How Does Bloomingdale Continue Winning?

Moments after losing for the only time in 2020 to St. Thomas Aquinas, 37-14, the attention at Bloomingdale quickly shifted to 2021. While we all understand that 2020 was certainly a tough year for so many, for the Bulls and head coach <strong>Jacob Coulson</strong>, turning this program into a power can never be about one loss. Over the past few years, the coaches have prepared this team to be on a stage just like they were this past season. <img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-110727" src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/redzone/uploads/2021/02/OntheSideline-Logo-5-300x188.jpg" alt="Bloomingdale Football" width="300" height="188" />To stay in that spotlight, this program has to remain consistent and continue to play the way they did in knocking off power Seffner Armwood twice – along with Plant City and Tampa Bay Tech. The road will be tough – and the ball may not always bounce the way they want, but as long as this team remains focused and puts in the work, there is no reason they cannot stay right where they are. <strong>HOW DO YOU CONTINUE WINNING?</strong> Starting with the Class of 2022 rising seniors – on the defensive side of the ball, there is plenty of talent available. Defensive end <strong>LaMontra Banks</strong> (6-2, 190), linebackers <strong>Carson Elsner</strong> (6-1, 200) and <strong>Garrett Folken </strong>(6-0, 190), and nose guard <strong>Ashton Brockett</strong> (5-10, 195) are all solid. Offensively, there is running back <strong>Brycnn Bennett</strong> (5-10,180), lineman <strong>Lance Walker</strong> (5-11, 247) – and versatile <strong>Zach Bliss</strong> (WR/Athlete, 5-9, 171), <strong>Sean Dungan</strong> (QB/WR, 6-0, 175), <strong>Ollie Manhertz</strong> (RB/WR, 5-10, 190) and impressive <strong>Jackson Sykes</strong>, who not only plays tight end, but the 6-2, 185-pounder also plays defensive end. The Class of 2023 (rising juniors) also has some players who are going to be vital in keeping this program in the spotlight. Offensive linemen <strong>Ben Carhart</strong> (5-10, 245) and <strong>Isaiah Lowery</strong> (5-11, 301), receiver <strong>Kendal Jones</strong> (6-1, 155), nose guard <strong>Dante Eggins</strong> (5-11, 270) and athletic (DB/WR) <strong>Christian Bodnar</strong>, a 6-0, 160-pounder. The future of this program is in good hands with a Class of 2024 (rising sophomores) group that is loaded with talent. Among those prospects who have a chance to keep the Bulls near the top include: receivers <strong>J.J. Boyd</strong> (5-8, 150) and <strong>Jameer Grimsley</strong> (6-2, 185); quarterback <strong>Jackson Jensen</strong> (6-2, 185), defensive back <strong>Andre Ellis</strong> (5-10, 160) <strong>Jalen Smith</strong> (5-6, 145). <strong>GETTING IT DONE IN THE CLASSROOM</strong> As we know, everyone loves athletics, but creating balance in the classroom is no longer an option – and you have to give this program all the credit in the world – as 15 football prospects on the 2021 roster have a 3.0 or better!!!! That is something that needs to be recognized nationally. What an amazing job. <strong>PHOTO COURTESY OF BLOOMINGDALE FOOTBALL</strong> <strong>Y<em>ou Can Contact Larry Blustein with prospect or team information at: Foridakids1@aol.com. We are also on Social Media on @PrepRedzonefl.</em></strong>