High School Football Stars Shine in the 2025 FHS Association 7v7 Xtreme League Event

2025 FHS7v7A XTreme League Event

Image: Florida High School 7v7 Association | YouTube

It was yet another steamy spring morning in Mid-Central Florida, and a rich lineup of Florida high school football competition unfolded Saturday morning during the fourth session of the FHS Association 7v7 Xtreme League tournament at South Sumter High School.

The event featured 19 schools eager to demonstrate their skills and compete for the title of the best team in the tournament.

The day’s action concluded with West Orange taking the spotlight, as the Warriors triumphed in the tournament, clinching the title with a close 13-7 win against Ocala Vanguard.

What sets the FHS7v7 Association League apart from other passing league tournaments is its focus on high school teams, as opposed to independent squads, bringing their players to compete.

Alongside the benefits for teams, individual players were also afforded an excellent chance to showcase their talents. Below is a recap of 30 standout players from the second session.

Luke Wilson, WR, Clearwater Central Catholic

Wilson delivered the catch of the day against West Orange, executing a remarkable one-handed grab without the need for his opposite arm to secure the pass. He certainly demonstrated why he’s a receiver to keep an eye on from Pinellas County.

Khayse Barrett, QB, Clearwater Central Catholic

Fans might recognize Barrett for his performance against Cardinal Newman in the Class 1A state semifinal and starting in the 1A state championship game. Barrett exhibited noticeable growth as a passer throughout Saturday’s action.

Malik Newton, WR, Clearwater Central Catholic

If the last name sounds familiar at CCC, it’s because another Newton was present, this time playing wide receiver and making notable contributions.

Daveyon Epps, DB, Clearwater Central Catholic

Though small in stature, Epps is anything but limited. He plays effectively on both sides of the ball, primarily serving as a running back and defensive back for the Marauders.

Landen Holley, QB, Orlando The First Academy

Holley, having recently transferred to Orlando The First Academy from Wesley Chapel, wasted no time making an impression for his new team. The quarterback was arguably the most mechanically sound passer present in Bushnell.

Devin Jackson, DB, Orlando The First Academy

A commitment to the University of Florida ensures that Jackson consistently locks down one side of the defensive secondary. He’s a prospect that the Royals absolutely cannot overlook.

Tripp Brown, QB, Plant

Primarily recruited as a tight end, Brown took on the role of quarterback for the Panthers alongside Dillon Rose-Bailey on a recruiting visit. His versatility makes him a standout among the Class of 2026 prospects.

Darryon Williams, WR, Plant

AFlorida State commitment, Williams is a player that defenses must constantly account for. His seamless route running and reliable catching have him ranked among the tournament’s elite wide receivers.

Jaylen Holman, RB/S, Plant

The 6-foot, 175-pound two-way player made an array of impactful plays throughout the day for the tournament semifinalist Panthers.

David Rolle, WR, Plant

Playing alongside numerous offensive stars on the Panthers’ roster, Rolle still managed to make significant contributions on offense next to players like Williams.

Andrew Whittemore, QB, Buchholz

In the wake of Trace Johnson’s transfer to Santa Margarita (California), Bobcats’ fans quickly became acquainted with Whittemore, who proved capable of making all the throws and will ensure Buchholz is in a strong position come fall.

Justin Williams, ATH, Buchholz

Williams ranks among the top running back/wide receivers in the Southeast and his ability to seamlessly shift between roles makes him a formidable challenge for any defense.

Keil McGriff, WR, Buchholz

Following closely behind Williams in receiving duties, McGriff enjoyed another impressive day of catching passes.

Nicholas Siple, C, Buchholz

Let’s not forget the offensive linemen who show up to these events. Siple has been a consistent presence at all tournaments, snapping to whoever’s at quarterback.

Isaiah Pina, WR, South Lake

Though better known for his basketball prowess, Pina has been making waves lately on the football field during 7-on-7 prep. At 6-foot-6 and 230 pounds, he has proven nearly impossible to cover in man coverage near the red zone due to his impressive leaping ability.

Tre Kelly, QB, South Lake

It’s no surprise that Kelly has consistently been one of the standout passers at these 7-on-7 events. His combination of great footwork and perfectly-timed touch on his passes makes him a regular feature on this list.

Keydrick Powell, WR, South Lake

Joining the ranks of regular stars is Powell, the speedy route runner who consistently finds ways to get open for Kelly.

Andrew Chung, QB, West Orange

With Brian Dillard participating in the Rivals.com Combine in Miami, Chung skillfully took charge of the offense and appeared completely in control as they clinched the championship. Chung ranks among Florida’s top quarterbacks in the Class of 2028.

Edison Delgado, WR, West Orange

Delgado is coming off a successful 2024 season for West Orange, and based on Saturday’s performance, he’s well on track for a standout senior season this fall. He demonstrated a solid connection with Chung in their passing game.

Terrance Lewis, QB, Vanguard

We must highlight Lewis here. As he continues to grow as the quarterback for the Knights, he has shown an impressive ability to grasp concepts and execute the right plays.

Kyler James, DB, Vanguard

It was challenging to track all of James’ contributions throughout the day. He recorded multiple interceptions, playing a crucial role in helping the Knights advance to the championship match.

Noble Davis, QB, Olympia

Davis stands out as a promising Class of 2027 prospect. He displayed confidence, solid footwork, and an excellent spin on all his passes. At 6-foot-1 and 200 pounds, he possesses many qualities desirable in a quarterback.

Sal Scaglione, QB, Lyman

Lyman also had an impressive offensive performance on Saturday, spearheaded by Scaglione. The returning starter for the Greyhounds was another quarterback who truly caught the eye.

Matthew Mateo Roman, OL, Lake Howell

Let’s not overlook the linemen. Mateo Roman, a 6-foot-3, 270-pound guard, triumphed in one of the tournament’s lineman 1-on-1 challenges, showcasing his strength and agility.

Ryan Browning, QB, Hernando

The dual-threat quarterback from the Class of 2028 for the Leopards appeared very at ease throwing the ball on Saturday for offensive coordinator Brice Spalding. Browning is looking to be one of Hernando County’s standout quarterbacks in 2025.

Kamoni Dotson, ATH, Hernando

You can expect to hear Dotson’s name frequently this coming spring and throughout the 2025 season if Saturday’s performance is any indication. The two-way player for the Leopards was everywhere and demonstrated he will be a key playmaker for Hernando.

Antonio Brown, ATH, Hernando

Regardless of the position he plays, Brown made significant contributions for Hernando. Although he mainly lined up as a wide receiver for the Leopards, he is also capable of playing in the secondary.

Mason Pauliot, LB, Hernando

While not many linebackers stood out, Pauliot earned recognition after a solid performance in the middle for Hernando. He possesses good size for a freshman, measuring in at 5-foot-11 and 180 pounds.

Landen Sherman, QB, South Sumter

Sherman held strong for the home team, consistently showing improvement as a passer in Ty Lawrence’s offense at each outing.

CJ Bronaugh, DB, Windermere

In addition to Orlando The First Academy’s Jackson, Bronaugh emerged as another top defensive back who made impactful plays for the Wolverines on Saturday.

  1. Athletic Highlights

    Tufanua Ionatana Umu-Cais Joins 2026 Polynesian Bowl Roster

    2026 Englewood Cherry Creek DL offer Tufanua Umu-Cais

    2026 Englewood Cherry Creek DL offer Tufanua Umu-Cais

    Englewood (Colo.) Cherry Creek defensive lineman Tufanua Ionatana Umu-Cais has received an invitation to participate in the 2026 Polynesian Bowl, as announced on Tuesday.

    The standout player from Colorado expressed his excitement about this honor.

    “Being selected to the Polynesian Bowl is a huge honor,” stated Umu-Cais. “It’s a recognition of all the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices I’ve made, and it means even more knowing how much pride and history are connected to the game. I have seen many players in the Poly Bowl and even players that are in the league now. It is truly special to be a part of something like that.”

    Umu-Cais is eager to immerse himself in the experience in Hawaii.

    “I’m extremely excited,” he said. “The Polynesian culture is so rich, full of pride, family, and tradition. I’m looking forward to learning more, meeting new people, and embracing everything the experience has to offer. I am extremely excited to immerse myself in the Poly community because it’s my culture. I can’t wait to really put on for my family as well as my community.”

    This will mark his first visit to the Aloha State.

    “I haven’t been to Hawaii yet, so this will be my first time,” Umu-Cais shared. “I’m really looking forward to it—the beauty, the culture, and the experience of a lifetime.”

    Additionally, Umu-Cais is enthusiastic about the opportunity to compete alongside some of the nation’s top talents.

    “I do not know the roster yet and what players are going to be attending, but I look forward to meeting them and also competing,” he noted.

    The roster for the 2026 Polynesian Bowl includes early invitees such as Immanuel Iheanacho, Faizon Brandon, DJ Jacobs, Myson Johnson-Cook, Brandon Arrington, Chris Henry Jr., Kendre Harrison, Cederian Morgan, Honor Fa’alave-Johnson, Xavier Griffin, Kelsey Adams, Jamier Brown, George Toia, and Jett Washington.

    The 2027 Polynesian Bowl will feature early invites including Elijah Haven, Trent Seaborn, and Marcus Fakatou.

    Launched in 2017, the Polynesian Bowl saw its first Offensive MVP awarded to former Stanford all-purpose back Connor Wedington, while Buffalo Bills defensive lineman A.J. Epenesa earned the Defensive MVP. The following year, Kyler Gordon from the Chicago Bears and Tanner McKee from the Philadelphia Eagles were named Co-MVPs.

    The 2019 contest awarded co-MVP honors to Daniel Heimuli, a linebacker from Arizona, and Puka Nacua of the Los Angeles Rams. In 2020, Sol-Jay Maiava, the quarterback from BYU, and Meki Pei from Hawaii won co-MVP awards.

    The 2021 edition saw Travis Hunter from Colorado take home the offensive MVP title, while Jaishawn Barham of Michigan earned defensive MVP honors. In 2023, Nico Iamaleava, a quarterback from Tennessee, was named offensive MVP, and linebacker Andrew Harris garnered defensive MVP accolades.

    The 2024 game awarded offensive MVP to Mike Matthews from Tennessee and defensive MVP to David Stone of Oklahoma. Lastly, the 2025 contest featured co-MVPs on offense in Husan Longstreet from USC and Dakorien Moore from Oregon, while 2026 defensive lineman Deuce Geralds earned the defensive MVP honor.

    The tenth Polynesian Bowl is scheduled for January 16, 2026, in Honolulu and will be broadcasted by NFL Network.

    For more details on the 2026 Polynesian Bowl roster, go here.

    The eleventh Polynesian Bowl is slated for January 22, 2027, in Honolulu and will also be aired by NFL Network.

    For insights on the 2027 Polynesian Bowl roster, go here.

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  2. Athletic Highlights

    Creighton Secures Former MEAC Player of the Year Blake Harper

    DMV Hoop Session Interviews Suburban All Star Blake Harper

    DMV Hoop Session Interviews Suburban All Star Blake Harper

    Blake Harper, a standout freshman basketball player from Howard University, confirmed his transfer to Creighton University on Sunday through social media.

    Harper, who garnered both the MEAC Player and Rookie of the Year honors, shared his decision on Instagram @_bharp.

    “you can’t say i ain’t earn it??” he wrote. “RDJ”

    A Washington, D.C. native who previously played at Gonzaga College High School, Harper entered the transfer portal on March 24 and ultimately chose Creighton, turning down offers from LSU and Ohio State. Standing 6-foot-8, he also had the choice to return to Howard.

    Harper is set to join a Creighton team coached by Greg McDermott, who led the Bluejays to an impressive 25-11 overall record, including a 15-5 performance in the Big East Conference during the 2024-25 season. The Bluejays secured an NCAA Tournament spot and concluded the season ranked 24th in the USA Today Coaches poll.

    Throughout the 2024-25 season, Harper made an impact at Howard, starting in all 32 games and averaging 19.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.4 assists, contributing to the Bison’s 12-20 record, which included a 7-7 performance in the MEAC.

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  3. Athletic Highlights

    Which Teams Are Leading Michigan High School Baseball This Week?

    Bay City Western baseball ready for state semifinals

    Bay City Western baseball ready for state semifinals

    The Michigan high school baseball season has kicked off, and we’re here to deliver weekly rankings of the top teams across the state during the spring and summer months.

    Check out this week’s standout teams in the Mitten region.

    Michigan High School Baseball Rankings: Apr. 29

    1. Bay City Western (12-1)

    Bay City Western triumphed over Flint Powers Catholic 9-0 last Thursday but faced a setback with a 4-1 loss against Midland on Monday. The Warriors are gearing up for their next games against Lapeer on May 1 and Grand Blanc on May 5.

    2. De La Salle (12-2)

    The Pilots swept Auburn Hills Avondale on Saturday, winning both games 15-0, with game one ending after four innings and game two after three. De La Salle’s next challenge comes in the form of a doubleheader against Bloomfield Hills Brother Rice on April 30.

    3. Northville (14-1)

    The Mustangs notched wins against Hartland and two over Utica last week, followed by a victory against Howell on Monday. Northville is poised for a rematch against Howell on April 30.

    4. Dakota (11-4)

    After a heavy 10-0 loss to Rochester Adams last weekend, the Cougars bounced back with decisive wins against Sterling Heights Stevenson, claiming victories of 10-0 on Monday and 14-2 on Tuesday. Dakota is slated to face Stevenson two more times to wrap up their four-game series.

    5. Birmingham Brother Rice (11-6)

    The Warriors pulled off a sweep against Detroit Edison last week (2-0) and secured a 10-6 victory over Hartland on Friday. Up next, Brother Rice will face rival De La Salle for a doubleheader on April 30.

    6. Grosse Pointe South (18-2)

    With a win over Detroit Edison on Saturday, the Blue Devils set a new school record with their 15th consecutive victory. Although they stumbled against Anchor Bat on Monday, they have a chance for revenge on April 30 and May 1.

    7. Saline (15-1)

    The Hornets swept Chelsea in two games on Saturday and achieved a similar result against Ann Arbor Huron on Monday. With a five-game winning streak, Saline is stepping into the final match of their three-game series against Ann Arbor Huron on April 30.

    8. Orchard Lake St. Mary’s (10-8)

    OLSM traveled to Ohio over spring break, where they faced three games: an 8-7 defeat against Anthony Wayne, a 3-2 loss to Defiance on Saturday, and an 8-3 loss to Perrysburg later that day. The Eaglets are set to resume their Catholic League schedule on April 30 with a doubleheader against U of D Jesuit.

    9. Romeo (16-2)

    The Bulldogs are on an impressive seven-game winning streak, recently sweeping Stoney Creek on Saturday. They’ll look to maintain their momentum with a visit to Utica Ford next on May 1.

    10. Sterling Heights Stevenson (12-2)

    Stevenson is riding a three-game winning streak after defeating Anchor Bay twice on Saturday and mercying Dakota on Monday. The Titans will meet Dakota again on April 30 and May 1 before a brief pause, then face Utica Ford on May 5.

    11. Hudsonville (12-2)

    The Eagles wrapped up last week with a strong 5-1 record, including victories against Jenison and Rockford. Hudsonville is set to take on Rockford again on May 1 before hosting a doubleheader against Maple Valley the following day.

    12. Jenison (8-2)

    The Wildcats dominated Muskegon with a 15-0 win but narrowly lost to Hudsonville 9-8 last week. They split a doubleheader against Caledonia on Tuesday (W, 10-0; L, 3-2), with a rubber match scheduled for May 1.

    13. New Boston Huron (16-0)

    The Chiefs kept their unbeaten record intact last week with wins over Allen Park and Milan. They are set to play Flat Rock next on April 30 and have a matchup with Dearborn Divine Child on May 2.

    14. Detroit Catholic Central (10-6)

    The Shamrocks are currently on a four-game winning streak, most recently sweeping Portage Central on Tuesday. Up next, Detroit Catholic Central will face St. Francis de Sales in a doubleheader on April 30.

    15. West Bloomfield (8-3)

    The Lakers split a doubleheader with Rochester last week and followed that up with back-to-back wins against Groves, including an 8-1 victory on Tuesday. West Bloomfield will meet Groves once more on May 1 before taking on Stoney Creek on May 3.

    16. Dexter (13-6)

    The Dreadnaughts have struggled recently, dropping four of their last six games, including both matches in a doubleheader against Ann Arbor Skyline on Monday. They have another opportunity against Skyline on April 30 before heading to Adrian on May 3.

    17. Woodhaven (15-5)

    The Warriors have secured consecutive victories after experiencing two losses in a row, with their latest triumph coming against Dearborn Edsel Ford, winning 2-1 in a dramatic nine-inning game on Monday. Woodhaven’s upcoming opponents include Wyandotte on April 30, followed by Taylor on May 1.

    18. Rochester Adams (15-4)

    Rochester Adams holds a 2-2 record over its last four games, having recently suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Stoney Creek on Tuesday. The Highlanders have another chance to face Stoney Creek on May 2 before taking on Grosse Pointe North in a doubleheader on May 3.

    19. Trenton (13-3)

    The Trojans went 2-1 at the 9th Bob Kreszyn Classic on Saturday, achieving victories over Wayland and Flint Powers Catholic, with their only setback against Utica Ford. Additionally, Trenton triumphed over Taylor on Monday, and their next matchup is against Dearborn Edsel Ford on April 30.

    20. Midland (6-2)

    Midland upset the top-ranked team in the state, securing a 4-1 victory over Bay City Western on Monday. Despite a number of canceled games this season, the Chemics’ schedule is about to heat up, starting with a game against Davison on April 30.

    21. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep (9-5)

    Pontiac Notre Dame Prep faced a tough doubleheader against Flushing on Saturday, resulting in two losses, but bounced back on Monday with a solid 9-2 win over U of D Jesuit.

    22. Detroit Western (13-5)

    After a 12-7 win against Grosse Pointe North on Saturday, the Cowboys suffered an 8-3 loss to Grosse Pointe South later that day. However, they regained their momentum with a 5-2 victory over Cass Tech on Tuesday. Detroit Western is set to face Livonia Stevenson next on April 30.

    23. Grand Ledge (13-5)

    The Comets faced a tough defeat in a doubleheader against Okemos on Monday, breaking a four-game winning streak. Grand Ledge will aim to bounce back during a doubleheader against Lansing Everett on May 1.

    24. Mattawan (8-2-3)

    Mattawan has triumphed in four of its last five outings, although they faced a setback against Grandville, losing 4-3 on Saturday. The Wildcats will take on Gull Lake next in a doubleheader on April 30.

    25. Allen Park (8-5)

    The Jaguars managed to avoid a third consecutive loss by overpowering Lincoln Park with a decisive 15-0 win on Monday. Allen Park will look to build on this momentum as they prepare to host Taylor for a doubleheader on April 30.

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