School is back in session and so is high school football. On Friday, Aug. 15, Ponte Vedra, Nease and Beachside all returned to the field for some preseason action.
Nease was on the road against Trinity Christian for their preseason matchup and fell to the Conquerors 21-12. However, there were some positive takeaways for the Panthers.
Enrique Ordonez scored one of the Panthers’ two touchdowns and remained active throughout the game. Their other touchdown came from sophomore quarterback Aiden Phifer, who also showed potential throughout the game.
The Panthers have a young offensive line this season, but Head Coach Collin Drafts is optimistic about his team.
“We had a great offseason, we had a great spring, and I feel like we can keep the momentum from last year going,” he said.
Ponte Vedra was also on the road against St. Augustine and tied the Yellow Jackets 27-27. Cohen Kegley had a good night for the Sharks as he scored a 65-yard pick-six.
Ponte Vedra controlled much of the second half aided by senior Jack Berquist who had a total of eight catches on the night. The Sharks defense, led by senior Talan Babin, forced two fumbles, two interceptions and had a blocked punt.
Ponte Vedra and Nease will meet Friday, Aug. 22, at 7 p.m. at Ponte Vedra. This matchup is one that both teams look forward to every year.
“It’s such a big game for this community, it’s the biggest rival,” said Drafts. The Panthers have defeated the Sharks in three of their last four games.
Beachside traveled to Atlantic Coast and defeated the Sting Rays 38-7. Seniors Marco Lanza, Drew Watson and Vincent Galella all had a big night for the Barracudas. Watson scored a touchdown in the first half and Galella recorded seven carries and 60 yards on the night.
Beachside will be on the road Friday, Aug. 22, at 7 p.m. at Orlando Christian Prep.
