STUART – The environment at Martin County speaks to one important thing.
It is all about family with the Tigers program, which is relatively young at heart but rich in the sense of camaraderie.
This was evident from start to finish in Day 1 of the spring football circuit (Monday, April 25), as Class of 2025 quarterback Jayden Vega led his team in a series of 7-on-7 drills as if he was already a high school senior.
Vega, who is also playing lacrosse at this time, was at ease with his teammates and showed a level of poise that is needed under center from start to finish.
The entire team fed off Vega’s style of leadership, which will serve them well
moving forward.
“So we’re here after Day 1 of spring practice,” Vega said. “We have some hard working guys that are here to push themselves, get better for the season. I expect us to come out every day ready, prepared for hard work.”
Martin County 2023 running back/wide receiver Denzel Alexander was not on the field due to his need to prepare for the Class 4A-Region 3 track meet that is scheduled for Saturday, May 7 at Boone (Orlando). Nonetheless, Alexander’s mere presence later on at the practice was enough to galvanize the entire team.
“He’s one of the fastest runner in the state,” Vega said of Alexander. “He brings energy out to every practice, along with his competitiveness and speed. He’s one of those type of playmakers where you get the ball on any play, he can score. He helps us a lot.”
Alexander on track season and spring football:
“Track season has been going great,” he said. “I’m the fastest sprinter in the district (10.95 in 100 meter dash – District 10-4A Track and Field Championship on April 22) and in the 4×100. We’re gonna bring that energy on to the football team and compete with the best of the best. We’re gonna do what we gotta do.”
The Martin County linemen showed lots of heart and spirit as well.
“One thing I learned about here is competitiveness,” Martin County 2025 offensive lineman Gage Wallace said. “You gotta keep on going. You can’t take time off. It’s relentless.”
Martin County 2024 offensive lineman Tyler Whitfield concurred.
“We did some fundamental drills like Christmas Tree, Whitfield said. “It teaches us our pass blocks and steps in general. For that, we have a very good coaching staff that pushes us. It’s just good stuff.”
Martin County head coach Rod Harris summed up Day 1 of spring football practice.
“We had a tremendous day,” Harris said. “Kids were excited and working hard. We did a lot of things in the offseason, so we can get right into it – running plays, offense, defense, no huddle, two-minute drills, form tackling. So we got everything we needed to get done.”
BONUS TAKES
Harris noted the tight bond that exists with the players.
“It’s a special community,” Harris said. “These kids grew up together and stayed with one school. They have relationships and friendships that go far beyond football. We just bring them a little bit closer.”
Harris on Vega’s play at quarterback:
“He’s an outstanding quarterback who can make every throw with good spin on the ball and accuracy,” Harris said. “I’m expecting a tremendous year from him.”
Harris on Alexander’s track season and more:
“Well first I want him to win track”, Harris said. “Real happy for him and we support him 100 percent. When he’s ready and finished with that, he’ll get out there with us and bring a lot of energy.”
Harris on Port St. Lucie, his team’s spring game opponent:
“Well they’re a veteran team”, Harris said. “They got a big line and an outstanding running back and receiver. We’re going to have our hands full with a senior-dominated team. We’re a young team, so we’re looking forward to the challenge.”
NOTE: Martin County will be playing on the road at Port St. Lucie for its spring football game. The date and kickoff time has been set for Friday, May 20 at 6 p.m.
