Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine

Jerdarrius “JD” Jackson walked into the North Marion gym four years ago unsure of what his future might hold.

Now, the senior point guard has written his name into the program’s record book.

For many soccer players, the phrase “fútbol is life” isn’t just a catchy line from a television show, it’s a way of living. That sentiment rings especially true for Williston junior Yandel Mujica, who has been chasing a soccer ball for as long as he can remember.

PK Yonge senior Jack Reichardt has waited a long time for the chance to play on a full 11-on-11 high school soccer stage, and the opportunity has paid off in a big way.

It has been a banner season for the Bell High School boys soccer program, which wrapped up the regular season this week with a 9-3 record and an undefeated run through district play.

The Bulldogs’ strong performance has positioned them as a regional championship contender, a goal the team set long before the first match of the season.

For three straight seasons, the Oak Hall football team saw its year end in the first round of the playoffs. Entering 2025, the Eagles adopted a new mindset, one built on working harder, pushing further and finally breaking through to the championship they believed they could win.

On Saturday, that mission became reality. With a 27–10 victory over Tampa Cambridge Christian, Oak Hall secured its first state championship in program history, validating months of offseason preparation.

For Hawthorne High School, success has become the expectation. After reaching the state championship game in each of the last three seasons, the Hornets entered 2025 focused on another deep postseason run. Their opening-round blowout of Branford showed they’re well on their way.

For the Saint Francis Catholic Academy football team, moving from conventional 11-man football to the 8-man game was a change that came with plenty of uncertainty. But after an early adjustment period, the Wolves have found their rhythm and now find themselves as a legitimate playoff contender with hopes of a state championship run.

Senior linebacker Demarco Daniels entered his final season at Eastside High with a goal of being one of the best linebackers in Florida. At 6-foot-2 and 220 pounds, he certainly fits the part, but a groin injury sidelined him for several games and prevented him from matching the eye-popping numbers he posted last year.

Still, Daniels’ mindset never wavered. Now healthy, he’s back leading the Rams’ defense and proving he belongs among the area’s top defensive players.