‘Fantastic Four’ area schools that improved in 2011
Jeff Odom – Big County Preps
As the 2011 high school football season draws to a close, here are a look at the “Fantastic Four” area teams that improved from last season:
1 – Gaither – 9-4
The Cowboys’ story far exceeds their record, as the team with little expectation for a postseason run crashed the party in a big way. Gaither took out preseason district favorite Steinbrenner and Tampa Bay Tech in the postseason to control Class 7A-District 7 in the end, even without a district championship banner.
Highlight of the year: While the Cowboys had many moments that stood out in one of the greatest seasons in school history, nothing stood out more than defensive back Eddie Pastrana’s state record five interceptions against rival Steinbrenner in the 37-7 route of the Warriors that ended up setting the team up for its first postseason appearance in over five years.
2 – Steinbrenner – 7-3
Staying with Class 7A-District 7 here, the Warriors emerged as a force with their consistent and quick rushing attack that led to the best season in school history in only their second year of full varsity play. Steinbrenner’s two-headed monster running game of junior Kendall Pearcey and sophomore Shaheem Barthel paced the team to wins over district opponents Chamberlain, Freedom and Wiregrass Ranch. However the season ended in disappointment when the Warriors fell to future district champ Tampa Bay Tech, ending the team’s playoff hopes.
Highlight of the year: The Warriors had plenty to smile about over the course of 2011, but nothing came close to what has now been dubbed “The Catch” in Lutz. Sophomore quarterback Curtis Fitch rolled out to his right, took one glance down the field and chucked the pass as high and as far as he could. Junior Jon Marc Carrier followed the ball over his shoulder, as he tried to outrun Chamberlain safety Ronnie Scott. At the last moment, when it looked like the ball would sail over his head, Carrier lept forward with his arms extended and came down with the 42-yard bomb. The clutch pass and catch, gave the Warriors enough momentum to rally and tie the game with 42 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter before claiming victory in overtime.
3 – Sunlake – 10-2
Yes this is in fact a Pasco County school. While the Seahawks didn’t improve that much record wise, they made their first trip to the postseason and defeated county rival Land O’ Lakes to end its stranglehold on playoff appearances. Sunlake not only made an appearance in the postseason, it also won, defying many expert opinions and cementing itself into Pasco football history.
Highlight of the Year: Many special moments stood out for the Seahawks’ in 2011, but nothing topped their win over rival Land O’ Lakes. The Gators had overshadowed Sunlake for years, but this season it finally emerged from the “little brother” role and into the sunlight as one of the top teams in Pasco County.
4 – Fivay – 7-4
Surprised? Fivay may be a little out of the regular BCP coverage area, but it’s time to shine a little light on the Falcons’ stellar season in year two. The Falcons, in only their second season and first as a full varsity squad, not only reached the postseason, but also contended in a district with top Pasco contenders Sunlake, Hudson and Land O’ Lakes. Sure their schedule may be weaker than their neighbors to the south in Hillsborough, but that doesn’t take away from the Falcons’ tremendous season.
Highlight of the Year: Even though it fell in a 28-0 shutout to North Marion, Fivay jumped onto the scene as a future Pasco County powerhouse by making its first trip into the playoffs in its first varsity season. No matter where you are, that’s an accomplishment anyone should be proud of.