Do you have a good sports scoop for us? Email Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com, or Tweet us at @PCTOSports.
FOOTBALL
+ Bennett to be honored at gala
The Jeans and Jacket Gala has announced that longtime Plant City Dolphins president Buddy Bennett has posthumously won its Mike Storter Award.
“The youth Buddy influenced and touched during his lifetime is too many to count and his legacy continues,” the gala posted to Facebook April 8. “What (a) privilege it is for many to have known and been a part of this man’s life.”
The Jeans and Jacket Gala will be held beginning at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 5, at Kathleen’s Garden, 5701 Pless Road. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Youth Alliance.
For tickets and more information, call (813) 719-0245 or email peggy@theyouthalliance.com.
+ Thompson named Gibbs High head coach
Plant City High assistant coach John Thompson will lead the St. Petersburg-Gibbs High football program next season, the school confirms.
After two years on the Plant City sideline, Thompson will become the Gladiators’ fifth head coach in eight seasons. He is also in the process of becoming a full-time teacher at the school.
+ SCHS Chargers holding fundraiser
The Strawberry Crest High football team is getting started on one of its early offseason goals: raising some money any way it can.
The program is asking friends and families for support.
“Running a top-notch program takes a lot of time and energy from coaches, players and families, but none of it is possible without community support,” John Kelly, head coach, said in an email release. “Your donation ensures that our athletes will continue to have the best tools and equipment available to help them perform at the highest level.”
The team hopes to raise $6,000 by Friday, May 8, through its Hudl page, ow.ly/Lzxst.
TRACK & FIELD
+ PCHS sends 12 to regionals
A strong performance at the district championships helped the Plant City High track and field team send 12 to next week’s regionals meet.
Both teams recorded top-three finishes in the district tournament, with the Lady Raiders placing second and the boys taking third.
Individual Results:
Tychina Bush — first place, discus and shot put
Ken Kahari Green — second place, discus
Jackson Hardee — second place, pole vault (tied)
Wesley Weaver — third place, triple jump
Hannah Stowe — fourth place, 800 open
Regionals will be held at Wharton High School, 20150 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Tampa, Wednesday, April 22. The start time has yet to be determined.
