While we are finding out how important kickers, punters and special teams performers are at every level of football, there has been a push to put these prospects in a brighter spotlight.

Special teams players are now getting the opportunity to show what they have to offer and events across the country. College coaches, who rarely paid attention in the past are all ears now – seeing what a solid kicker, punter and long snapper can do to change the outcome of games.

Last week, the South Florida Showcase and 4thDownU.com came to St. Thomas University in Miami Gardens for an event that once again put these young men in the spotlight.

With coaches such as former Miami High standout Oscar Castaneda (OKC Kicking and St. Thomas University), Ben Fentress (Fentress Kicking), Jose Carballo, Jeff Garner, Simon Mathieson and event organizer Dan Lundy from 4^th Down University running the event, it was certainly a day to make a statement.

“Comin to south Florida is always a priority of us,” Lundy said. “There are so many talented young men in the area and all are anxious to compete. Having some amazing instructors is also a bonus.”

In addition, there were some other recognizable coaches on hand as well – including former University of Miami and FIU Lou Groza Award winner Jose Borregales and current University of Miami kicker Andres Borregales who came out as perfect examples of what hard work and competing can do.

Also, Dominic Barr, Robert Hammond lll and Ale Prado came out.

AMAZING TALENT ADDED TO THE COMPETITION

From the Class of 2023 all the way to prospects on the way to promising careers, the event brought out some impressive talent.

Here is a look at who came to compete:

2023

Jeffrey Hernandez, Kicker, St. Thomas University

2024

Jake Aller, Kicker, Miami Northwestern

Jacob Katz, LS, Miami Ransom Everglades

Jackson Kauppi, Punter, Jupiter

Alex Moscoso, LS, Doral Academy

Gabriel Perez, Kicker/Punter, Miami Southridge

Santiago Pernalete, Kicker/Punter, Southwest Miami

Ryan Rodriguez, Kicker/Punter, Miami Lakes Barbara Goleman

2025

Lucas Avino, Kicker, Miami Belen Jesuit

Daniel Gonzalez, Long Snapper, Miami St. Brendan

Luca Guerra, Kicker/Punter, Doral Academy

Gavin Katz, Kicker, Punter, South Plantation

Tyler Mondo, Kicker/Punter, Fort Pierce Central

Adrian Muelle, Kicker/Punter, Miami Belen Jesuit

Nathan Moncada, Kicker/Punter Hialeah Gardens Mater Academy

2026

Leandro De Carvalho, Kicker/Punter. Lithia Newsome

Robert Meis, Kicker, Parkland Stoneman Douglas

Jonathan Nua, Long Snapper, Miami Christopher Columbus

Noah Sidan, Kicker/Punter, Miami Norland

2027

Cole Rodriguez, Kicker/Punter, Miami Gardens Monsignor Pace

Alejandro Martinez, Kicker/Punter, Miami St. Brendan

Mason Vogt, Kicker/Punter, Miami Christopher Columbus

2028

Kyle Aller, Kicker, Punter, Fort Lauderdale Dillard

PHOTO COURTESY OF BLEECHR.COM

SOUTH FLORIDA (MIAMI-DADE & BROWARD) PROSPECTS – CLASSES 2024-2027. LAST UPDATED: July 20, 2023. https://larryblustein.com/prospects/tracking-south-florida-prospects COLLEGE COACHES ARE WATCHING ALL THE TIME, SO LET’S KEEP UPDATING – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Transfer Season Heats Up In Miami-Dade & Broward. https://larryblustein.com/news/transfer-season-heats-up-in-miami-dade-broward

For the past 53 years, we have spent plenty of time on football fields throughout the country. From games to practices, camps, combines and 7-on-7 events, we remain steadfast to promote all south Florida’s high school football prospects. Follow us on Facebook (Larry Blustein) Instagram (@OurBoyBlu) and Twitter (@larryblustein). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

 @4thDownU @Coach_Oscar13 @OKC_kicking @FentressKicking @F5_Jose @Borregales_andy @Hammond_3rd @aleprado2025 @JakeAller1 @JacksonKauppi @STU_Football @AlexMoscos56 @_gabriel_perez1 @GolemanFootball @RansomEverglade @SWEAGLES_FB @BelenJesuitNews @StBrendanHigh @LucaG2025 @gavinkatz2025 @tylermondo4 @NathanMoncada3 @NewsomeWolvesFB @JbNua1 @ColumbusFtball @cchsballcoach @NoahSidan @_MNVikings @ColeRod2027 @Coach_Walker20 @PaceSpartansFB @Dillard_DHS

Believe it or not, even with all the off-season activities that athletes have attended, there are still several seniors who have not received exposure.

While spring football, summer camps, combines and 7-on-7 events have opened the way for many Miami-Dade and Broward football prospects to get some of the spotlight, we head toward the 2023 season with many still searching for that break.

As you know if you follow what we do, getting prospects out there for colleges to check out is our main priority. While we are always concerned with the high-level players, they are NOT the ones who need the help – whether those fan websites believe it or not.

Today we bring you five Class of 2024 rising seniors to keep an eye on:

Rashard Carter, DB, 5-9, 162, Miami Norland. This is a quality talent who has come a long way, and when you watch him play, you are sold by what he brings to the table as someone who has great anticipation on passing down, but physical enough to stop the run. In addition, his 4.4 grade point average in the classroom will continue to open doors. Keep your eye on this young man.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/18378275/63841fc732e74d07ecc73cd6

Jeremy Fishkin, OL, 6-5, 305, Parkland Douglas. Talk about a prospect who has blown up over the past few months, this impressive talent has shown that he has the size, skill, and knowledge of the position. He is one of many offensive linemen who has come through this program, and as he gets more exposure his stock will continue to rise. Has a solid spring game, going against a pair of defensive linemen who have already received a number of offers. Like many of the talented young men we have been fortunate to spotlight, Jeremy also gets it done in the classroom, boasting a 3.6 grade point average. College coaches need to keep their eye on his progress this season.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/17619287/Jeremy-Fishkin

Curtis Janvier, DB, 6-0, 175, Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna. From the time he began playing, everyone was sold on this playmaker. He has been a key part of the Lions’ success over the past two seasons, and heads into 2023 ready to continue elevating his game. In 11 games last season, he finished with 20 solo tackles, 14 assists, three interceptions and six pass breakups. On a team that is expected to do some big things again this coming season, this is certainly someone to watch.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/14988446/Curtis-Janiver

Tristan Pineda, WR, 6-2, 180, Miami Christopher Columbus. 4.57 GPA. Trying to follow in the footsteps of his twin brother Cameron, who recently received his first D1 offer, this young man brings so much to the game as a student/athlete. A part of the 4A state champions, here is a receiver who has size, quickness, skill, and amazing grades (4.57 grade point average). All he needs is a chance to showcase his skills and colleges will see exactly why he is one of those talented young men who have flown under the radar. He is a big target that has the chance to really step up in 2023 for the Explorers.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/15877652/Tristan-Pineda

Jarrod Young, LB/RB/LS, 6-0, 200, Miami Gardens Monsignor Edward Pace. 2.9 GPA. One of the truly versatile performers in the class, here is the perfect example of doing as many things as you can to get noticed. As a running back he has the vision and instinct to get through holes and has the speed to turn a short run into a long gain. Has also shown that he can catch the ball out of the backfield, giving the Spartans another weapon. As a linebacker he is indeed a performer who will be an asset to the team with his athleticism. College coaches need to keep an eye on this talent, who also keeps his grade up (2.9 GPA) and is ready to go.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/14805229/647dd823176c7e17506a8156

SOUTH FLORIDA (MIAMI-DADE & BROWARD) PROSPECTS – CLASSES 2024-2027. LAST UPDATED: July 19, 2023. https://larryblustein.com/prospects/tracking-south-florida-prospects COLLEGE COACHES ARE WATCHING ALL THE TIME, SO LET’S KEEP UPDATING – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Transfer Season Heats Up In Miami-Dade & Broward. https://larryblustein.com/news/transfer-season-heats-up-in-miami-dade-broward

For the past 53 years, we have spent plenty of time on football fields throughout the country. From games to practices, camps, combines and 7-on-7 events, we remain steadfast to promote all south Florida’s high school football prospects. Follow us on Facebook (Larry Blustein) Instagram (@OurBoyBlu) and Twitter (@larryblustein). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

CORAL SPRINGS - It made too much sense that this past Saturday’s 11^th Annual Coach Mac National High School 7-on-7 football tournament would come down to two schools less than five miles from Mullins Park.

When Coconut Creek beat rival Coconut Creek Monarch in the finals of the yearly event, it meant bragging rights for a Cougar team that has taken a backseat to the 4M Knights with news in the off-season.

With Monarch adding a number of players – coupled with the fact that several of their prospects are getting local, regional, state and national attention, Coconut Creek felt it had something to prove, and from start to finish, this team showcased some impressive talent as they look to make a dent in a competitive Class 3M.

On Saturday, this program had the chance to showcase some impressive talent – some that have been on the radar screen – while others were being introduced for the first time.

The schedule will be challenging with a trip to Gainesville, Georgia as well as home games against Plantation, Deerfield Beach and national powerhouse Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna.

WHO MADE AN IMPACT ON SATURDAY

Among those players who stepped up were quarterbacks James Hayes and Javaris Jones, running back Jamarie Hostclaw as well as Jordan Thompson and Germaine Gordon.

Impressive senior Eirik Simmons III turned heads all day as a receiver. He was indeed someone that the Cougars will need this coming season.

Other receivers included Godson Sinelien, Semaj Wallace, Djovany Dominique and Isaiah Calixte.

Defensive backs Elijah Cannon, Hyjah Miller, Demaree Petit-Blanc and Raymond Jackson are special. So are Keyon Hostclaw and Keon Roy and Ja’Har Brown.

Keep an eye on linebackers Damaine Wilson and Kevonta Williams as well as Elijah Calixte.

MONARCH CAME READY TO PLAY

When football fanatics look at some of the top programs to watch in 4M this coming season, head coach Calvin Davis and the Monarch Knights are certainly a team to keep an eye on.

Even though they lost in the finals, they were well represented. Among those quality prospects included UMass quarterback commit A.J. Hairston, sophomore nationally regarded receiver Jabari Brady, one of the top junior receivers in the country Samari Reed, senior receiver Clayton Cannon II and senior cornerback Kevin Powell.

In addition, senior cornerback L.J. Muff and junior safety Jaleel Waters were also responsible for getting the team all the way to the finals.

In addition to Coconut Creek and Monarch, the event also attracted Miami-Dade schools Miami Jackson, Miami Sunset and Miami Dr. Krop.

Broward programs Fort Lauderdale Stranahan, Hollywood South Broward, Fort Lauderdale Dillard, Davie Nova, Parkland Douglas, Fort Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons, Pompano Beach Blanche Ely, South Plantation, Coral Springs Taravella and Plantation also came to fill out a quality field.

SOUTH FLORIDA (MIAMI-DADE & BROWARD) PROSPECTS – CLASSES 2024-2027. LAST UPDATED: July 13, 2023. https://larryblustein.com/prospects/tracking-south-florida-prospects COLLEGE COACHES ARE WATCHING ALL THE TIME, SO LET’S KEEP UPDATING – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Transfer Season Heats Up In Miami-Dade & Broward. https://larryblustein.com/news/transfer-season-heats-up-in-miami-dade-broward

For the past 53 years, we have spent plenty of time on football fields throughout the country. From games to practices, camps, combines and 7-on-7 events, we remain steadfast to promote all south Florida’s high school football prospects. Follow us on Facebook (Larry Blustein) Instagram (@OurBoyBlu) and Twitter (@larryblustein). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

When the 2022 high school football season ended, south Florida was well represented when it came to players with the most quarterback sacks.

With Fort Lauderdale’s Jalyn Jackson leading the state with 32.5, the attention certainly fell on Miami-Dade and Broward Counties.

University of Miami signee Rueben Bain (29) of Miami Central, FSU signee Lamont Green Jr., from Miami Gulliver Prep (20) and Keyshawn Johnson (17) from 3M state champion Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas set standards locally with big numbers.

As those players have moved on to the next level, there are several newcomers and returnees from last year who will be after that crown as the 2023 season unfolds.

Here are some candidates who return with domination in mind:

Germain Carter Jr., DT, 6-1, 285, Miami Norland. With an off-season move from Miami Carol City, this FIU commitment is bigger, stronger, and quicker than the standout who had 19 sacks, 76 tackles and 25 tackles for loss in 2022. Easily one of the most dominant defensive linemen in Florida, his production will once again be game-changing. He brings so much to the table as a player and teammate.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/16947716/6189977bda5280090057b885

Zach Crothers, DL/DE, 6-4, 235, Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna. After an amazing junior season, this heavily recruited prospect is looking to improve on his 15 sacks from last season when the Lions once again captured a state title – the first 1M crown. This is an elite football talent who combines speed and athleticism. He also gets it done in the classroom as well – holding down a 3.7 grade point average.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/15279528/Zach-Crothers

Kenley Israel, DE/OLB, 6-2, 215, Miramar Everglades. It’s been a few years since the Gators have had a player who ranks among the best in the state of Florida. Here is a versatile talent who combines skill with an ability to make plays. He is the kind of player that if he doesn’t make the play, he will certainly set his teammates up to make it. That is the kind of player he is. Finishing with 20 sacks a year ago, this could be a banner season as college coaches will continue to monitor his progress.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/15296070/6341b2e9a6770717d432ddca

Gavench Marcelin, DE, 6-3, 240, Miami Belen Jesuit. This soon-to-be four-year starter for the Wolverines has been the heart and soul of this team coming off another stellar year that put him in a spotlight for colleges and universities to keep an eye on. When he committed to attend Florida Atlantic University, the Owls received a game-changer who would come in and in time, make those around him much better. Coming off an 18-sack season, he is primed once again to lead this team emotionally and physically. A true talent that is respected on and off the playing field.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/14592831/Gavench-Marcelin

Brandon Rosenthal, DE/OLB, 6-1, 210, Miami Gulliver Prep. One of the most versatile football players in south Florida. Someone who can play four to five positions and does well at all of them. Coming off an impressive 2022 season where he had 12 quarterback sacks, this was one of the Raiders’ top tacklers this past season. On a team that is working hard to get back into the playoff mix this coming season, they will need his playmaking abilities and leadership to get it done. Easily one of most underrated prospects we have in this region. Watch him play and you will see why he is such a huge asset to head coach Earl Sims and this team. Also gets it done in the classroom – where his 3.91 grade point average will open plenty of doors.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/13305113/Brandon-Rosenthal/highlights

SOUTH FLORIDA (MIAMI-DADE & BROWARD) PROSPECTS – CLASSES 2024-2027. LAST UPDATED: July 13, 2023. https://larryblustein.com/prospects/tracking-south-florida-prospects COLLEGE COACHES ARE WATCHING ALL THE TIME, SO LET’S KEEP UPDATING – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Transfer Season Heats Up In Miami-Dade & Broward. https://larryblustein.com/news/transfer-season-heats-up-in-miami-dade-broward

For the past 53 years, we have spent plenty of time on football fields throughout the country. From games to practices, camps, combines and 7-on-7 events, we remain steadfast to promote all south Florida’s high school football prospects. Follow us on Facebook (Larry Blustein) Instagram (@OurBoyBlu) and Twitter (@larryblustein). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..