Spring Ball Previews: Closer Look at Polk County
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It’s that time again, the Prep Redzone Polk Edition All-County Watchlist is finally here, featuring the most talented athletes in the area! These young stars have dominated their competition and showcased their impressive skills throughout the season. This watchlist is…
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Continue ReadingIt’s that time again, the Prep Redzone Polk Edition All-County Watchlist is finally here, featuring the most talented athletes in the area! These young stars have dominated their competition and showcased their impressive skills throughout the season. This watchlist is a must-read if you’re a Prep Level football fan or love supporting local talent. Keep an eye out for these future superstars and don’t miss out on all future All-County Lists. Let’s get into some recruits who earned their name on the list.
Winter Haven
2023: (7-4)
Key Returners: John Kostuch John Kostuch 6'0" | 180 lbs | QB Winter Haven | 2025 FL (QB), Jordan Tarver (WR), Cassidy Ervin (WR)
The Winter Haven Blue Devils will be a team to watch as a lot of production talent will be back for blood. Rising 2025 QB John Kostuch John Kostuch 6'0" | 180 lbs | QB Winter Haven | 2025 FL is looking the part and will have a couple of weapons to work with. Head Coach Carl White can feel it’s his team’s time to make noise in the city.
Lakeland
2023: (12-3)
Key Returners: Keon Young Keon Young 6'0" | 175 lbs | DB Lakeland | 2025 State FL (DB), Malik Morris (LB), Zander Smith Zander Smith 6'4" | 215 lbs | QB Lakeland | 2025 State FL (QB)
It’s that time again for the back-to-back state champions to hit the gridiron for an interesting season where second-year head coach Marvin Frazier will have to hit the drawing boards with a new looking roster. Not as much fire power on offense but I expect the Dreadnaughts to have some sleeper prospects to help fill out the roster. Spring Game: May 16 vs. Jesuit
Bartow
2023: (7-5)
Key Returners: Blake Johnson Blake Johnson 6'1" | 180 lbs | QB Lakeland Victory Christian | 2025 FL (QB), Tavares Murray (DB), Cory Butler (WR)
Second-year head coach Tyler Eden is looking to make some noise this season despite losing some talented ball players to the next level. I expect this team to move with a chip on their shoulders and ready to prove they are truly back with championship aspirations.
Auburndale
2023: (7-4)
Key Returners: Jaysean Prichard (ATH), Sammy Etienne (DB)
The Bloodhounds got back their main production piece in Jaysean Prichard who will help lead this team during the fall season. Auburndale is an interesting school I want to see this spring.
Fort Meade
2023: (9-1)
Key Returners: Keveun Mason (RB), Omari Russell (DB), Darian Kirkland Darian Kirkland 6'1" | 165 lbs | ATH Avon Park | 2025 FL (ATH), Markell Baker (RB)
What a season Fort Meade put together last year as they had one of the better teams I’ve watched coming from that district and area in a while. Interested to see how they bounce back after losing some production with a new head coach at the helm.
Lake Gibson
2023: (5-5)
Key Returners: Collin Henderson (QB), Derrick McBride (ATH), Malachi Moore (LB)
The Braves will look to replace a lot of talent this fall season and will be led by a young 2027 QB. I’ll be out to LG this spring to give readers a better feel of what’s coming.
Mulberry
2023: (7-4)