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Schools

Keys to city go to Largo High's players

By LORRI HELFAND, Times Staff Writer
Published December 22, 2007

With its explosive running game and overpowering defense, this year's Largo High School football team went places that other Packers teams have not. To its first undefeated regular season in 30 years.

To its first-ever state semifinal game.

And, on Tuesday night, to Largo City Hall.

City commissioners awarded the Packers a symbolic key to the city, recognizing the players for a stellar season.

"We wanted to let you know how proud we are and how well you reflect on our city," said Mayor Pat Gerard, who awarded the team a plaque with a big golden key on it. "You're winners." Each player also received a lapel pin in the shape of a gold-toned key.

About half of the team's 48 players in blue and gold jerseys showed up for the honor at City Hall.

"I thought it was pretty cool," center and defensive tackle Adam Dorn, 18, said afterward. "We got noticed by the Largo City Commission."

And for good reason. The team had a 13-0 record going into the Class 5A semifinal against Fort Lauderdale's St. Thomas Aquinas on Dec. 7.

Coach Rick Rodriguez said he appreciated the honor, as well as the signs posted throughout the city cheering the team on throughout the season. "The city of Largo, they really stepped up," he said.

Lorri Helfand can be reached at lorri@sptimes.com or 445-4155.

[Last modified December 21, 2007, 21:42:02]