Boca Ciega's Trotter stars but can't lead South to win

By BOB PUTNAM, Times Staff Writer
Published December 13, 2007

CLEARWATER - Ja-Vonte Trotter is known for making spectacular moves on big plays.

The Boca Ciega senior added another to the highlight reel Wednesday night.

After hauling in a pass from Pinellas Park quarterback Jesse Redden down the right sideline, Trotter was trapped by a cluster of defenders. He invariably wiggled out of their reach, leaving a trail of disbelieving players and fans en route to a 59-yard touchdown.

That was enough for Trotter to be named MVP of the Pinellas All-Star Football Classic, but not enough to help the South win.

The North, behind dominant play on both lines, won 17-7.

Here are some other tidbits from the game.

Opening statement: Dunedin's Mike Towns returned the opening kickoff 84 yards to set up a 24-yard field goal by Clearwater Central Catholic's Jeff Ijjas to put the North ahead 3-0.

Cougars take command: Two Countryside players were involved in the North's other scores. Maurice Threatts had a 6-yard touchdown run and Brandon Lockwood threw a 5-yard TD to Clearwater's Chris Sackman.

MVPs

Overall: Ja-Vonte Trotter, Boca Ciega

Offensive: Erin Murray, East Lake

Defensive: Larry Murphy, Gibbs

Offensive line: Cody Donnelly, Palm Harbor U.

Defensive line: Donnel Engram, Tarpon Springs

[Last modified December 13, 2007, 00:13:14]