Coming off a 4-3 season in what was certainly one of the toughest to accomplish, Miami LaSalle managed to not only come up with a winning season, but they did it with very little recognition and plenty of young prospects.

In a season where it was tough for the media and recruiting services to get out and watch games and players – because of Covid – many area athletes may not have received the recognition they deserved.

The job that head coach Helder Valle and his staff have done with the Royals is impressive – with a new athletic facility on the way – and plenty of teaching and coaching going on year round.

During a year in which this team beat Fort Lauderdale Westminster Academy (34-32), Hialeah Gardens Mater Academy (30-8), Somerset Academy South Homestead (42-0) and North Broward Prep (27-0), a lot of prospects turned some heads.

Here is a look at some of the prospects, who may not have been given the recognition they deserve:

2022 – Luis Bodden, OC, 6-2, 280. One of the most impressive and physical line prospects in south Florida – as college coaches have already noticed. With 26 pancake blocks and no sacks, every college in the nation needs to keep an eye on this young man. Never saw this young man lose a battle – and he is always ready for ANY challenge!

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/11829568/Luis-Bodden

2022 - Jarrod Carr, RB, 5-8, 185. One of the gifted players who comes back – after showcasing his many abilities. Had 123 carries, 904 yards and 8 touchdowns in just seven games.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/11628694/Jarrod-Carr

2022 – Eric Islami, LB, 5-10, 185. Yet another playmaker who flew way beneath the radar screen, but that is about to change. His 30 solo tackles, 11 assists and interception added to what this program showcased this past season.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/8168444/Eric-Islami

2021 - Kama Jackson IV, LB, 6-1, 230. Another of those impressive football prospects, who helped to elevate this program in 2020. His 37 tackles, three tackles for loss and fumble recovery for a TD was huge in a win during the season.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/9636431/Kama-Jackson-IV

2023 - Demetrius Johnson, FS/WR, 6-4, 185. This impressive two-way performer turned it up in 2021 with three offensive touchdowns and 271 yards – and three interceptions and numerous key plays on defense.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/12903129/Demetrius-Johnson

2023 - Dairo Melendez, DT, 6-2, 275. If you think that there is a better all-around prospect at this position in this class, bring him out and see if he can match the talent, strength, athletic ability and passion this impressive prospect has. In 2020, he had 38 tackles, three quarterback sacks, two fumble recoveries and a blocked punt. All coming by getting double teamed on every play.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/12903149/Dairo-Melendez

2024 – Charquez Lee, Athlete, 6-2, 185. Here is a freshman who is indeed special – and has already shown that the future will be very interesting. This season, he had three touchdowns, 25 total tackles and three QB sacks.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/11313216/CharQuez-Lee

For the past 51 years, we have spent time going from games to practices, camps, combines and 7-on-7 events. We will remain steadfast to promote all south Florida’s high school football prospects. Follow us on Facebook (Larry Blustein- SFHSports) and Twitter (@SFHSSports - @larryblustein). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..