In just their second year of FHSAA district football, KIPP Bold City continues to establish their program by facing prominent opponents. Last year they finished third in District 1A-2. This year, they’re still looking for their first win on the season, but any win over their remaining opponents would be their biggest in program history.
Episcopal would be they’re opponent this past Friday, however Episcopal’s offense struggled on their first possession thanks in part to the Kipp Bold City Greyhound defense. The defense would force a punt, to give the ball right back to the Greyhounds. The first quarter would end 0-0 and a positive sign for Kipp.
On defense, they intercepted an Episcopal pass by Jonathan Pierre. For KIPP, its their third pick of the year. Pierre grabbed his first of the season. KIPP would not go out without a fight.
The Greyhounds offense would get on track and lead a really solid drive down field and all the way into the redzone. Quarterback Bishop Borger would take the ball and run it in for KIPP’s first score of the game, however, a penalty negated the touchdown and brought the Greyhounds back.
Despite the score, KIPP showed that they did have some bright spots along their roster. Along the offensive side of the ball, junior Quarterback Bishop Borger showed off his elite athleticism by evading several sacks and turning seemingly negative plays into positive ones. In his first start he amassed 159 total yards.
Running back junior T.J. Culbreath showed his quick speed and agility on several runs throughout the night as well. Holding down the offensive line was sophomore Patrick Gardner, who stands 6’4 and weighs 275lbs in just the tenth grade.
Wide Receiver Christian Washington was the player if the game for them, as he caught 3 passes for 101 yards versus Episcopal. He leads the team with 166 yards receiving.
On the defensive side, seniors Jonathan Pierre and Taeron Mitchell were their two leaders in the secondary. Pierre came up with a big interception on the last play of the first half. Monterl Clerk led the team with 12 tackles.
Freshmen defensive back Stacey Bartley Jr. also stood out Friday night, showing his impressive coverage skills and size for a freshmen. He is tied for team lead in tackles with 30, and leads the team in forced fumbles.
Ali Perkins leads the team in rushing. Ronald Stanley is second on the team in receiving. Jonathan Pierre is tied with Isaiah Carr leading the team in tackles (30), and Trevon Stillwell leads the team in sacks (2).
KIPP Bold City under head coach D’Angelo Jordan will have a promising future, as they look to build out this roster and develop their young playmakers in just their second year as a program.
The Greyhounds will have a matchup next week against another Eagles team, this one against North Florida Educational Institute. KIPP’s only win in program history came against NFEI last year, so they will look to repeat last year’s performance next week.
