ENGLEWOOD (SNN-TV) – Over in Englewood, the Manta Rays of Lemon Bay have turned some heads this season. Establishing themselves as an area powerhouse, the Manta Rays have accrued an 8-0 record so far this season. The undefeated year, if finished out on Friday, would be the first of its kind in Lemon Bay football history.
The Manta Rays will look to claim stake to that history Friday night in their regular season finale against the 2-7 North Port Bobcats led by 1st year Head Coach Garon Belser. Coming off an 9-2 year last season, Coach Don Southwell’s team looked to take the next step, and according to Southwell they’ve that and then some, all while improving in talent across the board.
“We’ve built some depth, coming into the season, at least offensively, Hogan and Sekach were some guys that people knew about that rushed for a lot of yards last year. We’ve got a few more weapons that we’ve added, we’re not just a one-trick pony.” – Don Southwell (Lemon Bay HC)
Last season in their matchup with North Port, Lemon Bay won going away, 35-0 on the road. With the undefeated season at their doorstep, one of Coach Southwell’s budding stars, Running back Jason Hogan, adopts the mantra of taking advantage of the moment.
“Our coach he tells us a lot people say it’s pressure, but it’s just opportunity. Its opportunity to be the first school that’s undefeated, probably throughout the county, and an opportunity to go to the playoffs and get father than we ever have. So, no pressure, just opportunity every single week, every day.” – Jason Hogan (Lemon Bay RB)
While the top-tier offensive play of Hogan, Jacob Sekach and Quarterback Trey Rutan has been stellar all-season, the Manta Rays defense has been the talking point. While only allowing 25 points all season coming into this week and posting 4 shutout performances, the defense will look to impose that dominance once more.
One of the defenses leaders, Senior Luke Tannehill, has been looking forward to tomorrow night’s game since his high school football career began. The final home game also signals the team’s senior night, and Tannehill says his emotions will undoubtedly be seen sleeve.
“Emotions are high. As you’re playing younger, your sophomore and junior year watching these kids go through senior night, and now it’s my turn. When it comes down to that realization of, man this is my last game here in a season and a senior. It means a lot, so we’re going to make sure we’re on the same page when we’re playing like that. We’ll see how it goes.” – Luke Tannehill (Lemon Bay LB)
