Since 1970 Winter Haven leads the series versus Haines City 18-9-2. Haines City has been playing football since 1926. They have been to the playoffs 13 times. The Hornets have 8 District Titles, 5 Regional Titles, 1 State Runner-Up and 1 State Title.

Winter Haven has been playing football since 1924. They have been to the playoffs 13 times,  with 8 District Titles, 0 Regional Titles and no State title game appearances.

They both have had many All State players. Haines City had 14 All State picks since 2000 and nearly 30 in the 70s. The Blue Devils boast 23 All State selections since 2000.

Both Haines City and Winter Haven replace several key offensive players including the quarterback and running back. Derwin James will be the playmaker on all three sides of the ball for Haines City. Fenold Dorismond and Tavon Cox are sturdy on a defense that was better than advertised one season ago.
Demaris Spann could be the X-factor. Highly talented, multi-sport athlete that has skills! But will the Hornets utilize those skills?

Michael Arnold will try to make a mess of the Hornets on both sides of the ball. Especially with a new QB, he will be counted on to attract double teams and free up other players. Add Johnny Footman and Romello Sekura on both sides of the line, good bunch! Offensively, WR Darius James and RB Tekendrick Roberson are going to carry the load. Roberson did a great job last season once both RBs ahead of him went down to injury. Now James is the “Go To” receiver with the departure of Kendrick Holland to graduation.

Note: Winter Haven and Haines City have played every year since 2003. The Blue Devils have won 10 in a row, outscoring the Hornets 245-81 with 4 shutouts in the same time span.