Sophomores Shine in Tampa!

Tampa's Jefferson HS hosted a talented group of sophomores last Saturday afternoon. The 100 or so athletes that hit the field worked diligently and left an impression on the event staff. A few stars also shined brightly along the way.

North Florida Christian's Travis Blanks was the session's top athlete, taking home his own version of the triple crown with the Overall MVP, Fastest Man and Leadership awards. The 6'1 180 lb standout ran a 4.37 shuttle, 4.45 40, had a 31 inch vertical, 9'4 broad jump, bench pressed 155 lbs 18 times and did a great job in 1 on 1's. He is physical, smart and has terrific hands, making him a nearly complete player.

Austin Aikens (Tampa Catholic). Aikens, 5'11 164, had a 35.5 inch vertical, ran a 4.24 shuttle and worked hard during the 1 on 1's. QB's thrive on working with WR's like Aikens since he can grab the ball at its highest point.

Ben Knauf (Santa Fe Catholic) was in a league of his own amongst the running backs. Light on his feet at 5'10 160, Knaut ran a 4.41 shuttle, 4.57 40, had a 31 inch vertical, 9'1 broad jump, bench pressed 155 lbs 18 times and powered his way through the individual period.

Dallas Griffiths (North Florida Christian) was the second athlete from that school to win a customized triple crown, bringing home the Combine King,  LB MVP and Strongest Man awards. Griffiths bench pressed 155 lbs 32 times, ran a 4.45 shuttle, 4.48 40, had a 33 inch vertical, 9'5 broad jump and did a tremendous job covering the RB's during the individual period. Between the athletic combo of Blanks and Griffiths, North Florida Christian should be a title contender in one of America's best football states.