In its first two seasons, Seffner Christian saw success no one thought was coming.

The Crusaders (6-4) clinched their first winning season, after the program won only two games in 2009 and much of it had to do with junior ATH Seth Lewis.

Lewis, a linebacker and fullback, said he didn’t have much expectation for the second-year program, but as the season wore on, he knew it had something special.

“As far as expectations go, not much had been expected of us because we’re such a new, young team,” Lewis said. “But we have a core group of guys who have been really dedicated to working out and getting ready”

Seffner Christian scored big wins last season over opponents like Ocala Christian, Life Academy and Windermere Prep. It put up some big points in the process, something Lewis attributed to the coaching staff.

“We have a great coaching staff who is totally dedicated and puts in a ton of hours to make this program a success,” Lewis said.

As for 2012, the Crusaders are looking to build a winning tradition. For a squad in the shadow of state champion Armwood, it’s not easy. However, Lewis said it’s all about setting the goals high and achieving them throughout the year.

“I’m looking forward to another winning season,” Lewis said. “Last year we had our first ever winning season and it felt great. This season we’re ready to work even harder to make that happen again.”

Lewis added, he has a few personal accomplishments he wants to achieve.

“Last season I kind of surprised myself with my own performance,” Lewis said. “I had almost 700 yards and 10 TD’s from the fullback position. (As for) this season, is huge for me because it’s my senior year. I’ve been working really hard in the weight room and out on the field improving my speed.

“Most importantly, I want to break 1000 yards and score 15 touchdowns. I’ve got a great offensive line blocking for me, and with their help, it is totally achievable. As far as defense goes, I had seven sacks from the defensive tackle position and quite a few tackles for loss. This season, ill have a great defense surrounding me, and with their help, i would like to hit 10 sacks. At the end of the day, its a team sport and the most important thing to me is winning. Weather we win or lose, there guys are all my brothers and nothing will come between us. I’m looking forward to a great senior season.”

Follow Jeff Odom on Twitter, @JeffO_LutzNews for the latest prep sports news from Northwestern Hillsborough and Pasco County.