Hillard Returns Some Impressive Talent

Larry Blustein March 22, 2021 @ 07:12 AM

Hilliard High’s Red Flashes finished 8-1 this past season – and as much success as this team achieved – they never did get the recognition. While everyone will dwell on the season-ending 48-7 decision to 1A power Madison County, there’s a better than average chance that they are not going to pay attention to the key wins. The victories that gave this program a chance to play on such a big stage. Wins over Jacksonville Bishop Snyder (33-13), Jacksonville Paxon (27-14), Jacksonville Stanton (38-7), St. Augustine St. Joseph Academy (47-6), Jacksonville Wolfson (19-7), Daytona Halifax Academy (50-6), Jacksonville and Mayo Lafayette (22-21) in the first round of the playoffs. What head coach John Pate and this team are looking to achieve in 2021 – is to get right back in the mix, and the talent is there to accomplish that – with Class of 2022 (rising senior) standouts D.J. Coston (WR/DB, 6-0, 185 – 3.82 GPA. Had 1,000 plus all-purpose yards), Carson Newkirk (DE/TE, 6-6, 190 – 3.94 GPA) and Dylan Coston (6-0, 160), a receiver/defensive back who also gets it done in the classroom (3.94 GPA) as well. UNDERCLASSMEN HAVE SOME SPARK As the rising seniors will help with leadership – on and off of the playing field – the classes of 2023 and 2024 will provide some young and talented options for this team. Because there are a number of holes to fill, Coach Pate and the Red Flashes will look to rising juniors Lyle Bennett (QB, 6-2, 180 – 3.43 GPA) and Gavin Spurlock (OL, 6-2, 295). There is also Ryland Hall, a 6-5, 255-pounder, who is also a solid basketball player – and he has three more years left to play in high school. You Can Contact [player_tooltip player_id="111610" first="Larry" last="Blustein"] with prospect or team information at: Foridakids1@aol.com. We are also on Social Media on @PrepRedzonefl.