One of the most popular radio shows of its kind heads toward the middle of February with another impressive show on Monday night.
Six guests once again filled the two hours as the South Florida High School Sports Show once again presented some interesting topics.
Each week, the FM 104.3 WQAM radio program attracts the newsmakers in high school sports, recruiting college sports – not only locally, but throughout the country.
The show gives listeners an opportunity to hear about college football programs statewide from the media that cover them. It also focuses on the coaches who use the state of Florida – Miami-Dade and Broward Counties in particular.
The program, which has run for nearly two decades and has been recognized nationally as one of the best of its kind, has become a popular listen for recruiting fans as well as high school sports purists, focusing on high sports and the newsmakers.
Here is a look at the way Monday night went:
As the Florida Gators begin spring football practice today under new head coach Jon Sumrall, fans will be anxious to see if he and his staff can return this program to its winning ways. Kevin Brockway from the Gainesville Sun talked about the team and immediate future.
KEVIN BROCKWAY ON MONDAY NIGHT. https://www.audacy.com/podcast/south-florida-high-school-sports-radio-5af98/episodes/kevin-brockway-gainesville-sun-e1b64
When Plantation American Heritage wrapped up the girls’ state soccer championship last week, it was the fourth consecutive title for the Lady Patriots as they finished No. 1 in Florida and one of the best in the country with an 18-0-1 record and will return plenty of talent for next season. Head Coach Cindy Marcial talked about the team and more.
CINDY MARCIAL ON MONDAY NIGHT. https://www.audacy.com/podcast/south-florida-high-school-sports-radio-5af98/episodes/coach-cindy-marcial-head-girls-soccer-coach-plantation-american-heritage-73565
The University of Miami players just wrapped up a week at the NFL Combine as they look toward the Pro Day at the end of the month. While they prepare for the next step in their career, the new Miami Hurricanes entered campus with hopes of being in the same position one day as Adam Lichtenstein of the South Florida Sun Sentinel spoke about.
ADAM LICHTENSTEIN ON MONDAY NIGHT. https://www.audacy.com/podcast/south-florida-high-school-sports-radio-5af98/episodes/adam-lichtenstein-south-florida-sun-sentinel-talking-hurricanes-football-d7ab4
Coming off a national championship game against Indiana and a 13-win season, head coach Mario Cristobal spoke about what it takes to not only get to the elite level, but stay in that position. The Hurricanes return plenty of talent, bring in some key pieces from the Portal and have perhaps the best recruiting class – top to bottom – that they have ever had.
COACH MARIO CRISTOBAL ON MONDAY NIGHT. https://www.audacy.com/podcast/south-florida-high-school-sports-radio-5af98/episodes/mario-cristobal-miami-hurricanes-football-head-coach-83388
Through the Florida Coaches Coalition, getting coaches paid more money for what they do to teach and cultivate young men and women, is going to be an ongoing endeavor. With the aid of booster clubs in local communities, the dream of getting salaries at a level where they are across the country is an objective they have been working toward for five years. Dr. Andrew Ramjit, Executive Director, joined the program to speak about what can be done to help coaches succeed. He also spoke the coaching clinic held this past weekend in Lake Mary.
DR. ANDREW RAMJIT ON MONDAY NIGHT. https://www.audacy.com/podcast/south-florida-high-school-sports-radio-5af98/episodes/dr-andrew-ramjit-florida-coaches-coalition-44261
Anthony and Michael Yero created 305Sportss to follow and promote athletes from this area of the country who have made south Florida, Miami-Dade in particular, one of the best places for athletic talent in the country. From football to track and field, basketball and other events, the “Sports Brothers” will put you on the map with nearly one million followers. Last week they were at the NFL Combine and came back with some amazing footage and stories.
ANTHONY YERO ON MONDAY NIGHT. https://www.audacy.com/podcast/south-florida-high-school-sports-radio-5af98/episodes/anthony-yero-305sportss-6669e
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
For the past 55 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).
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When Pedro Neiva took over Miami Varela’s football program, he knew that it would be a process to turn the Vipers around and build a winning program.
While last season ended 6-4, there were plenty of things that this program did well and gave the coaches, players and administrators something to be positive about.
As there were ups and downs, Coach Neiva told his players that you get what you put in – and that’s why this off-season has been one that everyone is seeing a turnaround in southwest Miami-Dade County.
With several prospects coming back – along with some new faces – the expectations are high and that is something that hasn’t happened too much with this program.
CLASS OF 2027 RISING SENIORS HAVE TALENT
As the entire roster is filled with playmakers, the Vipers will rely on the 2027 (rising seniors) class for experience and leadership.
Ricky Day, 6’0, 185, Athlete.
TAPE: http://www.hudl.com/v/2SwbjZ
Keen Davis, 6’1, 165, Athlete
TAPE: http://www.hudl.com/v/2T9tAA
Andrew Laporte, 6’2, 195, TE/K/P.
TAPE: http://www.hudl.com/v/2T9RHs - TE highlights
TAPE: http://www.hudl.com/v/2T9S8F - K/P highlights
Carlos Vazquez, 6’1, 260, OL.
Jordan Carrasquillo, 5’7, 165, DB.
TAPE: http://www.hudl.com/v/2TBEAw
Also keep an eye on Keanu Alvarado (5’9, 225, OL), Troy Averhoff (5'10, 240, OL), Sebastian Arenas (5’8, 175, LB), Jorgedrick Borrero-DeJesus (6'1, 315, DL), Kaedan Montero (5'11, 215, DL), Austin Ross (6'1, 175, WR), Jose Santos (5'11, 250, OL/DL) and athlete Barron Williams (6'3, 185).
UNDERCLASSMEN HOLD THE KEY
As the rising senior class has prospects that this program will rely on, there are some younger players to keep an eye on as well.
Here are some top rising juniors (2028) players to check out:
Justin Iglesias, 5’9, 165, DB.
TAPE: http://www.hudl.com/v/2TAveT
Leland Walker, 5’11, 175, Athlete.
TAPE: http://www.hudl.com/v/2T9xEE
Joel Pujadas, 6'0, 195, Quarterback.
TAPE: http://www.hudl.com/v/2TAs29
JoseMiguel Gonzalez, 5’7, 175, Quarterback.
TAPE: http://www.hudl.com/v/2TAsrt
The Vipers also have some other players in the class that are expected to make an impact this spring and summer. Prospects such as Julian Bello (5'9, 235, OL), Aitor Diaz (5'11, 190, WR), Cristian Garcia (6'1, 335, DL), Leonard Guanche (6'0, 185, Athlete), Ricardo Hernandez (6'0, 225, DL), Enzo Mesa (5'9, 190, LB), Issac Perez (5'10, 165, DB) and offensive lineman Anthony Zepeda (5'10, 235).
The future looks solid with rising sophomores (2029) Samuel Pavon (6'3, 285, OL/DL) and linebacker Yuniesky Pena (5'8, 175).
2025 Varela Vipers
Miami Ferguson, W 13-6
Miami Sunset, W 23-6
Hialeah Miami Lakes, W 7-0
Miami Coral Reef, L 30-0
Doral Reagan, L 14-13
Miami Braddock, L 21-14
Hialeah Gardens, W 28-6
Southwest Miami, W 7-0
Miami Coral Park, W 27-13
Miami Springs, L 31-7
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
For the past 55 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..
In the moments following their 31-0 loss in the first ever state football championship appearance, West Broward head coach Brian McCartney, his players and assistant coaches were dejected.
After winning 12 straight games and reaching the 6A state title game against defending state champion West Boca Raton, there was a hollow feeling for the Bobcats, who had tasted defeat for the first time since way back in Week 2.
Forget the fact that nobody in the state picked this program to be in the finals, McCartney and his team were in no mood for consolation prizes. They had worked too hard and proven too many people along the way – winning games that even the most knowledgeable high school football gurus gave them no chance to win at all.
As the off-season started and several players graduated along with some others transferring out, it was back to the drawing board for this program as veteran players greeted new players with the same objective – win!
Coming up with another 12-win season and making it all the way to the state finals will indeed be a tough assignment, but this is a program that believes that over the course of the spring and summer, things can change and pieces could still be added.
McCartney, who was named South Florida Coach of the Year this past weekend at the Florida Coaches Coalition event in Lake Mary, is ready to reload.
RISING SENIORS (2027) WILL BE COUNTED ON
With a number of holes to fill, there are some rising seniors who figure to lead and showcase their experience.
Among those prospects will be Amir Jones (DL), Sadle Howard (DB), Izaiah Lopez (RB), transfer running back/defensive back Ryan Walker and defensive back transfer Kyler Johnston.
WHAT ABOUT THE UNDERCLASSMEN?
With the addition of several new faces, the rising seniors will be important, but for depth and a bright future, the younger players will also be counted on heavily.
Class of 2028 rising juniors such as Landen Hairston (QB), gifted Larry Freelove (DB), Gabe Cypress (DL) and quarterback transfer Kane Garbutt.
There is also a solid group of Class of 2029 (rising sophomore) talent. Prospects such as Karsen Bell (DE), Mekhi Themes (DB), Jace Alphonse (DL), offensive tackle Braylon Williams (6’4 280), standout linebacker Alix Anselme and linebacker Jordan Smith.
Expect other prospects to be added to this program in the coming months as “transfer season” will really kick in after spring.
WEST BROWARD BOBCATS
Corner Canyon, Utah, L 38-13
Camden County, Georgia, L 32-13
Plantation, W 31-6
Pembroke Pines Flanagan, W 20-8
Miramar Everglades, W 55-0
Fort Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons, W 49-38
Miami Beach, W 54-0
Miramar, W 52-8
Miami Dr. Krop, W 49-0
Davie Western, W 35-7
South Plantation, W 56-13
Coconut Creek Monarch, W 38-12
Miami Southridge, W 30-27
Gainesville Buchholz, W 24-17
West Boca Raton, L 31-0
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
For the past 55 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..
Over the past two weeks, several football players in all classes have had the opportunity to showcase their many talents in front of some national evaluators and media members.
With the Rivals.com event at Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas and the Under Armour Next event at Orlando Bishop Moore Catholic High School, it was a chance for many under-the-radar prospects to finally get the attention they deserve.
While Miami-Dade and Broward Counties have long been a place where colleges and universities flock to year-round, sometimes there is so much talent that it’s tough to make a statement and get on that important radar.
One of the positions that is always loaded is linebacker, and over the past two weeks, several talented young men had the opportunity to put themselves on the map – nationally – as college coaches followed the events that took place and saw video clips and read evaluations by so many.
Because there is a reputation in the #305 and #954 for churning out so many gifted prospects, it was no surprise that several linebackers were singled out for their performances in the camp/combine setting.
We are fortunate to have watched just about every student/athlete in the region, so it was easy to pick out five prospects to keep an eye on.
2027 - Jayden Gummer, 6’0, 210, Miami Gardens Monsignor Edward Pace – 3.86 GPA. Over the past two years when head coach Anthony Walker spoke about this talented prospect, he spoke about his quickness and ability to make plays, getting to the action quickly. Whether it’s getting to the quarterback, making tackles on running plays or dropping back in pass coverage, this is indeed someone who was always around the ball. Is primed to have another banner season in 2026.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/20266966/Jayden-Gummer
2028 - Khavon Gipson, 6’1, 206, Miami Northwestern. Being part of one of the best defensive units in the state of Florida, here is a prospect that learned something new in every game. As the Bulls advanced to the state title game for the second straight year, this impressive talent showed that he could stop the run, get after the passer and fly to the ball as well as anyone. Even in the state title game, he came up with several key plays to keep this program in the contest until the end.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/22891327/69437b4c667ffd62d43b7fec
2028 - Zakhari Johnson, 6’0, 210, Miami Carol City. After two years at Monsignor Pace, he makes his way down the street to play for the Chiefs and he brings something special with him. Whether it’s in the middle or on the outside, the one thing that he has shown is athleticism and plenty of speed. He has a motor that never stops, and for that reason, offenses need to account for him on every play. As he continues to learn the game and the position, this is definitely a prospect who will be a problem. This is going to be a very important spring as he matures and settles into a new scheme and defense.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/22794216/6781f2289070611cabcf9b75
2028 - Steven Moore, 6’1, 215, Miami Central. From a very young age, here is a prospect that everyone has been waiting to see. Comes from some dynamic bloodlines where family members have played the game and have done quite well. First made his mark as a middle school wrestler that combines strength and physicality that translated to the football field. Another of those prospects that will continue to learn more about the position by seeing more playing time on a defense that will once again be among the best. Having coaches who are known for teaching will also be huge for this talent. Watch him perform and you will see a talented player who is relentless and does not stop until the whistle blows.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19498770/Steven-Moore
2027 - Albert Smith, 6’2, 210, Miami Southridge. Talk about a playmaker. Ask any teammate or coach about this impressive talent and all will tell you that if you want to watch him play, just follow the ball. He is always around plays because he is instinctive, quick and very athletic. Tremendous vision, anticipation and a passion for the game. You can see so much at a camp or combine, but the true measure of any football player is the way they perform in games – and that’s when these analysts or recruiting gurus need to be there evaluating and not just in a pair of shorts and a T-shirt, where you can only tell so little about a tackle football prospect!
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/20931961/Albert-Smith
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
For the past 55 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 GARDENS – When it comes to recruiting at the high school level – in every sport – nobody has to tell you how challenging things have become.
With the portal, NIL deals and other obstacles, high school athletes are finding it tougher than ever to attain the dream of becoming a college student/athlete.
While small college recruiting fairs are still being held across the country to assist in the process, it has become a task for high school coaches to sell their athletes.
That’s where the Orange Bowl comes in and has been making an impact over the past decade to help make those many dreams come true.
This Saturday, Feb. 28 (8 a.m.) the Orange Bowl is hosting its 10th annual Orange Bowl Florida High School Football Showcase presented by Baptist Health at St. Thomas University.
The free event will provide hundreds of local high school junior and senior student athletes an opportunity to meet college coaches from across the country for a chance to receive aid or scholarships as they aspire to continue their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level.
Each participant will compete in a series of tests, drills and scrimmages that best display each player’s various talents at their respective positions, followed by a meet and greet opportunity with coaches from approximately 30 NCAA Division II, III, NAIA and JUCO programs.
Since 2017, more than $8 million in scholarships and financial aid has been awarded to more than 500 high school student-athletes participating in this event.
The Orange Bowl Committee continues to take great pride in its ability to once again present this unparalleled opportunity to local high school student-athletes. The consistent objective is to provide these students with increased exposure, thereby enhancing their prospects for securing financial assistance for college and ultimately attaining a college degree. The event's significant success over the past nine years underscores its effectiveness in pursuing this aim.
To be eligible to participate in the football showcase, student-athletes must be a high school senior or junior who has not accepted a scholarship offer from a Division I football program. In addition, it is recommended that participants have a 2.5 GPA or higher in 16 Core Courses AND have an SAT score of at least 920 (math and verbal only), OR have a composite ACT Score of 18 or higher or a sum score of 68 or higher.
Baptist Health is once again a sponsor proud to support this incredible program that celebrates the athleticism, determination, and sportsmanship of young athletes. Their commitment to the health and well-being of the community extends beyond the walls of their facilities, and by partnering with the Orange Bowl, they empower these student-athletes to reach their full potential.
Attention Parents
An information session will take place during the showcase to educate parents on financial aid, NCAA and NAIA eligibility requirements and much more. We encourage you to attend this session to learn more about putting your student-athlete in the best position to be successful and college-ready.
For more information about the Orange Bowl Florida High School Football Showcase presented by Baptist Health and to register, please visit www.orangebowl.org/showcase/.
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
For the past 55 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..