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The teams are being formulated and the picks are in for the Preseason 1st Team All-GZP Team! it's time to meet the standout players who have earned a spot on the Preseason 1st All-GZP Team. These athletes have shown exceptional skill and dedication on the field. They are the ones to watch this season.<h3>2024 ALL GZP Team Preseason Honors!</h3><figure id="figure-wnorhnsyfym00b80qz"><img id="wnorhnsyfym00b80qz" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/3aJnqSUI9q7Ny1AvmVHwpNHUPXOWMmYmMWq8BDmwNeDpnGs8jnc9mobZL4QPA0ps.jpg" alt="Rear view of an African American teenager holding a football." title="Rear view of an African American teenager holding a football." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="OT Dujuan Davis (CCC) is a Big time prospect with huge upside should have a chance to make it a 3 time appearance to the State Championship " data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">OT Dujuan Davis (CCC) is a Big time prospect with huge upside should have a chance to make it a 3 time appearance to the State Championship </figcaption></figure><h3>Offense</h3>QB-Jershaun Newton, CCCRB-Sean Cuono, CCCWR-Austin Ho, Calvary ChristianWR-Javeyon McKenzie, ClearwaterWR-Makih Johnson, Tarpon SpringsOL- Mike Ionata, Calvary ChristianOL-Mark Holloway, LakewoodOL-David Logan Proco, PParkOL-Dajaun Davis, CCCOL-Jamaar Jackson, ClearwaterUtil-Jeff Jones, St.Pete<figure id="figure-tiobkfud39m00b1671"><img id="tiobkfud39m00b1671" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/31y35EihVP6MTtbwTnaYuIzLvI0nf3seJyy8VLaCnkYKkq5iA7cKewivQGhltYKy.jpg" alt="Football huddle" title="Football huddle" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined% 35%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="DL Clifton Slone Sr. (St.Petersburg High School) a front-runner for DPOY" data-positionx="undefined%" data-positiony="35%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/31y35EihVP6MTtbwTnaYuIzLvI0nf3seJyy8VLaCnkYKkq5iA7cKewivQGhltYKy.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined% 35%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">DL Clifton Slone Sr. (St.Petersburg High School) a front-runner for DPOY</figcaption></figure><h3> Defense</h3>DL-Tyrique Harris, CCCDL-Noel Brown, ClearwaterDL-Keo Jenkins, CCCDL-Clifton Slone, St.PeteLB-Kaleb Mathis, LakewoodLB-Keontae Williams, NortheastLB-Wayne Cunningham, ClearwaterDB- Nelson Sparrow, Calvary ChristianDB- CJ Cresser, Tarpon SpringsNickle-Gedontae Rich, CCCSAF- Damari Green, LakewoodSAF- Armani Sullivan, Boca Ciega

2024 PRE-SEASON ALL GZP Team

<h2>Game Time: Its the Preseason</h2>The preseason games in Pinellas County are just around the corner. These games set the stage for what promises to be an exciting season of high school football in the bay area. Our Preseason Rankings are included!For many teams, the preseason is an opportunity to fine-tune strategies and identify areas for improvement. Fans can expect to see a mixture of seasoned athletes and fresh faces eager to make a name for themselves.<figure id="figure-7lngmxl0gplzq0u6wr" class=""><img id="7lngmxl0gplzq0u6wr" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/18VQQXk04GaBPBmjqWPxaQPdCMtCY8aPZn3Xli8plq6FAmkA9gQR9RkLckWrcWm9.jpg" alt="high school sports" title="high school sports" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/18VQQXk04GaBPBmjqWPxaQPdCMtCY8aPZn3Xli8plq6FAmkA9gQR9RkLckWrcWm9.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Friday's Games</h3> Hollins at St. Petersburg Catholic, 6Dunedin at St. Petersburg Catholic, 6Zephyrhills at # 8 East Lake, 7&nbsp; &nbsp;Sarasota Out-of-Door at Keswick Christian, 7#4 Lakewood at Palmetto, 7Braden River at Osceola, 7Boca Ciega at Berkeley Prep, 7#2 Calvary Christian at #9 Largo, 7Northeast at Countryside, 7King at Indian Rocks Christian, 7Calvary Chapel Academy at Lakeside Christian, 7Robinson at #1 Clearwater Central Catholic, 7:30Sunlake at #5 Tarpon Springs, 7:30Hernando at #3 Clearwater, 7:30#7 Palm Harbor University at Mitchell, 7:30Riverview at #10 Pinellas Park, 7:30<h3>Conclusion</h3>The upcoming preseason games in Pinellas County promise to be full of excitement and anticipation. Teams and players have been preparing all summer and are eager to see the action unfold.As the preseason kicks off, remember to support your local teams and enjoy the thrill of high school football in Pinellas county. The hard work and dedication of these young athletes deserve our applause and encouragement.Follow @CoachGreen_3 | IG Inside_GZP_Sports

Getting Ready: Pinellas Preseason Games This Week

<h2>Top 5 Canidates in Pinellas County for Player of the Year!</h2>&nbsp;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.<figure id="figure-whgdpnmtt8lyz3w9lo" class=""><img id="whgdpnmtt8lyz3w9lo" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/12kZEDlUNIsXJw9yS3eoowmdv6wpvHvChasMTxyxva2tJlEtm29syf0sgD1kJzgJ.jpg" alt="high school athlete" title="high school athlete" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 30%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Sean Cuono my Top RB in the area, has already committed to Indiana University and possesses a dynamic skillset that makes him very versatile as a Back!" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="30%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/12kZEDlUNIsXJw9yS3eoowmdv6wpvHvChasMTxyxva2tJlEtm29syf0sgD1kJzgJ.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 30%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Sean Cuono my Top RB in the area, has already committed to Indiana University and possesses a dynamic skillset that makes him very versatile as a Back!</figcaption></figure><h3>Sean Cuono ATH Clearwater Central Catholic</h3>&nbsp;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.&nbsp;<h3>Jeff Jones ATH - St. Petersburg High School</h3>&nbsp;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.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-90gp3ybsmolyz3wdg1" class=""><img id="90gp3ybsmolyz3wdg1" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/drVWehOGN3ed8oVsjMsENitgCztG6gENx9SletSHeAzn0xWM9hYMBb4vzqlmQOmE.jpg" alt="basketball player" title="basketball player" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/drVWehOGN3ed8oVsjMsENitgCztG6gENx9SletSHeAzn0xWM9hYMBb4vzqlmQOmE.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Michael Ionata OL - Calvary Christian</h3>&nbsp;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 <a data-mce-href="https://rolltide.com/sports/football/roster/joseph-ionata/10741" href="https://rolltide.com/sports/football/roster/joseph-ionata/10741" title="Joseph Ionata">Joseph Ionata, who is with the Alabama Crimson Tide. Michael is a spitting image of </a>Joe: &nbsp;big, physical, and aggressive at the point of attack. He has my vote as the No. 1 offensive lineman in the area."&nbsp;<figure id="figure-dvfrbla25lyz3wffp" class=""><img id="dvfrbla25lyz3wffp" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/11gAVEEBcujLji3jRXC55SCWQCXdQl4AqTEqKmbv5YIBKN7JtX0TQWaXGWt1aTWa.jpg" alt="track and field" title="track and field" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 30%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Ionata comes in as the No.1 ranked OL in the area and has the offers to prove it. Has the size and tenacity to take home the award!" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="30%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/11gAVEEBcujLji3jRXC55SCWQCXdQl4AqTEqKmbv5YIBKN7JtX0TQWaXGWt1aTWa.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 30%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Ionata comes in as the No.1 ranked OL in the area and has the offers to prove it. Has the size and tenacity to take home the award!</figcaption></figure>&nbsp;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.&nbsp;<h3>Jershaun Newton QB - CCC&nbsp;</h3>Jershuan Newton&nbsp;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?<figure id="figure-fm2a0p55uhlyz3wih0" class=""><img id="fm2a0p55uhlyz3wih0" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/396xA1kbFgkrg6kLCQkNtwiFbNdv8v7pphM0ucmib1KxocZc64oHrHwOhim5a0Xh.jpg" alt="baseball player" title="baseball player" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Last year winner will do everything he can to hold on to the title of Player of the Year!" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/396xA1kbFgkrg6kLCQkNtwiFbNdv8v7pphM0ucmib1KxocZc64oHrHwOhim5a0Xh.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Last year winner will do everything he can to hold on to the title of Player of the Year!</figcaption></figure><h3>*Dark Horse Jaylan White QB Clearwater High School&nbsp;</h3><figure id="figure-yumj6ndb3hlzaa6qnm" class=""><img id="yumj6ndb3hlzaa6qnm" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1enwS308AhpifhyTFmzyIUYfmt6XYJagZLToYeyQFSOErIbb1DLdJHhQHxkeMlr8.jpg" alt="dark horse QB Jaylen White Clearwater High School" title="dark horse QB Jaylen White Clearwater High School" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Look out for the 2026 QB he will surprise a lot of people this season!" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1enwS308AhpifhyTFmzyIUYfmt6XYJagZLToYeyQFSOErIbb1DLdJHhQHxkeMlr8.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Look out for the 2026 QB he will surprise a lot of people this season!</figcaption></figure>

5 Leading Candidates for Pinellas County Preseason Player of the Year

<h2>Quarterback Battle Heats Up in Tarpon Springs</h2>The high school football season is here, and all eyes are on the quarterback position. Two highly talented athletes are in fierce competition for the starting role, each bringing unique skills to the field. Coaches and fans are eagerly anticipating the emergence of the leader of the offense. The competition is intense, and both players are relentlessly working to secure the QB1 spot. As of Spring, the battle is absolutely neck and neck!<figure id="figure-nubnvubkkglwgr0dfn"><img id="nubnvubkkglwgr0dfn" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/5YZkjSgGVR9cZu8QyoWJ4gQ4k20zFVntoTDlX2Ci0wcRtYjY8RZexnwkspX5X0dQ.jpg" alt="Angelo plans to make this a stuff battle to the end" title="Angelo plans to make this a stuff battle to the end" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 15%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="15%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/5YZkjSgGVR9cZu8QyoWJ4gQ4k20zFVntoTDlX2Ci0wcRtYjY8RZexnwkspX5X0dQ.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 15%;"></figure>John Angelo, a seasoned senior, (Above) has shown he's the right man for the job through his dedication and work ethic. Angelo throws a remarkable deep ball and accurately targets his receivers, thereby bringing fluidity in the Spongers offense. His primary focus is on mastering the playbook, despite it being a new scheme for him. While the arrival of new staff presents a challenge in implementing their playbook, Angelo remains confident in his ability to lead.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-auyglgaer7lwgr0eyv" class=""><img id="auyglgaer7lwgr0eyv" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/5v2JITxmckUP6SveleVK08PQ2obNrFoYdHePMcAPEVtXRh48ISYv1asqK2ylhlZG.jpg" alt="high school football" title="high school football" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: null% 50%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="null%" data-positiony="50%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/5v2JITxmckUP6SveleVK08PQ2obNrFoYdHePMcAPEVtXRh48ISYv1asqK2ylhlZG.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: null% 50%;"></figure>"Sophomore Joaquin Kavouklis (above) is known for his quick decision-making (high IQ) and throwing a nice catchable ball. Despite his youth, he has shown great promise during practice and after spending a year at Clearwater Academy International he has familiarity with the offensive scheme.<h3>Coaches' Perspective</h3>The coaching staff is closely monitoring both players. Offensive Coordinator Jesse Chinchar has praised both quarterbacks for their dedication and hard work, stating, "John and Joaquin are both exceptional talents. We are fortunate to have such depth at the quarterback position." Coach Chinchar emphasizes that the decision will be based on who can best lead the team to victory, asserting, "It's not just about individual skills; it's about how they can bring out the best in their teammates."<figure id="figure-383tlpr799lwgr0j3k"><img id="383tlpr799lwgr0j3k" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/34au9UXrpiPlV90mhqa91COPF7PhaZl9KkXB4gi67fczIQOt1N4UHlrYlhxAYsro.jpg" alt="football practice" title="football practice" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 15% null%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Kavoklis is coming off a hot summer where he gained several offers from P4 schools! " data-positionx="15%" data-positiony="null%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/34au9UXrpiPlV90mhqa91COPF7PhaZl9KkXB4gi67fczIQOt1N4UHlrYlhxAYsro.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 15% null%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Kavoklis is coming off a hot summer where he gained several offers from P4 schools!</figcaption></figure>Both quarterbacks confidently led their teams on scoring drives. John delivered a flawless 8 for 8 performance, including a touchdown, while Kavouklis completed 2 out of 4 passes and made a significant touchdown throw to senior WR Makih Johnson!!&nbsp; <h3>Looking Ahead</h3>As we approach the season, excitement continues to build for the upcoming fall. Both quarterbacks saw success in the summer. John was on the Midwest bus tour and managed to secure two offers from smaller division schools. He impressed several schools and has the opportunity to gain more traction with a good senior season. Joaquin was outstanding, receiving offers from West Virginia, Syracuse, UCF, Virginia Tech, Arkansas, and USF. He was named the most valuable player at Michigan's camp. The final decision on the starting quarterback will be made in the future, and both John and Joaquin will give their best efforts.Football fans in Tarpon are eagerly awaiting to see who will take the first snap. Regardless of the outcome, Tarpon Springs High School is set for an exciting football season.Follow @CoachGreen_3 | IG Inside_GZP_Sports

Quarterback Battle Heats Up in Tarpon Springs

Palm Harbor (FL) 2025 TE/OL Asher Heflin has multiple options as his recruitment has gained momentum over the past few months. Heflin, 6’2” and 225 pounds, has transferred from Countryside to Palm Harbor University, bringing valuable and much needed experience to the Hurricanes. He has attracted interest from several colleges and has become a sought-after prospect in north county. After leaving his 1st love baseball and committing fully to football, he is making significant progress and coming into his own.<figure id="figure-dk6f41ihgilyyy7uh7" class=""><img id="dk6f41ihgilyyy7uh7" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/21yA0NAT0lf4C38ybkxjSlu583XTcGPPgfdPlnAREyGM8IGF2rjPD5f6yGFWrqJn.jpg" alt="athlete recruitment" title="athlete recruitment" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/21yA0NAT0lf4C38ybkxjSlu583XTcGPPgfdPlnAREyGM8IGF2rjPD5f6yGFWrqJn.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>*He has visited several campuses and met with coaching staff to get a feel for each program. These visits are crucial for Asher to understand what each school can offer both on and off the field.<h3>What schools see in Heflin</h3>Heflin has a 4.45 GPA and can attend almost any educational institution he wants. He brings versatility to the offensive side with his physicality and ability to play both OT and Tight End. He is a good run blocker and catches the ball well.<figure id="figure-zi2r2ldksalyyy7vyv" class=""><img id="zi2r2ldksalyyy7vyv" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6msKp9eYtn8NTCVynjzmzwwuNe8H9Uv7mxgZxRXh48ZQYHNNhlWQNrsf3SWkwNdA.jpg" alt="college campus" title="college campus" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Heflin enjoys his visit at Amherst College, a school that's on his radar!" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6msKp9eYtn8NTCVynjzmzwwuNe8H9Uv7mxgZxRXh48ZQYHNNhlWQNrsf3SWkwNdA.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Heflin enjoys his visit at Amherst College, a school that's on his radar!</figcaption></figure><h3>What schools are in the Mix?&nbsp;</h3>Heflin has attracted interest from several high academic schools, including Division 3 Case Western, Wheaton College, Amherst College, and Middlebury College. Additionally, a few IVY League schools have also reached out. A recent visit to Bowdin College has his attention!<h3>What’s the Plan for Heflin?&nbsp;</h3>Heflin is driven by his academic excellence (4.45 gpa) and envisions himself attending a school where he can earn a degree in Political Science and thrive in the business world. While football is also an option for him, Heflin is truly the defintion of Student-Athlete! &nbsp;Let’s not get it twisted Asher, aspires to play at the next level. He understands that football can serve as a platform for achieving success off the field. If given the opportunity to play at the next level, he will gladly embrace it.<h2><a data-mce-href="https://www.hudl.com/video/3/17684185/6546a65eda523408d4492797" href="https://www.hudl.com/video/3/17684185/6546a65eda523408d4492797" title="2025 TE Asher Heflin Jr Szn Highlights">Highlights</a></h2><figure id="figure-fmcme6u7nlyz165ta"><img id="fmcme6u7nlyz165ta" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/bD0K8YbyvT6IAa7GsXHNOl3tVO1YBrwX4v9EB116c0Re7aQSgmHG6ducm9IIPfzN.jpg" alt="Asher Heflin Jr szn Highlights" title="Asher Heflin Jr szn Highlights" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/bD0K8YbyvT6IAa7GsXHNOl3tVO1YBrwX4v9EB116c0Re7aQSgmHG6ducm9IIPfzN.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>Asher is excited about the future and the opportunities to play college football. He remains focused on the current season, working hard to lead his team and improve his game. He has a few games circled on the schedule as well. The district is East lake, Largo and Steinbrenner (Tampa)<h3>Bottom line:</h3>Heflin understands that the college decision is just one step in his journey. Asher is a prospect who will most likely earn a full academic scholarship and his degree. While he can also play football during his time in school, it seems like his main priority is his education, and everything else will follow suit!Folllow @CoachGreen_3 | IG Inside_GZP_Sports

Recruiting Buzz: 2025 ATH Asher Heflins Looking closely at Colleges around the country

<h2>Makih Johnson: Top WR Chooses UConn Huskies</h2>Three-star wide receiver, Makih Johnson of Tarpon Springs,&nbsp;(FL,) Tarpon High, is set to play big-time football out east as he has committed to the UConn Huskies. The Huskies secured Johnson's committment last Thursday, following an official visit the previous month. Johnson right now is the lone WR in the class at this time.<figure id="figure-svfp3j42zlym6bcv1" class=""><img id="svfp3j42zlym6bcv1" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/26GndtZwOObSlzJawaFMzfgk4orEvnxuwkCtfeFHUAtaxCAGSz8X6foiV9uk5S8Q.jpg" alt="football player" title="football player" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Johnson is our No 1 WR headed into the fall season" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/26GndtZwOObSlzJawaFMzfgk4orEvnxuwkCtfeFHUAtaxCAGSz8X6foiV9uk5S8Q.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Johnson is our No 1 WR headed into the fall season</figcaption></figure><h3>What swayed Johnson on the Huskies?</h3>Johnson had several offers from top programs across the country. He chose UConn for several reasons. First, he felt a strong connection with wide receivers &nbsp;Coach <a data-mce-href="https://admin.uconnhuskies.com/staff-directory/kashif-moore/2772" href="https://admin.uconnhuskies.com/staff-directory/kashif-moore/2772" title="UConn Asst Wide Receiver coach">Kashif Moore</a>.&nbsp;Second, UConn felt like home, Johnson stated, The players and coaches along with coach Moore were very welcoming. They are building something special at UConn.<figure id="figure-vw1lc4jztglym6bdq7" class=""><img id="vw1lc4jztglym6bdq7" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2fb9wpujGsvKsW50x5g3jnfORyPGyWcODJuuXE5O7qjjDa2OUVwxfXokI6DmT8uw.jpg" alt="college campus" title="college campus" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Johnson is still keeping his options open to suitors to give their pitch." data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2fb9wpujGsvKsW50x5g3jnfORyPGyWcODJuuXE5O7qjjDa2OUVwxfXokI6DmT8uw.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Johnson is still keeping his options open to suitors to give their pitch.</figcaption></figure><h3>Who else was in the Mix?</h3>Despite his commitment to the Huskies, Johnson is attracting interest from other schools such as USF, Iowa State, and UCF, just to name a few. Johnson Stated that he still has OV's scheduled during the fall to other schools and he is still listening to what they have to say!<h3>What are they telling Johnson?</h3>Johnson sees no limits ahead. Coach Moore is promising early playing time and has confidence in Johnson's ability to play all positions, from an outside wide receiver to even in the slot. I think joining UConn gives Johnson the opportunity to display his talents on a bigger stage. He will encounter tough competition and have more opportunities to improve his skills. This move is a crucial step toward his goal of playing in the NFL.<figure id="figure-9oscidm47alymdrjvz" class=""><iframe id="9oscidm47alymdrjvz" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zOMtYdso1rc" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://youtu.be/zOMtYdso1rc?si=Y32u32-imoUKp7gx" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zOMtYdso1rc" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure><h3>Looking Ahead</h3>As Johnson prepares for the upcoming season, he remains focused and determined. He believes he should strive to be the best every time he steps onto the field. "I know I'm the best player out there and I aim to prove it every week. I plan on achieving over 1,500 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns per game!Stay tuned for more updates on <a data-mce-href="https://247sports.com/Player/makih-johnson-46142851/" href="https://247sports.com/Player/makih-johnson-46142851/" title="247 sports Makih Johnson">Makih Johnson</a> and his journey as the Sponges gear up for the 2024-25 season.Follow @CoachGreen_3 | IG Inside_GZP_Sports

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