Some of the most noticeable school/team nicknames

1 “The Big Red” Hillsborough High
Hillsborough Terriers have been playing football since 1907. The oldest high school in Hillsborough county, established in 1885, it is the centerpiece of Hillsborough County. Prior to recent years, it was a Hillsborough High football tradition that the Terriers only wore all red uniforms at home. Hence the name “The Big Red” and there is no mistaken which school is referred to locally when heard. The Terriers have not finished the season below .500 since 1990 and in that time frame, “The Big Red” has 9 double digit win seasons.

2 “J-Boys” Jefferson High
The Carver City community has rallied around their school like very few have. A prideful community that has bounced back from tragedy, celebrated accomplishments and stuck together through thick and thin. Jefferson High school is the focus of the area. 10 District titles, 17 playoff appearances, 3 state title games 1 title; The youth grow up wanting to be Dragons. The members of the brotherhood refer to themselves as the “J-Boys.” Signifying pride for their community and school.

3 “Cside” Countryside High
It just sounds good. Sounds even better because they have been really good for the last 10 years. Worst record since 2002 was this this past season, if you want to count the 5 wins forfeited (2012 4-6 [9-1] HC Jared Davis). Prior to that, 2002 the Cougars were 6-5 under head coach John Davis. In between those years, “Cside” has not finished the season with less than 7 wins. No confusion when you hear “Cside!” Countryside is it!

4 “Chambo” Chamberlain High
Contrary to popular belief, Chamberlain has not been playing varsity football for long. The Chiefs started playing in 1956 under then head football coach, John Adcock. Since, a few legendary coaches have graced the sideline including Jim Vining and Billy Turner. During any Chief school activity or sports competition, “Chambo” is used as intimidation and encouragement.

5 “The Wood” Armwood
Numerous football state titles, strong track and baseball programs, “The Wood” describes what the Hawks bring when they compete. Why is Armwood, not higher on this list? Well, depending on which side of the bridge you are on, saying “The Wood,” could come with a clarification of which school is being referenced, Armwood or Lakewood. During the years 2003-2011 Armwood or “The Wood,” won 12 or more on the field games each season.

6 “G-High” Gibbs High
Similar to “Chambo,” “G-High” speaks for more than just football. It is chanted throughout the school for any Gibbs High activity. They have not had an established football era where the Gladiators dominated, yet to have a double digit win season (best season – 1983 8-2 HC John Ash). When “G-High” is shouted and the band is in full swing, it sounds strong and gels together a community with so many outside distractions. “G-High” is where the Gladiators reside and where obstacles are overcome.

7 “The Zo” Alonso High
…At “The Zo!” No question about the location. New schools have to earn their respect by building their tradition. Recently established in 2001, the Ravens are scratching at that breakout season. They have made a mark with some stud college football prospects, playoff appearances and baseball success. But, Raven Nation is a confident bunch and on the verge of starting a winning playoff tradition at “The Zo.”

8 “The Crest” Strawberry Crest High
Let’s be honest. The name “Strawberry Crest” does not strike fear in the opponent. Or maybe it does and I am just not aware of it. So, how do you take the school named after the sweet, delectable, tasty strawberry and give it some muscle, toughness and pride? Substitute “Strawberry” for “The” and now we have something. The football program is slightly over four seasons old, but “The Crest” has some pop to it.

9 “P-Park” Pinellas Park High
One of the few schools with the same name as the town it is located in, Pinellas Park High has been playing football since 1976. Still looking for the success they had in the early 80’s when “P-Park” went 33-9 from 1981-1984 under head football coach Bruce Buck. The Patriots play and represent more than the student body; but Pinellas Park as a whole and Patriots they are named after. There is no guessing, when you hear “P-Park!”