Monday night at the seventh annual Parade of Athletes banquet, the Tampa Tribune announced its Hillsborough County High-School Players of the Year. Here's a closer look:
Mackenzie Audas, Plant City
Sport: Softball.
The numbers: Audas was 20-7 with a 1.22 ERA for the Raiders. She led Hillsborough County with 323 strikeouts.
Future plans: Audas will attend the University of Central Florida on a softball scholarship. She's considering a major in hospitality and event management.
Earliest athletic memory: "I remember T-ball in Little League. My next-door neighbor was the high-school coach at Plant City. His granddaughter was the pitcher. I would see her pitching across the street. I kind of wanted to be like her and that's how it all started.''
People might not know this about me: "I think I might like to become a wedding planner. I like planning parties and I like TV shows like that. I thought it might be a good fit for a career. I like how you can plan an event and personalize it to a specific couple. It can be very creative.''
Favorite sports team: Boston Red Sox.
Favorite athlete: Alicia Hollowell. "She played for Arizona when they won the (2006) College World Series.''
My greatest athletic accomplishment: "Getting a scholarship for college means a lot. To get my education through a sport I love is so great. And I'll always remember winning the district title this year. We had come close and it finally happened. I was holding my breath on the final out.''
Favorite entertainers: Katy Perry, Anne Hathaway.
Favorite movies: "Notting Hill'' and "Pride and Prejudice.''
Favorite TV show: "Modern Family.''
Favorite music: "Anything from oldies to country. I'm pretty versatile.''
Dream vacation spot: Hawaii. "I want to go on the helicopter tours, the deep-sea diving, all of it.''
Favorite restaurant: The Cheesecake Factory.
Most impressive person I've met: "My parents, honestly. They work so hard and they are great people.''
Person in history I'd love to meet: Queen Elizabeth. "I'm into history.''
My parents: Matt and Cheryl Audas. "They've supported me through everything. They've taught me how to be responsible and how to manage my time, whether it's softball or school or having a balance in my life.''
Where I will be in 10 years: "If I go with my personality, I will probably be settled down, married with my first child, maybe a stay-at-home mom and enjoying a normal life. If I had the opportunity to still play softball, I might do that. If I have a daughter, maybe I can keep it alive through her, maybe teach her the game.''
---
Jordan Burgess, Berkeley Prep
Sport: Volleyball.
The numbers: Burgess, the Florida Gatorade Player of the Year and Florida's Miss Volleyball, helped the Bucs to their second straight Class 3A state title.
Future plans: Burgess, a junior, plans to play volleyball at Stanford University. She is going through the school's admissions process and is expected to sign a scholarship this fall. She wants to become a doctor. "I don't want to work with little kids. I want to be like House.''
Earliest athletic memory: "When I was in second grade, I competed in a mile run. It was against a bunch of boys and it was on the beach in the Fort Myers area. There was a marathon for adults and mile run for little kids. I got first place.''
People might not know this about me: "I'm really interested in academics. I think I focus on academics a lot more than other athletes. I have to work at it pretty hard. I enjoy working at it.''
Favorite sports team: Miami Heat.
Favorite athletes: Phil Dalhausser, Kerri Walsh.
My greatest athletic accomplishment: "Winning two state championships because it wasn't just about me, but the whole team. More individually, last April, I went to Guatemala with the USA Junior Olympic Team.''
Favorite entertainer: Justin Timberlake.
Favorite movies: "Hitch'' and "Something's Gotta Give.''
Favorite TV show: "So You Think You Can Dance.''
Favorite music: Hip-hop or rap.
Dream vacation spot: Turkey "because that's where the World Volleyball Championships are this summer.''
Favorite restaurant: Chili's.
Most impressive person I've met: My brother, Nick. "He's my twin. He goes to Berkeley. He works really hard at everything he does. He's not always in the limelight with most of what he does. His ultimate goal, I think, is to go to Stanford. He's working his butt off for it. I really admire that about him.''
Person in history I'd love to meet: Martin Luther King, Jr. "He had a huge impact on our nation.''
My parents: Dave and Dee Burgess. "My parents have always pushed me to be my best. If I work hard at something, their philosophy is they'll work just as hard as I do. Especially with volleyball, they've been a huge part of that.''
Where I will be in 10 years: "Playing on the Olympic team. It's a dream, but for sure, that's my goal.''
---
Max del Monte, Chamberlain
Sport: Boys cross country.
The numbers: Del Monte captured the Hillsborough County title and was fifth at the Class 4A state cross-country championships.
Future plans: Del Monte, a home-schooled junior, is uncertain about his college plans, but he will likely have an architecture-related major.
Earliest athletic memory: "I played baseball when I was 5 at Forest Hills Little League. I remember hitting off the tee, learning the game. I don't think I was anything special.''
People might not know this about me: "I designed a 12-foot cross for my church, Tampa Covenant Church. It's made out of steel. The church has its sanctuary and right next to it is the chapel. My cross is right in the middle. I got to go in with my dad and design it, really see how it was done. It took about five guys to wheel it in to the church. It took about three or four weeks to produce it.''
Favorite sports team: Florida Gators.
Favorite athletes: Steve Prefontaine, Lance Armstrong.
My greatest athletic accomplishment: "The 1,600-meter run at the state (track and field) meet. I finished second, but ran a great race and set a school record. I knew I wanted to run well at the state meet.''
Favorite entertainer: Russell Crowe.
Favorite movie: "Where The Wild Things Are.''
Favorite TV shows: "I don't really watch much TV.''
Favorite music: "I'll listen to pretty much anything.''
Dream vacation spot: Italy. "I went once when I was little, but I'd love to go back to Tuscany.''
Favorite restaurant: Chick-fil-A. "It's the only fast-food place that doesn't screw up my stomach.''
Most impressive person I've met: "My dad. He's probably the hardest-working person I've ever met. He's the perfect combination of a loving father who knows how to set a good example.''
People in history I'd love to meet: Charles and Ray Eames. "They were really famous architects, a husband and wife, who are known for their furniture pieces. Their work was really innovative in the field. When I was young, I actually saved up and bought an Eames chair.''
My parents: Angel and Christine del Monte. "They've played a huge role in my life, the athlete and the person I am today. The most important part was the personal side. My parents always told me they were more focused on who I am off the track, not on the track. They've always tried to push having good people skills, being well-mannered.''
Where I will be in 10 years: "Hopefully, I'll still be running. If I'm not running, hopefully I'll be in a place where running and design collide. Maybe designing shoes or doing something creative for Nike. I'd like to combine athleticism and creativity.''
---
Ashley Favors, Riverview
Sport: Girls track and field.
The numbers: Favors had Hillsborough County's best time and distance in four events – 100 hurdles, 300 hurdles, the long jump and the 200 dash.
Future plans: Favors plans to compete in college. She's considering USF, Texas-El Paso, Miami (Ohio), Virginia and Florida.
Earliest athletic memory: "Playing football in elementary school, back at Bayshore Christian. The boys always picked me first. I was the receiver because I was fast.''
People might not know this about me: "I like to cook. Sometimes, I cook for the family. I can make the best Italian pasta in the world. The Food Network is my favorite channel.''
Favorite sports teams: Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Florida Gators, Connecticut women's basketball.
Favorite athletes: Maya Moore, UConn women's basketball. "She's just amazing.'' Lolo Jones, Carmelita Jeter, Allyson Felix.
My greatest athletic accomplishment: "Pretty much, the whole track season. I just learned how to do the 100 hurdles in March. At the end of the season, my time was No. 3 in the state. Just doing it for three months and not having a clue about anything, I think that's a good accomplishment.''
Favorite entertainer: Chrisette Michele, Jazmine Sullivan.
Favorite movies: "Taken'' and "Save the Last Dance.''
Favorite TV shows: "Pretty Little Liars.''
Favorite music: Rhythm and blues.
Dream vacation spot: Italy or Atlantis in the Bahamas.
Favorite restaurant: Olive Garden.
Most impressive person I've met: Pamela Mayo. "She's a girl at my school. She's like a role model to me. She does everything known to man. She plays golf. She's the president of FFA. She has over a 6.0 GPA. She's probably one of the nicest and sweetest people you'll ever meet in your life.''
Person in history I'd love to meet: Martin Luther King, Jr. "I do a lot of public speaking. In the fifth grade, I learned the entire 'I Have A Dream' speech by memory. I won a lot of oratorical competitions. His public-speaking ability was phenomenal.''
My parents: Ray and Starlin Favors. "My mom and my dad, they've always been my biggest supporters. They've never missed a track meet, a basketball game, a dance recital, anything like that. They've always been there, whether it's a good day or a bad day. They're with me at the top and at the bottom. I appreciate them so much.''
Where I will be in 10 years: "If I'm not running professionally, which I hope to be, I hope to be making big bucks as a child psychiatrist. I want to be a doctor. I guess I'll be finishing medical school. I think I've got a lot of education ahead of me.''
---
Jose Fernandez, Alonso
Sport: Baseball.
The numbers: Fernandez, a right-handed pitcher, was 12-1 with a 1.14 ERA for the Ravens, who reached the Class 6A state final four in the third straight season. He's batting .393 with eight home runs.
Future plans: Fernandez, who has signed with the University of South Florida, should be among the nation's top pitching prospects in the upcoming amateur draft. "I don't have to make any decisions (college or major-league draft) right now. I just love baseball. I'll take things as they come.''
Earliest athletic memory: "I was 5 years old and they took me on the national team, my first organized team for Villa Clara (in Cuba). I played third, first, outfield and pitched.''
People might not know this about me: "I'm a good basketball player. I can even dunk sometimes. Sometimes, I wish I could play football, but we never did that in Cuba.''
Favorite sports teams: Los Angeles Lakers, New York Yankees. "In Cuba, everybody knows the Yankees. I think it's the only team they know.''
Favorite athletes: Kobe Bryant, Cliff Lee, CC Sabathia.
My greatest athletic accomplishment: "Being part of the (2009 Class 6A) state championship team at Alonso.''
Favorite entertainer: Alexis Valdes. "He's on a Cuban program. He's a conductor. He sings. He jokes.''
Favorite movie: "Avatar.''
Favorite TV show: "Esta Noche Tu Night.''
Favorite music: Daddy Yankee, Lil Wayne.
Dream vacation spot: "I want to take a cruise. Where do we go? It doesn't matter. I just want to lay there and watch the water.''
Favorite restaurant: Carrabba's.
Most impressive person I've met: Rolando Arrojo. "He played for the Rays and made the All-Star team when he first got here. I've got a good relationship with him. I've been to his house. He knows I came here from Cuba. He has come to see me play. He's older now, but he can still pitch.''
People in history I'd love to meet: Randy Johnson and Fidel Castro. "I said hello to him (Castro) one time, when I was 10, on the national team, and we got second place. I shook his hand. I looked at him and thought, 'Who is this man?' Now I'm older and know what he has done, how smart he is. I'd like to ask him about what he has done in Cuba.''
My parents: Ramon Jiminez and Maritza Gomez. "They are not together and I go back and forth to live with them. They want me to be a good person. They know I have a talent and want me to use it in the right way.''
Where I will be in 10 years: "Everybody knows what I'm hoping. I want to be the best in baseball – and I want my family, friends and the people I love to be by my side. My life has changed so much here in America. There are so many opportunities. You can go out whenever you want. You can say anything without trouble. I want to pitch in the major leagues, of course, but I really want to do my best and set an example for little kids.''
---
Karina Gutsche, Newsome
Sport: Girls soccer.
The numbers: Gutsche, a senior midfielder, had 16 goals and nine assists for the Wolves, who won 25 straight games before falling to Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas 2-0 in the Class 5A state championship game.
Future plans: Gutsche will attend the University of Florida on a soccer scholarship. She plans on entering UF's College of Pharmacy.
Earliest athletic memory: "I remember my dad being my coach from the under-4 to under-10 leagues. He was always there at every game. This was in recreation leagues, then I shifted over to age-group select soccer.''
People might not know this about me: "I do have a fan club, believe it or not. It's my U-11 soccer team that I coach. I have my coaching license. They have officers. They have a scrapbook. They came to games with my name and number on their shirts. They did it all on their own. We took some pictures after some of our games.''
Favorite sports teams: Chelsea, Tampa Bay Lightning.
Favorite athlete: Mia Hamm. "I met her when I was 3. She took a picture with me when she played at Raymond James Stadium.''
My greatest athletic accomplishment: "Committing to the University of Florida. Just getting the chance to go to a school like that and play soccer, too.''
Favorite entertainer: Brad Paisley.
Favorite movie: "Fast Five.''
Favorite TV show: "CSI.''
Favorite music: Country.
Dream vacation spot: Hawaii. "We've been once. I want to go back.''
Favorite restaurant: Tokyo Japanese Steakhouse.
Most impressive person I've met: "It would have to be Mia Hamm because she's a role model and one of the reasons I wanted to pursue soccer. She works so hard.''
Person in history I'd love to meet: Pele. "Not because of just soccer. My dad would always talk about him and how amazing he was. I'd like to get his take on soccer and life.''
My parents: Peter and Dawn Gutsche. "My parents have helped me with everything. My parents really helped me with the selection of my college. They handled so much of the details. I can never thank them enough.''
Where I will be in 10 years: "I see myself finishing school and being a pharmacist. Hopefully, I'll be traveling the world, visiting some of the family I have in Germany and New York. If I could play soccer after college, I definitely would do that. Soccer has completely made me who I am.''
---
Connor Hasson, Durant
Sport: Boys golf.
The numbers: Hasson won the district tournament with a 75, then finished second at the region tournament with a 73. Playing as an individual, he finished 70th at the Class 2A state tournament.
Future plans: Hasson will attend the University of Central Florida, where he plans a major in mechanical engineering. He's considering trying out for the UCF men's golf team.
Earliest athletic memory: "I lived in Orlando and when I was about 4 or 5, my dad got me into playing baseball. It was T-ball at Winter Park Little League. That's about as far back as I can go in the memory bank. When I was about 8, I got drilled with a pitch and that made me afraid to hit, but I could always pitch.''
People might not know this about me: "I'm really big into music. I've got more than 2,000 songs on my I-Tunes. I'm always looking for my new music. Most of my friends are big into music, but I don't know of anybody else who has more music. I'll go from Journey to August Burns Red to about anything. I like a lot of stuff.''
Favorite sports teams: Philadelphia Eagles, Tampa Bay Rays.
Favorite athlete: Martin Kaymer. "His golfing style and swing are similar to mine. I like the way he keeps his poise on the golf course.''
My greatest athletic accomplishment: "This year in golf, when I was the district winner and the regional runner-up. Getting past districts, I always thought I could do that. But in regionals, I thought I could finish in the top 10 and call it a good season. I got out there and played really well.''
Favorite entertainer: Joseph Gordon-Levitt from "500 Days of Summer'' and "Inception.''
Favorite movie: "Animal House.'' Hasson said "my dad showed it to me about two years ago and I've seen it 20-plus times since.''
Favorite TV show: "The Office.''
Favorite music: "Anything acoustic on the guitar.''
Dream vacation spot: Ireland. "Probably because I've got the red hair and I'd fit in pretty well. I've heard the weather is always rainy, but it's cool out. I'd like to check out the golf courses. My favorite color is green and everything is green over there.''
Favorite restaurant: Moe's Southwest Grill.
Most impressive person I've met: "Probably my dad. He has been through some things I couldn't even handle.''
Person in history I'd love to meet: Theodore Roosevelt. "I've read a couple of his speeches. But the other day, somebody told me he got shot in mid-speech, but finished the speech before he went and got medical care. That's pretty crazy.''
My parents: Brian and Julie Hasson. "My parents have pretty much done everything for me. They've provided lessons, memberships to courses, my clubs. As for academics, my dad grew up with just his mom living there. He never really had a father figure. He has done a fantastic job of keeping me on track with my grades. I can't say enough about what my parents have done for me.''
Where I will be in 10 years: "I'll probably be out of college. Hopefully, I'll have a place to live and I'll be getting a job. I'll be playing golf on the weekends. As far as mechanical engineering, I would see myself working with a jet-engine company or a car manufacturer. I'm a builder. Lego's were always one of my favorite things to do.''
---
Amber Henson, Sickles
Sport: Girls basketball.
The numbers: Henson, who led the Gryphons to the first state final four appearance in program history, averaged 20.7 points and 13.6 rebounds per game.
Future plans: Henson will play for Duke University's powerhouse program in the ACC. She plans on going to medical school.
Earliest athletic memory: "First, I was a cheerleader. I don't know if you count that. Then I went into soccer, like every little kid does. Then I started playing YMCA basketball. Soccer was the biggest early memory. I was about 5 and I really wasn't that good.''
People might not know this about me: "I like to cook. It started off with my mom saying, 'I'm busy. Amber you need to help and make some dinner.' That's how I learned. My dad grew up cooking, so he taught me a few things. I'm really good at making apple pie. That's my go-to dish. I enjoy it.''
Favorite sports teams: Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Cowboys.
Favorite athletes: Kobe Bryant, Dirk Nowitzki.
My greatest athletic accomplishment: "Probably making it to the state final four. It was a great experience getting there with my teammates. Also, becoming a McDonald's All-American to be in the caliber of players selected for that.''
Favorite entertainers: Chris Brown, Kevin Hart.
Favorite movies: "Taken'' and "Love and Basketball.''
Favorite TV shows: "House'' and "My Wife and Kids.''
Favorite music: Rhythm and blues. "But I really like everything – from Taylor Swift to rap.''
Dream vacation spot: Spain. "I've always wanted to go there. When I was taking my Spanish classes or when I was watching National Geographic, I got interested in the architecture there and the culture.''
Favorite restaurant: The Cheesecake Factory.
Most impressive person I've met: Alonzo Mourning. "I met him at the McDonald's All-American Game. I got to find out some of the things he has overcome. Seeing him on TV, you probably wouldn't guess his story.''
Person in history I'd love to meet: Martin Luther King, Jr. "Because of all the adversity he faced and how he keep a cool head about it all. His character was second to none. I'd like to talk to him about how dealt with all the things that were coming his way.''
My parents: Matt and Annette Henson. "They've been my biggest critics and my No. 1 fans. Really the biggest thing was the discipline they gave me. Even on the basketball court when I wouldn't handle situations right, they would discipline me the right way. When I was making my decision for college, they didn't pressure me one way or the other. They kind of kept a heavy hand on me, but they also let me figure things out myself.''
Where I will be in 10 years: "If I get the opportunity to go to the WNBA, of course I'll take that. It's like a once-in-a-lifetime thing. If not, I'll be pursuing a medical career and I'll be on my way to becoming a doctor. Either way, basketball will be there. There have been times when I thought I couldn't do it anymore, when I thought I was getting burned out on the game. After I take a week off, I get restless and I've got to get back on the court. I think it's always going to be a part of me.''
---
Ben Hwang, Wharton
Sport: Boys tennis.
The numbers: Hwang won the overall Class 4A state singles championship, rallying for a three-set victory.
Future plans: Hwang, a senior, will attend Johns Hopkins University. He plans to attend medical school.
Earliest athletic memory: "We used to have a tennis court in our backyard when we lived in New York. I remember playing with my dad all the time. I was about 7.''
People might not know this about me: "I went to a boarding school and tennis academy when I was 12. It was Saddlebrook Academy. We were still living in New York.''
Favorite sports teams: "None, really.''
Favorite athletes: Roger Federer, Michael Chang.
My greatest athletic accomplishment: "I got my ranking up to No. 70 in boys 18-and-under. Winning state at Wharton is also a pretty big highlight.''
Favorite entertainers: Dave Chappelle, Russell Peters.
Favorite movies: "Forrest Gump'' and "Inception.''
Favorite TV shows: "Fresh Prince of Bel-Air'' and "House'' and "Family Guy.''
Favorite music: "Anything but country.''
Dream vacation spot: "Anywhere by the beach. Hawaii would be great.''
Favorite restaurant: Olive Garden.
Most impressive person I've met: "Probably my dad for his dedication in helping our family. He's a role model.''
People in history I'd love to meet: "Nobody comes to mind.''
My parents: Daniel and Jan Hwang. "I've learned hard work from them. The success I've had in academics and tennis has really come from them teaching me how to go about it.''
Where I will be in 10 years: "Hopefully, I'll be working my residency as a doctor. I'm sure I'll still be playing tennis in some fashion. I think I can use what I've learned from tennis, how to succeed there, and apply it to all aspects of my life.''
---
Blair Martin, Plant
Sport: Girls tennis.
The numbers: Martin was a leader on Plant's Class 4A state championship team. She reached the final in No. 1 doubles.
Future plans: Martin, a sophomore, hopes to play tennis in college, but her options are wide open.
Earliest athletic memory: "I played softball when I grew up, Palma Ceia Little League, then I would go to tennis afterward. Or I'd do the tennis, then go to softball. It was hectic back then.''
People might not know this about me: "Nothing comes to mind. I make good grades in school, play pretty well in tennis. There's not much really unusual there.''
Favorite sports teams: Tampa Bay Lightning, Tampa Bay Rays, Tampa Bay Bucs.
Favorite athletes: Matt Joyce, Vinny Lecavalier, Roger Federer.
My greatest athletic accomplishment: "Winning state this year was an amazing feeling, coming from last place to first place. We were tied for last at the beginning, then came back to win the whole thing. I've also won a few (junior) tournaments. I do especially well in doubles.''
Favorite entertainers: "I'm not sure, but I did go to see Justin Bieber perform.''
Favorite movies: "The Wizard of Oz'' and "Harry Potter'' and "The Blind Side.''
Favorite TV show: "Jersey Shore.''
Favorite music: "I'm starting to like country a little more.''
Dream vacation spot: Alaska. "I've always wanted to go there. Ever since I was a little child, I said I'd like to live there.''
Favorite restaurant: Beef 'O' Brady's, Outback Steakhouse.
Most impressive person I've met: "I'm not sure about that one.''
Person in history I'd love to meet: George Washington.
My parents: Charlie and Robyn Martin. "My mom has taken me everywhere in tennis. My dad might be at work during some of my events, but he's texting my mom literally every second to get updates. They have done so much for me.''
Where I will be in 10 years: "I see myself having a family, getting a job, the normal stuff. I see myself still playing tennis, maybe not pro, but I'll be playing the game forever. I love the competition.''
---
Kevin Norstrem, Brandon
Sport: Wrestling.
The numbers: Norstrem registered a 63-0 record at 125 pounds and earned a state championship, one of seven by Brandon's lineup.
Future plans: Norstrem, a sophomore, hopes to wrestle in college. "I have no idea where. It's off in the distance.'' He's interested in majoring in either business or psychology. He has dreams of competing at the Olympic Games.
Earliest athletic memory: "The first sport I did was wrestling. My first tournament was the kids state tournament in Lakeland. I won a few matches, but I didn't have natural talent. I was 5.''
People might not know this about me: "I enjoy music. I taught myself how to play the drums. That's my hobby when I'm not wrestling. When I don't have much to do, I'll go to my drum set and play for hours. There are times when my family gets annoyed with the noise, but they're mostly good with it.''
Favorite sports teams: Green Bay Packers, Tampa Bay Lightning, Tampa Bay Rays.
Favorite athletes: Muhammad Ali. "I like listening to his quotes and his sayings.'' Vinny Lecavalier. "I've grown up watching him and he has always been my favorite Lightning player.''
My greatest athletic accomplishment: "I traveled to Monterrey, Mexico with Team USA for the Pan-American Championships last summer. I took second out of all the North American, South American and Central American countries.''
Favorite entertainers: Sylvester Stallone, Three Days Grace, Katt Williams.
Favorite movie: "Shawshank Redemption.''
Favorite TV show: "Swamp People.''
Favorite music: Rock and roll.
Dream vacation spot: Australia. "I'd get a little place on the beach. I like surfing and staying on the beach.''
Favorite restaurant: Taco Bell.
Most impressive person I've met: Russ Cozart, Brandon wrestling coach. "It might sound cheesy because he's my coach, but it's true. He's very motivational. He keeps his cool under any circumstance. He doesn't crumble under pressure.''
Person in history I'd love to meet: Muhammad Ali. "I'd like to have a conversation with the young Ali, ask him where he came up with all his jokes. Would I like to spar with him? Uh, no. No way.''
My parents: Timothy and Nancy Norstrem. "No matter where I've been, where I've been down or at my high point, they've always been supporting me. They know whenever I need something and they don't hesitate to help me. They want the best for me. I definitely would not be here if it wasn't for them.''
Where I will be in 10 years: "I still want to be competing or I want to have graduated. I don't know if I want a high-paying job or if I just want to coach. I could see myself as a businessman and a part-time wrestling coach. Wrestling has been my whole life. It just grows on you. I've gotten early lessons on what hard work is all about. After you're done wrestling and get into the real world, you've kind of gone through the tough times and you know how to get through them.''
---
Carlee North, Alonso
Sport: Flag football.
The numbers: North, a senior quarterback, led the Ravens to the flag-football state championship game for the second straight season. North passed for 3,500 yards and 60 touchdowns.
Future plans: North, who led the Ravens to consecutive appearances in the state-championship game, will attend either Hillsborough Community College or St. Petersburg College. She hopes to assist on next season's coaching staff for Alonso flag football.
Earliest athletic memory: "My first sport was probably soccer. I was about 10. But even earlier, I was really into watching sports. My whole family is big into sports.''
People might not know this about me: "Nothing out of the ordinary. I just love sports. I'm not sure a lot of people would put me into the category of being obsessed with sports. When people look at me, they might think I'm a girly girl. But I love talking sports.''
Favorite sports teams: Notre Dame football, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tampa Bay Lightning, Detroit Red Wings.
Favorite athlete: Brady Quinn. "He's a Notre Dame alumnus. He's my main one. I'll probably change, even if he never starts.''
My greatest athletic accomplishment: "Probably the best memory is being at both state-championship games with my teammates, even if we didn't win those games. We're all so close. It will be my best high-school memory.''
Favorite entertainers: Carrie Underwood, Kristen Stewart, Channing Tatum.
Favorite movie: "The Notebook.''
Favorite TV show: "Pretty Little Liars.''
Favorite music: "I like everything, every genre of music.''
Dream vacation spot: Australia. "I would want to live there, actually.''
Favorite restaurants: Ballyhoo's, Outback Steakhouse.
Most impressive person I've met: Ron Powlus, former Notre Dame quarterback. "I was working with the Alonso guys football team, doing the water, and he came to scout some players. Because I love Notre Dame so much, it was a big deal. He coached Brady Quinn. I've never met Brady. I would probably have a heart attack if that happened.''
Person in history I'd love to meet: George Washington. "He's one of the biggest names in history, so why not him?''
My parents: Dave and Laurie North. "They're probably my biggest fans. Everything they've done for me is so awesome. They loved watching me play flag football. I saw them on the field right after the final game. My mom was crying because I was crying. We lost, but it's more the fact we had 13 seniors and we're all moving to a different part of our lives. My parents pretty much saw the whole thing happen.''
Where I will be in 10 years: "I hope to have a family. I would love to live in Australia, but that may just be a big dream. I hope I'm still involved in sports. I think I'd like to work with kids, coaching and teaching them.''
---
Madison Opfer, Durant
Sport: Girls golf.
The numbers: Opfer reached the Class 2A state tournament and shot consecutive 74s to finish third. She was second in the district and region tournaments.
Future plans: Opfer, a junior home-school student, has orally committed to Tulane University. She's considering a business or marketing major with a minor in a sports-related field.
Earliest athletic memory: "Actually, it's in competitive bowling at age 4. I remember how much fun it was to be in that atmosphere, doing well for your team. I started in the little bumper leagues. When I stopped bowling (age 12), I was averaging about 140 and had a high game of 224. Then I got into golf and it was about playing well for yourself and learning from your mistakes.''
People might not know this about me: "I'm into art. I love to draw. I think I'm good at drawing cartoons. Drawing people is hard. It's hard to get the details right. I might be better at copying things because I don't know if I have the imagination to develop a whole new character.''
Favorite sports teams: Indianapolis Colts, New Orleans Saints.
Favorite athletes: Shaun White, Suzanne Pederson, Rory McIlroy, Phil Mickelson.
My greatest athletic accomplishment: "I played in a Futures Tour event in March of last year. I made the cut and tied for 50th. It was really fun to see I could make the cut and I would've made money had I not been in amateur. I realized I could compete with the professionals. Also, last year, I shot 66 in a tournament, my lowest round, at the Orange Lake Resort in Orlando. It was a grinding day. I didn't feel like I shot that well, but then you look at the scorecard and it was a great day.''
Favorite entertainers: Johnny Depp, Shia LaBeouf, Kings of Leon.
Favorite movie: "Monty Python and the Holy Grail.''
Favorite TV show: "Glee.''
Favorite music: Alternative, but "I'll listen to anything.''
Dream vacation spot: Australia. "I love the animals, I love the accents and from pictures, it looks so beautiful.''
Favorite restaurant: Chili's or Olive Garden.
Most impressive person I've met: Larry Ziegler. "My coach (Tony Ziegler) is his son. I've watched him play and I'm fascinated by the way he plays. He's old-school. He keeps everything very simple. He's very enthusiastic about the game and he's fun to watch. I could just sit and watch him hit balls. He kind of inspires me.''
Person in history I'd love to meet: Martin Luther King, Jr. "I started reading a lot of his speeches for English class. He's a very remarkable man. He changed a lot in America. He had a lot of good points about the rights of people. I just find him to be fascinating. He knows how to captivate an audience.''
My father: Tom Opfer. "He has been a huge part of my golf and my life. He got me into golf. He always supported me. He has been a really big influence on me reaching my goals. He caddies for me and we work really well together.''
Where I will be in 10 years: "Hopefully, I'll be traveling the world with the LPGA, playing tournaments, striving to be the best on the money list and the tour. I can picture it. It's my goal.''
---
Andre Smith, Blake
Sport: Boys basketball.
The numbers: Smith averaged 19.4 points per game for the top-ranked Yellow Jackets, who reached the Class 4A state final four.
Future plans: Smith will attend Winthrop University on a basketball scholarship. He plans on majoring in business.
Earliest athletic memory: "I used to play in a recreation league. Then I played on an AAU team when I was 9, my first serious experience, but I never played. I thought I was good, but I really wasn't. Everything I did younger than that was in the backyard.''
People might not know this about me: "I'm actually a decent cook. I like it. I'll make fish and fries, pork chops, some rice. Nothing too major. I can make a meal. I don't know if any of my friends can do that.''
Favorite sports teams: Los Angeles Lakers, New England Patriots.
Favorite athletes: Chris Paul, Kobe Bryant, Derrick Rose, LeBron James.
My greatest athletic accomplishment: "Being on the final four team at Blake. I didn't do it by myself. We did it as a group, so that was a great accomplishment.''
Favorite entertainers: Kevin Hart, Lil Wayne, Will Ferrell.
Favorite movies: "Glory Road'' and "Coach Carter'' and "The Express.''
Favorite TV show: "Family Guy.''
Favorite music: Rap.
Dream vacation spot: Hawaii. "That's where everybody wants to go, right? I'd love to relax out there.''
Favorite restaurant: Kobe Steakhouse.
Most impressive person I've met: "My brother, Charles. He helps me out with so much. We weren't really the richest family. He got through college and helped the family. He was like the head of the family.''
People in history I'd love to meet: Martin Luther King, Jr. "He did so much. He was so smart. I would ask him how it felt to know that so many people were against him. He still was such a great leader.''
My family: My mother Sheila Smith and my grandmother Barbara Johnson. "My grandmother comes to every game. She's very nice to me. My mother is tough, but I know she loves me. I tell my mom everything, like she's a friend at high school. I know they are both very proud of me. My mom pushes me as hard as my coaches do.''
Where I will be in 10 years: "I definitely want to be a college coach. Any basketball player wants to go to the NBA or play overseas and I have those goals, too. But I want to be a Division I college coach somewhere. I'll start small and work my way up. Being a point guard, you're kind of a coach on the court. I think I'd be the kind of coach you could come talk to.''
---
Chris Swanson, Jesuit
Sport: Boys swimming.
The numbers: Swanson took fourth in the 500 freestyle and fifth in the 200 freestyle at the state meet, while helping two relay teams to top-four finishes.
Future plans: Swanson wants to swim in college, but he isn't certain of his future plans. "Some kids know exactly where they want to go at 7 years old and never switch. I'm not one of those guys.''
Earliest athletic memory: "I have vague memories of this, but my parents tell me when I was younger in soccer, I never really ran around chasing the ball. I just stood by the net, just waiting for the ball to come to me so I could score. I think it was YMCA soccer.''
People might not know this about me: "I'm really young for my grade. I could easily be a sophomore right now. I was born on August 31. The cut-off date is September 1. I'll go into college as a 17-year-old.''
Favorite sports teams: Michigan and Michigan State. "Because that's where my parents went to college. I usually root for Michigan in football, Michigan State in basketball. I was born in a suburb of Detroit.''
Favorite athletes: Oussama Mellouli (2008 Olympic gold medalist in 1,500-meter freestyle swimming).
My greatest athletic accomplishment: "When I was 14, I won the 400-meter freestyle in the Junior Olympics with a 4:07.89. At that time, that was pretty quick. It was pretty eye-opening for me. The next summer, I got a better time.''
Favorite entertainer: Andy Samberg.
Favorite movies: "Stepbrothers'' and "Anchorman'' and "Troy.''
Favorite TV shows: "House'' and "The Office.''
Favorite music: Rap.
Dream vacation spot: Australia. "There's so much you can do there.''
Favorite restaurant: "I'll go wherever.''
Most impressive person I've met: "I'm not sure how to answer that one.''
People in history I'd love to meet: Achilles from the Trojan War. "I've always been interested in that. I'd like to talk to him casually, see what's up.''
My parents: Craig and Star Swanson. "They've done great with me. My favorite approach is as long as I try as hard as I can, then I'm OK. If I get a B in school, they're not going to freak out on me if I've tried my best. They always support me in swimming, but if I suddenly didn't like it anymore, they wouldn't force me to keep doing it. They let me choose what I want to do. They're not the vicarious type.''
Where I will be in 10 years: "I feel like I'd still be pursuing education in graduate school. That's how I'm approaching recruiting. I don't really care if we win the national championship if the academics are good enough. Education is going to come first.''
---
Javonte Sykes, Plant City
Sport: Boys track and field.
The numbers: Sykes, who fancied himself as a football player first, won the triple-jump titles at district and regionals. After scratching on his first two attempts at the Class 3A state meet, he registered a career-best 48 feet, 4 inches to win the title.
Future plans: Sykes originally committed to North Greenville (S.C.) University, but now says he will attend Virginia Union, a Division II school, where he will compete in track and field.
Earliest athletic memory: "I was a football player primarily. I played for the Dover Cowboys and was mostly a running back. I scored all the touchdowns on all the hard teams.''
People might not know this about me: "I love to play the guitar and I'm actually really good at it. I play at my mom's church. My cousin is a minister (Pee Wee Callins) and I record music with him. I play the guitar and sing. I like to perform in front of other people and I don't really get stage fright.''
Favorite sports teams: Indianapolis Colts, Florida State Seminoles, South Carolina Gamecocks, Michigan Wolverines.
Favorite athletes: LaDainian Tomlinson, Reggie Bush, Adrian Peterson.
My greatest athletic accomplishment: "Winning the state triple-jump championship. I never thought I could do that. I don't really practice that much in track. I just kind of sit around in track practice and laugh with the buddies. But I guess I'm good at it. Football has been my main thing and I look at track as like an accessory sport. I wonder how much better I could've done if I'd worked harder at it.''
Favorite entertainer: Will Smith.
Favorite movie: "American Pie.''
Favorite TV show: "The Simpsons'' and "SpongeBob Square Pants.''
Favorite music: Jazz. "I like calming music, guitar solos.''
Dream vacation spot: Alaska. "They have mountains, they have beautiful scenery. I love quiet places, where I can relax and think about a lot of stuff.''
Favorite restaurant: Red Lobster.
Most impressive person I've met: Chone Figgins, infielder for the Seattle Mariners. "He's my cousin. I'm around him all the time when he's in town. We have cookouts for him. We play pool and PlayStation 3 all the time.''
People in history I'd love to meet: James Brown. "I think he's a lot like me. He's an outgoing person and he's a very talented singer.''
My mother: Lecenda Sykes. "I look up to my mom because she's a single mom and she works so hard. She has helped me with my schoolwork and helped me to get ready for college.''
Where I will be in 10 years: "Hopefully, I'll have some sort of job in marine biology because I love sea animals. If that doesn't work out, maybe the Olympics in the triple jump if I really trained at it.''
---
Grace Van De Grift, Durant
Sport: Girls cross country.
The numbers: Van De Grift, who overcame nagging injuries, won championships in Hillsborough County, district and regional. She finished seventh at the Class 3A state meet.
Future plans: Van De Grift will attend the University of Florida on a scholarship for cross country and track. She's considering a major in physical therapy.
Earliest athletic memory: "I played just about everything when I was little, T-ball, soccer, everything. I do remember my first running experience. I was 5. My dad was in a triathlon. I decided I wanted to run it and that was my first experience.''
People might not know this about me: "I can play the guitar and sing. I taught myself how to play the summer after my freshman year. I was kind of bored and there was an old guitar in our house. No one ever played it. I took a few lessons here and there. I actually won a talent show once with the guitar. When I'm around the house, I'll pick it up and sing, so much that sometimes my little sister gets annoyed. I can do some of Taylor Swift's songs. It's just a hobby.''
Favorite sports teams: Florida Gators. "I do love to follow all the basketball during March Madness.''
Favorite athletes: Tim Tebow. "What a great leader and his beliefs are similar to my own.'' Kara Goucher "as a runner because she runs everything from the half-mile to the marathon and that's just awesome.''
My greatest athletic accomplishment: "It's kind of the whole season, not just one thing, and I also think success is measured in the obstacles you have to overcome. I had a stress fracture last year. The whole season was like a miracle for me. It was a difficult time in my life and I got through that.''
Favorite entertainer: Taylor Swift.
Favorite movies: "Titanic'' and "We Are Marshall.''
Favorite TV show: "Cake Boss'' on TLC. "I love eating cupcakes and decorating them. I just love that show.''
Favorite music: Country.
Dream vacation spot: Spain. "I've taken Spanish every year of high school and I'd like to put it to good use.''
Favorite restaurant: Sonny's Real Pit Barbecue. "Chicken breast, French fries, garlic bread … you can't beat it.''
Most impressive person I've met: "Probably my parents. They are just awesome people. I strive to be like them.''
Person in history I'd love to meet: Mary Lou Van De Grift. "She's my great-grandmother on my father's side. She lived through the Depression. I really love hearing about that time period of history, the people who pulled through the Depression and World War II. She died when she was 90. I was younger and I just have a slight memory of her. There's so much I'd like to talk to her about.''
My parents: Ty and Mary Van De Grift. "No one has taken one step of a race for me, but I haven't done this journey alone. My parents have been with me every step of the way and I'm definitely grateful for having them as my parents.''
Where I will be in 10 years: "Hopefully, I'll be done with school. Hopefully, I will meet a great guy and I'll be married and be starting a family and my career. I guess right now I'd be a physical therapist somewhere. I'll probably always be running because I just love it.''
---
Rebecca Werdine, Tampa Prep
Sport: Girls swimming.
The numbers: Werdine finished second in the 50 freestyle and third in the 100 freestyle at the state meet. She was also part of the county's top 200 medley relay team.
Future plans: Werdine, a junior, said she plans to swim in college. "As to where, that's completely up in the air. We hope to get out to California this summer to look at some schools and we're going to check out some in the Southeastern states.''
Earliest athletic memory: "When I was 4, I won fourth place at my summer-league championships in Clearwater. I thought it was the greatest thing ever. It was 6-and-unders and I was 4.''
People might not know this about me: "When I was younger, I used to think my name was Gaga. I also used to think I was from another planet. It was my own dream. I guess I was just a weird kid.''
Favorite sports teams: University of Tennessee because "both of my parents swam there.'' Also, "all the local pro teams.''
Favorite athletes: Nastia Luikin (gymnast), Usain Bolt (track and field).
My greatest athletic accomplishment: "When I was 14, I won the 50 free at Junior Olympics in Gainesville. I won by a pretty good amount and was not too far off the state record. It was like a huge milestone time (23.89). I dropped a huge amount of time.''
Favorite entertainer: Andy Samberg.
Favorite movie: "Little Miss Sunshine.''
Favorite TV shows: "Desperate Housewives'' and "Modern Family.''
Favorite music: Alternative.
Dream vacation spot: Bora Bora. "To the overwater Tiki huts.''
Favorite restaurant: Flemings.
Most impressive person I've met: Michael Phelps. "He was at the NCAAs watching, supporting Michigan, and I've been to other meets when he was there. I got a chance to talk with him. It was pretty cool.''
Person in history I'd love to meet: Marilyn Monroe. "She just seems interesting.''
My parents: Fred and Carrie Werdine. "They've definitely been supportive, paying for everything, driving me around. When I want to quit, they are the ones who make sure I keep going. They were both swimmers and they met at the University of Tennessee. My dad went to the Olympic Trials and the NCAAs. My mom was second at state in high school. So they both understand what it takes in my sport.''
Where I will be in 10 years: "Probably I'll be a few years out of college, working, hopefully living somewhere cool and interesting. I don't know if swimming will play a long-range role in my life. My kids will probably swim. I'll always enjoy the sport.''
---
Zach Wheeler, Gaither
Sport: Boys soccer.
The numbers: Wheeler, a senior forward, had 24 goals and 15 assists (quadrupling his goal-scoring production from his junior season) for a Cowboy team that reached the Class 5A state semifinals.
Future plans: Wheeler wants to play college soccer, but he's still undecided where he will attend.
Earliest athletic memory: "I remember being 8 or 9 in my first year of competitive soccer. I've always played on a good team. I got good experience back then. I had lots of fun.''
People might not know this about me: "I actually have no idea about that. My life is soccer, school, sleeping.''
Favorite sports teams: Manchester United, Denver Broncos, Tampa Bay Lightning.
Favorite athlete: Wayne Rooney.
My greatest athletic accomplishment: "Probably quadrupling my goals from my junior year to my senior year. I went from six goals to 24 goals. I just started scoring early in the season. I got on a hot streak and started scoring in every game.''
Favorite entertainer: Adam Sandler.
Favorite movies: "Happy Gilmore'' and "Billy Madison.''
Favorite TV show: "South Park.''
Favorite music: Rhythm and blues.
Dream vacation spot: The Bahamas. "I've been there a couple of times.''
Favorite restaurant: Kobe Japanese Steakhouse.
Most impressive person I've met: Jordan See, Gaither soccer player. "He's one of the smartest kids I've known and he was still able to have great academics.''
Person in history I'd love to meet: Martin Luther King, Jr. "Because of how he changed everyone's outlook on race relations.''
My parents: Frank and Nanette Wheeler. "They're the ones who paid for all my soccer over the last 10 years or so. Without them, I wouldn't have had this opportunity. They've done a lot for me.''
Where I will be in 10 years: "Hopefully, playing soccer somewhere. If not, I want to be a biologist, maybe some type of pre-med. My favorite subject is science, any kind of marine biology or zoology.''
---
Quentin Williams, Jefferson
Sport: Football.
The numbers: Williams finished as Florida's all-time leader in passing yards for a single season (4,451) and a career (10,384), plus touchdown passes for a single season (56) and a career (109).
Future plans: Williams, the third Hillsborough County player in history to earn Florida's Mr. Football honors and the catalyst behind Jefferson's 15-0 state-championship season, will attend Bethune-Cookman University on an athletic scholarship.
Earliest athletic memory: "Being about 7 years old, playing youth football for the Eagles and the Spartans, having a blast.''
People might not know this about me: "I'm very, very good at playing video games. No, really. Very, very good.''
Favorite sports teams: Oklahoma City Thunder, Detroit Lions.
Favorite athletes: Derrick Rose, Drew Brees.
My greatest athletic accomplishment: "Winning a state championship and getting a college scholarship.''
Favorite entertainers: Kevin Hart, Will Smith and "the dude who plays Harry Potter.''
Favorite movies: "Deuce'' and "Harry Potter.''
Favorite TV show: "College Football Live.''
Favorite music: Rap, rhythm and blues.
Dream vacation spot: Hawaii.
Favorite restaurant: Red Lobster.
Most impressive people I've met: "My mother and my grandmother. The greatest people in the world.''
Person in history I'd love to meet: Joe Namath. "Just because of his swag – period. Nobody ever had more swag, on and off the field.''
My family: My mother Nikita Williams and grandmother Nancy Williams. "They are the key to my life. They keep me grounded. They punished me when I needed to be punished. They mean the world to me.''
Where I will be in 10 years: "I hope playing somewhere in the league (NFL). Down the line, I see myself becoming a teacher and a coach.''
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement
Advertisement