SARASOTA (SNN-TV) – Former Riverview High School, 5-star WR/DB, Charles Lester III, has transferred to last year’s 4S State title runner-up and 3-time State Champion, Venice High School. The news comes just days after Spring football concluded on the Suncoast.
In a statement given to SNN, Lester reflects on his time spent in the Riverview program:
“Best of luck to Ram Nation and my Ram brothers. Nothing I’ve accomplished was possible without the help of you guys. Also, I’m very thankful for Coach [Josh] Smithers, Coach [Mark] Cristiani and the rest of the staff for never giving up on me and always giving me an opportunity to compete and get better. Forever a Ram!”
Lester, a sought after commodity for some of the nation’s top Division-I schools, finished last season with 11 touchdowns and 5 interceptions. The two-way star joins John Peacock’s talent-laden squad, that has several key pieces returning, not to mention, two, transfer quarterbacks in Jadyn Glasser and Ryan Downes.
Coach Peacock says the addition of Lester speaks volumes in regards to Venice football, “It always feels good when elite players want to be part of our program. It means we are doing something right. I look forward to working with Charles and building a relationship with him. I have heard wonderful things about the young man.”
Lester is currently the No. 15 overall recruit and the No. 2 CB for the class of 2024, according to the 247Sports. Recently, Lester narrowed down his collegiate list to a top three, consisting of: Alabama, Florida State and Georgia, with FSU currently in the pole position, despite his intentions to also visit the University of Colorado on June 9th.
Lester’s schedule of visits begins with a trip to Tuscaloosa on Friday, June 2nd at the University of Alabama. Lester will begin practicing with Venice on June 5th.