Just over one month ago, recently appointed Head football Coach at Inlet Grove; Remington Young looked myself, amongst other members of a media panel at the 561Showcase Media Day and firmly stated
“We don’t have helmets, we don’t have shoulder pads…. A week and a half ago, I realistically had five players on my team… The biggest thing for this team to accomplish would be to have a game. Our game one is big to me… We’re just looking for the opportunity to have a season.”
Since that plea for a chance was shared, Coach Young was able to assemble enough guys to field a squad, and supply his squad with proper fitting equipment such as those aforementioned helmets and pads. Two milestones complete.
Now it’s time for milestone number 3- get on the field together. In this revamped Inlet Grove’s first regular season matchup vs Somerset Academy Key, The Hurricanes’ showcased just how explosive they could be, with a 30-0 route over the Lions from Deerfield Beach.
Inlet Grove’s second matchup came in way of district opponent Somerset Canyons. Despite falling 14-0 to the Cougars last Friday night, the Hurricanes fought hard, holding the Set’s offense to 0 points during the first half. Offensively, Inlet showcased flashes of excellence, led by the connection between the senior QB/WR duo of RJ Hickox and Cinegar Smith, alongside the dangerous rushing attack spear headed by Cornelius Terry.
Following the game I spoke with Coach Young, alongside a handful of his players circling back to that powerful word he used during 561Media Day- opportunity. What does that word mean to you? What is your opportunity here at Inlet Grove? Why’d you take that leap of faith. Here’s what the Hurricanes had to say.
“The word opportunity means learning about life first… when I say opportunity to the guys, I mean the success you can have on and more importantly off the field. The opportunity I offered them was a coach, that coaches for free in Palm Beach County that wants to help them better their life.” Coach Remington Young shared
“An opportunity is another word for a blessing, you have to take that blessing and run with it.” Senior QB RJ Hickox stated. “My opportunity is the chance to be a leader, it’s something I’ve always prayed for. It’s not just being a starting QB, throwing Touchdowns and winning games, it’s about being the guy that others can turn to. When I was a freshman, I used to look up to my seniors and dream about the opportunity of having that effect on the guys younger than me.”
“The opportunity that lead me into Inlet Grove was me speaking to the players and the amazing coaching staff. They made me feel comfortable and made me feel like family.” Senior WR/DB Cinegar Smith said with a smile. “I took the leap of faith because I believe in Coach Young and Coach Simpson. They are great coaches that always make sure everyone is taken care of. They care about us as young people, not only as athletes.”
“To me the word “opportunity” embodies the chance to showcase my talents, and my growth as a person. In my opinion it represents the potential to chase my dreams.” Senior DB/WR Xavier Cooper stated. “A childhood friend presented me with the opportunity to explore the program at Inlet Grove. I can honestly say after the first encounter with the team, I knew that I wanted to be a part of the program. Since joining the program, I have experienced significant growth both on and off the field. On the field, I have improved my skills, understanding of the game, and teamwork. Off the field, I have developed discipline, resilience, and leadership qualities that have began to shaped my character.”
Every young athlete dreams of the chance to play college sports. Despite only having two games under their belt, Coach Young has already began the process of getting his student athletes to college.
Since joining the program, RJ Hickox received his first two offers from the Maine Maritime Academy and the Howard Huskies. When asked about being presented with the opportunity to play at the next level, heres what Hickox had to say:
“I’ve always dreamed about being able to play at the next level, no matter what. A moment that has always stood out to me was before the first day of my freshman fall camp. My dad said to me “don’t let these be the last four years.” I’ll never forget that.”
Every time Inlet Grove touches the field, their team gets stronger. This week’s test comes at home versus Somerset Academy Homestead this Friday night, September 19.
