 5-9, 160, Miami Carol City.
• Lawrence Mims, WR, 6-3, 170, Miami Northwestern.
• Andy Moreira, OL, 6-3, 270, Coral Gables.
• Phillip Parchment, OL, 6-4, 275, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas.
• Deundre Pickett-White, WR, 6-1, 180, Southwest Miami.
• Keyvon Phillips, LB, 6-0, 200, Miami Carol City.
• Janarvis Pugh, WR, 6-2, 160, Hollywood McArthur.
• Sheldrick Redwine, 6-2, 175, Miami Killian.
• Korron Rozier, 5-9, 170, Coconut Creek North Broward Prep. 
• Brion Sanchious, QB, 6-5, 200, Oakland Park Northeast.
• Kermit Silva, LB, 5-11, 205, Oakland Park Northeast.
• Ryan Stanley, QB, 6-1, 190, Pembroke Pines Flanagan.
• Adrienne Talon, LB, 6-1, 185, Davie Western.
• Juwann Taylor, LB, 6-2, 190, Hollywood Hills.
• Richard Williams, OL, 6-3, 255, Miramar Everglades.
• Shaquery Wilson, WR, 6-3, 190, Coral Gables.
• Malik Wisdom, DB/PK, 5-10, 175, Hollywood McArthur.

 

• We are always looking to help promote our area recruits for the current Class of 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017. All you have to do is send a You Tube or Hudl link and information about the athlete to: Larry Blustein at  Floridakids1@aol.com.

 

• Follow Larry on Twitter at twitter.com/larryblustein.

 

Ermon Lane leads impressive 2014 WR group

It didn't take long for word to spread across St. Thomas University last Saturday during the Airo/IMG 7-on-7 football tournament. The name Ermon Lane was on just about everyone's tongue.

 In what turned out to be one of the most prospect-rich events held on any 7-on-7 field, the 6-1, 180-pound Lane, who has been the talk of south Florida the past two years at Homestead, was on display for all to see. As a member of the tournament champion South Florida Express, this gifted prospect confirmed what many had felt all along, Lane is indeed one of the best - not only here - but has to be considered one of the country's best.

 This is the same Lane who played tight end for a Richmond Giants' youth program that was so rich in talent, seeing the ball was certainly an adventure at best. But once Lane had the chance to showcase his skills in high school, his star has certainly been on a meteoric rise.

 "I look back at those youth football days and they were fun," Lane says of the Giants' Pop Warner national championship team. "It's no wonder a Jacquan Johnson, Tim Irvin or any of those other tremendous players we had on the team are getting national recognition. That's where it all began for all of us."

Lane's impact at the high school level has come as dominating receiver. He is fast, deceptively strong and as athletic as you will find. His kick return skills will open doors at any level, and his ability to take the best defensive backs apart is what has made him one of those "must get" prospects.

Those who have played with and against him continue to marvel at how easy he makes things look. In games, he is usually the one that other teams spend the week scheming for, in 7-on-7, he pretty much does what he wants.

University School quarterback Sean White has thrown for over 5.000 yards in his first three seasons. In that time, he played with - and against some of the best receivers in the region. This year, working with Lane, as part of the South Florida Express, White and Lane have been on the same page - often.

"I have never been around a receiver who is that talented and makes things look so easy," White said. "He is certainly one of those receivers who makes a quarterback look so much better. He is the real deal. Great guy to around as well."

While this region of the country has always been home to Dwayne Bowe and Andre Johnson type of receivers, there was perhaps never as many quality as this rising senior class has - with Lane leading the way. 

Among those receivers who have already being receiving attention include Steve Ishmael (North Miami Beach), Tyre Brady (Homestead South Dade), JoJo Robinson (Miami Northwestern), Jacob McCrary (Miami Coral Reef), Henderson “Prince” Gray (Miami Monsignor Pace), Corey Holmes (Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas), Isaiah McKenzie (Plantation American Heritage), Cornelius Floyd (Miami Gulliver), FSU-bound C.J. Worton (Homestead South Dade) and Miami Norland’s 6-6 standout Kendrick Edwards.

"The receiving talent in this class is as gifted as we've watched down here," said Dana Wiley of Prep Films. "It's almost a certain that several colleges will walk away with some very impressive athletes."

In addition, the Class of 2014 also features players such as Stanley Clerveaux (North Miami), George Rushing (Fort Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons), David France (Hialeah), Kendon Davis (Oakland Park Northeast), Chris Taylor (Coconut Creek N. Broward Prep), Trevon Lee (Ft. Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons), Odis Grimes (Miami Northwestern), Nathaniel Terry (Homestead South Dade), Derrick Tindal (Lauderdale Lakes Boyd Anderson), Dennis Turner (Fort Lauderdale Dillard), Christian Blake (Fort Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons), Jimmy Gonzalez (Davie Western), Nickolas Gonzalez (Hialeah), Kadeem Goulborne, 6-4, 180, Weston Cypress Bay), Antiwone Johnson (Coral Gables), Lamar Parker (Miami Washington), Kenneth Rawls (Pompano Beach Blanche Ely), Tanares Robinson (Miami Northwestern), Zaquon Tyson (Miami Norland), Malcolm Vandergraff (Miami Killian) and Miramar's Kwasim West to name a few.

EXPRESS HEAD TO BRADENTON

The South Florida Express (Miami-Dade and Broward) will be joined at the IMG event in Bradenton by other local teams South Florida Blur (Broward and Palm Beach), Belle Glade (Palm Beach) and Team Strong Arm, which is led by talented Carol City quarterback Trayon Gray and others from Miami-Dade and Broward. The four teams will play in April's Southeast qualifier and battle for a spot in the national tournament in July.

We are always looking to help promote our area recruits for the current Class of 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017. All you have to do is send a video link and information about the athlete to Floridakids1@aol.com. Follow Larry on Twitter at twitter.com/larryblustein.

 

 

Hard Knocks Foundation puts South Miami-Dade on the map

While the inner city teams in Miami-Dade County seem to get much of the attention when it comes to football recruiting, there is a region of the county that has been making plenty of noise, and recently, it was loud enough where the entire state heard them - loud and clear.

As college coaches make plans to attend schools in South Florida during the month of May, many will have to start altering their plans - especially when it comes to getting a chance to see some of the emerging an elite players.

South Miami-Dade County has always produced talent, but as the Hard Knocks Foundation 7-on-7 team found out on a recent New Level Athletics South Regional tournament in Rockledge (near Cocoa), there are plenty of athletes who will have the chance to be very special over the next few years.

Coached by former South Dade High football and wrestling standout Derrick Lester and current Coral Gables assistant coach David Cooney among others, the Hard Knocks Foundation was started to help those youngsters who couldn't afford to take part in many off season events. The foundation provided the opportunity for college exposure, while giving many of these athletes the spotlight against some of the top prospects in the state - and eventually - the entire country.

"I have long said that this is as good an area as you will find when it comes to athletes and football talent in particular," said Lester. "We started this to give many of our local kids a chance to compete in off season events when they didn't have the chance to play for some of the other elite programs."

This is a team that truly surprised some of the top players in the state of Florida during the Rockledge event. They ended winning the entire thing. While it came as a shock to many, it wasn't to those who have been around these athletes for years, watching them throughout their youth football career as well.

"We all know how impressive the football talent is in South Florida," said Cooney. "The one thing that was hard to do was to watch many of our talented kids - from Southern Miami-Dade have to sit home and not compete."

The 7-on-7 format which was started by Brett Goetz and the South Florida Express, has now grown into several teams - all designed to give the over 100 major college prospects a chance to play and showcase their many skills.

Fundraising has always been a priority for this program that also provides and opportunity for many of the rising prospects to take summer trips to colleges and universities actress the southeast as well as to other key regions of the country.

Because many of the players from South Dade, Killian, Gulliver Prep, Coral Gables, Southridge and other programs have not been included in the elite 7-on-7 mix, Lester and Cooney found that giving these players a chance to compete would eventually bring in some of the heavily-recruited prospects. This year, present standouts are mixing with the future prospects to come up with a winning and a very competitive formula.

Among the rising seniors on the team include FSU receiver commit C.J. Worton  and his teammate (South Dade) Devontay Keaton. Other Class of 2014 receivers on the team include Antiwon Johnson (Coral Gables) and Malcolm Vandergraff (Killian). Killian running back Jamel Burgess is also seeing plenty of action.

Former Homestead quarterback and current South Dade prospect Kahlil Render was the talk of the first big tournament of the off season. He is joined by Killian’s Nigel Dillard.

Defensively, the rising senior class was the difference in last weekend’s tournament. Secondary standouts such as Mark Wynn (Coral Gables), Devante Gulley (Coral Gables), Tyrone McGhee (South Dade), Derrick Nottage (South Dade), Marcus Jackson (Homestead), Marcus Stevenson (Southridge) and speedy South Dade prospect Antwan Cordy continue to make a difference.

Even Homestead linebacker Frank Newman has looked good so far this off season.

The talented group of underclassmen begins with one of the nation’s best in versatile Miami Westminster Christian standout Tim Irvin (Miami Westminster Christian) and his teammate Jordan Cronkite. It also includes Jordan Herrera (Killian), Shaquery Wilson (Coral Gables), Sheldrick Redwine (Killian) and receiver Devonaire Clarington from Southridge.

The Class of 2016 is also worth keeping an eye on with Dionte Mullins (Gulliver Prep), Wanya Clarington (Southridge), John Velasco (South Dade) and Sheldon Wynn (Killian). The Hard Knocks team is also looking into the future with Class of 2017 defensive back Devonta Lopez from Pembroke Pines’ Somerset Academy.

We are always looking to help promote our area recruits for the current Class of 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017. All you have to do is send a You Tube or Hudl link and information about the athlete to: Larry Blustein at Floridakids1@aol.com.

Follow Larry on Twitter at twitter.com/larryblustein.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

National Signing Day: St. Thomas Aquinas DL Joey Bosa

Here's a National Signing Day interview with St. Thomas Aquinas DL Joey Bosa.

Video courtesy of Herald writer Christina De Nicola

 

National Signing Day: Southridge DBs Jamal Carter and Lamar Robbins

Here's a National Signing Day interview with Southridge DB Jamal Carter, who signed with UM, and Southridge DB Lamar Robbins, who signed with USF.

Video courtesy of Herald writer David Furones

 

National Signing Day: Miramar LB Jermaine Grace

Here's an interview with Miramar linebacker Jermaine Grace after he signed with UM.

Video courtesy of Herald writer David Furones.

 

2012 5A Florida All-State Teams

LASS 5A

FIRST TEAM OFFENSE
QB-John Wolford, 6-1 200, Jr., Jacksonville Bishop Kenny
RB-Sony Michel, 6-0 210, Jr., Plantation American Heritage
RB-Courtney Allen, 5-7 180, Jr., Bradenton Southeast
RB-Falon Lee, 5-10 190, Sr., Glen St Mary Baker County
WR-Lawrence Lee, 5-11 170, Jr., Pensacola West Florida
WR-Ryan Sousa, 6-0 180, Jr., Orlando Lake Nona
OL-Chris Griffin, 6-6 275, Sr., Crawfordville Wakulla
OL-Lucas Crowley, 6-3 280, Sr., Ponte Vedra Nease
OL-Ben Lyda, 6-2 260, Jr., Tallahassee Godby
OL-Cameron Ruff, 6-4 280, Sr., Tampa Jesuit
OL-Isaiah Wynn, 6-4 275, Jr., St Petersburg Lakewood
UT-Janarion Grant, 5-11 170, Sr., Dade City Pasco
K-Luke Jackson, 5-11 170, Sr., Pensacola West Florida

FIRST TEAM DEFENSE
DL-Deadrin Senat, 6-1 300, Sr., Immokalee
DL-CeCe Jefferson, 6-4 250, So., Glen St Mary Baker County
DL-Vernel Trent, 6-4 255, Sr., Jacksonville Forrest
DL-Bruce Hector, 6-3 265, Sr., Tampa Robinson
LB-Mackenro Alexander, 6-0 185, Sr., Immokalee
LB-Jacob Pugh, 6-4 215, Jr., Tallahassee Godby
LB-Kevin James, 6-0 240, Sr., Crawfordville Wakulla
DB-Mackensie Alexander, 5-11 175, Sr., Immokalee
DB-Will Likely, 5-7 170, Sr., Glades Central
DB-Lester Thomas, 5-11 170, Sr., Tallahassee Godby
DB-Shaquill Griffin, 6-0, 200, Sr., St Petersburg Lakewood
UT-Sir Jackson, 6-0 185, Sr., Gainesville Eastside
P-Tommy Openshaw, 6-2 175, Sr., St. Johns Creekside

SECOND TEAM OFFENSE
QB-Joey Baker 6-3 200, Jr., Pensacola West Florida
RB-Khalid Thomas, 5-11 175, Sr., Tallahassee Godby
RB-Ulysses Bryant, 5-7 175, Sr., Ponte Vedra Nease
RB-Cole Mazza, 6-1 220, Sr., Ponte Vedra
WR-Maronkie Tapper, 5-10 185, Sr., Jacksonville Bishop Kenny
WR-J.C. Jackson, 5-10 180, Jr., Immokalee
OL-Kyle Jones, 6-4 290, Sr., Mulberry
OL-Connor Rafferty, 6-4 275, Sr., Tampa Robinson
OL-Austin Droogsma, 6-4 305, Sr., Gulf Breeze
OL-Blake Mills, 6-0 260, Sr., Glen St. Mary Baker County
OL-Rick Johnson, 6-3 300, Sr., Gainesville Eastside
UT-Ahmad Fulwood, 6-4 200, Sr., Jacksonville Bishop Kenny
K-Tate Mathewson, 6-1 190, Sr., Lake Wales

SECOND TEAM DEFENSE
DL-Bobby Leath, 6-4 290, Sr., Lake Wales
DL-Nate Crawford, 6-4 270, Sr., Pensacola West Florida
DL-Paul James, 6-3 250, Sr., Miami Norland
DL-Joey Ivie, 6-4 270, Sr., Dade City Pasco
LB-Luke Helms, 6-2 230, Sr., Tallahassee Godby
LB-J.J. Johnson, 6-2 180, Jr., Tampa Robinson
LB-Michael Deeb, 6-3 235, Sr., Plantation American Heritage
DB-Carlos Duclos, 5-10 170, Sr., Tampa Robinson
DB-Shaquem Griffin, 6-0 200, Sr., St. Petersburg Lakewood
DB-Demetrius Smith, 6-0 180, Sr., Pensacola West Florida
DB-Deion Singleton, 6-2 185, Jr., Tallahassee Godby
UT-Isaiah McKenzie, 5-9 170, Jr., Plantation American Heritage
P-Shane Laychur, 5-11 165, Sr., Jensen Beach

THIRD TEAM OFFENSE
QB-Winky Flowers, 6-1 200, Jr., Miami Jackson
RB-Eric McFadden, 5-10 180, Sr., Estero
RB-Martin Ruiz, 6-0 190, Sr., Tampa Robinson
RB-David Emmanuel, 5-11 185, Sr., Dade City Pasco
WR-Jacob Sannon, 6-0 175, Sr., Bradenton Southeast
WR-Travon Lee, 6-1 175, Jr., Fort Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons
OL-Hector Torres, 6-0 245, Sr., Orlando Bishop Moore
OL-Luke Hiers, 6-4 265, So., Lake Wales
OL-Alex Pagonis, 6-3 336, Sr., Gulf Breeze
OL-Caleb Brown, 6-1 260, Sr., Crawfordville Wakulla
OL-Michael Scott, 6-0 255, Sr., Ponte Vedra
UT-DreSean Nelson, 5-7 165, Sr., Fort Lauderdale Dillard
K-Noe Guillen, 5-11 175, Jr., Mulberry

THIRD TEAM DEFENSE
DL-Lucien Minard, 6-0 330, Sr., Auburndale
DL-Robby Garcia, 6-4 255, Sr., Tampa Jesuit
DL-Justin Madison, 6-4 215, Sr., Tampa Robinson
DL-Brian Denmark, 6-3 210, Sr., Tallahassee Rickards
LB-Devontae Tyler, 6-2 220., Sr., Arcadia DeSoto
LB-Treyvon Williams, 6-2 220, Sr., Miami Norland
LB-Dylan Bates, 6-3 235, Jr., Ponte Vedra
DB-Devondre Powell, 5-9 180, Sr., Miami Jackson
DB-Johnny Batch, 5-11 170, Jr., Merritt Island
DB-Kendall Sawyer, 6-2 180, Jr., East Lee County
DB-Reggie Wilkerson, 5-11 165, Sr., Citra North Marion
UT-Mikel Cromartie, 5-9 170, Sr., Crawfordville Wakulla
UT-Xavier Richardson, 6-3 190, Sr., Immokalee
No punter chosen for third team.

HONORABLE MENTION
QB Tyler Cogswell, 6-3 210, Sr., Plantation American Heritage; QB Tucker Israel, 6-1 190, So., Orlando Lake Nona; QB Tshumbi Johnson, 5-11 175, Sr., Immokalee; QB Zain Gilmore, 6-0 180, Sr., Tampa Robinson; QB Jake Lutzen, 6-2 200, Sr., Boynton Beach; RB Tim Longmire, 5-10 200, Sr., Tallahassee Godby; RB D’Ernest Johnson, 5-11 190, Jr., Immokalee; RB Dallas Baldner, 5-11 175, Sr., Crystal River; WR Shaq Harris, 6-2 205, Sr., Palmetto; WR Andrew Meyer, 5-10 175, Sr., Hudson Fivay; OL Hal Weaver, 6-3 260, Sr., Live Oak Suwannee; OL Nathan Kirschmeier, 6-4 295, Jr., Plantation American Heritage; OL Tristan Cotton, 6-2 300, Sr., Ponte Vedra Nease; UT Derwin James, 6-2 200 So., Auburndale; DL Morgan Flournory, 6-2 225, Sr., Dade City Pasco; DL Jeremy Faulk, 6-2 265, Sr., Palatka; DL Ke’Tyrus Marks, 6-2 280, Sr., Suncoast; DL Wilshonn Jefferson, 6-0 215, Sr., Auburndale; LB Myles Stewart, 6-2 210, Sr., Citra North Marion; LB Grady Cable, 6-2 200, Sr., Satellite Beach Satellite; LB Jordan Guyton, 5-11 185, Jr., Tampa Robinson; UT Tra’von Holmes, 5-9 160, Sr., Tallahassee Rickards; UT Trey Anderson, 5-9 170, Sr., Orlando Bishop Moore

2012 6A Florida All-State Teams

CLASS 6A

FIRST TEAM OFFENSE
QB-Juwan Brown, 6-1 190, Sr., Largo
RB-Ralph Webb, 5-10 195, Sr., Gainesville High
RB-Joseph Yearby, 5-10 195, Jr., Miami Central
RB-Manny Morgan, 5-9 185, Sr., Naples
WR-James Clark, 5-11 175, Sr., New Smyrna Beach
WR-Ermon Lane, 6-3 190, Jr. Homestead
OL-Laremy Tunsil, 6-6 310, Sr., Lake City Columbia
OL-Ramsey Myers, 6-4 285, Sr., Orange Park Ridgeview
OL-Dan Gallman, 6-1 295, Sr., Naples
OL-Tyler Reagan, 6-5 285, Sr., Fruit Cove Bartram Trail
OL-Keonte Cash, 6-0 300, Sr., Miami Belen
UT-Josh Moore, 5-11 200, Sr., Orange Park Ridgeview
K-Ryan Santoso, 6-5 260, Sr., Pace

FIRST TEAM DEFENSE
DL-Denzel Ware, 6-2 220, Jr., Crestview
DL-Kennard Swanson, 6-0 250, Sr., Lakeland Lake Gibson
DL-Jontey Byrd, 5-11 260, Sr., Daytona Beach Mainland
LB-Keith Kelsey, 6-2 215, Sr., Gainesville High
LB-Nigel Harris, 6-1 200, Sr., Tampa Hillsborough
LB-Freddie Stevenson, 6-2 230, Sr., Bartow
LB-Quinton Powell, 6-5 215, Sr., Daytona Beach Mainland
DB-Leon McQuay III, 6-2 190, Sr., Seffner Armwood
DB-Vontarius West, 6-0 180, Sr., Bartow
DB-Tre Marshall, 6-0 185, Jr., Lake City Columbia
DB-Ahmad Thomas, 6-0 205, Sr., Miami Central
UT-Dalvin Cook, 6-0 190, Jr., Miami Central
P-Emilio Nadelman, 5-9 185, Sr., Miami Central

SECOND TEAM OFFENSE
QB-Kilton Anderson, 6-1 190, Jr., Naples
RB-Darius Tice, 6-0 210, Sr., Miami Northwestern
RB-Richard Montgomery, 5-7 180, Sr., Jacksonville Atlantic Coast
RB-Jay Warren, 6-1 190, Sr., Navarre
WR-Eric Carter, 6-1 190, Sr., Lakeland Lake Gibson
WR-Bobby Mitchell, 6-2 180, Sr., St. Augustine
OL-Trevor Darling, 6-5 310, Jr., Miami Central
OL-Travis Bennett, 6-3 270, Sr., Jacksonville Atlantic Coast
OL-Gerald Wright, 6-2 310, Sr., Miami Northwestern
OL-Nick Haynes, 6-3 300, Sr., Niceville
OL-Matt Bennett, 6-4 260, Sr., New Smyrna Beach
UT-T.J. Douglas, 6-1 185, Sr., Fort Myers
K-Jordan Patsch, 6-3 170, Sr., Daytona Beach Seabreeze

SECOND TEAM DEFENSE
DL-Marquese Blanchard, 6-3 225, Sr., Miami Northwestern
DL-Mike Heuermann, 6-4 220, Sr., Naples Barron Collier
DL-Reggie Meant, 6-4 262, Sr., Cape Coral Baker
LB-Alex Gonzales, 5-10 185, Sr., Gainesville High
LB-Brian Donnelly, 5-10 218, Sr., Naples
LB-DeMichael McQueen, 5-10 205, Sr., Milton
LB-Kyle Sandner, 5-9 185, Sr., Ocala Vanguard
DB-Nick Benton, 5-10 170, Sr., Navarre
DB-Artie Burns, 6-2 190, Sr., Miami Northwestern
DB-Reggie Warren, 6-0 180, Sr., Pensacola High
DB-Kendall Gant, 6-3 185, Jr., Lakeland Lake Gibson
UT-Jayron Kearse, 6-4 200, Sr., South Fort Myers
P-Zach Theriault, 6-2 185, Sr., Fort Walton Beach Choctawhatchee

THIRD TEAM OFFENSE
QB-Kurt Benkert, 6-3 202, Sr., Cape Coral Island Coast
RB-Ronald Timmons, 5-9 185, Sr., Lake City Columbia
RB-Jarvis Stewart, 5-9 170, Jr., Largo RB-Adam Lane, 5-9 210, Sr., Winter Haven
WR-Jordan Leggett, 6-5 230, Sr., Navarre
WR-Jonathan Moore, 6-0 170, Sr., Tampa Jefferson
OL-Raul Diaz, 6-2 270, Jr., Miami Central
OL-Laquandre Kinsler, 6-6 360, Sr., Ocala Vanguard
OL-Shamar Johnson, 6-5 285, Sr., Pensacola Pine Forest
OL-Jalyn Wesley, 5-9 215, Sr., Gainesville High
OL-Diante Crumitie, 6-3 270, Jr., Lake City Columbia
UT-Alvin Bailey, 5-11 170, Sr., Seffner Armwood
K-Andrew Mitchell, 6-5 220, Sr., Niceville

THIRD TEAM DEFENSE
DL-Mike Smith, 6-3 230, Jr., Miami Northwestern
DL-Eric Brelia, 6-2 205, Sr., Fort Walton Beach Choctawhatchee
DL-Robert Hill Bronson, 5-11 200, Sr., Brooksville Hernando
LB-Shane Jones, 6-2 190, Sr., Palm Bay Heritage
LB-Luke McLeod, 6-2 210, Sr., Springhill Springstead
LB-Kailik Williams, 5-11 190, Jr., Daytona Beach Seabreeze
LB-James Clark, 6-2 215, Sr., Sebastian River
DB-Rujerry McClisse, 6-2 185, Sr., Palm Bay Bayside
DB-Diamante Mitchell, 5-9 180, Sr., New Smyrna Beach
DB-Kendrick Holland, 6-3 180, Jr., Winter Haven
DB-Mike Harris, 5-10 195, Sr., South Fork
UT-Ja’von Harrison, 6-2 185, Jr., Lakeland Kathleen
P-Todd Ryals, 5-8 145, Sr., Gonzalez Tate

HONORABLE MENTION
QB Akeem Jones, 6-3 200, Sr. Carol City; QB Trey Congdon, 6-3 200, Jr., Lakeland Lake Gibson; QB Mark Cato, 6-2 200, Sr., Gainesville High; QB Austin Chipoletti, 6-0 180, Sr., Orange Park Oakleaf; QB Blake James, 6-1 170, Sr., Fort Walton Beach; QB Cody Labanowitz, 6-2 200, Sr., South Fork; QB Marcus Johnson, 6-1 190, Jr., New Smyrna Beach; QB Sandon Mims, 6-2 185, Sr., St. Augustine; RB Micah Reed, 5-11 185, Sr., Crestview; RB Tyler Brown, 5-11 185, Sr., Lakeland Lake Gibson; RB Trebian Suggs, 5-8 175, Sr., Pensacola Pine Forest; RB Leroy Berry, 5-8 178, Sr., Palm Bay; RB Matt Brieda, 5-10 175, Sr., Brooksville Nature Coast; WR Karel Hamilton, 6-3 185, Sr., Plant City Strawberry Crest; WR Case Harrison, 6-0 180 Sr., Gainesville High; UT Cameron Hadley, 5-11 180, Sr., Daytona Beach Mainland; UT Austin Lawrence, 5-11 172, Sr., Seminole Osceola; UT Andre Flakes, 5-10 175, Jr., Milton; UT Derrick Doss, 5-9 200, Sr., Largo; LB Jake Berman, 6-1 235, Sr., Naples Barron Collier; LB AK Olusanya, 6-0 200, Sr., Tampa Sickles; LB Jordan Griffin, 6-0 200, So., Seffner Armwood; LB Griffin Goins, 6-1 235, Sr., Hollywood Hills; DB D.A. Williams, 5-10 175, Sr., St. Augustine; DB Da’wan Hunte, 5-10 190, Sr., Miami Central; DB Da’cota Dixon, 5-10 190, Jr., New Smyrna Beach; DB Jules Dornevil, 6-0 170, Sr., Naples; DB Jeremiah Green, 5-8 165, Sr., Tampa Hillsboough; DB Nat Dixon, 6-3 170, Jr., Lynn Haven Mosley; DB Tyrus Wooten, 6-1 175, Sr., Palm Bay Heritage; DB Lamont Simmons, 6-2 180, Jr., Jacksonville Lee; UT Tyrail Hawkins, 5-11 190, Sr., Brooksville Hernando; UT Charles Nelson, 5-10 175, Jr., Daytona Beach Seabreeze.

2012 7A Florida All-State Teams

CLASS 7A

FIRST TEAM OFFENSE 
QB-John O’Korn, 6-3 205, Sr., Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas
RB-Kenny Scott, 5-8 180, Sr., Gainesville Buchholz
RB-Stafon McCray, 6-0 205, Sr., Kissimmee Osceola
RB-Jamarlon Hamilton, 5-10 215, Sr., Plant City Durant
WR-Taj Williams, 6-4 185, Sr., Tallahassee Lincoln
WR-Eddie Jackson, 5-11 180, Sr., Lauderdale Lakes Boyd Anderson
OL-Kent Meredith, 6-4 280, Sr., Oviedo
OL-Austin Bland, 6-3 277, Sr., Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas
OL-Kyle Schafenacker, 6-4 288, Sr., Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas
OL-James Looney, 6-3 275, Sr., Lake Worth 
OL-Josh Phelps, 6-3 280, Sr., Kissimmee Osceola
UT-Will Worth, 6-2 210, Sr., Lithia Newsome
K-Austin Taylor, 5-10 170, Sr., Punta Gorda Charlotte

FIRST TEAM DEFENSE 
DL-Marquis Dawsey, 5-11 224, Sr., Bradenton Manatee
DL-Mark Kelly, 6-1 235, Jr., Dwyer 
DL-Jerandious Works, 5-10 265, Sr., Fort Pierce Central 
DL-Joey Bosa, 6-5 265, Sr., Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas
LB-T.J. Simmons, 6-0 220, Sr., Lakeland
LB-Daniel McMillian, 6-2 220, Sr., Jacksonville First Coast
LB-Stacy Noble, 5-11 230, Sr., Fort Pierce Central 
DB-Brisly Estime, 5-9 185, Sr., Atlantic 
DB-Joe Figueroa, 6-0 190, Sr., Fort Pierce Central 
DB-Stacy Coley, 6-2 175, Sr., Oakland Park Northeast
DB-Jamerson Blount, 6-1 175, Sr., Tallahassee Lincoln
UT-Shykeem Pitts, 5-11 175, Sr., Davenport Ridge
P-Chandler Jones, 6-2 215, Sr., Lakeland Jenkins

SECOND TEAM OFFENSE 
QB-Cord Sandberg, 6-2 200, Sr., Bradenton Manatee
RB-Jurrell Green, 5-9 170, So., Oviedo
RB-Clyde Newton, 6-1 210, Sr., Punta Gorda Charlotte
RB-Fred Coppet, 5-9 170, Sr., Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas
WR-Johnnie Dixon, 5-11 185, Jr., Dwyer 
WR-Tony Stevens, 6-2 185, Sr., Orlando Evans
OL-Zach Provin, 6-3 265, Sr., Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas
OL-Alex Wood, 6-0 250, Sr., Plant City Durant
OL-Ryan Crozier, 6-3 270, Jr., Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas
OL-Thor Miller, 6-2 285, Sr., Bradenton Manatee
OL-Eric Hampson, 6-5 300, Sr., Pinellas Park
UT-D.J. Juste, 6-1 170, Sr., Port St Lucie 
K-Danny Krysalka, 6-1 175, Sr., Ocala Forest

SECOND TEAM DEFENSE 
DL-Blake Keller, 6-2 215, Sr., Bradenton Manatee
DL-Seyvon Lowry, 6-2 225, Sr., Jacksonville First Coast
DL-Jalen Stevenson, 6-1 205, Sr., Lakeland
DL-Malik Brown, 6-3 230, Sr., Dwyer 
LB-Terry McCray, 6-2 225, Jr., Pompano Beach Ely
LB-Ervin Alston, 6-1 218, Sr., Fleming Island
LB-Jalen Kindle, 6-1 210, Sr., Fleming Island
DB-A.J. Coney, 5-7 175, Sr., Oviedo
DB-Tyrell Lyons, 6-2 220, Sr., Jacksonville First Coast
DB-Justin McDonald, 6-2 188, Sr., Lauderdale Lakes Boyd Anderson
DB-Hassan Childs, 6-2 175, Sr., Kissimmee Osceola
UT-Quaheem Kapinski, 6-1 195, Sr., Venice
P-Mike Destephens, 5-10 170, Sr., Gainesville Buchholz

THIRD TEAM OFFENSE 
QB-Greg Hankerson, 6-0 180, Sr. Lauderdale Lakes Boyd Anderson
RB-Ben Robinson, 5-8 185, Sr., Tallahassee Lincoln
RB-Darius Hoggins, 5-9 178, Sr., Coral Springs Monarch
RB-Trevon Walters, 5-11 180, Jr., Bradenton Manatee
WR-Shawn Bane, 6-1 180, So., Sarasota
WR-Rashad Land, 6-2 180, Sr., Coconut Creek
OL-Jacques Braggs, 6-2 215, Sr., Lithia Newsome
OL-Nick Linder, 6-3 265, Jr., Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas
OL-Kevin Jacques, 6-1 275, Sr., Hollywood South Broward
OL-(TE) A.J. Sattinger, 6-2 230, Sr., Clearwater Countryside
OL-Chole Sims, 6-3 270, Sr., Tallahassee Lincoln
UT-Kale Youtzy, 5-11 185, Sr., Venice
K-Sean Covington, 6-1 175, Sr., St Petersburg High

THIRD TEAM DEFENSE 
DL-Ernest Suttles, 6-5 230, Sr., Tampa Gaither
DL-Keith Bryant, 6-2 300, Sr., Atlantic 
DL-Derrick Calloway, 6-3 310, Sr., Bradenton Manatee
DL-Monty Nelson, 6-2 280, Sr., Plantation
LB-Ro’Derrick Hoskins, 6-2 220, Sr., Orlando Evans
LB-Donel Elam, 6-2 215, Sr., Fleming Island
LB-Scott Northcutt, 6-0 200, Sr., Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas
DB-Zachary Hill, 5-11 175, Sr., Lauderdale Lakes Boyd Anderson
DB-Nate Godwin, 5-11 190, Sr., Tampa Freedom
DB-Jimmy Moreland, 5-11 175, Jr., Royal Palm Beach 
DB-James Crawford, 6-2 190, Sr., Fort Lauderdale St Thomas
UT-Tyler Serpo, 5-11 180, Sr., Clearwater Countryside
P-Marshall Stapp, 6-0 165, Sr., Oviedo

HONORABLE MENTION 
QB Mike Scarnecchia, 6-4 195, Jr., Fleming Island; QB DeAndre Johnson, 6-3 190, So., Jacksonville First Coast; QB Sam Vaughn, 6-3 185, Jr., Fort Pierce Central; QB Levar Robinson, 6-0 180, Sr., Orlando Evans; RB Terry Polk, 5-9 165, Jr., Venice; RB Zach Smith, 6-0 185, Sr., Kissimmee Gateway; RB Marcus Levy, 5-9 185, Sr., Fort Pierce Central; RB Javarius Davis, 6-0 185, So., Jacksonville White; WR Mark Barr, 6-2 180, Sr., Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas; WR Marquel Hines, 5-8 170, Jr., Bradenton Manatee; TE Brian Griggs, 6-2 230, Sr., Oviedo; WR Reggie Davis, 5-10 170, Sr., Tallahassee Lincoln; UT Richard Benjamin, 6-0 190, Sr., Tampa Bay Tech; UT Michael Flood, 6-0 165, Sr., Davie Nova; K Brian Crews, 5-11 170, Jr., Tallahassee Lincoln; OL Jevon Fripp, 6-3 280, Sr., Tampa Bay Tech; DL Tanner Reeves, 6-4 230, Sr., Lakeland Jenkins; DL Anthony Moten, 6-4 270, Jr,. Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas; DL Mike Love, 6-3 210, Sr., Clearwater Countryside; DL Peter Bailey, 6-3 215, Sr., Kissimmee Osceola; DL Rashawn Shaw, 6-2 225, Jr., Fort Pierce Central; DL Jordan Tucker, 6-2 215, Sr., Leesburg; LB Mikeice Adams, 6-0 195, Jr., Kissimmee Osceola; LB Derrell Young, 6-0 205, Sr., Lauderdale Lakes Boyd Anderson; LB Auggie Sanchez, 6-2 225, Sr., St Petersburg Northeast; LB Jarred Brown, 5-11 205, Sr., Dwyer; DB Ronnie Scott, 5-10 170, Sr., Tampa Chamberlain; DB Jonathan Moxey, 5-11 180, Sr., Dwyer; DB Willie Smith, 6-0 180 Sr., Bradenton Manatee; DB Rashard Robinson, 6-2 175, Sr., Pompano Beach Ely.