Small Schools Up For Big Challenge in 2A District 15

Any team in 2A District 15 could win the title and make a long run in May come playoff time.

Miami Brito and Miami Christian are two programs that have battled it out in the playoffs the past two seasons. Now they find themselves in the same district. They will be joined by an up-and-coming Westwood Christian team looking to compete for the district crown. Princeton Christian is also moving into the district this season and looking to bounce back from a tough season last year.

Every coach in the district knows how competitive district games will be this spring.

“We want to face the best teams around to get ready for our district,” Westwood coach Luis Padron said. “We are playing every good team around.”

The teams from 2A District 15 will play a tough non-district schedule and face teams such as Florida Christian, Gulliver Prep, Belen Jesuit and Westminster Christian to better themselves.

Miami Brito Panthers

2011 Record: 25-7
Head Coach: Pedro Guerra
Key Returners: Bryan Hernandez, Ricky Vento, Henry Blanco, Andy Herrera, Richie Sotolongo, Marcos Bolaño
Newcomers to Watch: Cesar de la O, Edbert Dominguez, Diousany Boulet
Team Strengths: Pitching

Miami Brito Private is coming back from a great season that ended in a tough loss in the state finals. The program has plenty of history as it has made 10 state-final appearances and has come away with five state titles.

“Some schools are happy getting to the state game, but we just aren’t satisfied if we don’t win it all,” assistant coach Laz Fundora said.

Brito also has had talented players go through its program in the past, such as Miami Marlin Gaby Sanchez and 2010 Baltimore Orioles first-round pick Manny Machado. Head coach Pedro Guerra feels that it is no different this year.

“What I like about this team the most is that we only have five seniors,” Guerra said. “We are a young but a deep team, and I feel confident that anyone off the bench can go out and get the job done.”

The team returns its leading hitter from last season, shortstop Andy Herrera. Also coming back are their two top pitchers, Ricky Vento and Richie Sotolongo.

Our season will be a success if….

“We are able to come together as a team and win a state championship.” assistant coach Laz Fundora

Miami Christian Victors

2011 Record: 20-10
Head Coach: Willie Vazquez
Key Returners: Brian Gonzalez, David Cantero, Richard Barbela, Frank De Izaguerra
Team Strengths: Pitching and team speed

Miami Christian is ready to get back to work. For the past two seasons, the Victors have won their district but lost to Miami Brito in the playoffs. This year, coach Willie Vazquez is looking to get over the hump and reach the team’s ultimate goal of winning a state title.

“We are a small team, but our kids are scrappy and play with a lot of heart,” head coach Willie Vazquez said.

Our season will be a success if….

“If our pitching holds up, we will be fine. You can always find a way to score some runs, but pitching will be key for us.”

Princeton Christian Panthers

2011 Record: 1-12
Head Coach: Johnny Lopez
Key Returners: Elias Blanco, Over Seijas, William Doering
Team Strengths: Hitting

After not having a great season last year, coach Johnny Lopez is looking to turn things around. The team will need to stay healthy this season because injuries played a large role in the teams struggles last year.

“We have been young for several years now,” Lopez said. “We are really looking forward to seeing what these guys can do now that they are older and more experienced.”

Our season will be a success if….

“We are able to stay healthy throughout the season, and the kids go out there every game, play hard and have fun.”

Westwood Christian Warriors

2011 Record: 12-13
Head Coach: Luis Padron
Key Returners: Jean-Carlos Cardenas, Anthony Peñas
Newcomers to Watch: Danny Garcia, Jose Suarez
Team Strengths: Speed and defense

The Westwood Warrior program is fairly new. Head coach Luis Padron believes this is the year they can start to make some history. Coach Padron will need his shortstop, Jean-Carlos Cardenas, and third baseman, Anthony Peñas, to step up and take on a leadership role for his young team. For many of these players, it will be the first time they play at the varsity level.

Coach Padron believes that this season already has been a success.

“We currently have seven kids committed to play for college programs, and that is what is most important to us,” Padron said. “We teach these kids the fundamentals, but also take academics seriously because getting an education and going to college is more important.”

Our season will be a success if….

“We work hard, have fun, and are able to win the district title.”

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