5 Leading Candidates for Pinellas County Preseason Player of the Year

Top 5 Canidates in Pinellas County for Player of the Year!

 Football season is here, and as the high school football season approaches, excitement is building in Pinellas County. Coaches, players, and fans are eagerly awaiting the announcement of the Preseason Player of the Year candidates. This year, several athletes stand out as top contenders due to their skills, big play ability, and leadership, making them the leading candidates for this year's prestigious title.

Sean Cuono ATH Clearwater Central Catholic

 Sean Cuono is undeniably the best running back for me! He consistently demonstrates his elite talent on the football field. Despite grappling with injuries last season, Sean still emerged as the leading rusher for his team. Now, fully recovered and surrounded by a solid offensive line and talented teammates, he is primed for a highly successful year. Cuono's exceptional ability to read defenses and swiftly make decisions sets him apart from other running backs in the area. 

Jeff Jones ATH - St. Petersburg High School

 Jeff Jones is an outstanding football player at St. Petersburg High School who has clearly shown that he is one of the best, not only in the area, but in the entire state of Florida. Jones was truly remarkable as a junior and was a strong contender for the Player of the Year award for the second time. With one more year ahead, he is determined to show that he is an unstoppable force. Whether his returning punts or taking direct snaps it will be a challenge for any defense to contain him. 

Michael Ionata OL - Calvary Christian

 Michael Ionata is the only offensive lineman in the group, but he could easily win the title of Player of the Year. He is undoubtedly one of the best in the state of Florida, and he has the skills to prove it. His ability is unmatched, and it will be hard not to give this award to such a deserving young man.

Michael is also the younger brother of former Calvary 3-Star lineman Joseph Ionata, who is with the Alabama Crimson Tide. Michael is a spitting image of Joe:  big, physical, and aggressive at the point of attack. He has my vote as the No. 1 offensive lineman in the area." 

 Micheal's leadership will play a significant role in the team's success this season. As a rising junior, Ionata is determined to be the best in the area and lead his team into the postseason. 

Jershaun Newton QB - CCC 

Jershuan Newton is coming off an outstanding season and currently holds the title of POY after winning it last year. Mr. Newton is incredibly versatile, dominating on the defensive side of the ball and possessing all the tools to be a menace at the quarterback position. He is virtually unstoppable and, with the addition of Shaun Couno, this will undoubtedly cause problems with the read option, making it a lethal weapon in their arsenal. Newton is poised to secure back-to-back wins for the award. The award is unquestionably up for grabs; but does he has what it takes to maintain his hold on it?

*Dark Horse Jaylan White QB Clearwater High School