High school football has returned to St. Johns County, and the Beachside Barracudas are off to a strong start.
The Barracudas are currently 1-0 after defeating the KIPP Bold City Greyhounds 58-0 on Aug. 21. They also won their preseason matchup on Aug. 14 against the Atlantic Coast Stingrays 34-3.
Last season, the Barracudas won their district and went 8-4.
Head Coach Pete Duffy graduated a pretty large senior class last season, but he is very impressed with the group of seniors that are currently on his roster.
“They understand the expectations and the workload. They also understand what we are trying to do as a program,” said Duffy.
Senior wide receiver Brennan Monaco had a touchdown in the game against Atlantic Coast and is already getting the attention of college scouts. He has already committed to a Division 1 school.
The Barracudas will be led this season by senior quarterback Bennet Hunt, and Duffy said he believes his team will be one to watch.
“If we do our best and we can stay healthy, we might sneak up on some guys,” he said.
Duffy will be working with a lot of young players this season, but he said keeping them grounded and focused is the most important thing.
“The games are definitely important, but we try not to get too excited when we make a good play and not get too down when we make a bad play. We tell them to just turn the page and move on to the next,” he said.
Duffy is entering his fifth season as head coach, and the example he sets for his team is a huge reason why they have been able to find success.
“We want our guys to be accountable for themselves and do the best that they can do all the time whether or not someone is watching,” said Duffy.
The Barracudas’ next game will be on the road against the Tocoi Creek Toros on Sept. 4.
