South Florence Bruins Hold Annual Draft as New Season Begins
The South Florence Rack Leaders
Photo By: Steven McCartt
A draft in high school football? That’s exactly what took place today at South Florence High School as the Bruins continue to build a dynasty. Following their state championship victory last season, the Bruins are looking to defend their title with a fresh roster filled with both returning veterans and incoming talent.
Head Coach Drew Marlowe has developed a unique spring tradition, appointing 12 team leaders—known as "racks"—to help shape the foundation of the team. Today, these rack leaders conducted a draft, selecting from a pool of 48 eager athletes ready to prove themselves on the field.
Season Performance and Key Stats
Semaj Parker diving for a touchdown
Photo By: Steven McCartt
The South Florence Bruins had an impressive season, finishing with an overall record of 12-3 and a strong 5-1 region performance. Their offensive strength was evident, with a total of 2,139 passing yards, 4,293 rushing yards, and 31 passing touchdowns. Quarterback Messiah Jackson led the team with 2,080 passing yards, 30 touchdowns, and a 113.7 QB rating. Wide receiver Jayden Sellers had a standout season, recording 1,243 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns and scoring a total of 174 points, making him one of the team's most valuable offensive weapons. The rushing attack was equally dominant, with standout performances from Tre Leonard, who amassed 1,485 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns, and Zion Gilbert, who contributed 1,062 yards and 9 touchdowns.
Defensively, the Bruins showcased their prowess with 87 tackles from linebacker Terry Gordon and 110 tackles from Willie Kennedy. The team also recorded 19 sacks, including an impressive 6 from Amare Adams that accounted for a total of 43 yards lost, and 9 interceptions throughout the season, proving their defensive dominance.
Messiah Jackson poses with JayAun Perkins
Photo By: Steven McCartt
A New Era Begins
The highly anticipated first overall pick was none other than JayAun Perkins, a talented transfer from rival West Florence, selected by returning quarterback Messiah Jackson. Perkins’ arrival is already making waves, adding another dimension to an already potent offense.
Jackson, the Bruins’ seasoned quarterback, is expected to be at the helm once again, bringing experience and leadership to a team that lost some key players to graduation. Among those who moved on to the next level are Jayden Sellers (WR, University of South Carolina), Amare Adams (DL, Clemson University), Tre Leonard (RB, James Madison University), Zion Gilbery (RB, Anderson University), and Lennix Valory (WR, Anderson University). Their departures leave big shoes to fill, but the Bruins are confident in their returning core.
Familiar Faces and New Additions
In addition to Jackson, standout returners include Terry Gordon (LB), Ethan Cash (OL), Amare Reaves (DB), and Semaj Parker (WR). Other key returning playmakers include Willie Kennedy (LB), who led the team with 110 tackles, and Amare Reaves (DB), who recorded 2 interceptions. On the offensive side, Cameron James (RB) boasted 415 all-purpose yards across only 6 games, and De'eric Davis (QB) is developing his skills and gaining valuable experience behind Jackson, positioning himself as a promising future leader for the Bruins' offense. Their leadership, along with the influx of fresh talent—including multiple transfers—has reignited hope for another championship run.
Amare Adams (RB)
Photo By: Steven McCartt
Ethan Cash (OL)
Photo By: Steven McCartt
Terry Gordon (DB)
Photo By: Steven McCartt
The Selection
Here’s a look at how the first round of draft selections unfolded:
Following Perkins, Gerkeim Hall was selected by Josiah Mason. Semaj Parker was the third pick, chosen by Terry Gordon, while De'Eric Davis was picked fourth by Myles Johnson. Bruce Thompson selected Jewel Washington as the fifth pick, and Ethan Cash added Cameron James with the sixth selection. Will Wilson was the seventh overall pick, chosen by Ben Tyner, while Ayden Robinson was picked eighth by Warnell Prew. Marquez McKithen selected Jerry Genwright with the ninth pick, followed by Willie Kennedy picking Zyiere Reddin at number ten. The eleventh pick was Avan McKenzie, selected by Amare Reaves, and rounding out the first round, Zack Gordon was picked by Malik Robinson.
Head Coach Drew Marlowe
Photo By: Steven McCartt
The Road Ahead
The Bruins know that repeating as state champions is no small feat, but they are prepared to embrace the challenge. With a blend of returning talent and new faces hungry for success, South Florence looks primed for another exciting season.
Coach Marlowe’s system not only builds team chemistry but fosters leadership among players, ensuring that the next wave of Bruins is ready to carry on the legacy. As spring training ramps up and the season draws closer, all eyes will be on the defending champs as they set their sights on another title.
One thing is certain—South Florence isn’t just reloading; they’re ready to dominate once again.
