TAMPA – If you want the true measure of a football program just look at what they do in the off-season.
Plantation American Heritage is the defending 4A state champion for many reasons – and on Thursday one of those reasons took place at the University of South Florida.
Two of the emerging stars of high school football in the state of Florida took part in a prestigious and talent-filled event on a hot, steamy day on Florida’s west coast.
For Class of 2027 offensive prospects Aiden “Big Country” Hartnett (6’3, 290) and Brandon “Big Baby” Adams (6’6, 310), it was all about competing and getting their names out there as they went against some elite defensive prospects.
With head coach Mike Smith and his Patriots getting ready for another challenging season, competing against some of the top football teams in south Florida, Hartnett and Adams made time to come the four plus hours to learn, compete and show why they will both will play a huge role for their team.
“This was the best line camp I’ve been a part of this year,” Hartnett explained. “Two sessions, five hours in shoulder pads and a helmet was the perfect way to showcase what I can do.”
Hartnett, who did well at other camps and combines, is going through the off-season with plenty of eyes on him as over the next year, his name will be finding its way to colleges and universities across the country.
Because he can play multiple positions, coaches like Tyler Hudanick (offensive line coach) had the opportunity to watch him during drills and competition and see his versatility. His work in the classroom (3.8 GPA) will also open doors moving forward.
Adams’ size and work in the classroom (4.7 GPA) will also keep him relevant over the next two years. He had several coaches watching as he won several matchups.
As the season gets ready to unfold and American Heritage looks to repeat, it will be these hot June days that they will look back to when sacrifices are made, and nobody is watching!
SOUTH FLORIDA REPRESENTED IN TAMPA
While Harnett and Adams were getting better on Thursday, other south Florida line prospects were also putting in the work as well. With defensive line coach Kevin Patrick and other assistants watching, many did their thing.
Miami True North Classical Academy Class of 2027 offensive lineman Ronald Riley (6’5, 320) has been attending several things this off-season and was once again working hard at the event.
Miami Gardens Monsignor Pace head coach Anthony Walker and his team ended their week-long caravan with a stop in Tampa, taking part in the 7-on-7 and also sending several players to the “Big Man” camp.
Among those were Class of 2026 players Ismael Carmona (DE), Dejuan Johnson (OT), Zachariah Nozile (DT) and Israel Sulbaran. Class of 2027 players Jeysus Cobas (OL), Calvin Etienne (DT), Quinton McGhee Jr. (OL) and Legend Walters (DE) were also on hand.
The Spartans also brought Class of 2028 players Michael Diaz (OL), Jordan Lewis (DE) and Jaden Parker (OL/DL).
Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna was also taking part in the 7-on-7 but also had R.J. Alphonse (DE), Elias Sturman (OL), Tavano Baptist (OL) and Ekeem Atehortua (OL).
Hialeah Gardens Mater Academy and head coach Tim “Ice” Harris, who won the 7-on-7 event, also brought some elite line prospects as well.
Among those were Class of 2026 players Jaylen Blackwell (OL), Carlos Botella (DE), Nasir Cruz and James Joseph.
Also, 2027 defensive lineman Edwardo Thompson.
The youth took center stage with Class of 2028 linemen Jaiden Thomas, Tyler Garcia and Julian Moncado.
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
MIAMI-DADE, BROWARD TRANSFERS? WE HAVE THEM FOR YOU. https://larryblustein.com/news/transfer-season-off-to-a-huge-start-in-miami-dade-broward
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..