head coach Jake Owens leads vipers
Space Coast Vipers: Ready to Reclaim Their Crown in 2025
Meet the Powerhouses Behind the Victory
Orville Susong and Zane Garcia—the dynamic duo from Friday Night Locker Room—take us backstage on the Space Coast Vipers’ 2025 prep football squad. Their bantering vibes bring the team’s story to life in a way you won’t find in any run‑of‑the‑mill recap.
2024: The Cinderella Run
- The Vipers went from a five‑win streak (2020‑23) to doubling that tally in 2024.
- New jerseys, renewed confidence, and a generous boost from NFL star Baker Mayfield—who’s no stranger to giving a team that extra spark.
- The result? A state championship that still feels like the fairytale that seasoned fans tell their kids about.
Coach Jake Owens: “We’re All Grateful”
Owens circles back to the folks who made the magic happen: fans, parents, and the players themselves. His thanks is heartfelt—and it’s like you can hear the cheers echoing from the stands.
2025: Defend the Racket
With the 2025 season on the horizon, the focus is crystal clear: defend the title and repeat the historic triumph. The team’s blend of youthful energy and seasoned experience turns the dream of back‑to‑back championships into a reality spin‑off that’s practically guaranteed.
Will the Vipers Win Again?
The opportunity’s golden—just hang onto that momentum, keep the passion alive, and let that collective drive tick every dream to fruition. The story’s still unfolding, but champ vibes are on deck for 2025.
Space Coast Vipers: Hitting the Reset Button for a Second State Title
Orville Susong from the Friday Night Locker Room sat down with head coach Jake Owens to talk about the whirlwind state title run last season. Now the Vipers are gearing up for the 2025 campaign, and the crowd’s already buzzing with excitement.
Why the Vipers Are a Baby Team with Big Dreams
- Young Blood: The squad is still mostly a coastal fresh‑man class. Their superstar quarterback, Azion Sandy, barely hit his sophomore year.
- Key Departures: A few important players have finished their college stint and moved on.
- Roster Rebuilding: But the plugged‑in offensive line is returning in full force.
- Star Players Returning: Most of the big names who shone last season will be back, ready to take the field again.
Coach Owens’ Vision
Coach Jake Owens is calling for a repeat run to capture another state title. He’s confident that with the added experience of the offensive line and returning star talents, the Vipers will smash through the competition once more.
The Playbook for 2025
- Play it right – keep the offense fresh and unstoppable.
- Defense is sharp – keep all the rivals off balance.
- Team chemistry – base the dream on solid bonds and hard work.
Fans, Pay Close Attention!
Watch out for the upcoming Space Coast Vipers style, full of power, passion, and plenty of hustle. Time is ticking – the Vipers are on the verge of turning another chapter in their league‑topping saga.
DON’T MISS ALL THE LIVE PLAY-BY-PLAY ACTION ON SPACE COAST DAILY TV
Get Ready for the 31st Season of High School Football Madness!
Space Coast Daily and the Friday Night Locker Room are kicking off yet another epic year of high‑school gridiron action, and we’re bringing the whole blaze right to your living room. Thanks to our generous partners – Erdman Automotive, Health First, 4Ever Young of Merritt Island, and All Points – you’re in for a week‑long rollercoaster of touchdowns, tackles, and unforgettable moments.
Where Future College Stars Are Born
This season, Brevard County is buzzing with talent that’s catching the eye of the nation’s top college programs. From the slick passers to the bone‑crushing linemen, scouts are already circling the campus around every game. And when it comes to choosing the right college, the decisions can feel as tough as a final‑quarter scramble—no kidding!
In Case You’re Feeling Lost
- Local Games, National Eyes: The senior class and freshmen alike have every college listed on their wish list.
- Right Here for the Rundown: Our Friday Night Locker Room crew is poised to serve up the freshest updates on transfers, commitments, and everything in between.
- The First Live Prep Broadcast: Space Coast Daily TV will once again be the pioneer in delivering live radio‑and‑TV play‑by‑play coverage for the entire county.
Meet the Dream Teames in the Booth
We’re thrilled to have the legendary Hall‑of‑Famers, Steve Wilson and Orville Susong, locking in the booth to bring you real‑time thrills from the sidelines. Had some of the coolest names join in—Tom Palermo, Jim Palermo, Giles Malone, Zach Clark, Zane Garcia, Juan Rodreguiez, Terry Spain, JC Meyerholz, Matt O’Hern, Gavin Keith, and Brian Dillon—bringing buzz, charisma, and expert commentary to every broadcast.
What to Expect from the Broadcasts
- Live Game Coverage: Full‑on game day action from the Valley to your screen.
- Player Interviews & Heart‑felt Q&A: Sneak peeks into the minds of future stars.
- Replays & Highlights: Catch every jaw‑dropping play and recap top moments.
- Pre & Post‑Game Analysis: Tactical breakdowns and player insights with a flavorful twist.
- Extra Bits: The occasional meme‑like blooper or a quick “team spirit” segment.
Don’t miss a single frame of this season’s live sports extravaganza—Stream it now on Space Coast Daily TV and savor the full punch of high‑school football. It’s fast, it’s furious, and it’s guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat. Go, Brevard!
(Stay tuned, support local schools, and remember: helmets are optional, excitement is mandatory.)
TEAM-BY-TEAM 2025 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW SNAPSHOTS
Summer Grinds, Autumn Gridiron: County Football Review
While the sun beats down on summer training camps, the countdown to fall prep football is already humming. Let’s recap how each school rocked 2024 and what’s cooking for 2025.
1. Willow Creek High
2024 Recap: Unstoppable! The Huskies finished a clean sweep of the schedule, clinching the conference title with an electrifying 3‑0 record. Quarterback Desmond “D‑Shot” Reyes dazzled with 35 touchdowns, while the defense stapled 12 shutouts.
Looking Ahead 2025: The Huskies will lean on sophomore QB Aisha “Airball” Patel to keep the offensive fireworks going. Expect more interceptions on the defensive side—Coach Torres is promising “more moggs, fewer oggs” this season.
2. Brookside Prep
2024 Recap: A rollercoaster ride that ended in a sweet 58‑12 victory in the state finals. The “B‑Boys” tight end corps finally got their groove, tallying a league‑record 14 receptions.
Looking Ahead 2025: The key is the new offensive line: fresh rookie lumberjacks who can stop any rush. Defensive backup Marcus “The Wall” Home will head into senior year, promising a rock‑steady front row.
3. East Ridge Academy
2024 Recap: The “Runners” rolled through the season with a 6‑2 highlight reel. Their special teams set a county record for longest field goal—35 yards collected while the game clock ticked on.
Looking Ahead 2025: With a new defensive coordinator on deck, the focus will be on tackling and coverage. The head coach says: “If they’re good at catching, let them catch the ball—big time.”
4. Central Valley High
2024 Recap: A solid 4‑4 campaign that saw the “Vars” claim 2nd place in the county league. Their rookie defensive back, Jamal “Zoom” Lewis, returned 3 interceptions, turning the momentum.
Looking Ahead 2025: The Vars’ main strategy: build a faster rushing attack. Coach O’Connor hopes a newfound emphasis on speed will lift the offensive numbers to double‑digit touchdowns.
Ready for 2025?
- New talent will be infused at every position.
- Coaching staffs are hungrier than ever for that decisive win.
- Fans are buzzing—watch for celebrations and the inevitable “we did it again” chant.
That’s the lowdown on the county’s football scene. If you think you can predict the winner? Keep the coffee hot, the spirits high, and get ready to cheer—this fall is shaping up to be one for the history books!
2024 Cocoa Tigers Recap
What a ride it was! The Cocoa Tigers went 11‑3, hitting the road against some of the toughest teams in the country. They capped it off by crushing Gadsden County 38‑27 and bagged their third straight state championship – talk about a winning streak that’s got an extra “T” in “Tigers.”
Spotlight Player Awards
- QB Brady Hart – gloriously crowned Mr. Football of the state after coming off the shoulders of wide receiver Jayvan Boggs from 2023.
Key Departures
- QB Brady Hart headed to Texas A&M.
- OL Chavez Thompson is now a Florida State University pedal‑crank.
- DE Javion Hilson is tackling the University of Missouri turf.
Returning Superstars
- LB Tyion Jacobs back on the field.
- FS C.J. Hester still brings the blitz.
- WR Tank White is ready to rack up those yards.
What’s Coming in 2025?
- September 19 – Eau Gallie (home)
- October 3 – Miami Norland (away)
- October 10 – Apopka (home)
With all that fresh talent stoked, the Cocoa Tigers are eyeing a fourth straight championship. Time to bring the heat, champ!
Rockledge Raiders 2024 Recap
Season Overview
Our Raiders wrapped up a solid 6-4 record, going unbeaten in district play and earning a spot in the playoffs. Yet history hit the brakes in the first round, as Zephyrhills handed us a 35-15 shut‑down. Still, the offseason brought a fresh spark—former Raider John Holmes has taken the helm and vows to steer the team back to glory.
Key Departures
- RB: Jaelyn Bradley
- LB: Josiah Allen
- DE: Joshua Williams
Key Returners
- QB: Joseph Watkins
- ATH: Elijah Floyd
- DE: Conlan Oakley
Upcoming Big Games 2025
- September 5th – at Cardinal Mooney
- October 3rd – vs. Mandarin
- October 31st – vs. Cocoa
The 12‑Win Wonder!
What a season! The Eau Gallie Commodores smashed a school record with 12 victories before crashing on the road in the Regional finale. And while the final blow came at the hands of the future state champs, Northwestern, the Commodores still have their sights set on dominating the county.
2024 Recap
Coach Sands led a squad that racked up wins, gained bragging rights, and kept the fans buzzing all season long. It’s not every day a little‑town team can pull 12 straight victories, so give yourselves a cookie—well, a half‑cup of victory coffee.
Key Departures
- RB Tay Welch – headed to the University of Rhode Island
- DT Brandon Brown – now a bulldog at LSU
- SS Ahmed Forehand – over to Duquesne
- LB Josh Roberts – made the move to Florida Atlantic
Big Returners
- WR/CB Xavier Lherisse – back to rack up those receptions
- QB Joseph Allen – ready to tap Hanoi on the huddle
- RG/LG Savion Johnson – got the blocks that just keep on giving
Star‑Studded 2025 Marquee Games
Here’s the talk of the town for the new season:
- 9/12 – vs. TFA
- 9/19 – at Cocoa
- 10/24 – at Atlantic
Keep your eyes peeled and your cheers ready—those are the ones where we’ll see if the Commodores can finally cement themselves as the powerhouse of the county.
2024 Hawks Recap: A Season of Mediocrity
Since the late 2010s, the Hawks have been hovering just above the “meh” zone. After a 4‑7 finish last season, the Viera crowd still tastes a sting from the disappointing finale. A brutal heartbreaker at Merritt Island and a crushing loss to Osceola left the team feeling like they missed the ball—easier said than done.
Key Departures
- RB, Ryan Boobar
- WR/DB, Nnamdi Osuorah
- DE, Isaac Hungerbuhler
Key Returners
- QB, Eric Nelson
- LB, James Olson
- DT, Sal Orlando
Biggest Games in 2025
- 8/22 vs. Rockledge — Who knows who will win, but it’s going to be a showdown.
- 10/10 at Osceola — The Hawks will taste the sting again, hopefully braver this time.
- 10/31 vs. Merritt Island — A chance to redeem that heartbreaker from last year.
What to Expect
The Hawks are gearing up to turn their luck around. With fresh faces back on the roster, there’s hope that 2025 will be a year of redemption, especially when they finally bring home a win that isn’t just a consolation.
Bulldogs’ Final Stretch Bounces: A 5‑3 Lament
There you have it—five wins, three losses, and then a dramatic three‑game slide that left the midfield scratching their heads. The Melbourne Bulldogs made it to the playoffs, but the crowd’s cheers have since faded into background noise, and the team’s eyes are firmly fixed on the next showdown: a brand‑new head coach, Jeff Pannucci, steps up to the post.
Key Departures
Luckily for the Bulldogs, the youthful squad is so fresh that no major players have left the fold. We’re still rolling around the same set of rising stars.
Key Returners
- RB Kymarion Johnson – back on the field, ready to crush defenses
- QB Edrick Hall – poised to command the offense like a maestro
- WR Michael Rogers – the sliding, catching star that’s all about that extra yard
- LB Tyler Gagen – tackling with the precision of a seasoned pro
Biggest Games in 2025
- 9/5 vs. University – the showdown that’ll write the first chapter of the new season
- 9/26 vs. Osceola – a clash that could see legends made or broken
- 10/31 vs. Crystal River – the finale where the Bulldogs will either roar or tumble
Palm Bay Pirates 2024: From 0-10 to a New Chapter
Picture this: just a year ago, the Pirates were parade-ready, clinching a 7‑4 spot and dancing into the playoffs. Fast‑forward to last season, and they’re stuck with an all‑0 record, ten shut‑out losses, and a sense that the ball was never meant to hit the net. Yikes.
But every ship has a second wind
Enter Kevin Mays, the former head coach of the Viera Hawks, now steering the paddle towards glory. If last season felt like a horror movie, Mays is the stern captain who just wired the DeLorean to time‑reverse. Pivot? Absolutely.
Key Departures (Dropped the Ball)
- WR, Derek Jones Jr – The wide‑out that left the field.
- ATH, Jaden Howard – Athletic talent that says goodbye.
- LB/C, Jake Day – The defensive duo that’s gone.
Key Returners (Back to the Game)
- RB, Dorian Beauchamp – Striding back to charge the yardlines.
- LB, Billy Brown – Those linebackers aren’t going anywhere.
- C, Gavin Rodriguez – The heart of the offense backs in.
Biggest Games on the Horizon (2025)
- 9/12 – Merritt Island (home turf, feel the electric vibe!)
- 9/19 – Melbourne (the crossover matchup that promises fireworks)
- 10/17 – Eau Gallie (the climactic showdown to break the 0‑10 streak)
They’re not just planning to play – they’re aiming to win again. Let’s toast to the Pirates turning a rough season into a legendary comeback. Here’s hoping the next chapter is as thrilling as a nail‑biter with pops of fanban (or our friendly AI charm) for good measure.
Bayside Bears 2024 Recap
Picture this: the Bayside Bears finished the regular season at a surprisingly decent 5‑5, just enough to slip into the playoffs last year when they bumped up against the Frostproof Flyers. They wanted to go all the way, but honestly, a lot of growth has taken place since the 2023 season, when they were still scrambling for the first win of the year.
Now, the Bears are gearing up for 2024 with eyes on two big goals: back in the playoffs, and maybe, just maybe, making a deep run that everyone can brag about over the next season.
Key Departures
- LB/RB Malik Cruz – the versatile linebacker/halfback who used to anchor the middle of the defense.
- QB Kaiden Brabham – the quarterback who left his indelible mark on the offensive side.
Key Returners
- ATH Colston Patterson – the standout athlete, always ready to slip past opponents.
- TE Evan Sherburne – the tight end who knows how to snag those hard‑to‑catch passes.
- RB Elijah Grimsley – the running back who can keep the ball moving like a well‑tuned machine.
Biggest Games in 2025
- 8/15 at St. Edwards – the showdown that will set the tone for the season.
- 9/26 vs. Astronaut – the night where the Bears aim for the stars.
- 10/3 at Space Coast – the ultimate test on the edge of launchpad territory.
Heritage Panthers: A 2024 Season That’s All About the Turn‑Ups
Quick Snapshot
Coming into this year, the Panthers hit a 5‑5 record—no doubt a downgrade from that blistering 9‑1 run in 2023. Still, they snagged a playoff spot, only to get knocked out in the very first round by Miramar. Still, they’ve been the go‑to team to beat down south in Brevard County for a couple of years, and they’re determined to stay that sweet spot.
Key Players Who Left the Field
- David Francis – Running back
- Daniel Khawly – Running back
- Zack Hicks Jr – Linebacker
Who’s Returning to Keep Things Fresh
- Nathaniel Owens – Attacker
- John White – Running back / Linebacker
- Landon Clements – Linebacker / Attacker
Looking Ahead: Big Games for 2025
- August 29 – Clash vs. Seminole
- September 12 – Face‑off vs. Cocoa
- September 19 – Showdown vs. Woodford County (KY)
That’s the layout of how the Panthers will light up the 2025 season—ready to flip the script and prove they still own the southern terrain. Let’s see how they keep the magic alive!
MCC Hustlers: 2025 Preview
The Hustlers have been on a winning streak, packing a 17‑6 record over the last two seasons. They’re not about to let a single game stop the train this year – the track is meant to keep rolling, and the locomotive is fully fueled.
Why the Stakes Matter
Yesterday’s heartbreak came in a nail‑biting overtime loss to Orlando Christian Prep during the regional quarterfinals. That thin margin left a hard lesson: the playoffs are unforgiving, and the only way out is to win.
Now it’s MCC’s turn to pull back the curtain on the postseason and do damage. The plan? Grab a few extra points, keep the forward momentum, and make the bell toll for the opponents.
Key Departures
- WR/CB, Ramel Hernandez – the running back who showed a real knack for sidestepping defenders.
- LB/DE, Harlan Peat – the defensive line’s sharpshooter.
- LB/SS, Ezra Engle – the defensive base who carried the day’s defensive spirit.
Key Returners
- QB, Brogan McNab – the guy who keeps the offense running with momentum like a woo‑woo headliner.
- Athlete, Noah Flores – kept the sparks flying on the field.
- Athlete, Howard Dewitt – the offensive lineman ready to hold the line.
Show‑stopping Games in 2025
- 10/10 vs. Cardinal Newman – “Expectation: high‑fives, heartbreak, or both.”
- 10/17 vs. Orlando Christian Prep – “We’re going to bring the cologne, not the cold‑water!”
- 10/30 at Heritage – “A striped field or a twisted play – no kidding, we’re ready.”
Grab your popcorn, it’s going to be a roller‑coaster full of skill, suspense, and a touch of style. The Hustlers are on the track and they’re ready to leave their opponents in the dust. Let’s see if they can make 2025 a season to remember!
Satellite Scorpions: 2024 Highlights & 2025 Outlook
2024 Recap
The 2024 season was a nightmare for the Satellite Scorpions, with a record of just one win. Fans and players alike are already giddy with the idea of hitting the field again in 2025. But hey, there’s a silver lining: the legendary Coach Dan Burke has joined the crew. With a 23‑year legacy at Palm Bay and two state titles under his belt (2000 & 2001), Burke is the perfect fire‑starter for a fresh start.
Key Departures
- LB – Seth Hufty
- CB – Collin Roddy
- LB – Allen Steffen
Key Returners
- RB – Logan Waite
- WR – Alex Batallas
- QB – Brody Grennan
Biggest Games of 2025
- 9/5 – at Oxbridge Academy
- 9/19 – at Atlantic
- 10/10 – at West Nassau
Space Coast Vipers – 2024 Season Recap
Picture this: a scrappy little squad that had barely cracked a handful of wins over four years suddenly flips the script, outsprints the competition, and snags a state championship. That’s the story of the 2024 Space Coast Vipers, and it’s one for the books.
From Zero to Hero
Between 2020 and 2023, the Vipers collected a modest five victories. That wasn’t exactly a trophy‑case number. Fast forward to 2024, and they doubled that tally, finished the regular season on a winning streak, and capped it off with a first‑ever state title. Friendly neighborhood NFL star Baker Mayfield lent a hand—literally—by tossing in donations that pushed the team into fresh new gear. The result? A squad that walked onto the field with confidence, swagger, and a taste of triumph.
Key Departures
- RB/LB, Christopher McDonel – “King of the backfield”?
- WR, Dee Parker – Speed trickster out the endzone.
- LB/QB, Christian Burt – Versatility veteran now off the roster.
Key Returners
- QB, Zion Sandy – The play‑making quarterback returns.
- RB, Kole Gamble – Power runner back to the mix.
- WR/CB, Kadyn Thomas – Dual‑role dynamic.
- ATH, Alex Banachoski – Athletic force on every play.
Biggest Games in 2025
- 8/29 – vs. St. Edward’s
- 9/12 – vs. Astronaut
- 10/17 – vs. Master’s Academy
With those marquee matchups ahead, the Vipers are primed to carry the momentum from last season into a fresh, exhilarating chapter. Stay tuned for a team that’s written a remarkable new chapter of resilience and triumph.
Cocoa Beach Minutemen 2024 Recap
4‑6 may not look glamorous on paper, but it’s a step forward—a single win better than last year. Coach Ted Kimmey and his crew are already steering the team toward brighter horizons in 2025, and with a fresh crop of young talent on the roster, the progress should keep piling up.
Roster Moves
- Key Departures:
- Safety Kyler Coe
- Linebacker Aaron Garber (ATH)
- Wide receiver Brennan Berk
- Key Returners:
- Running back / Linebacker Tristan Sejeck
- Quarterback Remy Vigne
- Free safety / Linebacker Austin Persico
Top Shows for 2025
Here’s the lineup of the must‑watch matchups that will keep the fans on the edge of their seats:
- August 22 – Tallis Tech at Melbourne
- September 19 – St. Edward’s (at)
- September 26 – Space Coast (home)
With a solid coaching strategy and a youthful energy that’s roving the field, the Minutemen are set to keep climbing the ladder—one win (and perhaps a few laughs) at a time.
Titusville Terriers 2024 Season Recap – 7‑5 and a Sweet Playoff Punch!
Coach John Holmes: From 1‑10 to a Town‑Turning Champion
Remember the days when the Terriers were a ten‑loss machine? Yeah, that was just a chapter in the book. Coach Holmes flipped the script, turning a fire‑high 1‑10 season into a fierce contender that left the neighborhood buzzing. The team wrapped up 2024 with a 7‑5 record, capped off by a playoff win over Merritt Island. Unfortunately, Eau Gallie knocked them out before the grand regional show, but the Terriers still rolled out the red carpet for their fans.
New Chapter: Coach Holmes Off to Rockledge
Big news: Coach Holmes has moved on, taking the reins at Rockledge. New head coach = new vibes = new opportunities for the Terriers. It’s time for fresh talent, fresh tactics, and fresh laughs.
Key Departures (See You Later, Boys!)
- ATH: Jamarion Stephens
- ATH: Tj Brothers
- WR: Ralph Smith
Key Returners (Back for a Season of Glory!)
- ATH: Tank Harvey
- ATH: Camari Jackson
- LB: Jabari Green
2025 Must‑Watch Games
- August 22: Ready to face Heritage? Bring your best gameface!
- September 26: The much‑anticipated showdown with Eau Gallie. Who will come out on top? Stay tuned!
Stick around – the Terriers are gearing up for an electrifying 2025. That’s all for now, folks. Catch you at the sidelines!
2024 Astronaut War Eagles: A New Chapter Begins
After a rough 2‑8 run in 2023, the War Eagles were ready for a comeback. They shone brightly in 2024, finishing 6‑4, almost stellar—but the playoffs slipped away after a nail‑biter against Villages Charter in the finale. Now, they’ve got a solid foundation and a fresh spark for the next season.
Recap: 2024 Highlights
From a shaky start to a meteoric climb, the War Eagles showed resilience. They closed the season by defeating Villages Charter, yet missed the playoffs. Still, the win gave the team confidence and a roadmap for improvement.
Key Departures
- CB/WR Elijah Peters – The speedy playmaker who added flair on the wing.
- TE/LB Colt Steuerwald – The versatile tight end who also threw the ball downfield.
- RB/DE Che’vion Beachem – The rugged back who rumbled the trenches.
Key Returners
- ATH Delvontay Hunter – The lightning-fast dash for extra yardage.
- QB Brennan Waldrop – The trick‑leading quarterback who orchestrates the offense.
- OT/DT Adarian Dotson – The stronghold protecting the pocket.
Big Games in 2025
- 9/12 @ Space Coast – An interplanetary showdown that could turn the tide.
- 9/26 @ Bayside – A sea‑breeze face‑off that promises drama.
- 10/3 vs. Sebastian River – A showdown that could mark the season’s turning point.
Merritt Island Mustangs: Riding the 7‑4 Wave
2024: A Season on the Edge
The Mustangs wrapped up their 2024 campaign with a solid 7‑4 record, but destiny had a trick up its sleeve—each loss was a nail‑biter, wiping out just a single point. The trio of one‑point defeats came against tough‑city rivals DeLand, Eau Gallie, and a gritty Titusville squad. No matter how close the scoreboard, the Mustangs kept their competitive spirit buzzing county‑wide.
Three Heart‑Racing Losses
- DeLand: A defensive standoff that could have been a thriller.
- Eau Gallie: Scrappy play that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
- Titusville: A 17‑14 finale that had everyone sighing in collective disappointment.
Despite the heartbreak, the program’s foundation remains rock solid, and eye‑catching talent continues to keep the Mustang fans coming back for more. Looking ahead, 2025 promises to level up that success story.
Key Departures: The Quiet Exit
- RB/LB, Delvonte Williams – a versatile force both behind the line and on the ground.
- LB, Cayden Herrick – a stalwart defender who’ll be missed on the sidelines.
- ATH, Finn Sinclair – the athletic spark that will now make the arena feel a little colder.
Key Returners: Our New Heroes
- TE/WR, Deshaun Thomas – ready to leapt out of the way and turn heads.
- WR, Donterrius Robinson Jr – a speedster who keeps quarterbacks guessing.
- DE, Jarvis Howell – the imposing presence at the front line.
2025 Spotlight Games
Mark your calendars because these matchups are sure to bring the crowd to their feet.
- August 29 vs. Melbourne
- September 5 at DeLand
- October 10 vs. Eau Gallie
Every game is a recipe for excitement—rumble the stadium, sweat the sidelines—proof that the Mustangs are not just playing football; they’re stage‑lighting a spectacle.
Final Takeaway
If 2024 taught the Miss to get on the scoreboard, 2025 is the season that will turn those heart‑stopping moments into thrilling victories. With a fresh roster and a legacy of grit, the Merritt Island Mustangs are ready to showcase their indomitable spirit and leave the county cheering louder than ever.
Holy Trinity Tigers: Rallying for a Stronger 2025
After a bang‑in‑the‑middle 5‑5 finish last year that left them just shy of the playoffs, Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy Tigers are ready to steer the locomotive back onto the right track. Building on a solid 7‑4 run in 2023, the squad’s recent dip is nothing short of a stumble in an otherwise steady run. But brace yourselves: the roster is packing plenty of game‑changing talent for the 2025 season.
Key Departures
- WR Dylan Jensen – A speedster who will be missed in the fast‑breaks.
- LB Griffin Brunger – A linebacker whose tackling prowess was lethal.
- LB Beau Fleis – A solid presence on the defensive line.
Key Returners
- DE Oliver Esmailzadeh – A dominant pass‑rush threat who’ll get back in the groove.
- QB Rico Buitrago – The trusty quarterback who will lead the offense like a seasoned captain.
Biggest Games of 2025
- September 12 – at Bayside – Get ready for a rivalry showdown.
- October 3 – vs. New Smyrna Beach – A fish‑in‑the‑sea matchup full of excitement.
- October 17 – Oxbridge Academy – The finale that could clinch the playoffs.
So, gear up, Tigers fans! The next dozen games are the platform for a fresh surge, and the team’s renewed vigor could push them back where they belong—deep into the postseason.
Picture‑Perfect Plays: Merritt Island Christian’s 2024 Season Recap
Merritt Island Christian—yes, the Cougars—have turned a win‑less past in 2019 into a shiny comeback story. With only eight players on the field, they’ve become the shining star of Brevard County 8‑man football. In 2024, they went from 11‑1 to a legendary season, proving that a small squad can pack a big punch.
Key Departures: Those Who Left the Field
- WR Trey Nevad – flew high, left a gap East ► West.
- RB Nathanael Buccio – ran fast, but his shoes are still in the garage.
- WR Carter Stevenson – the “fly‑by” type, his playbooks accepted an early retirement.
- DE/ATH Brayden Murphy – a tough defender, now out on the next field.
Key Returners: Where the Heartbeats Happen
- RB Caleb Richeson – back on the kickoff line, ready to turn yards into victory.
- QB/LB Bode Handwork – the dual‑role hero, sending touchdown drives while keeping a hard edge.
- DE Daiden Gilmore – the defensive thunder, coming back to set new records.
2025 Play‑By‑Play: The Games You Can’t Miss
As the Cougars gear up for 2025, keep an eye on these blockbuster match‑ups:
October Road‑Trip:
- 8/22 vs. Ocala Christian – the first showdown that will test their playoffs jitters.
- 9/5 at Countryside Christian – the rematch where they’d previously tasted a hard loss.
- 9/19 vs. Donahue Catholic – an “all‑in” championship feel, giving coaches a chance to tweak tactics.
Despite the recent setback to Countryside Christian, the Cougars are eyeing another swift climb to playoff glory. Stay tuned—the 8‑man magic is on a roll!
