Preps special
Future arrives with playoffs in mind
By BOB PUTNAM
Published September 3, 2004
[Times photo: Douglas Clifford]
Palm Harbor University High School defensive tackle Ted Larsen.
PALM HARBOR - Gut-wrenching 1-9 seasons in 2001 and '02 taught Mike June a lot about disappointment.
But the Palm Harbor University coach had reason to believe there would be better days ahead.
His optimism stemmed from 28 freshmen on the junior varsity in '01. June kept tabs on the group, allowing six to move up to varsity in '02.
"I knew those guys were going to be special," June said. "They worked in the weight room. They never got frustrated. They stayed with the program."
Last year, the Hurricanes showed progress, going 4-6 to tie the school record for wins in a season.
June hopes to build on that success thanks to the Class of 2005. The Hurricanes showed promise by holding their own against Bradenton Lakewood Ranch in the spring and tying Seminole in the Kickoff Classic.
"The seniors are ready," June said. "They want to have the school's first winning season and make the playoffs for the first time."
The strength is the defensive line. Senior Ted Larsen might be the top lineman in the county and is a disruptive force along with Mike Papas, Mike Gianott and Rob LaRosa.
"The seniors have been waiting for a chance to lead this team," Larsen said. "We're going to have some fun."
The only concerns are at quarterback and running back. But June believes he has an adequate replacement at both positions.
[Last modified September 1, 2004, 08:22:26]
Baseball
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