Season at a Glance
Written by: Peyton Womack
Manatee Hurricanes Football has been making waves this season with a remarkable series of victories that have left fans buzzing with excitement. With a preseason win against the formidable IMG Academy, a strong comeback in their first regular-season game, and a string of impressive victories, the Hurricanes are riding high and looking to maintain their momentum as they approach the upcoming homecoming game against the Riverview Rams on October 20th at Joe Kinnan Field at Hawkins Stadium, our first home game in over a month.
The Hurricanes kicked off their 2023 campaign in style, defeating the IMG Academy Ascenders in a preseason match with a score of 23-17. This thrilling victory set the tone for the season, showcasing the team’s determination and skill. Fans eagerly anticipated the regular season, and they were not disappointed.
In their first regular-season game against Lake Minneola, the Hurricanes found themselves facing a deficit at halftime. However, the team displayed their resilience and determination by mounting a spectacular comeback in the second half. The Hurricanes’ defense tightened up, and the offense executed plays with precision, leading to an astounding turnaround and securing a victory that left fans on the edge of their seats.
The following week, the Hurricanes continued their winning streak with a 27-14 victory against the Sarasota Sailors, solidifying their reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the district. The team then triumphed over the Braden River Pirates with a score of 28-20, demonstrating their ability to compete at a high level consistently.
The momentum continued as the Hurricanes faced the Port Charlotte Pirates, pulling off a hard-fought 31-24 win. The match showcased the team’s diverse skill set and their ability to adapt to different challenges on the field (we have seemingly gotten much better at playing on the turf).
One of the most impressive victories came when the Hurricanes faced off against their district rival, the Lakewood Ranch Mustangs. The Hurricanes dominated the game with a decisive 52-6 victory on the road and putting other district rivals on notice. However, the Hurricanes experienced their first loss of the season when they faced the Venice Indians. Despite the setback, the team remains determined and focused on their upcoming challenges.
The Manatee Hurricanes are now gearing up for their homecoming game against the Riverview Rams, scheduled for October 20th at Joe Kinnan Field at Hawkins Stadium. This highly anticipated event promises to be a thrilling matchup, and fans are expected to pack the stands to support their team, decked out in pink for breast cancer awareness.
The Hurricanes’ impressive performance has generated excitement not only among students and faculty but also within the local community. Coach Jacquez Green has instilled a winning mentality in the team, and their resilience and teamwork have become their defining attributes.
