The Venice High girls volleyball team added another chapter to its storied legacy, claiming the district championship with a convincing win on Thursday night, over the Riverview Rams. It took a little time to get going, but once the Indians settled down, they left little doubt about who was the best in the district.     Venice’s front line dominated at the net, while the back row anchored the defense with clutch digs and steady passing. The win marks another milestone in what

As a 3-year varsity cheerleader, Riverview senior Ryelee Lococo is in rare company. During her sophomore year, Ryelee and three other girls, were the first under classmen to be promoted to varsity. Her versatility was important in her development, but she also won most spirited on her team the past 3 seasons and has been appointed cheer coordinator for the entire school. "At the end of each season at our banquet, the JV and varsity cheerleaders take a poll, and I was fortunat

In the competitive arena known as Florida High School Football, very few positions demand as much intellect, physicality and athleticism as corner back and Venice senior CB. Micah Walker-Brown displays all of that every Friday night. Last season, the strength of the championship team, was the offense. Many of those players have since moved on and a pleasant surprise in 2025, is how much the defense have bonded, and they are playing really good. "When you spend so much time wi

Venice High School’s reputable victories in volleyball are outstanding at the very least, with team efforts that leave everyone astonished. While we often congratulate the school, it’s important to also recognize the individual team members- after all, they are the makeup of the team. Venice High School’s senior, Melissa Apolonio, has been a dedicated athlete and scholar with a passion for volleyball ever since her freshman year of high school. When asked what her favorite pa

If you get the opportunity to meet Cardinal Mooney slot receiver Mason Jordan, there is no mistaking his love for the game of football. "If our coaches give us time off, I would still want to workout with our quarterback, because I know that other players aren’t taking time off and I don’t ever want anyone to out work me." Mason is also part of the Cardinal Mooney track team, competing in the 100m, 200m, 4x1 and 4x2 and he holds the school record in both of those events.    

In the trenches, where games are often won and lost, Riverview senior defensive tackle Kyvon Love has become the heartbeat of the Rams’ defense. Standing tall and playing with relentless energy, Love has been a constant disruption for opposing offenses this season — commanding double teams and still finding ways to make big plays.    Through the first half of the year, Love has recorded 32 tackles, 8 tackles for loss, and 4 sacks, anchoring a defensive line that prides itself

Cardinal Mooney wide receiver Kimistri Young has emerged as one of the Cougars’ most electrifying play makers this season. Known for his elite speed, smooth athleticism, and ability to turn any catch into a highlight, Young has added a new level of explosiveness to the Mooney offense. Young held offers from Penn St, Miami, Florida St and my beloved Michigan St University Spartans. Ultimately Kimistri has plans to be an engineer, so he accepted a scholarship to play football a

At Cardinal Mooney High School, it doesn't take long to notice Elijah Golden. The 6-foot-3, 270-pound defensive lineman commands attention with his size, power, and relentless energy on the field. For the Cougars, he has become an anchor on their defense and one of the most feared players in Florida high school football.    Golden's growth as both a player and a leader has been undeniable. In his junior season, he piled up 61 tackles, 29 tackles for loss, and 10 sacks, number

For those of you that follow Venice football, the transfer of quarterback Darryon Jones has given the Indian offense a boost, just in time. Venice plays one of the hardest schedules in the FHSAA.     Jones has taken the reins of the Indians' offense with poise beyond his years. The talented signal-caller has blended athleticism, arm strength, and leadership and has steadied the ship for Venice just in time for post season play. "The coaches and my teammates have been very wel

Port Charlotte senior wide receiver Dallas Lambert has become one of the most dependable play makers in the Pirates' offense this season. Known for his crisp route running, strong hands, and ability to make plays after the catch, Lambert has given the Port Charlotte passing attack a consistent spark when his team needs it most.    As a four year varsity player, Dallas has improved his stats each of the past 3 seasons. Saving the best for his senior year, Dallas has 23 catches

The Port Charlotte Pirates have a long tradition of producing tough, hard-nosed running backs, and sophomore Bruce Blanden is quickly proving he belongs in that conversation. A downhill runner with a strong frame and explosive burst, Blanden has become a key piece in the Pirates’ offensive attack this fall.    Whether he’s lowering his shoulder between the tackles or bouncing outside for a big gain, Blanden runs with a blend of power and patience that keeps defenses on edge.

When you have been giving interviews and watching others give interviews, so that you can learn from them, I have watched or been a part of thousands of one on one interactions with athletes. When I met Venice Sophomore Cooper Johnson, his athletic story was pretty amazing. His personal story is sad and inspiring at the same time and if you happen to read this article, I encourage you to reach out to this young man and hopefully I am able to capture how truly special Cooper r