The 2025 high school football season across the Florida Keys delivered a mix of proven power, growing pains and promising youth. Key West led the way with a 7-5 record and a playoff victory, facing one of the state’s toughest schedules that included two losses to perennial powerhouse Miami Northwestern. The Conchs showcased a loaded offensive arsenal and a rock-solid line, while now preparing to fill some significant roles heading into next season.
Coral Shores finished 2-7, highlighted by a win over Marathon in the annual Battle of the Keys, as both the Hurricanes and Dolphins navigated rebuilding seasons with young lineups. Marathon went winless but dressed just five seniors, with multiple freshmen starting on both sides of the ball. Coral Shores also leaned on underclassmen, who began to hit their stride mid-season and show glimpses of what is to come. With momentum building and experience gained, both programs appear poised to take important steps forward in 2026.
MVP
Noah Mercer
Senior, Key West
OL/DL
A four-year starter on both sides of the ball, Noah Mercer was a cornerstone of the Conchs’ line throughout his career. On offense, he helped pave the way for two 1,000-yard rushers this season while defensively he established himself as one of the most disruptive pass rushers in program history. Mercer holds the single-game, season and career school records for quarterback sacks and finished 2025 with 47 tackles, 12 sacks, 12 tackles for loss, one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries.
Glade Harrelson
Senior, Coral Shores
DE/TE
Glade Harrelson was a dominant force on the defensive line for the Hurricanes, consistently bringing pressure and physicality off the edge. Known for his relentless motor and toughness, he set the tone defensively throughout the season. As a captain, Harrelson’s team-first mindset and leadership were evident both on the field and in the locker room.
Nick Calderon
Senior, Coral Shores
DE/OG
Nick Calderon made his mark by controlling the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball. A powerful and consistent performer, he combined toughness with a high football IQ to anchor the Hurricanes in the trenches. His leadership, character and steady play earned him widespread respect among teammates and coaches.
Austin Vogt
Senior, Coral Shores
TE/FS
Austin Vogt provided impact and versatility for Coral Shores, contributing at a high level on both offense and defense. Whether lining up at tight end or free safety, his presence was felt in every game. A team leader, Vogt’s ability to elevate those around him played a key role in the Hurricanes’ successful season.
John Oughton
Sophomore, Coral Shores
RB
John Oughton emerged as a dynamic playmaker in the Hurricanes’ backfield, combining power, vision and explosiveness. He finished the season with 689 rushing yards and six touchdowns on 48 carries while also adding nine receptions for 94 yards. Oughton’s work ethic and determination set the standard and the tempo for a bright future for the program.
Casey Konrad
Senior, Coral Shores
OC
As the anchor of the offensive line, Casey Konrad brought strength, technique and a high football intelligence to the center position. His leadership in the trenches helped establish consistency and stability for the Hurricanes’ offense. A respected leader on and off the field, Konrad’s influence extended well beyond the stat sheet.
Marco Gudino
Junior, Coral Shores
CB
Marco Gudino served as the leader of the Hurricanes’ secondary, bringing energy and confidence to the defensive backfield. His game-speed approach in practice translated into strong performances on Friday nights. With a natural read for the game, Gudino consistently put himself in position to make plays.
Walson Morin
Senior, Key West
RB
One of the most productive rushers in the state, Walson Morin finished the season ranked among Florida’s top 10 and closed his career as Key West’s second all-time leading rusher. He rushed for 1,802 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2025 while also contributing 88 receiving yards and three scores through the air. Morin totaled 3,960 career rushing yards, leaving a lasting mark in the Conchs’ record books.
Jeff Dejean
Senior, Key West
RB/CB
A dynamic two-way starter, Jeff Dejean brought big-play ability on offense and lockdown coverage on defense. He rushed for 1,110 yards and 14 touchdowns during the 2025 season and made his presence felt in the secondary. Defensively, Dejean finished with 22 tackles, six passes defended and one forced fumble, showcasing his impact on both sides of the ball.
Leandro Batista
Senior, Key West
LB/RB
As the defensive captain, Leandro Batista anchored the Conchs and excelled at stopping the run. He recorded 41 tackles, two tackles for loss and a forced fumble. Batista also contributed offensively as a change-of-pace back, adding 287 rushing yards and four touchdowns.
Kelly Kasper
Junior, Key West
OL/DL
A physical presence at the point of attack, Kelly Kasper played a key role on both the offensive and defensive lines. He helped the Conchs rush for 3,700 yards in 2025 while also starting along the defensive front. Kasper finished the season with 13 tackles, one sack, three tackles for loss and an interception.
Allens Alexandre
Junior, Key West
OL/DL
Allens Alexandre was a strong two-way contributor, using his size and strength to make an impact in the trenches. He was part of an offensive line that helped Key West surpass 4,000 yards of total offense in 2025. On defense, Alexandre totaled 21 tackles, six tackles for loss, two sacks and two fumble recoveries.
Tristan Rodriguez
Senior, Key West
DL/RB
Tristan Rodriguez enjoyed a breakout season, emerging as one of the top pass rushers in the Keys. His defensive production included 31 tackles, six sacks, six tackles for loss and a forced fumble. Rodriguez’s pressure off the edge made him a consistent disruptor throughout the year.
Chase Gaertner
Sophomore, Key West
DB/RB/QB
A talented and versatile underclassman, Chase Gaertner made an impact at several positions, including defensive back, linebacker, running back and quarterback. He finished the season with 26 tackles, one sack, one interception, one forced fumble and one tackle for loss. Gaertner’s ability to contribute in multiple roles made him a valuable piece of the Conchs’ lineup.
Christopher Paul
Senior, Marathon
C/DE
A four-year letterman and three-year starter, Christopher Paul was a cornerstone of the Dolphins’ program. Playing center and defensive end, he showcased toughness, versatility and football IQ in the trenches. Paul’s leadership, preparation and unselfish play made him a respected presence and a key contributor to the Dolphins on both sides of the ball.
Aiden Gilday
Senior, Marathon
G/DT
Aiden Gilday was a dependable two-year starter at guard and defensive tackle for the Dolphins. Known for his physical play and consistency, he brought effort and toughness to both sides of the ball. Gilday also emerged as a strong locker-room leader, earning the trust of coaches and teammates alike.
Eduardo Garcia
Senior, Marathon
OL/DL
A four-year starter on the offensive line and three-year defensive line starter, Eduardo Garcia was a dominant presence in the trenches. A standout student with a GPA above 4.0 and a strong commitment to community service, Garcia excelled both on and off the field. His intensity, energy and physical style helped set the tone for the Dolphins.
Matthew Delgado
Senior, Marathon
OL/DL
Matthew Delgado was the anchor of Marathon’s offensive line, starting four years at tackle and providing unmatched consistency. He also contributed on the defensive line and even found the end zone during his career. Delgado played a major role in blocking for two 1,500-yard rushers and led by example with his durability, effort and commitment.
Steven Stotts
Senior, Marathon
FB/LB
A four-year contributor, Steven Stotts exemplified versatility and leadership throughout his career. In 2025, he served as the team’s B-back on offense and mike linebacker on defense, captaining the defensive unit. Known for his quiet, lead-by-example approach, Stotts set the standard with toughness, accountability and selfless play.
