WHO: Gainesville (6A-5) at Dr. Phillips (8A-5)
WHEN: Friday, May 24
WHERE: Bill Spoone Stadium, Orlando
WHY: Gainesville is coming off its best season in over 30 years as the Class 6A state runner-up and will be looking to try to repeat its success again this season starting with a spring game challenge against Dr. Phillips. However, the Hurricanes will be starting this challenge under new head coach Mark Latsko, who replaces James Thomson who took the same position at DeLand. None the less though, the Hurricanes will be returning plenty of talent from last year’s squad, but must find a replacement for All-State QB Mark Cato, who has since graduated. For Dr. Phillips, the Panthers came close to making it to the Class 8A state final last year, but where ultimately thwarted by eventual champion Apopka. Talent wise there is usually no lack of talent for this team and it will be fun to watch to see who will emerge to replace last year’s leaders who have moved on due to graduation as well. For both squads, this is a game that will challenge each other to the max.
