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Palm Harbor and Eastlake have had some real nail biters the last few years, an indication of just how close these two bitter rivals are. Palm Harbor won a defensive battle in 2015, while Eastlake won a high scoring affair, 38-35 in 2016 with a last-second field goal.

In 2017, however, Eastlake originally won 14-13 in overtime over Palm Harbor. Later that season, though, the Florida High School Athletic Association ruled that Eastlake used an ineligible player, forcing them to forfeit their win over Palm Harbor. This year, Eastlake will be looking to right the wrongs and get back to winning ways.

MVP

Carson Kozma

East Lake

SCHOLAR ATHLETES

Jake Walsh

East Lake

Jake is a 4 year athlete who excels in football and track. He is a three year starter on defense, as well as a state qualifying track athlete in the triple jump. Jake also excels in the classroom and has a 4.31 GPA. Jake is a member of the chemistry club, National Honor Society Math, National Honor Society. Jake plans is to play football for Army and attend West Point

Steven Heineman

Palm Harbor

Steven has been an A student his entire time at Palm Harbor. In addition to playing varsity football, Steven is also the captain and the #1 player on the tennis team. Steven has logged over 180 volunteer hours and is a member of the Mu Alpha Theta Club and the Key Club. Steven currently holds a 3.96 GPA and plans to attend the university of Florida to study law.

HALL OF FAME

Darius Holtzclaw

East Lake

Coach Claw was a teacher and coach at East Lake from 1987, when it opened, until June of 2015. During that time, he was the defensive coordinator and also the head coach for the girl's softball team. Coach Claw had a special way of building relationships with his students and players. He was feared by some and loved by all. He is currently retired and owns several properties to keep him busy. Coach Claw loves to spend time with his wife Krysta or on his boat or his Harley.

Robert Jenkins

Palm Harbor

Coach Jenkins played a big part in both East Lake and Palm Harbor football programs. Coach Jenkins won the first ever football game played between these two schools, which Palm Harbor won. Coach Jenkins also coached the Palm Harbor J.V team and led them to their only undefeated season in school’s history. Coach Jenkins closed his career with a winning record of 63-42.

GAME SUMMARY

Before a huge home crowd on opening night, and after a two hour weather delay, the Eagles’ defense shut out the hurricanes en route to a 28-0 victory. East Lake LB Carson Kozma was a brick wall all by himself, contributing four tackles for a loss along with a sack and a fumble recovery to earn the Great American Rivalry MVP Trophy.