The fans’ pick

WR/CB/KR Kennen Ayala, Jr., Land O’ Lakes

Kennen Ayala is a multi-sport athlete. He is point guard on the basketball team and specializes in the triple and long jump in track. 

The ability to run, catch and jump with the best served Ayala well in his varsity debut as a wide receiver. 

Against Weeki Wachee in the regular season opener, Ayala had four catches for 171 yards. 

That was impressive enough. But what really opened some eyes is that he scored on every reception in a 39-3 victory over Weeki Wachee. 

Four catches. Four touchdowns.

Fans took notice. Ayala received more than 37 percent of the votes (2,524) to beat out Pinellas Park’s Eric Jackson, who had 32 percent (2,183 votes). 

The PTP pick

ATH Ladamien Starks, Sr., Hudson: Did a little bit of everything for the Cobras, finishing with four catches for 181 yards and three touchdowns, as well as a 90-yard kickoff return for a touchdown and an interception on defense in a win over River Ridge. It marked the first time Hudson beat the rival Royal Knights since 2013. That performance also got the attention of colleges. This past weekend, Starks picked up an offer from Maryland.