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Keswick Christian
By Times staff
Published August 31, 2007
A closer look at the Crusaders Coach: Rick Sanson Last year's record: 0-11
Keswick Christian has done some impressive things the past two years. ¶ The Crusaders were ranked No. 1 in the Class B state poll for a few weeks in 2005. Last season, they were 9-1 on the field (they eventually forfeited their games because of an ineligible player). ¶ But they have not beaten Lakeland Victory Christian. ¶ Eliminate that pesky opponent and Keswick Christian would have won two district titles and hosted a playoff game both years. ¶ This offseason, the Florida High School Athletic Association did it for them. ¶ Victory Christian is now in another district. That opens the door for Keswick, which has a veteran team that could make a run in the playoffs.
At 5-8, 170 pounds, DiMaggio is a runner who, despite his scatback size, displays as much punch as pizazz. The senior has rushed for more than 1,000 yards the past two seasons.
Facebook or MySpace?
Facebook. I think MySpace pages are childish.
What is your pre-game routine?
I usually listen to music. I have different tastes than most people. I like the Sugar Oaks, John Lennon ...
Is there a certain type?
Indie, folk and rock music.
Sounds like you enjoy music. Do you play an instrument?
I actually play bass in a band called the Gretianurns. We've had a few shows already.
Do you have any other hobbies?
I like to play croquet. I've been in a croquet league in St. Petersburg for some time now. I'm definitely the youngest one out there.
What's the last movie you watched?
John Lennon vs. the U.S. It was something I rented. But I also like any Wes Anderson films. The last one I watched was Rushmore.
Describe your perfect day.
I don't really know if I have one. Maybe relaxing to the tunes of the Sugar Oaks after playing a few games of croquet.
Bulking up
One area the Crusaders tried to work on this offseason was strength and conditioning, especially on the offensive line. The commitment in the weight room showed in a 23-21 victory over Class 5A Pinellas Park in the spring.
They've got skills
The Crusaders have an abundance of skill players. Besides DiMaggio, there's quarterback Jared Stacy, above, and wide receiver Tarvin Jones. In the spring game against Pinellas Park, Jones made a one-handed interception.
Did you know?
This is Keswick's 10th year of playing varsity football. In that time, the Crusaders have been to the playoffs four times.
District shuffling
Victory Christian and Lakeland Santa Fe Catholic moved out of the district. Bradenton Prep and Sarasota Out-of-Door have moved in.
Forfeits
The Crusaders were 9-2 last year. But it won't be officially recorded that way. Keswick had to forfeit all 11 games for using a home-schooled player without filing proper paperwork.
Bob Putnam, Times staff writer
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[Last modified August 29, 2007, 14:26:24]
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