St. Augustine Fl- The Menendez Falcons finished their season with a winning record (5-5) after a 20-6 win over the Tocoi Creek Torros Tuesday. “I was very proud of the way we finished the season,” said Menendez first year coach Matt Potak. “The team faced a lot of adversity. We will build on this season and keep moving forward.” At one point this year Menendez was down to their third string quarterback. King Benford did not play this year because an injury at a preseason scrimmage. Junior quarterback Noah Lawless missed three games with an injury. However, the Falcons showed poise with a lot of contributors.
Menendez was led by a strong defensive and special teams effort. Falcons Kicker Bryce Addison kicked two field goals and linebacker Ryon Pickles returned an interception 85-yards for a touchdown. Quarterback Noah Lawless added a 55 yard touchdown run. Defensively, Menendez forced 4 Toro turnovers. Michael Boccio recovered a fumble with Terrell Newsome, Jayden Williams, and Pickles having interceptions.
Defensively, the Falcons forced nearly thirty turnovers on the season. The defense was led by first year defensive coordinator Ronnell Ray. Ray, a Riverside graduate, led a tough defensive effort all season. Long time linebacker coach Michael Jefferson and defensive line coach Marquel Williams also contributed. “I’ve been around Menendez Football since 2007 and I can say this was the best defensive group I have ever seen,” said Potak. “All of our defensive coaches have major ties to the school. Coach Jefferson was Tony Steward (former Bills linebacker) and Willie Harvey’s (former Browns linebacker) position coaches. Coach J brings passion to our program and has since 2005. Marquel was a graduate here and played for our first playoff winning team. He inspires our kids.”
Some highlights to this season include sophomore Cason Blanco leading the Falcons to their first district win over Gainesville Eastside at quarterback. Later in the season, Menendez defeated playoff bound Terry Parker in overtime on a Lawless quarterback sneak. Despite close losses to playoff contender Clay and district winner North Marion, Menendez finished the season strong with wins over Palatka and Tocoi. The Falcons future looks bright for next season with a lot of starters returning.
