For any proud Academy cheerleader for Jesuit, cheering at the first three games of the season has been quite the privilege. The Tigers have already this year beaten the third-ranked school in the nation, Kathleen High School, as well as Sarasota High School and most recently Durant HighSchool  in their September 16th game at Plant City.

Jesuit spirit, kept alive by the cheerleaders on the field and backed by the roaring of the crowd and enthusiasm from the Blue Tide, has encouraged the Tigers to start out the year with a record of 3-0.

New coach James Harrell has lived up to expectations, setting goals for the team, enforcing new discipline and generating respect for his achievements so far, despite the FHSAA controversy over the decision of his son, Anthony, to attend Jesuit this season. On September 16, Harrell was cleared to play with the Jesuit team in its third game at Durant, at which he scored the touchdown to lead the team to 13-0. A field goal by Kyle Bellini finaled the score at 16-0.

New discipline policies implemented by Coach Harrell have proved successful in starting the team off on the right track.  “There is no talking during practice, everyone is always wearing their helmet, and while we stretch everyone participates in clapping and yelling,” Travis Allen states.

Matthew Alexander agrees that the respect for Coach Harrell made the team’s practices and games run more effectively.

With the first three games already played at home, along with the Robinson game this year, Allen explains why being at home is definitely an advantage.  “The fan base, the comfort and the turf, we definitely laugh a little when we see the other team’s fastest player slip on the turf,” he said.

TBO’s Prep Report noted that the “Tigers are off to a great start, they are optimistic and ready for the rest of the season. No Tiger fan out there can wait…”

Alexander commented on his hopes for the rest of the season after the first three games. “If we beat Robinson, who is the best in the county and our most important game, we can win districts,” he said.