With two successful seasons under his belt – one included a frustrating pandemic season – Somerset Pembroke Pines football team continues to move forward.
With head coach Derrick ‘Nitro” Baker using his years of experience in football, things are starting to take shape – and two winning seasons – have helped in building the Panthers into a program that can compete.
Playing an abbreviated schedule in 2020, this team came away with wins against Fort Lauderdale Westminster Academy, Somerset Academy South Homestead and Hialeah Gardens Mater Academy.
What this off-season has been about is getting everyone on the same page and playing on the positives that this team showcased last season.
With a solid group of rising seniors (2022), there is plenty to be optimistic about as this team gets ready to head toward summer.
Among those prospects ready to make a huge contribution this coming season are veteran quarterback Aaron Parsons (6-1, 175 - 3.0 GPA) and play-making defensive end Andrew Leo (6-1, 215 – 3.4 GPA), who both showed some amazing skill this past season.
In addition, keep and eye on Class of 2022 standouts Jake Bandy (PK, 5-8, 150 – 3.4 GPA), Justin Castro (OG, 6-1, 230 – 3.5 GPA), Daino Gaines (WR, 5-9, 166 – 2.5 GPA), Ishmael Sajous (MLB, 5-10, 235 – 3.0 GPA) and gifted strong safety Julien Valerio (5-10, 190 – 3.1 GPA).
UNDERCLASSMEN ARE READY TO HELP
While the senior class is always going to lend experience and often times leadership, the underclassmen are looked upon to help make an impact. Prospects such as 2023 (rising junior) prospects Norrie Alexander (OLB, 5-10, 196 – 2.9 GPA) and impressive safety Christopher Brown (6-2, 190 – 3.2 GPA).
The Panthers also have some impressive 2024 athletes in Sebastein Graham (FS, 5-11, 175 – 3.2 GPA), Khamari Griffin (DT, 6-4, 260 – 3.3 GPA) and offensive lineman Roman Ruiz (5-10, 260 – 3.0 GPA).
The 2025 group will also be solid – with incoming freshmen Kaj “Nitro” Baker (Athlete, 5-7. 160 – 3.4 GPA), Camden Hartzell (QB, 5-11, 170 – 3.5 GPA) and rising athlete Terrance Honeywood (5-8, 165 – 3.5 GPA).
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..