SCISA Spotlight: Lowcountry Players to Watch
With two state championship teams getting ready to defend their crowns, the Lowcountry is primed for another memorable SCISA season. The depth of talent continues to improve year by year, and a new realignment gives more teams a shot for…
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Continue ReadingWith two state championship teams getting ready to defend their crowns, the Lowcountry is primed for another memorable SCISA season. The depth of talent continues to improve year by year, and a new realignment gives more teams a shot for glory. Here are some players to look out for in the Lowcountry at the dawn of a new season.
Tony O’Banner, RB, 6-2, 184 pounds, Thomas Heyward 2026
Tony O’Banner displayed a nonstop show of speed in his eighth-grade season, showcasing a quick first step and the ability to accelerate past the defense for explosive plays. O’Banner should be one of the focal points of a Rebel attack that should dominate this fall. The versatile weapon could see some time out wide or in the slot with the crisp route running and impressive vertical to complement his speed.
Anthony Fripp, RB, 5-6, 180 pounds, Thomas Heyward 2023
Complementing O’Banner in the Rebel backfield is Anthony Fripp. The rising senior was a key sparkplug for a high-flying offense last year, using his quickness and agility as a runner alongside the strength to muscle past defenders and break tackles. A key veteran in Heyward’s offensive attack, Fripp has the experience and the dynamic talent on the field to make an impact when his number is called. Look for Fripp to excel on the defensive side as well with his strong frame and terrific intensity to shut plays down.
Braydon Dineen, QB/LB/DB, 5-9, 160 pounds, Beaufort Academy 2023
An all-around stud for Mark Clifford’s Beaufort Academy Eagles, Braydon Dineen is set for a monster senior year this fall. Dineen can show off his outstanding athleticism across the field, running the offense under center while using his tenacity at safety. The senior veteran displays his nonstop hustle on every snap, including on a blocked punt attempt while on special teams. If Dineen can combine his explosiveness on the ground with an effective arm, he could have a memorable season to cap off his Beaufort Academy career.
Isaiah Anderson, WR, 6-5, 195 pounds, Hilton Head Christian 2024
A tremendous athlete with special big-play ability, Isaiah Anderson will look to take a step further and help lead his Hilton Head Christian Academy Eagles on a quest for a third consecutive SCISA state title. Anderson has an outstanding wingspan and vertical that is difficult to defend in one-on-one matchups downfield. He is a great route runner and blocker and brings a high intensity to the defensive side of the ball at linebacker. An explosive playmaker on both sides of the ball with the height to win jump balls for his team, Anderson has the potential to become an even bigger difference-maker with still two years left to go.
Matthew Scarpa, DL/OL, 6-2, 245 pounds, Hilton Head Christian 2023
An unsung hero from last season’s title run, Matthew Scarpa will take on a major role for Ron Peduzzi’s Eagles during his senior year. Scarpa has a superior work ethic on and off the field and displays an unending source of energy in the trenches. He has exceptional footwork and quickness that allows him to make plays in the backfield while holding down key blocks on offense. Scarpa has become an invaluable leader of the Eagles who will work tirelessly to accomplish his job. His strong play will be critical to Hilton Head Christian Academy’s chances of a third consecutive state title.