Spring practice 2021 his here, and every team in Northeast Florida is excited to get back on the field with something to prove. From the development of young players to the addition of new players, to potential needs heading into the fall, Duval Sports will crisscross the area culminating with spring football game coverage in May.
University Christian- The Class 2A state runners-up in 2020 head into 2021 spring football practice extremely confident and eager to claim unfinished business. After-all, it was just 13 points on the field that separated them from becoming champions. UC fell to Champagnat 41-27 in the championship game, missing on a 2-point conversion on one of their scores. “Thirteen points, that’s all we’ve been talking about as a team leading up into spring” said rising junior Desirrio Riles.
That theme seemed to echo from coaches to players in their first practice since that game. Two plays can certainly make a difference. Which is why the Christians are looking back on that experience in order to focus on finishing the goal winning a state championship.
Players to Watch
- QB/S Desirrio Riles (2023) – At 6’4, 218 pounds, Riles has grown both physically and mentally from his sophomore season. He’s accurate with the football and extremely athletic. He also plays safety on defense, something you very rarely see in high school football these days.
- RB/DB Orel Gray (2023) 6’1, 185lbs – The dynamic do-it-all player is the ultimate weapon for UC. He’s added muscle to his frame for the work load at running-back, adding to his speed which he also displays at corner.
- WR Ja’won Grey (2022) The most explosive player on the team, at 6’2 he’s able to get to every ball and run every route on the tree.
- OL Gabe McLamb (6’3, 280lbs) McLamb is a strong and physically solid interior linemen who moves people at will.
- DT/TE Jerome Manning (2022) 6’0, 240lbs- The on field leader, Manning is a special player with size, quickness and power. Coaches are excited about his ability to penetrate on the D-Line. He can also stand up and play linebacker. The bonus is that he has good hands as he plays Tight End as well.
- OL C.J Lloyd (2022) 6’3, 290lbs – He adds another big body to the offensive line who can anchor and protect the quarterback well. A key addition to the team from Oakleaf high school last year.
For Coach David Penland III, it’s another year and another shot at contending for a title. Winning Class 2A state championships in 2012, 2015 and 2016, he knows what it takes to bring the title back to Jacksonville. This may be their most explosive and athletic team since 2016, and their youth from last year works as experience for this year.
University Christian hosts Terry Parker on 5/20/21 at 7pm for their spring football game.
