With 5 (2013, 2014, 2016, 2017 & 2020) state championships in the trophy case in Plantation, you already know what the objective is for head coach Pat Surtain and his American Heritage Patriots.

Coming off an 11-2 season that produced yet another 5A state title, this program has been able to assemble plenty of talent and elite coaching.

In a year that was not easy on anyone, this team remained focused won the grand prize, and that came in Tallahassee against hometown Rickards – a convincing 24-6 win.

The Patriots used a big time defense and an opportunistic offense to win it all last year. Even in the two losses (against 3A state champion Jacksonville Trinity Christian and two-time defending 7A St. Thomas Aquinas) this team was in each game down the final minute.

With several young players last season, this year will really showcase this program – as those underclassmen from a year ago are stepping up in leadership roles.

CLASS OF 2022 IS LOADED

There is no getting around the talent that this program has in place.

No matter where you look, there are difference makers – just waiting for another opportunity to take home a title.

With Miami Northwestern moving up to 6A, Miami Central will not move to 5A – as the Rockets always provide a test – as they look for a third straight crown.

Among those in the senior class are defensive back standouts Earl Little Jr. (6-1, 185), who is an amazing and aggressive player, along with versatile and gifted Jacolby Spells (6-0, 185).

Another impressive and very talented prospect is Marvin Jones Jr., who had 16 sacks from his defensive end position. At 6-5, 245-pounds, this is a talent who has the chance to be special for a long time.

Ever since he began playing football, Richard Thomas has been special, and the 6-3, 250-pound defensive end continues to pick up offers and interest as one of the elite players in the class.

In addition to those impact performers, this Class of 2022 also features prospects such as versatile and athletic linebacker Jaden Kinlock (5-11, 210), offensive lineman Miguel Cedeno, who at 6-6, 290, can play just about anywhere up front.

Other players to keep an eye on in this class include Belizaire Bassette (DL, 6-2, 275 – explosive and quick), recent Dillard offensive line standout Jacorie Foster (6-2, 270) is also versatile, Brody Clarke (WR, 5-11, 175), Emory Clemons (WR, 5-10, 170), Jimmy Lubin (DT, 6-2, 300), Julian Ramirez (K/P, 6-0, 170), two-sports athlete Stevenson Borrega (DE, 6-3, 210), two-sport standout Allen Mathieu (WR, 6-2, 190), promising tight end prospect Aaron Beylin (6-4, 215), running back Nick Cappeletti (5-9, 175) and gifted athlete Aiden Howard, a 5-7, 160-pounder, who can do it all.

CLASS OF 2023 HAS THE TALENT

As the rising senior class (2022) will certainly provide the experience and leadership – along with some impressive talent, the rising juniors in the Class of 2023 are also going to be prospects that can get this program back to the state title game.

Leading the way in the class is nationally-rated running back Mark Fletcher Jr. This is an elite back who has it all – and every college in American knows all about this impressive back who still has two years left.

At 6-1, 220, there is no denying that this is one of the nation’s top backs – and the Patriots have already had him for two years.

Another of the marquee football players that this team has is cornerback Daemon Fagan. Talk about skills and great bloodlines, this 6-2, 170-pounder has it all – and is easily one of Florida’s elite players.

Quarterback Blake Murphy (5-10, 185) is hoping for a healthy season in 2021, and if that happens, he could emerge as one of the best.

Receiver Santana Fleming just arrived on campus from Carol City and he brings with him plenty of skill and big play ability.

In addition, other 2023 football talent that will be fun to watch includes Damari Brown (CB, 6-1, 180), Marcus Smith (DE, 6-2, 225), Reggie Foster (RB, 5-10, 190), Jerry Dinkins (RB, 5-10, 185), Jadon Brown (OL, 6-2, 300), Shamar McNeil (DB, 6-3, 180) and impressive newcomer Corey Goldsby, a gifted 5-11, 175-pound defensive back.

The deep 2023 class continues with defensive back Hunter Roberts (5-10, 170), Jared Lampkin (LB/QB, 6-0, 195), Korie Demascola (LB, 5-11, 195), talented lineman Joey Colosi (OL, 6-1, 275), Blaize Lahman (6-2, 240), Noah Eugene (DB, 6-1, 180), long snapper Aiden Arias (6-0, 205), versatile Kevin Bingham (OL/DL, 6-0, 300), Tyler Sternberg (OL, 5-11, 260), Gavin Keller (LB, 5-11, 175) and receiver Matthew McMahon (WR, 5-9,150).

The Class of 2024 is also a place not find some quality depth – with Zack Boehly (OL, 6-4, 280), Levy Kinlock (DE/LB, 6-1, 190), Bowen Drewes (LB, 5-11, 185) and explosive Machai Hicks (WR/DB).

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..