Gaither (FL) setting the bar to compete for state football title
TAMPA, FL – There’s no shortage of talent when taking a look at the Gaither Cowboys going into 2022.
Defensively, the team is sound across the board, anchored by University of Florida commitment Eugene Wilson III, who will also be playing a big role on offense. The Cowboys are coming off a spring victory against Steinbrenner and Sickles, which helped propel Gaither into the off-season with some needed energy according to Gaither head coach Kirk Karsen.
“It’s always great to end your spring with a solid victory on the field,” Karsen said. “It definitely propels you into the off-season and gives you a little bit more energy in and out of the weight room and into the seven on seven leagues.”
One addition via transfer that will boost the Gaither offense is quarterback Jaycee Nixon, who comes over from Zephyrhills Christian Academy. Nixon, who will be a sophomore this fall and had himself a big freshman season as a Warrior. As a freshman, Nixon ended up throwing for 1,333 yards and 14 touchdowns before an injury sidelined him for a few games down the stretch.
Karsen is expecting big things from the left-handed quarterback this summer/fall, as he replaces Brooks Bentley, who transferred to Venice this off-season. Nixon will have a very capable receiving corps to throw to, with Wilson III, Latrell Taylor and Ladainian Ferrell combining to give the Cowboys one of the most talented groups in the Tampa Bay Area.
“We are very excited that we were able to add a couple players to our team this off-season That will add an immediate boost to our offense,” Karsen said. “It has definitely become a crazy time in high school football with many kids on the move to and from schools throughout the Tri-County area.
“Jaycee Nixon is our new quarterback. We are super excited for our new quarterback to show the county how special he is. Tony Bartalo was the classic state player of the year two years ago and I truly believe that Jaycee has all the tools to have the same kind of success that Tony did. And even challenge some of his school records.”
Expectations for the players are not the only bar that is set high, as Karsen wants this talented Gaither team to compete for a state championship in Class 3A-Metro. The Cowboys will be playing in one of the more difficult districts out of Class 3A-Metro, District 5 and will have to compete against 2021 Class 6A champion Jesuit, Hillsborough and Leto.
“We always have high expectations here at Gaither, the state championship is definitely one of the goals,” Karsen added. “But with our district being as challenging as it is and 3A-Metro being a true juggernaut, we are truly focusing on one game at a time.”
Andy Villamarzo can be reached at andyvillamarzo@gmail.com and follow him on Twitter @Andy_Villamarzo.