Being a four-year starter at the high school level isn't easy, and accomplishing that for one of the best teams in the state is a rarity. But for Buchholz senior wrestler Finn Buchanan, it's all about mentality — buying into the program and continuing its legacy of success.
The Bell Bulldogs' Lady Basketball team faced some early challenges to start the new year, but thanks to senior Maddie Smith, they've bounced back from three consecutive losses with back-to-back victories. Smith's impressive performances have earned her the UF Health Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Athlete of the Week honor.
The Columbia girl's varsity basketball team has faced a string of early-season injuries, leading to struggles and a four-game losing streak. However, the Tigers have turned things around, winning three straight road games, thanks in part to a standout performance from junior guard Mariah Cox. Cox put up 17 points and 10 steals in the Tigers' victory over PK Yonge, earning her the UF Health Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Athlete of the Week honor.
Gainesville High School boys' basketball got off to a strong start in the 2024 season, winning three straight games to open play. However, the Hurricanes knew they would face a tough test when defending two-time state champions Williston High School came to town.
There was unfinished business when the high school football season began for the Buchholz Bobcats. A heartbreaking loss by one point in the state semifinals last season dashed their hopes of a state championship, but it also sparked a renewed determination. This senior class vowed to not let history repeat itself.
Justice Phillips, a junior at Bronson High School, has been named the UF Health Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Athlete of the Week for his impressive performance on the basketball court and leadership off it.
Phillips, a shooting guard who has stepped up to play point guard at the start of the season due to injuries among teammates, has proven he can handle the role with a couple of impressive games out of the gate. He scored a career high 37 points in Bronson's season opener and followed that up with 34 points in their second game.
Growing up in Venezuela, soccer — or as it's known in the United States, "futbol" — was always part of Erick Rodriguez's life. While baseball is the more popular sport in the South American country, soccer has quickly gained mainstream popularity, and for Rodriguez, it has become his passion.
There aren't many people who choose to run for fun, but for North Marion freshman cross country runner Brooklyn Smith, running has become a way of life. A sport he never expected to pursue, Smith's dedication and willingness to work has earned him the title of UF Health Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine High School Athlete of the Week.
Right from the start, the Chiefland Indians football team set the tone for what could be a special season under head coach Adam Gore. A victory over Williston showed they could compete with anyone, while knocking off previously undefeated Union County proved the Indians were ready to make a postseason push.
When your hometown has a population of fewer than 1,000 people, you're bound to interact with most of them at some point.
Small, close-knit communities are a hallmark of north central Florida, and for many residents, it's something they deeply cherish. For senior linebacker Cole Rarey, it's one of the reasons he loves his hometown — and why he believes the Bell Bulldogs are making their run to the state playoffs.