When it comes to special teams, we have always understood the importance of having a kicker, punter and long snapper and so do colleges and universities.
Through the years, when it comes to shining a spotlight on these specialists, we have always made sure that we get these young men out for all to follow.
While it’s easy to follow those kickers and punters who are in the spotlight, our objective is to attend as many showcases as possible to uncover some of these rising stars of the gridiron.
In the course of a year, we will shine that spotlight on those kickers, punters and long snappers that get them that much needed recognition.
With the off-season under way, we start our special teams look with kickers and punters in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. We will have a look at long snappers after the winter showcase in January.
CLASS OF 2026 RISING SENIORS ARE IMPRESSIVE
As this 2025 group of kickers and punters are still searching for a home, the Class of 2026 rising seniors are starting to jump on the radar.
Remember, special teams’ exposure has become paramount, so underclassmen are no longer a surprise.
This 2026 class has some stellar difference makers – starting with Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna nationally ranked kicker Noah Sidan (4.0 GPA).
Sidan, who began at Miami Norland last season, made his way north and was part of the 1A state championship team.
While Sidan will bring in plenty of attention, he is certainly not alone.
Among those prospects to keep an eye on in 2025 will be John Allen (K/P, Miami Christopher Columbus), Matisse Bullrich (K, Miami Gulliver Prep – 3.54 GPA), Justin Cassini (P, Plantation American Heritage – 4.6 GPA), Hector Castillo (K/P, Miami Archbishop Carroll), Dominic Celli (K, Fort Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons – 3.9 GPA), Caysen Chevannes (K, Pembroke Pines Charter – 4.5 GPA), Johnny DiSalvatore (K/P, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas – 4.1 GPA), Miguel Farinas (K/P, Deerfield Beach Somerset Key), Jacob Fernandiz (K, Miami Lakes Barbara Goleman), and Rodrigo Franco (K/P, North Miami Beach).
Other 2026 prospects to watch this off-season include Christopher Green (K/P, Miami Palmetto), Brandon Guerrero (K, Fort Lauderdale), Jordan Hechler (K/P, Miami Christopher Columbus), Njonte Henry (P/K, Davie Nova), Carlos Lavernia (K, Miami Ransom Everglades), Thomas Lopez (K/P, Miami Booker T. Washington), Mateus Lucena (K/P, Weston Cypress Bay), Alan Lopez-Ortiz (K/P, South Miami), Juan Marmolejo (K, Coconut Creek Monarch), and Christian Martinez (K/P, Cooper City).
The class is deep with Emilio Mollinedo (K, Homestead South Dade – 3.3 GPA), nationally rated Francisco Moscoso (K/P, Miami Belen Jesuit – 5.67 GPA), Trace Poncev (K, Pembroke Pines West Broward – 4.0 GPA), Cody Rawda (K, Parkland Douglas), Jonathan Rivera (K, Miami High), Jorge Rivera (K/P, Miami Dr. Krop), Stephen Cook-Roberts (P/K, Miami Palmer Trinity), Gabriel Suarez (K, Miami Westminster Christian), Javier Suarez (P, Miami Westminster Christian), Conrad Tolerico (P, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas – 3.6 GPA), and Damir Wright (K/P, Lauderdale Lakes Boyd Anderson).
CLASS OF 2027 CONTINUES THE TALENT TRAIN
As good as the 2026 class will be, the future certainly looks bright with some gifted kickers and punters.
Among those will be Ayden Dimmitt-Modest (K/P, Lauderdale Lakes Boyd Anderson), Gabriel Gonzalez (K, Doral Academy), Jonathan Hernanez (K, Coconut Creek), Christopher Macias (K/P, Miami True North Classical Academy), Alec Martinez-Bolivar (K/P, Miami Ransom Everglades), Nathan Maza (K/P, Miami Christopher Columbus), Nicholas Minthorpe (K/P, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas), Krystian Nacier (K/P, Miami Florida Christian), John Potts (K, Miami Gardens Monsignor Pace), Michael Quinones (K, Miami Southridge), elite Cole Rodriguez (K, Pembroke Pines Somerset Academy - 3.5 GPA), Mykel Sam (K/P, Homestead South Dade – 3.1 GPA), and Mason Vogt (K/P, Miami Christopher Columbus).
The 2028 prospects are also going to be special – with Fox Ehrlich (K/P, Coral Springs Taravella), Osdiel Perez (K, Miami Lakes Barbara Goleman), Sebastian Raga (K, Southwest Miami), and Dylan Semmartin (K/P, Pembroke Pines Somerset Academy).
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
For the past 54 years, we have spent more time on football fields than anyone in the country. From games to practices, camps, combines and 7-on-7 events, we get to as many events as possible to see the athletes LIVE. Follow us on Facebook (Larry Blustein) Instagram (@OurBoyBlu) and Twitter (@PrepRedzoneFL). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
When it comes to football talent in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties through the years, there have been plenty of offensive stars that not only made an impact in high school, but also got it done at the college and NFL levels.
But when you look back at the talent throughout the decades in this region, there have been defensive playmakers who have turned heads and made an impact.
As we closed the book on the 2024 season and look back at some of the key performers, a number of defensive players stepped up to make those plays to ignite their respective teams.
Today, we give some of the spotlight to those defensive players who sparked their teams and made an impact.
Here are some players we salute for stepping up their game:
Seniors (2025) such as Roderick (R.J.) Boynton (DB, Miami Gulliver Prep), Sebastien-Olivier Lacrete (DB, Miami Gulliver Prep), Shawn Garcon (LB, Fort Lauderdale NSU University School), Justin St-Ange (LB, Southwest Ranches Archbishop McCarthy), Julian Mendez (OLB, Davie Western), Hector Chavez (LB, Miami Christopher Columbus), Cory Waters (MLB, Miami Southridge), Joshua McDowell (MLB, Miami Southridge)
There were some quality juniors (2026) who also Dylan Bennett (LB, Plantation American Heritage), Kymani Morales (DE, Plantation American Heritage), Tyrel Snelling (LB, Miami High), Tommy Barcinas (OLB, Miami Palmer Trinity), Demarcus Greene (SS, Hollywood South Broward), Kamron Wilson (DE, Miami Southridge), Louisdens Paul (LB, Miami Dr. Krop), Uryah McCartney (LB, Pembroke Pines West Broward), and Joey Novelli (OLB, Fort Lauderdale NSU University School).
There was an eye on quality 2027 (sophomores) as well – with Debonaire Johnson (LB, Hollywood South Broward), Maurice Gage (DB, Miami Gulliver Prep), Jayden Gummer (OLB, Miami Gardens Monsignor Pace), and linebacker 191 Amir Sameem (Coral Springs Taravella).
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
For the past 54 years, we have spent more time on football fields than anyone in the country. From games to practices, camps, combines and 7-on-7 events, we get to as many events as possible to see the athletes LIVE. Follow us on Facebook (Larry Blustein) Instagram (@OurBoyBlu) and Twitter (@PrepRedzoneFL). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
MIAMI – South Florida Tournament of Champions, Inc. is excited to announce the list of student-athletes selected for the 27th Annual South Florida High School Athletic Awards & Player of the Year ceremony.
These 20 outstanding football players from the Class of 2025 have been invited to represent their schools, counties, and communities in this prestigious event, which will take place on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at the Warren Henry Automotive Headquarters in Miami, FL. 2300 NE 151st St, North Miami, FL 33181
The following student-athletes will be honored for their exceptional achievements on the football field:
Lincoln Graf – Delray Atlantic
Yohan Li Louis – Calvary Christian
Malachi Toney – American Heritage
Cameron Sapp – Miami Palmetto
Jerrmyll Ray – Belle Glade Central
Ben Diaz – Plantation American Heritage
Hector Chavez – Christopher Columbus
Randy Adrika – Miami Central
Darryll Desir – Miami Norland
Davion Dixon – Miami Palmetto
Ezekiel Marcelin – Central
Joshua McDowell – Miami Southridge
Lewenski Ydore – North Miami Senior
Jerrad Smith – Miami Norland
Bryce Fitzgerald – Christopher Columbus
Chris Ewald – Hollywood Chaminade Madonna
Antonio Branch – Miami Northwestern
Camari Hall – Hollywood Chaminade Madonna
Byron Louis – Plantation American Heritage
Teddy Hoffman – Delray Atlantic
The South Florida Athletic Awards has long been known for honoring top talent, with past honorees including NFL stars such as Brandon Harris, Roscoe Parrish, Asante Samuel, Geno Smith, Tutu Atwell, Ruben Bain, Wesley Bassainte, Jordan Battle, Leonard Taylor, Jeremiah Smith, and Dalvin Cook.
Presenting this award is of special importance to the company’s Chief Executive Officer and Founder, Warren Henry Zinn, as he places high value on giving back to his community. Warren has always been a supporter of student athletes. Being raised in an inner-city community, Zinn knows firsthand how hard student-athletes work to perform at the exceptional level they do while balancing their other responsibilities. Having Warren Henry Auto Group honor their hard work is just one of the various ways Zinn lends his support.
The event will also feature community outreach initiatives, including a hospital visit to Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital on January 7, 2025, at 3 p.m. Players will engage with patients and share their inspiring stories. After the visit, the athletes will participate in an Academic and Human Development Symposium, providing them with insights alike the NFL Rookie Orientation process. Additionally, Publix Supermarkets will recognize the Academic Athlete of the Year, and Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital will honor the South Florida Coaches of the Year, Legon Fodiman Sudduth P.A. Community Service Award. The event will end with the selection of the Warren Zinn South Florida Player of Year Presentation.
About Warren Henry Auto Group
Established in 1976, Warren Henry Auto Group is one of the longest-standing, private, family-owned dealership groups in Florida. The company comprises nearly 500 employees, 6 different retail locations, and 17 luxury and premium brands including Jaguar, Land Rover, INFINITI, Audi, Lamborghini, Bugatti, Hennessey, Koenigsegg, Toyota, Ford, Lincoln, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, RAM, Icon, and Vespa.
Grounded in its original core values and vision, the company prides itself on providing exceptional customer service, creating a superior work environment for its employees, and supporting local causes in the communities it serves. Warren Henry Auto Group has received numerous awards and accolades including being named Best Dealership to Work for by Automotive News, honored by J.D. Power for Dealer of Excellence, and recognized by the South Florida Business Journal Philanthropy List. The company’s headquarters is located at 2300 NE 151st Street in North Miami. For more information, call (305) 690-6006 or visit www.warrenhenryauto.com.
Nobody has to tell any football fan about the struggles that head coach Taj Marshall and his Southwest Miami Eagles have had. But that hasn’t stopped this program from developing talent.
While this program will never be confused with the powerhouses in south Florida, that doesn’t mean that the players in this program aren’t working year round to improve and put themselves in a position to play this game and receive and education at the next level.
The same camps, combines and 7-on-7 events that the elite playoff programs are taking part in, so are the Eagles, who know that taking this game 365 days a year is the only way to get to that next level.
Marshall and his assistant coaches understand that what you put into this game will pay off. Maybe not in state titles, but development that will afford these young men a chance to play a sport they grew up on.
RISING SENIORS WILL BE VITAL AS USUAL
When the wins aren’t always piling up, leadership becomes so very important as those seniors and juniors are always looked upon to keep the energy alive.
The Class of 2026 rising seniors have some student/athletes will be counted on during the off-season to help the Eagles advance.
Among those prospects to keep an eye on include:
Marikevies McNichols, DL, 6’2”, 205 – 3.2 GPA.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/18139335/673280a8e53bcbed09775c14
Artavis West, Athlete, 6’1”, 150 – 2.5 GPA.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/22429067/672a4924742f7fc5272428aa
In addition to McNichols and West, keep an eye on Christopher Camacho (DL, 5'8", 190 – 3.8 GPA), Christian Espinal (Athlete, 6’0”, 170 – 2.975 GPA), Christian Ferreiro (DB, 6’0”, 180 - 3.92 GPA), Jordan Fleurant (WR, 6’0”, 180 – 2.6 GPA), Jayden Orozco (DL, 5’9”, 210 – 2.5 GPA). Norlis Perez (LB, 5’11”, 165 – 3.167 GPA), and Sean Simpson (DB, 5’6”, 140 - 3.65 GPA).
KEEP AN EYE ON THE 2027 PROSPECTS AS WELL
As the rising senior class will be needed for leadership, the underclassmen represent the future – and the Eagles have several rising juniors in the Class of 2027.
Leading the way in this talented group are:
Aiden Leone, QB, 5’8”, 150 – 3.143 GPA.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/20394797/670ef88ae91e1f998e15cf4a
Livan Morales Jr., Athlete, 5’7”, 145 – 2.65 GPA.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/22429086/67365d2aa0714ff1998f5b9e
In addition to Leone and Morales, check out Pedro Cabrera (QB, 5’11”, 160 – 2.909 GPA), Kennedy Deleon (DE, 5’9”, 178 - 3.1 GPA), Luis Garcia (WR, 6’0”, 145 – 3.0 GPA), Raul Inda (PK, 6’0”, 145), Alexander Lopez (Athlete, 5’7”, 165 - 2.875 GPA), Anthony Rodriguez (OL, 6'2", 261), Jordan Smith (LB, 5'10", 180), Gary Taylor (DL, 6'2", 265 – 2.5 GPA), and Robert Vaughn (QB, 5'10", 160 – 3.8 GPA).
RISING SOPHOMORES (2028) ALSO REPRESENT THE FUTURE
While the rising juniors will add to this program, so will the rising sophomores in the Class of 2028. These are potential game-changers for the program.
Lukas Aldazabal, DE, 5'8", 180.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/19617330/67339a321d3978c8fbea73f3
Antwan Laughlin, Athlete, 5'7" 140.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/22758401/6747e912625776be6d652a61
Other rising sophomores to watch this off-season will be Julian Castillo (LB, 5'10", 184), Matthew Lefevre (Athlete, 5'7", 155), Charlie Petit-Phar (OL, 5'8", 225), Sebastian Raga (K, 5'8", 150), Nicholas Sanchez (WR, 5'7", 120), and Samuel Villamil (Athlete, 6'0", 195).
PHOTO COURTESY OF SOUTHWEST MIAMI FOOTBALL
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
For the past 54 years, we have spent more time on football fields than anyone in the country. From games to practices, camps, combines and 7-on-7 events, we get to as many events as possible to see the athletes LIVE. Follow us on Facebook (Larry Blustein) Instagram (@OurBoyBlu) and Twitter (@PrepRedzoneFL). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
We hear about touchdown passes, rushing yards, receptions and even quarterback sacks, but the statistic that hardly ever gets the attention is interceptions.
Picking off passes usually results in the outcome of a game, but for some reason, unless they are record-breaking, we rarely hear about them.
Record breaking was a key work this year as Miami Booker T. Washington athlete Ben Hanks Jr., who is on his way to the University of Florida – where his father went – did break a record as he led the Tornadoes to the 2A state semifinals as a receiver and defensive backs, recording a Miami-Dade high 13 interceptions.
While Hanks was breaking records, there were others in the two counties (Miami-Dade and Broward) who also turned games around with their play in the defensive secondary.
Joining Hanks with those game-changing stats included Jerrard Smith (Miami Norland – 8), Samari Howard (South Broward (Hollywood - 7), Walter Manning (Miramar Everglades – 6), Dante Alexander Jr. (Miami Gardens Monsignor Pace – 6), and Keondre Ponton (Miami Immaculata LaSalle – 6).
Also, Semajay Robinson (Lauderdale Lakes Boyd Anderson – 5), South Plantation all-time interception leader Kaleb Declaire (5), Deshawn Blair (Lauderdale Lakes Boyd Anderson – 5), Darnell Tilghman (Davie Nova – 5), Ronald Thomas (Weston Cypress Bay), Mahki Bragg (Homestead Somerset Academy – 5), Justin Matias (Miami Archbishop Carroll – 5), and Jayden Gist (Key West – 5).
Among the players who have four picks this season were Leondre Strawder (Hollywood South Broward (Hollywood), George Valdovinos (Deerfield Beach Somerset Academy Key), Britton Bayag from Miami Westminster Christian), Tavarus Greene (Miami Florida Christian), John Hendrikse (Miami Westminster Christian), Jabori Walton (Miramar Everglades), Kamari Alexander (Southwest Miami), Marc Naranjo (Miami St. Brendan), Shavar Lambkin (Deerfield Beach Somerset Key), Adrian Lopez (Miami Coral Reef), and Opious Knox (Fort Lauderdale Stranahan).
Rounding out the locals who finished with four interceptions were Zamar Smith (Pembroke Pines Somerset Academy), Zayden Gamble (Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas), Javier Frazier (Fort Lauderdale Dillard), Hector Chavez (Miami Christopher Columbus), Montrey Jackson (Homestead South Dade), Amir Sears (Pembroke Pines West Broward), Tavarus Jones (Miami Immaculata LaSalle), Trezavant Boyd (Miami Booker T. Washington), Justin St-Ange (Southwest Ranches Archbishop McCarthy), and Sherrod Gourdine (Davie Western).
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
For the past 54 years, we have spent more time on football fields than anyone in the country. From games to practices, camps, combines and 7-on-7 events, we get to as many events as possible to see the athletes LIVE. Follow us on Facebook (Larry Blustein) Instagram (@OurBoyBlu) and Twitter (@PrepRedzoneFL). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..