North Suncoast: News and notes

By Izzy Gould, Times Staff Writer
Published February 14, 2008

Maier to West Florida

One season on the varsity squad was all Tyler Maier needed to prove he was a top-flight runner. Now the Hernando senior will sign a letter of intent with West Florida. Maier capped a short-lived high school career by claiming sixth in the Class 2A state meet at Little Everglades Ranch in November. He finished the grass course in 16 minutes, 20 seconds. In what was expected to be a rebuilding year, Maier was the centerpiece of a Leopards team that finished 13th at state.

"That doesn't happen very often," Hernando coach Ernie Chatman said. "It was a pleasant surprise."

Maier even surprised himself, admitting if he had run early in his career he might be further along in his development. Knee problems limited him as a junior and strep throat kept him from competing to begin this season. He lost 10-15 pounds. He will receive full room and board leaving his parents to foot the bill for books.

Silver lining

Nature Coast senior Joe Silvestri's season has ended. The Sharks were bounced out of postseason contention after falling in the district tournament to Pasco 36-32, but not before Silvestri grabbed some attention. He scored a career-high 31 in a tournament win against Wiregrass Ranch with a Valdosta State coach watching from the stands. West Florida also has expressed interest in the talented scorer. Now Silvestri hopes to land at either school with a couple of trips planned beginning next month. He will visit Valdosta State on March 1 for its senior night, against West Florida. Then he'll visit West Florida on March 29 and April 12.

Those schools first discovered Silvestri after Sharks coach Dave Pisarcik reached out through phone calls and highlight tapes. Silvestri averaged 20 points, nine rebounds, 4.5 assists and three steals, Pisarcik said.

"You don't usually come in contact with kids Joey's caliber," Pisarcik said. "I had to do something."

Rescheduled game

Wednesday's Pasco-Ridgewood baseball game was postponed due to inclement weather. It has been rescheduled for 4 p.m. today at Ridgewood. The reason for the afternoon start is to accommodate fans, who might be interested in attending region quarterfinal basketball games featuring Groveland South Lake at Pasco, and Wharton at Ridgewood. Tipoff for both games is at 7 p.m.

Check it out

Catch 47 will air the Land O'Lakes at Brandon boys basketball region quarterfinal live at 7 tonight.

[Last modified February 13, 2008, 18:43:38]