McArthur Mustangs

This past weekend, three BCAA football teams traveled to Tampa for the annual summer classic at the University of South Florida.

The Sling and Shoot 7-on-7 passing tournament, which attracted 42 of the top programs from across the state, also attracted Broward County schools, and the result was extremely positive.

Making it to the round of eight were the upstart Hallandale Chargers, which rarely takes part in summer passing leagues, but thanks in part to one of its most impressive alumni ever, Davin Joseph, who just happens to play for the Tampa Bucs, head coach Dameon Jones and his team did quite well, turning many heads across the state.

The Chargers, picked by many to challenge defending 4A state champion Miami Booker T. Washington for the district title, has two USF commits on the team in quarterback Victor Marc and cornerback Ricardo Dixon.

Also in Tampa was Hollywood Hills, which has made the trip three straight years, and head coach Scott Barnwell and his Spartans were impressive, making the round of 12, and showcasing quite a number of top performers, including junior defensive back Tony Grimes.

But the team that really made the most of a great opportunity was McArthur. Also advancing to the round of 12, the Mustangs, who also had financial help for the trip from one-time Mustangs' standout and current Pittsburgh Steelers' defensive back Bryant McFadden, went 4-0 after the first day and then cruised into the second day with two more wins.

"This was a tremendous experience for this team and the coaches," said assistant coach David Coleman. "We never get a chance to participate in many of these events, and never see teams from the west coast and in other parts of the state.

The Mustangs brought 18 players with them to Tampa. Among the players making a lasting impression on the many USF coaches on hand for the event were seniors Patrick Paul (linebacker), Angel Gerena (tight end), Mendez Wooding (receiver), Odane Gordon (defensive end), Kameron Baker (linebacker), Jovanny Carvajal (safety), Chris Ortiz (receiver) and tight end/receiver Ralph Tannuzzo.

"This was a tremendous opportunity for this team," said Gordon, who watched his team lose a 16-15 game to neighborhood rival Hallandale on the second day. "You never get a chance to see these teams, so it was a real treat for us."

McArthur also brought some juniors as well. Quarterback Javon Smith was tremendous. But so were Arthur Fair (cornerback), Ayomide Awe (cornerback), Denzel McCullum (receiver), Travion Bailey (linebacker), Tevin Funchess (safety) and safety Helman Pulido.

The Mustangs also brought some Class of 2011 players who all made a major impact. Cornerback Steven Montgomery and safety Nick North helped the team over the weekend.

While head coach Mike Zarra didn't make the trip, Coleman, Steve Alvarez, Robert Ortega and Manny Ramirez took over the team and did a great job.

Larry Blustein is the co-host of the weekly (Thursday) Miami Dolphins High School Gridiron Show from 7-8 p.m. on WQAM (560 AM) with Kim Bokamper. Have something to add to this column? Just drop Larry a note at FloridaKids1@hotmail.com.