Introduction - North Fort Myers High School

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Introduction
Since it opened as a junior-senior high school in 1960, North Fort Myers High
School athletics has developed into one of the most storied programs of Southwest Florida.
North has had many notable alums that have gone on to excel on the highest of athletic stages.
The school boasts Deion Sanders (baseball, football), Mike Greenwell (baseball), and Jevon
Kearse (football) as just a few of its most recognized graduates. And while they may have gone
on to successful professional careers, they do not represent all the great athletes that have
accomplished much more at NFMHS.
As I took over the job as Athletic Director in 2008, one noticeable omission to the vast
history of North High was the lack of a collection of records. In no one place could there be
found the rich history of athletics, the written accomplishments of its athletes, or the
championships that have been won by such an amazing school. With every passing question
about “who holds the record for….” or, “is this the best team we’ve ever had…” the need for a
record book gained ever more importance. From the coaches to the athletes themselves, the men
and women who have been a part of this school are growing older and passing on, and with
them, the records of their achievements have been forgotten. This record book is intended to
recapture some of the accomplishments that have been forgotten in annals of history, and
celebrate the coaches and athletes that have succeeded as representatives of North Fort Myers
High School.
To develop a record book to be as accurate as possible, there were many strategies
implemented in order to obtain the information. Research began with a look into the school
yearbooks. The yearbooks would provide a foundation from which further research could be
gathered. It was an accessible resource where information about coaches, players, and sports
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could be found. For example, it laid out when individual sports first began. Knowing that girls’
soccer did not exist at North prior to 1993 gave me clues as to where to begin finding the
information I was looking for. There would be no need to look for statistics from seasons prior
to that year. It also gave a quick synopsis as to how long a coach’s tenure was for a sport and if
the seasons were successful. On rare occasions, the yearbook provided the season records for the
teams. In a short time span, a lot of knowledge could be gathered that may be useful. Yearbooks
were a tool by which I could begin the process of finding records.
The next step was to interview the coaches, both past and present. They were the ones
that have been through the games and the seasons. They would have first hand knowledge of the
best players, the best teams, and the interesting anecdotes to go along with it. This could help
narrow the search for the records I was trying to put together. In some cases, the coach had been
a part of the program for numerous years and had vital information to pass along to me. For
example, the track records had been passed down from coach to coach. Track would normally
be very hard to find by myself. The fact that the coach had those records brings validity to the
facts in this book.
A very important resource was also discovered during this process. The official website
for the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) had the state playoff history of each
sport. I was able to research exactly what each team sport did in the playoffs after districts, as
well as the score of each game. For individualized sports, the FHSAA website had all the state
champions and team finishes. I was able to retrieve how the school had done in the state
playoffs since it opened in 1960. Before this discovery, no one knew the number of state
champions the school has produced. Now we know the number is 12.
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Trophies were also used to find the long history of North Fort Myers athletics. While the
FHSAA website was helpful for finding those teams that were able to move on to the state
championship series, it did not help in finding conference championships or district runner-up
finishes. The trophy case, and storage closet, provided ample information as to the success of
the athletic programs at North.
Lastly, microfiche from the old editions of the News-Press were gathered and viewed to
fill in the holes where the other forms of research fell short. It was a painstaking process, but
rewarded with valuable information that helps validate this record book. First articles about the
athletic teams helped gain insight into the early struggles of the school to gain recognition and
prominence in Southwest Florida.
While the process of gathering facts for this project was well thought out, there are many
challenges that must be acknowledged. The first problem arose with the absence of several
yearbooks. From the first 11 years of existence, 5 year books were not accounted for in the
school’s collection. It was later discovered that the first year of existence for North Fort Myers
Junior-Senior High did not create a yearbook. With the absence of yearbooks comes the absence
of knowledge that could have been used in completing this project. It made for further work in
gathering when some sports programs, like wrestling, actually began. The information was not
always completely accurate as well. The wrong names of opponents in football were caught a
few times when information differed between the yearbooks and the newspaper. There was also
the complete omission of a game altogether. I decided to side with the newspaper on these
occasions. Misspelling of athletes’ names also occurred from the yearbooks. The most recent
editions of the yearbooks actually provided the smallest amount of information as most were
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picture collages as opposed to information about the team. Luckily, many coaches are still
around working at the school that could help fill in the blanks.
However, the lack of record keeping in the past posed a threat. While some coaches were
very beneficial in providing accurate statistics, many coaches had never kept track of individual
statistics of points, rebounds, runs, aces, and so forth. Where I thought I would get a plethora of
facts became some useful information but not as much as I had hoped. Most coaches had thrown
away their stats, never turned them into the athletic office, or just didn’t have them anymore.
This meant more research would need to be done using other sources. A frustrating occurrence
happened in the sport of football. The first coaches in the sport had kept meticulous stats, both
team and individual. Two years ago the field house had flooded numerous times, destroying
forever many years of statistics. If the record book had been done sooner, this information
would not have been lost. The most storied program in the school had lost some of its most
treasured history.
The FHSAA website also provided some challenges. While much of the information was
great and reliable, it was not as in depth as I would have preferred. For most team sports, the
state only kept track of the top ten place finishers. While this is understandable, North has sent
many teams and individuals to compete in the state meet, only not finishing in the top ten. For
individuals, we have had top 10 finishers individually, but those records are not kept. There is a
void of second through tenth. If we had a second place finisher, I would have liked to have
added this information into this record book. As it stands, only wrestling has runner up finishes
represented in the record book for individuals.
The trophies that were studied proved of great worth to this project, but several trophies,
especially conference, negated to have the year engraved on them. While it is great to know that
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basketball won a conference championship, it needs to have a year to add validity and relevance
in the record book. Also, it is not known how many trophies or plaques have been discarded
prior to my arrival as Athletic Director. The conference does not have a record on file of past
champions.
I realize that this is not a complete history of North Fort Myers Athletics. However, it is
a starting point from which further information may be added. It is by no means a finished
product as others may come forth with new information that should be added to the record book.
The intention is that this will serve the purpose of acknowledging the great history of the
program, teach those in the future about the proud tradition of the school, and provide motivation
for future athletes to achieve greatness. I hope that this will be passed down through the history
of North Fort Myers as the definitive source of North High records.
Ladies and Gentlemen, the History of North Fort Myers High Athletics….
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FALL SPORTS
Noel Devine (2004-2007) holds the most school records with 8.
He also holds the Lee County record for career rushing yards
and career touchdowns.
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BOYS’ CROSS COUNTRY
The first Boys’ Cross Country team in 1972, coached by future
principal of North, Steve DeShazo. The sport’s popularity has grown
since then.
The Boys’ Cross Country team began in 1972 and went several years as a small program. While
they had minor success for the first 10 years, the school was able to produce a state champion
with Thomas Tisell in 1984. Several different people took the opportunity to coach the harriers,
but none could produce the results that the last decade has brought. The most successful era of
the boys’ program began in 1997 when Yancey Palmer took over the team. After being a cross
country runner as a student at North, he returned with determination to bring it to greatness.
Through his coaching, the mid 2000s produced the greatest amount of success for boys’ cross
country, including two conference championships and two top ten placements at the state meet.
Although Palmer resigned after the 2007 season, the program still is one of the strongest that
North Fort Myers High has to offer. His impact on the running sports at North High has been
tremendous.
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BOYS’ CROSS COUNTRY RECORDS
Inaugural Season 1972
Individual Records
Category
3 Mile
5K
Record
14:50
15:22
Athlete
Thomas Tisell
Thomas Tisell
Year
1984
1984
Person
15:08
Time
Thomas Tisell
Year
1984
Year
1989
Conference/District
District
Place
Champion
Classification
3A-6
1998
District
Runner Up
4A-7
2002
LCAC
Champion
2004
LCAC
District
Regional
Champion
Runner Up
Runner Up
State Champions
Class, Event
3A- 3 Miles
Team Records
Championships
3A-6
3A-3
Appearances at State Meet in the Top 10
Year
1989
Place
6th
Class
3A
2004
8th
3A
Yancey Palmer
2005
8th
3A
Yancey Palmer
Yancey Palmer, 2007
Coach
Frank Drake
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GIRLS’ CROSS COUNTRY
The first girls’ cross country runners were in 1977 but there were
not enough to form a complete team. The first team to be fielded
was in 1980 (picture above) and was coached by Melody (Mitchitell)
Madigan.
The Girls’ Cross Country team began with just two girls in 1977. The girls would train
with the boys but ran in the competitions against other girls since there was not enough interest
in forming a separate team. In the first conference meet for the girls, Page Dougherty placed 2nd.
It was in 1981 that proved to be the first year that North could field enough runners to qualify for
team competitions. Longtime coach Loretta Purish took the helm in 1986 and began to develop
the girls’ team into a consistent winner. Her name is now synonymous with running at North
Fort Myers High School as she has coached the girls cross country team for 23 years and
counting. As the program grew, so did the success. While the girls’ team consistently qualifies
for the state meet, the strongest era was in the late 1990s when Coach Purish led the Lady Red
Knights to two top ten finishes at the state meet. Recently, the school record for the 5K was
broken by multi-sport athlete Wally Rosario.
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GIRLS’ CROSS COUNTRY RECORDS
Inaugural Season 1977
Individual Records
Category
Record
Athlete
Year
5K
19:38.4
Sarah Pederson
2013
Year
1997
Conference/District
District
Regional
Place
Champion
Runner Up
Classification
4A-7
4A-2
1998
District
Runner Up
4A-7
Team Records
Championships
Appearances at State Meet in the Top 10
Year
1997
Place
9th
Class
4A
Coach
Loretta Purish
1998
8th
4A
Loretta Purish
Coach Loretta Purish, 1988
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FOOTBALL
This is the first picture of the North High Football team in 1962. It was a Junior-Senior
High, thus explaining the small stature of some of the players. Bobby George scored the
first touchdown in school history against Alva.
The foundation of the history of the athletic department can be traced to the football
program. During the first few seasons, the team did not do very well. However, when Ron
Hoover took over in 1968, the fortunes of the program, and the school, changed. Soon, the “Big
Red Machine” began winning games and dominating the area. The star player of the 1970s was
Johnny Long. Long was the first athlete to have his number retired (35) at North High in 1974.
The 1972 and 1973 teams are two of best teams the school has ever had by making it to the state
semi-finals. The mid-1980s brought another run to the state semifinals. Also, three North High
Hall of Fame members played during this time period (Warren Williams, Deion Sanders,
Richard Fain). Coach Hoover retired in 1986 compiling an amazing 117 wins. The mid to late
1990s also had strong seasons by making it to the playoffs 4 times in 6 years. The Hall of Fame
member Jevon Kearse played as part of the best football team North Fort Myers has ever had in
1994. In the 2000s, the individual performances of Noel Devine took center stage. Devine
would shatter all of North High’s records, as well as Lee County’s records, for a running back.
With his running ability, he led the school into their deepest playoff quest in 12 years in 2006.
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FOOTBALL RECORDS
Inaugural Season 1962
Individual Records
Category
Record
Athlete
Year
398 vs. Bishop Verot
6 vs. Riverdale
219 vs. Mariner
5 vs. Bishop Verot
6 vs. Golden Gate, Mariner
3 vs. Riverdale
142 vs. Island Coast
57 yds Senior All Star game
57 yds vs. Lakewood Ranch
Noel Devine
Noel Devine
Mike Nelson
Mike McKay
Tre Boston
Tre Boston
Tre Boston
Craig Coffin
Nathan O'Jibway
2005
2004
2008
1979
2008
2008
2009
2001
2005
2148
32
1686
22
43
11
736
40.0
8
56
10
12
96
Noel Devine
Noel Devine
Mike McKay
Mike McKay
Tre Boston
Pete Addison
Tre Boston
Monte Kirkland
L.A. Dewey
Nathan O'Jibway
Robert Jackson
Quenton Washington
Chris Gatewood
2006
2006
1979
1979
2008
1979
2008
1986
1987
2006
1979
2006
1997
Rushing Yards
Rushing TD's
Passing Yards
Passing TD's
Receptions
TD Receptions
Scoring
Total TD's
Most Field Goals
Most PATs
Solo Tackles
Sacks
Interceptions
6846
88
3,183
27
50
11
552 points
92
12
113
170
10
13
Noel Devine
Noel Devine
Tate Higginbotham
Mike McKay
James Foote
Pete Addison
Noel Devine
Noel Devine
Ron Albert
Nathan O'Jibway
Nick Mayant
Robert Jackson
Quenton Washington
2003-2006
2003-2006
1989-1991
1977-1979
1977-1978
1979
2003-2006
2003-2006
1977-1979
2003-2006
2004-2006
1979
2004-2006
Most Wins by a Coach
117-70-2
Ron Hoover
1968-79,81-86
Game
Rushing yards
Rushing TD's
Passing Yards
Passing TD's
Receptions
TD Receptions
Receiving Yards
Longest Field Goal
Longest Punt
Season
Rushing Yards
Rushing TD's
Passing Yards
Passing TD's
Receptions
TD Receptions
Receiving Yards
Punting Average
Most Field Goals
Most PATs
Most Sacks
Most interceptions
Solo Tackles
Career
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Hall of Fame
Member
Johnny Long
Warren Williams
Deion Sanders
Richard Fain
Jevon Kearse
Noel Devine
Number
35
44
10
84
25
7
Year Graduated
1974
1983
1985
1986
1995
2007
Inducted
1974
1988
1989
1991
1999
2015
Conference/District
Lee County
South Florida Conference
District
Regional
State Semifinalist
Place
Champion
Champion
Champion
Champion
Classification
Lee County
South Florida Conference
District
Regional
State Semifinalist
Champion
Champion
Champion
Champion
1974
Lee County
South Florida Conference
Champion
Champion
1975
Lee County
Champion
1976
Rotary Bowl
Champion
1979
Lee County
South Florida Conference
Sugar Bowl
Champion
Runner Up
Champion
1982
Lee County
Champion
Team Records
Championships
Year
1972
1973
1985
1986
1994
South Florida Conference
District
3A-4
3A-2
3A-4
3A-2
Champion
Champion
4A-10
Lee County
South Florida Conference
District
Regional
Sectional
State Semifinalist
Champion
Champion
Champion
Champion
Champion
4A-10
4A-2
4A-3
LCAC
District
Regional
Champion
Champion
Runner Up
5A-11
5A-3
14
1997
District
Champion
4A-14
1998
District
Champion
4A-14
1999
District
Runner Up
3A-10
2000
District
Champion
3A-10
2006
LCAC
District
Regional
Champion
Champion
Runner Up
5A-12
5A-4
Opponent
W/L, Score
Coach
Tarpon Springs
Glades Central
W 41-22
L 3-6
Ron Hoover
East Bay Gibsonton
Atlantic
W 26-14
L 0-6
Ron Hoover
Southeast (Bradenton)
L 9-31
Ron Hoover
Southeast (Bradenton)
Fort Pierce Central
Dillard
W 20-9
W 35-14
L 6-25
Ron Hoover
Jupiter
Jefferson
St. Thomas Aquinas
W 20-13
W 50-32
L 12-24
Booker (Sarasota)
L 7-41
Gregg Wicktor
Desoto County
L 7-28
Brian Makar
Fort Pierce Westwood
L 15-34
Brian Makar
Cardinal Gibbons
L 21-28
Brian Makar
Lakewood Ranch
Largo
Manatee
W 38-14
W 23-19
L 14-20
James Iandoli
12-1
1994
State Playoff History
Year, Class, Round
1972- 3A
District
Semifinal
1973- 3A
District
Semifinal
1985- 4A
District
1986- 4A
District
Regional
Sectional
1994- 5A
Semi-State First Round
Semi-State Second Round
Semi-State Semifinal
1997- 4A
Regional First Round
1998- 4A
Regional First Round
1999- 3A
Regional Quarterfinal
2000- 3A
Regional Quarterfinal
2006- 5A
Regional Quarterfinal
Regional Semifinal
Regional Final
Best Season
Wade
Hummel
Wade
Hummel
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BOYS’ GOLF
Boys’ Golf began in 1965 under the direction of Coach Richard
Fast. North no longer requires its players to wear ties.
The boys’ golf program began with a fast start. After two years at the varsity level, the
team brought home the first boys’ sport championship by winning the Coral Coast Conference
Championship in 1967. But postseason success has been few and far between. The best seasons
came in the early 1990s when the team was led by Captain George McNeill. McNeill was a
baseball player that eventually turned to golf. This turned into a great decision on his part as he
led the team to two conference championships. He also went on to earn his PGA tour card, and
in 2007 was inducted into the NFMHS Hall of Fame.
By far the biggest influence on the golf program was from the late Leroy Dewey. Coach
Dewey led the Red Knights for 30 years from 1974-2004. His constant presence gave stability to
the program. In his acceptance speech into the Hall of Fame, George McNeill accredited Coach
Dewey for inspiring him to pursue his dreams and for always being a great mentor.
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BOYS’ GOLF RECORDS
Inaugural Season 1965
Individual Records
Category
9 Hole Score
18 Hole Score
Record
34 at Coral Oaks CC
72 at Eastwood CC
Athlete
Joel Archer
Joel Archer
Year
2006
2006
Year Graduated
1993
Inducted
2007
Record
155
314
At Lochmoor
At Vineyards
Year
1989
1991
Year
1967
Conference/District
Coral Coast Conference
Place
Champions
1991-1992
LCAC
Champion
1992-1993
LCAC
Champion
Hall of Fame
Member
George McNeill
Team Records
Category
Team 9 Hole
Team 18 Hole
Championships
Hall of Fame Member George McNeill, 1993
Classification
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GIRLS’ GOLF
The Girls’ Golf team was first started back in 1974 under the
direction of future Athletic Director Bobbie Dewey.
The story of the girls’ golf team is unique in the history of North High. The inaugural
season was in 1974. It was created by Bobbie Dewey so that Lynda Brown would have an
opportunity to play other girls’ teams around the state. Coach Dewey recruited within the school
heavily to fill a squad. During this time period, the sport was recognized at the FHSAA level,
but there was only one classification for all the schools. After Brown graduated in 1976, the
team dissolved until 1994 when it became a full fledged varsity sport at the state level. Any girls
who wanted to play between the years of ’77-’93 was a member of the boy’s golf team including
practicing and playing matches against other schools. Since 1994, North has fielded a separate
girls’ golf team every year. Lynda Brown went on to earn her LPGA tour card and was able to
compete at the highest level of female golf. Because of this accomplishment, she was inducted
into the North High Hall of Fame in 1983.
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GIRLS’ GOLF RECORDS
Inaugural Season 1974
Individual Records
Category
9 Hole Score
18 Hole Score
Record
37 at Lochmoor
72 at Coral Oaks CC
Athlete
Cathy Sherron
Susan Conger
Year
2004
1991
Year Graduated
1976
Inducted
1983
Hall of Fame
Member
Lynda Brown
Team Records
Category
Team 9 Hole
Team 18 Hole
Record
181
Year
2008
Championships
Year
1975
Conference/District
District
Place
Runner Up
Hall of Fame Member Lynda Brown, 1974
Classification
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BOYS’ SWIMMING AND DIVING
The Boys’ Swimming and Diving team began in 1966, 2 years after the
girls team was formed. Doug Johnson took the duties as first head
coach.
The boy’s swimming and diving varsity program began in 1966. It is the only sport at
North Fort Myers where the girls’ counterpart was actually in place before the boys started.
There have been several great swimmers as part of the program. The mid 1970s produced
several good swimmers, but unfortunately that did not translate to team success. Diving was also
a big part of the program during that time. In fact, the diving records set during this time period
are still the standard. The 1990s also produced a few record times as two of our relays were set
in 1995. Most impressively, 4 records have fallen within the last 3 years as the newest crop of
swimmers make their mark at the school. The man who made the biggest mark on the swimming
program was Coach James Repp. He took over the program in 1971, and coached hundreds of
students during his 23 years as head of the program. His long tenure provided stability that some
of the programs in the school lack. Since 1997, Frank Drake has been in control, making
swimming very fortunate to have 2 coaches with over 10 years tenure.
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BOYS’ SWIMMING AND DIVING RECORDS
Inaugural Season 1966
Individual Records
Event
50 Free
100 Free
200 Free
100 Fly
100 Back
100 Breast
200 IM
500 Free
200 Medley Relay
Record
21.89
49.27
1:44.80
53.19
53.27
1:04.83
2:00.63
4:35.45
1:49.15
200 Free Relay
1:35.52
400 Free Relay
3:32.90
6 Dives
11 Dives
248.2
383.7
Coach James Repp, 1980
Athlete
Rafael Pena
Rafael Pena
Chad Senior
Rafael Pena
Chad Senior
Vladimir Pech
Chad Senior
Greg Bowser
Jason Alpen
Vladimir Pech
Pat Levitre
Brandon Goebelt
Jason Alpen
Vladimir Pech
Pat Levitre
Brandon Goebelt
Larry McComb
Rick Uhde
Bruce Carver
Douglas England
Year
2006
2006
1992
2006
1992
1995
1992
2008
1995
Robert Gould
Jeff Donham
1974
1975
1995
1975
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GIRLS’ SWIMMING AND DIVING
The Girls’ Swimming and Diving team is the only sport where NFMHS
had a girls' team before a boys. They began in 1964 under the
direction of Carol Richards.
The girls’ swimming and diving program was the first women’s varsity program at North
High in 1964 and produced immediately. The program came through in 1966 winning the
schools first ever championship when it won the Class A-4 district title. Not only did they win
the district title, the girls went on to place 4th place in the entire state. No other swim team in
school history, male or female, has placed at the state meet. Three girls dominate the swimming
records books. Sue Piercy dismantled the record book when she swam for the Lady Red Knights
during the late 1970s. She still holds three individual records, and is a part of two record holding
relays that still stand over 30 years later. In the mid 1990s Katie Decker came along and broke
numerous records as well. She also still holds three individual records and was a part of one
relay record. Andrea Vanderplaats ended the 1990s by swimming her way to the Red Knight,
and FHSAA record books. She currently holds five individual school records (and with Decker
on a relay), but is also the only state champion in swimming for NFMHS.
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GIRLS’ SWIMMING AND DIVING RECORDS
Inaugural Season 1964
Individual Records
Event
50 Free
100 Free
200 Free
100 Fly
100 Back
100 Breast
200 IM
500 Free
200 Medley Relay
Record
24.94
55.83
1:56.87
1:00.23
1:02.77
1:06.77
2:12.41
4:59.00
2:01.00
Athlete
Andrea Vanderplaats
Andrea Vanderplaats
Andrea Vanderplaats
Andrea Vanderplaats
Sue Piercy
Katie Decker
Katie Decker
Andrea Vanderplaats
Beth Branson
Kathy Peschel
Melinda Edmonds
Sue Piercy
Rebecca Hays
Gina Meehan
Natalie Buechl
Anna Brooks
Melinda Edmonds
Fran Interbartolo
Dianne Piercy
Sue Piercy
Year
1996
1998
1996
1999
1978
1995
1996
1999
1977
200 Free Relay
1:49.59
400 Free Relay
4:01.01
6 Dives
11 Dives
216
350.12
Christine Haefele
Christine Haefele
1990
1989
Time
04:59.0
Athlete
Andrea Vanderplaats
Year
1999
Year
1966
Conference/District
District
Place
Champion
Classification
A- 4
1979
South Florida Conference
Champion
2014
1978
State Champions
Class, Event
2A- 500 Freestyle
Team Records
Championships
Appearances in State Series Top 10
Year
1966
Place
4th Place
Class
A
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VOLLEYBALL
The first varsity Volleyball team to take the court for North was in 1977.
Before then, it was a GAA sport. During the first few seasons the team was
coached by Vera Mitchell.
The first year GAA sports gained varsity status in the state of Florida was the inaugural
season for volleyball. Since then, the program has struggled to gain in prominence. One of the
main reasons for the lack of success has been the inconsistency at the coaching helm. Where
many of the sports have had long tenured careers that can reach 20 or 30 years leading the team,
volleyball has never had a coach stay on board for more than 3 years at a time. With the lack of
stability, it has been hard to develop the team chemistry. A highlight in the program came in the
20th varsity season of volleyball at North High. In 1997, they won districts for the first time in
school history. They then went on to win their first playoff game and reach the regional
semifinal. However, things are looking up for the Lady Red Knights. Under the direction of
Jeremy Ridgeo, the team has improved greatly in just the last two years.
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VOLLEYBALL RECORDS
Inaugural Season 1976
Individual Records
Category
Record
Athlete
Year
366
670
101
123
298
Jessica Wagner
Susie McKeever
Heather Getman
Jessica Wagner
Breanna Anderson
2012
2012
2012
2012
2006
Most Kills
Most Assists
Most Aces
Most Blocks
Most Digs
812
1,693
164
310
462
Jessica Wagner
Susie McKeever
Kayla Ramey
Jessica Wagner
Miranda Ashby
2009-2012
2008-2012
2006-2008
2009-2012
2008-2012
Most Wins by a Coach
62-56
Jeremy Ridgeo
2007-2012
Conference/District
District
District
Place
Champion
Champion
Classification
4A-14
5A-13
Opponent
Sebring
Cardinal Gibbons
W/L, Score
W 15-3, 15-11
L 10-15, 3-15
Estero
Lely
W 25-17, 25-9, 2514
W 25-10, 25-17,
25-18
L 20-25, 25-22, 1325, 18-25
Season
Most Kills
Most Assists
Most Aces
Most Blocks
Most Digs
Career
Team Records
Championships
Year
1997
2012
State Playoff History
Year, Class, Round
1997- 4A
Regional Quarterfinal
Regional Semifinal
2012 - 5A
Regional Quarterfinal
Regional Semifinal
Jensen Beach
Regional Final
Best Season
21-5
Jeremy Ridgeo, 2008
2012
Coach
Alexandra Konstanti
25
WINTER SPORTS
Ramico Blackmon (1988-1991) holds the school record with
47 wins in a season. He went 47-1, with his only loss coming
in the state finals. He went onto become the 2001 US National
Champion at 152 lbs.
26
BOYS’ BASKETBALL
Boys’ Basketball first varsity season was 1962-63 (coached my Max
Carroll), but they played a split schedule against some other juniorsenior high schools. This picture, of the 1964 team, was the first of
a complete varsity team (coached by Robert Bruce).
The boys’ basketball team began in 1962 on the outdoor courts at North Fort Myers High
School. The first few years brought about decent success because in 1965 the team placed 3rd in
the White Sands Conference. This is the first known accomplishment (and trophy) for North as
it had a budding athletic program. There have been two great coaches for North, Joe Jackson in
the 1970s and Levon Simms for the 1980s and most of the 1990s. Jackson led the cagers to their
first conference championship. Led by all time leading scorer Larry Mansfield, and future
school Hall of Fame member Brad Branson, the squad earned a mark of 21-5, best in school
history. Jackson was named conference coach of the year for his efforts as well. Simms coached
from 1982-1997 and his teams were known for their scoring. Led by Deion Sanders, who set a
school records for points in a season, the team brought home the school’s only district
championship, boys or girls, for basketball in 1985. This season began the best string of seasons
in boys’ team history as the late 1980s brought about 1 district title and 3 runner up finishes.
Simms finished his career as the all-time leader in wins for any sport at North High (153).
27
BOYS’ BASKETBALL RECORDS
Inaugural Season 1962
Individual Records
Category
Record
Athlete
Year
41 vs. Riverdale
21 vs. Naples
6 vs. ECS
9 vs. East Lee County
7 vs. Cape Coral
4 vs. Mariner
4 vs. Labelle
Deion Sanders
Dustin Farr
David Devereaux
Tre Boston
Earnest Brown
Michael Malaise
Brent Shuman
1985
2006
2006
2009
2007
2007
2007
Most Points
Most Rebounds
Most 3 PT Shots made
606
273
47
1984-1985
2006-2007
2006-2007
Most Assists
Most Steals
Blocked Shots
94
44
18
Deion Sanders
Dustin Farr
David Devereaux
Quenton
Washington
Tre Boston
Michael Malaise
1974-76
2005-2008
2005-2007
Game
Most Points
Most Rebounds
Most 3 PT Shots made
Most Assists
Most Steals
Blocked Shots
Season
2005-2006
2008-2009
2008-2009
Career
Most Points
Most Rebounds
Most 3 PT Shots made
753
579
126
Most Assists
Most Steals
Blocked Shots
124
85
34
Larry Mansfield
Dustin Farr
David Devereaux
Quenton
Washington
Dustin Farr
Michael Malaise
Most Wins by a Coach
153-139
Levon Simms
1982-97
Number
50
Year Graduated
1976
Inducted
1981
Year
1965
Conference/District
White Sands Conference
Place
3rd Place
Classification
1976
South Florida Conference
Champion
1985
District
Champion
3A-12
1987
District
Runner Up
3A-12
2004-2006
2005-2008
2006-2009
Hall Of Fame
Member
Brad Branson
Team Records
Championships
28
1988
District
Runner Up
3A-12
1989
District
Runner Up
3A-12
1993
District
Runner Up
3A-12
State Playoff History
Year, Class, Round
1985- 3A
Regional
Opponent
W/L, Score
Coach
Lakewood (St. Petersburg)
L 71-85
Levon Simms
Best Season
21-5
1976
Joe Jackson
Coach Levon Simms, 1990
29
GIRLS’ BASKETBALL
The former GAA sport, Girls’ Basketball, finally reached varsity status in
Florida, and at North, for the 1976-77 season. The inaugural season was
coached by Vera Mitchell.
The girls’ basketball team has had a series of setbacks similar to the volleyball program.
No one person has remained coach for a long period of time. However, the Lady Red Knights
have recently been the most consistent winners that the school has produced. In the mid 1980s,
the Lady Red Knights had the most prolific scorer in school history when Shannon Graham
scored almost 1500 points during her career. The best all around player was Ashley Kelty who
played for North during the early 2000s. She currently holds many season and career records.
Taking over the program in 2005, Coach Kathy Padilla has brought much needed stability to the
program. The 2007-2008 campaign brought the most successful season in school history when
the team went 19-7. The 2008-2009 version finally got over the hump when it made it to the
district final after knocking off the defending state champ, Barron Collier. It marked the first
time in 24 years that any North basketball team made the state playoffs.
30
GIRLS’ BASKETBALL RECORDS
Inaugural Season
1976-1977
Individual Records
Category
Record
Athlete
Year
51 vs. Barron Collier
18 vs. Mariner
18 vs. Cape
18 vs. Desoto
6 vs. Cypress Lake
10 vs. Cape
10. vs. Island Coast
Shannon Graham
Ashley Kelty
Sasha Ruiz-Lopez
Garielle Edwards
Tynequia Roberts
Machera Calhoun
Machera Calhoun
1992
2003
2012
2010
2006
2010
2010
15 vs. Cape Coral
7 vs. Estero
7 vs. Fort Myers
Ashley Kelty
Jessica Wagner
Jessica Wagner
2002
2011
2011
Most Points
Most Rebounds
Most 3 Pt Shots made
593
286
29
Ashley Kelty
Ashley Kelty
Ashley Kelty
2001-2002
2001-2002
200-2003
Most Assists
Most Steals
Blocked Shots
106
129
61
Machera Calhoun
Ashley Kelty
Jessica Wagner
2009-2010
2002-2003
2010-2011
Most Points
Most Rebounds
Most 3 PT Shots made
1486
548
71
Shannon Graham
Ashley Kelty
Tynequia Roberts
1990-1993
2001-2003
2005-2008
Most Assists
283
Machera Calhoun
2006-2010
Most Steals
262
Machera Calhoun
2006-2010
Blocked Shots
97
Jessica Wagner
2009-2012
Most Wins by a Coach
Milestone
106-64
100th Win
Kathy Padilla
Kathy Padilla
2005-2012
1/20/2012
Year
Conference/ District
Place
Classification
1980
South Florida Conference
Champion
2009
District
Runner Up
5A-15
2012
District
Champion
5A-13
Game
Most Points
Most Rebounds
Most 3-PT Shots Made
Most Assists
Most Steals
Most Blocked Shots
Season
Career
Team Records
Championships
31
State Playoff History
Year, Class, Round
2009- 5A
Regional Quarterfinal
Opponent
W/L, Score
Coach
Dillard
L 38-70
Kathy Padilla
2012 - 5A
Regional Quarterfinal
Regional Semifinal
Golden Gate
W 43-34
Kathy Padilla
Estero
L 40-46
Best Season
21-5
Most Wins
2009-2010
32
BOYS’ SOCCER
Boys Soccer is the 10th, and latest, male varsity sport to be added. Coached
in its inaugural season by Lee Werst, the team played their first game
during the 1984-85 school year.
The addition of boys’ soccer has proved to be a place of great pride and excellence for
North Fort Myers High. Since its inception into the athletic department during the 1984-85
school year, it has been the most successful program. With 5 district championships and 6
runner up finishes, it has made the state playoffs more in the past 25 years than any other team.
There have been two outstanding coaches that have been the backbone of the squad. Calvin
Hamilton was the first coach to lead the Red Knights into the state playoffs in the late 1990s on a
consistent basis. His overall winning record proves his success as a head coach. Doug Palow
took over as the 21st century began and he has continued the winning tradition at North in boys’
soccer. During his tenure, the team has 2 district titles and has been runner up three times. He
became only the fourth coach to surpass the 100 wins total at North (Hoover, Simms, and
Ferreira) when the team beat East Lee County in 2009. The best team North has produced was
in 2005-2006 when the team amassed 19 wins and made it to the regional final.
33
BOYS’ SOCCER RECORDS
Inaugural Season
1984-1985
Individual Records
Category
Record
Athlete
Year
46
166
17
14
84
Doug Clark
Brock Ferguson
JJ Bishop
Brock Ferguson
Doug McKeever
1999-2000
2006-2007
2001-2002
2006-2007
2003-2004
Goals
Saves
Assists
Shut Outs
Games Started
Shots
??
530
29
45
97
170
Doug Clark
Brock Ferguson
Max Pavy
Brock Ferguson
Troy Zellman
Max Pavy
1998-2000
2003-2007
2002-2006
2003-2007
2003-2007
2002-2006
Coach with the Most Wins
101-60-25
Doug Palow
2001-2009
Year
1989
Conference/District
District
Place
Runner Up
Classification
3A-11
1991
District
Runner Up
3A-11
1996
District
Champion
5A-11
1997
District
Runner Up
5A-11
1998
District
Regional
Champion
Runner Up
4A-15
4A-1
1999
District
Champion
4A-15
2002
District
Runner Up
3A-13
2003
District
Runner Up
3A-13
2005
District
District
5A-12
2006
LCAC
District
Champion
Runner Up
5A-15
District
Champion
5A-15
Season
Goals
Saves
Assists
Shut Outs
Shots
Career
Team Records
Championships
2007
34
State Playoff History
Year, Class, Round
1996- 5A
Regional Quarterfinal
Regional Semifinal
Regional Final
1997- 5A
Regional Quarterfinal
1998- 4A
Regional Quarterfinal
Regional Semifinal
Regional Final
1999- 4A
Regional Quarterfinal
Regional Semifinal
2002- 3A
Regional Quarterfinal
2003- 3A
Regional Quarterfinal
2005- 3A
Regional Quarterfinal
2006- 5A
Regional Quarterfinal
Regional Semifinal
Regional Final
2007- 5A
Regional Quarterfinal
Regional Semifinal
Best Season
Opponent
W/L, Score
Coach
Barron Collier
Dunedin
Martin County
W 1-0
W 3-1
L 3-4
Calvin Hamilton
Naples
L 4-5
Calvin Hamilton
Key West
Rockledge
Jesuit (Tampa)
W 1-0
W 3-2
L 0-3
Calvin Hamilton
Monsignor Pace
Rockledge
W 2-1
L 2-3
Calvin Hamilton
Fort Myers
L 2-3 (OT)
Doug Palow
Lely
L 2-5
Doug Palow
Lakewood Ranch
L 1-2
Doug Palow
St. Thomas Aquinas
Bayside
Fort Myers
W 1-0 (PK 3-1)
W 2-1
L 0-1
Doug Palow
Nova (Davie)
West Boca Raton
W 2-1
L 1-2
Doug Palow
19-6-3
Regional Finalist
2005-2006
Coach Doug Palow, 2007
35
GIRLS’ SOCCER
The 19th, and final, varsity sport to be added at North High was Girls’
Soccer back in 1993. Richard Weatherwax led the girls as they
competed for the school for the first time.
The most recent sport to be added to the varsity ranks at North was girls’ soccer. The
Lady Red Knights began their first season playing on Moody Field in 1993-1994. The team
experienced growing pains during the first few seasons as the program became established,
similar to all the team sports at North. By their fifth campaign, things had turned around for the
squad. Under the direction of Coach Alan Coffin, the team won its first of two consecutive
district championships in 1998. The team dominated through district play in 1999 helping secure
the last championship in girl’s soccer in 1999. The team would once again make the playoffs in
2002. The greatest period of success happened under the tenure of Coach Coffin. He had helped
turn the girls’ program into respectability and into champions. New Coach Donna Agostinelli
has taken the helm recently and has begun the rebuilding process again. The greatest goal scorer
North has produced is Mariah Fernandez. She was a 4 year varsity letter winner and scored a
school record 64 goals during her career.
36
GIRLS’ SOCCER RECORDS
Inaugural Season
1993-1994
Individual Records
Category
Record
Athlete
Year
32
146
6
12
101
Melinda Lukas
Alexis Schlotter
Darian Leschewski
Amy Pavy
Melinda Lukas
2010-2011
2006-2007
2013-2014
2012-2013
2010-2011
Goals
103
Melinda Lukas &
Darian Leschewski
2009-2013
2010-2014
Saves
Assists
Shut Outs
Shots
227
21
12
214
Brianna Abatisti
Melinda Lukas
Amy Pavy
Melinda Lukas
2007-2009
2009-2013
2012-2013
2009-2013
Most Wins by a Coach
68-46-12
Donna Agostinelli
2007-2013
Year
1998
Conference/District
District
Place
Champion
Classification
4A-15
1999
District
Champion
4A-15
2002
District
Runner Up
3A-13
Opponent
W/L, Score
Coach
Key West
L 0-1
Alan Coffin
Cardinal Gibbons
Astronaut
W 3-0
L 3-4 (OT)
Alan Coffin
Fort Myers
L 0-10
Alan Coffin
16-5-1
Regional
Semifinalist
2012-2013
Season
Goals
Saves
Assists
Shut Outs
Shots
Career
Team Records
Championships
State Playoff History
Year, Class, Round
1998- 4A
Regional Quarterfinal
1999- 4A
Regional Quarterfinal
Regional Semifinal
2002- 3A
Regional Quarterfinal
Best Season
37
WRESTLING
Wrestling took hold at North in 1972. This is the first team photo in
1972, as they were coached by Mike Gorton.
The sports program with the most state championships at North High is wrestling. They
have produced 5 titles, as well as 4 finalist finishes during their time as a varsity program.
Heading the program for the past 29 years has been Frank Drake. Coach Drake has been a part
of every wrestling state championship the school has ever won. Arguably the best wrestler North
has ever produced did not even win a state title. In 1991, Ramico Blackmon won every match
except for the state final. He ended the year 47-1. The wrestler with the most career victories is
Chris Harrington with 124. He was also a piece of the greatest era for wrestling at North: the
early to mind 1990s. During this time period, the school won three district championships, three
conference championships, and placed third at the state meet in 1995. They also had 4 individual
state champions. At the height of the program, North was known as the premier wrestling school
in SW Florida.
38
WRESTLING RECORDS
Inaugural Season 1972
Individual Records
Category
Record
Athlete
Year
103
112
119
125
130
135
140
145
152
160
171
189
215
275
51-18
60-29
30-5
87-28
94-17
52-33
90-32
103-12
67-36
63-30
124-13
67-36
43-21
32-9
Shawn Earhart
Paul Hill
Jack Long
Jason Phillips
Raymond Worsham
Corey Snow
Brett Rudland
Ramico Blackmon
Matt Seneca
Matt Turner
Chris Harrington
Matt Sposato
Levi Mooney
Damian Davis
1984-1986
1991-1994
1982-1983
1992-1995
1988-1991
1991-1994
1992-1995
1988-1991
1991-1994
1993-1996
1993-1996
1999-2002
1981-1982
1998-1999
Wins in a Season
Pins in a Season
Fastest Pin
Career Wins
Takedowns in a season
Most Times A State Qualifier
47
36
9 Seconds
124
165
3
Ramico Blackmon
Chris Harrington
Shane Gray
Chris Harrington
Ramico Blackmon
Chris Harrington
1991
1995
1992
1993-1996
1991
1994-1996
Weight Class
105
Classification
3A
Athlete
Shawn Earhart
Year
1986
125
5A
Jason Phillips
1995
130
3A
Raymond Worsham
1991
140
5A
Brett Rudland
1995
171
5A
Chris Harrington
1995
Classification
3A
3A
5A
5A
Athlete
Jack Long
Ramico Blackman
Matt Turner
Chris Kelly
Year
1983
1991
1996
1997
Weight Class
State Champions
State Runner's Up
Weight Class
119
145
160
39
National Champion
152
USA
Ramico Blackmon
2001
Year
1991
Conference/District
LCAC
Place
Champion
Classification
1992
District
Champion
3A-12
1993
LCAC
District
Champion
Champion
3A-12
1994
LCAC
Champion
1995
District
Champion
Year
1995
Place
3rd
Class
5A
Best Season
1995
3rd Place in State
Team Records
Championships
5A-10
Appearances in State Series Top 10
Coach Frank Drake, 1981
3 State
Champions
40
SPRING SPORTS
Thomas Tisell (1982-85) is the most decorated high
school athlete to roam the North Fort Myers campus.
He was a four-time state champion, representing 36%
of all the state championships North has won in its 50
year history.
41
BASEBALL
Baseball has grown into one of the most prestigious programs at North. This
picture, taken in 1962, is the first varsity edition of the squad. They were
coached by Max Carroll.
Along with football, the North High baseball program is the most well known from the
school. There have been four Red Knights that have gone on to play for teams in the Major
Leagues and there are five members in the Hall of Fame. (One of North’s best young prospects,
Joey Cross, was tragically killed in a boating accident in 1982. His number has been retired
along with the 4 others who have made MLB.) Yet interestingly enough, these Hall of Fame
members are not the players with the best seasons in the history of North (according to batting
average, home runs, strikeouts, and ERA). While the baseball team has been filled with great
players, it not always has led to the most success on the field as a team. Surprisingly, there was a
17 year gap between district championships. With all of their wins, they could not quite get
through one of the toughest districts in the state to make the state playoffs. Ted Ferreira was the
coach with the longest tenure, and has the most wins as he coached the Red Knights from 19741988.
42
BASEBALL RECORDS
Inaugural Season 1962
Individual Records
Category
Record
Athlete
Year
.548
.547
43
41
12
12
5
5
10
9
25
24
26
25
30
28
Johnny Long
Garry Kamphouse
Mike Greenwell
Garry Kamphouse
Matt Stanford
Jeremy Rockow
Rolando Carillo
Mike Greenwell
Vic Ferrara
Jeremy Rockow
Jay Noel
Donald Lindsey
Tommy Bohanon
Casey Yarborough
Cory Hockinson
Rusty Brown
1974
1992
1981
1992
1993
1995
1980
1981
1996
1996
1989
1990
2008
1989
1999
1999
Wins
10
Cliff Garlick
1990
Strikeouts
145
130
David Dickens
David Dickens
1976
1975
E.R.A. (min Inning/game played)
.79
Cliff Garlick
1990
.88
David Dickens
1976
82
18
9
15
13
33
Mike Greenwell
Garry Kamphouse
Rolando Carillo
David Kenna
Vic Ferrara
Donald Lindsey
1980-81
1991-1992
1980-81
1992-96
1992-1996
1989-1990
19
275
1.43
Cliff Garlick
David Dickens
David Dickens
1990-1991
1975-1976
1975-1976
Ted Ferreira
1974-1988
Season- Hitting
Batting Average
Hits
Doubles
Triples
Home Runs
Stolen Bases
Runs Batted In
Walks
Season- Pitching
Career- Hitting
Batting Average
Hits
Doubles
Triples
Home Runs
Stolen Bases
Runs Batted In
Walks
Career- Pitching
Wins
Strikeouts
E.R.A. (min Inning/game played)
Most Wins by a Coach
43
Hall Of Fame
Member
Joey Cross
Mike Greenwell
Deion Sanders
Jon Huber
Jim Miller
Number
11
02
10
22
25
Year Graduated
XX
1982
1985
2000
2000
Inducted
1982
1985
1989
2008
2008
Year
1966
Conference/District
District
Place
Champion
Classification
A-7
1967
Coral Coast Conference
Champion
1968
District
Champion
A-7
1970
District
Runner Up
A-6
1972
Coral Coast Conference
District
Champion
Runner Up
3A-6
1976
South Florida Conference
Champion
1980
South Florida Conference
District
Regional
Sectional
State Semifinalist
Champion
Champion
Champion
Champion
3A-12
3A-6
3A-6
South Florida Conference
District
Champion
Champion
3A-12
South Florida Conference
District
Champion
Runner Up
3A-12
LCAC
District
Champion
Runner Up
3A-12
1991
LCAC
Champion
1994
LCAC
Champion
1998
District
Champion
4A-14
1999
District
Champion
4A-14
2000
District
Champion
4A-12
2002
District
Runner Up
5A-11
Team Records
Team Championships
1981
1988
1990
44
State Playoff History
Year, Class, Round
1966- A
Regional
1968- A
Regional
1980- 3A
Regional
Sectional
Semifinal
1981- 3A
Regional
1998- 4A
Regional Quarterfinal
Regional Semifinal
1999- 4A
Regional Quarterfinal
Regional Semifinal
2000- 4A
Opponent
W/L, Score
Coach
Boca Raton
L 0-6
Robert Bruce
Martin County
L 2-4
Robert Bruce
Jesuit (Tampa)
Auburndale
Bishop Kenny
W 4-3
W 8-4
L 0-6
Ted Ferreira
Tampa Catholic
L 4-10
Ted Ferreira
Booker (Sarasota)
Monsignor Pace
W 4-1
L 4-14
Thomas Pacl
Palmetto
Monsignor Pace
W 6-4
L 0-7
Thomas Pacl
Regional Quarterfinal
Regional Semifinal
2002- 5A
Bayshore (Bradenton)
Armwood (Seffner)
W 6-2
L 3-4
Regional Quarterfinal
Fort Myers
L 2-3 (11inn.)
Garry
Kamphouse
Best Season
25-4
1999
Tom Pacl
Coach Ted Ferreira, 1984
Garry
Kamphouse
45
SOFTBALL
The softball program began in the GAA, but first became a varsity
sport in 1977 (team seen in this picture) and was coached by
Carolyn Whitehurst. The modern fast pitch game substituted for
slow pitch in 1994.
The softball program is the only sport at North that has had two dramatic transformations
in its history. The first transition came in 1977 when softball became an official varsity sport.
Prior to varsity status, it was competed within the county at the GAA level, but did not have a
state championship to play for. The second transition to the game came in 1994 when the state
changed the rules about pitching. Softball was no longer a slow pitch game, similar to older
recreational leagues. It became a fast pitch league and changed the dynamic of the competition.
The early 1990s proved to be the first great time period for softball, and North was the best
school in the county at adapting to the new pitching rules as it won the conference championship
in 1994. While the team has not experienced post season success, the program has grown great
strides over the last five years with Coach Jeff Miner taking over the head coaching duties. Joe
Clark, currently an assistant coach, is the man most associated with Lady Red Knight softball.
He has been a coach in some capacity with team since 1986.
46
SOFTBALL RECORDS
Inaugural Season 1977
Records based upon the introduction of Fast Pitch 1994
Individual Records
Category
Record
Athlete
Year
Batting Average
Hits
.493
36
Doubles
Triples
10
5
Home Runs
Stolen Bases
6
18
18
30
23
Allie Kennedy
Katrissa Rowell
Sarah Waitekus
Jaime Pritchard
Norma Luna
Mariah Fernandez
Katrissa Rowell
Allie Kennedy
Lora Helton
Mariah Fernandez
Katrissa Rowell
Casey McIntosh
2011
2012
2012
2004
2007
2008
2012
2011
2007
2009
2012
2008
23
281
.38
12
36 2/3
Jackie Owen
Jackie Owen
Jackie Owen
Jackie Owen
Jackie Owen
2009
2010
2010
2010
2009
.374
113
18
8
9
39
92
Mariah Fernandez
Katrissa Rowell
Mariah Fernandez
Katrissa Rowell
Katrissa Rowell
Mariah Fernandez
Katrissa Rowell
2006-2009
2009-2012
2006-2009
2009-2012
2009-2012
2006-2009
2009-2012
Wins
Strikeouts
E.R.A.
Shutouts
65
735
0.84
25
Jackie Owen
Jackie Owen
Jackie Owen
Jackie Owen
2007-2010
2007-2010
2007-2010
2007-2010
Most Wins by a Coach
170-64-1
Jeff Miner
2003-2010
Season- Hitting
Runs Batted In
Walks
Season- Pitching
Wins
Strikeouts
E.R.A. (min 75 Innings)
Shutouts
Consecutive Scoreless Innings
Career- Hitting
Batting Average
Hits
Doubles
Triples
Home Runs
Stolen Bases
Runs Batted In
Walks
Career- Pitching
47
Championships
Year
Conference/District
Place
Classification
District
Runner Up
3A-12
1993
(Fast Pitch)
1994
District
Runner Up
3A-6
LCAC
Champion
1998
District
Runner Up
2003
LCAC
Champion
2004
LCAC
Champion
2009
LCAC
District
Champion
Champion
District
Champion
Opponent
W/L, Score
Coach
Regional Quarterfinal
Sebring
L 0-2
Richard
Weatherwax
2009 - 5A-15
District Champs
Regional Quarterfinal
Regional Semifinal
Regional Final
Fort Myers
Davie Nova
St. Thomas Aquinas
Palm Beach Dwyer
W 1-0
W 12-0
W 4-2
W 9-1
Jeff Miner
Jeff Miner
Jeff Miner
Jeff Miner
Venice
L 0-3
Jeff Miner
Riverdale
Barron Collier
Naples
(ESPN USA #1)
W 6-3
W 5-4 (10 inn)
L 0-2
Jeff Miner
Jeff Miner
Jeff Miner
27-4
2009
Jeff Miner
(Slow Pitch)
1991
2010
4A-14
4A-11
4A-11
State Playoff History
Year, Class, Round
1998- 4A
State Semi-final
(State Final Four)
2010 - 4A
District Champs
Regional Quarterfinal
Regional Semifinal
Best Season
(First and ONLY Lee County
Public School SB team to
advance to the Final Four)
Long-time Coach Joe Clark, 2007
48
TENNIS
Led by Don Massey, Boys’ Tennis began in 1967. This is the first team photo
recorded, in its second season of competition in 1968.
Girls’ Tennis began a few years after the boys in 1974. This is their
first team picture coached by Nick Rockwell.
49
The boys’ and girls’ tennis programs have represented North Fort Myers High well. The coach
that has been a part of the tradition the longest is John Swaiko. He has coached the boys’ and the
girls’ tennis teams during his tenure as a tennis coach. Beginning in 1986 until his retirement in
2009, Swaiko has an active part of building the tennis program up to compete with the schools in
the area. The best era for tennis was in the late 1990s when both the boys’ and girls’ teams did
very well and made it to regional play. Overall the girls’ team has gone onto greater success,
capped in 1998 and 1999 when they were the regional champions.
BOYS’ TENNIS RECORDS
Inaugural Season 1966
Individual Records
Category
Best Season
Record
7-2
Athlete
Justin Touchstone
Year
1993
Team Records
Best Season
10-5
2003
Championships
Year
1998
Conference/District
District
Place
Runner Up
Classification
4A-14
GIRLS’ TENNIS RECORDS
Inaugural Season 1975
Individual Records
Category
Best Season
Record
15-1
Athlete
Lena Stiehl
Year
2004
50
Team Records
Best Season
16-1
2004
Championships
Year
1998
Conference/District
District
Regional
Place
Champion
Champion
Classification
4A-14
4A-3
1999
District
Regional
Champion
Champion
4A-14
4A-3
2004
District
Runner Up
3A-4
Coach John Swaiko, 2006
51
BOYS’ TRACK AND FIELD
Boys’ Track and Field first competed at the varsity level in 1964. They
were coached by Curtis Motzner.
The boys’ track and field team has been a staple at North since its inception in 1964.
There has been a history of speed, as can be seen in the fact there are still two records that stand
from the mid 1960s. The mid 1980s also proved to be a good breeding ground in the sport as
there are several records from that era as well. Thomas Tisell has proven to be the greatest high
school athlete in school history. He won 4 state titles total, 3 in track and field. No other person
has more than one. He almost single handily helped North Fort Myers High place at the state
meet. Hall of Fame member Chad Senior competed for North in the early 1990s. A tremendous
athlete, Senior went on to represent the United States in the 2000 and 2004 Olympic games.
Note: he also holds swimming records as well). But for all the previous success that has come
individually, the most consistent success has come most recently in the mid to late 2000s. Under
the direction of Coach Yancey Palmer, the Running Red Knights have captured 3 conference
titles in 4 years.
52
BOYS’ TRACK AND FIELD RECORDS
Inaugural Season 1964
Individual Records
Event
Record
Athlete
Year
54' 6 1/2"
155' 10"
43' 0"
Johnny Ash
Mike Magee
Mike Jackson
1999
1999
2006
6' 2"
6' 2"
23' 4 1/4"
Jay Wade
Noe Pena
Quenton Washington
1970
2006
2007
100 meter
:10.81
110 High Hurdles
200 Meter
:14.88
:22.3
300 Low Hurdles
400 Meter
800 Meter
1600 Meter
3200 Meter
Relays
4x100 Meter Relay
:39.37
:49.7
01:56.8
4:20
09:35.5
Shundell Hicks
Noel Devine
James Fields
Richard Metcalf
Roscoe Thurman
Glenroy Huggins
Richard Metcalf
Noe Pena
Thomas Tisell
Thomas Tisell
1990
2006
1990
1965
1985
2008
1966
2006
1985
1985
1985
4x400 Meter Relay
03:28.2
4x800 Meter Relay
08:18.7
Sprint Medley
(no longer exists)
2:08
Mile Medley
3:36
Ralph Black
Monty Kirkland
Albert Knighten
Roscoe Thurman
Ricardo Johnson
Alex Moore
Rod Strong
Santron Van Rivers
Kendricks Baldwin
Matt Hoerner
Mike Harney
Eddie Bressman
Francis Stanford
Roger Griffin
Tom Helgendorf
Thomas Foster
Roscoe Thurman
Albert Knighten
Ralph Black
Kenny Davidson
Field Events
Shot Put
Discus
Triple Jump
Pole Vault
High Jump
Long Jump
Track Events
:43.70
2004
2002
1966
1985
53
State Champions
Class, Event
3A- 1 Mile
Time/ Distance
04:27.8
Athlete
Thomas Tisell
Year
1984
3A- 1 Mile
04:22.0
Thomas Tisell
1985
3A- 2 Mile
09:41.1
Thomas Tisell
1985
Year Graduated
1993
Inducted
2001
USA
Chad Senior
2000, 2004
Year
1990
Conference/District
LCAC
Place
Champion
Classification
1991
LCAC
Champion
1999
District
Champion
2004
LCAC
Champion
2005
LCAC
Champion
2007
LCAC
District
Champion
Runner Up
Year
1984
Place
10th
Class
3A
1985
8th
3A
Hall of Fame
Member
Chad Senior
Olympian
Pentathlon
Team Records
Championships
Appearances at State Meet Top 10
Two time record holder Noe Pena, 2006
4A-14
4A-7
54
GIRLS’ TRACK AND FIELD
Over a decade later than the boys, the Girls’ Track and Field team was
formed in 1976. They were coached by Mike Gorton.
Twelve years after the boys’ track and field team was able to participate in varsity
competition, it was finally time for the girls. They experienced immediate success (a rarity at
North) by being conference runner up for the first season in 1976. In the early 1980s, the sports
greatest athlete was a part of the team. Dania “Dee” Henry competed for North and went on to
excel in everything she did. She not only dominated her competitors, she conquered the North
record book. She currently still holds the records for 100 meters, 200 meters, 400 meters, long
jump, and was a member of a record setting relay team as well. She is the only female track and
field state champion in the 33 years of competition, and one of two female state champions the
school has earned (Vanderplaats, swimming). In 1987, Loretta Purish took over the program and
has been the coach for the past 22 years. The greatest team success came in the late 1990s when
the girls’ track and field team won two district titles and two more runner up finishes.
55
GIRLS’ TRACK AND FIELD RECORDS
Inaugural Season 1976
Individual Records
Event
Record
Athlete
Year
37' 7"
116'
36' 1/4"
Helynn Young
Leslie Jones
Tynequia Roberts
2012
1989
2008
5'4"
19' 5 3/4"
Jessica Wagner
Dandria Henry
2012
1983
100 meter
110 High Hurdles
200 Meter
300 Low Hurdles
400 Meter
800 Meter
1600 Meter
3200 Meter
Relays
4x100 Meter Relay
:12:00
:15.01
:24.62
:47.8
:58.78
02:22.1
5:19
11:35
Dandria Henry
Stacy Kersey
Dandria Henry
Stacy Kersey
Dandria Henry
Sharoyn Harris
Megan Rodell
Megan Rodell
1983
1995
1983
1995
1982
1984
1996
1996
:47.97
2008
4x400 Meter Relay
04:01.1
4x800 Meter Relay
10:10:22
Mile Medley
(Discontinued in 1986)
4:24
Jessica Dasher
Jasmine Roberts
Tynequia Roberts
Machera Calhoun
Cynthia Bellamy
Sharoyn Harris
Shelly Lewis
Dandria Henry
Wally Rosario
Tina Agostinelli
Ashley Williams
Stephanie
Nevadunsky
Melody Addison
Debra Riggins
Sharoyn Harris
Shelly Lewis
Athlete
Dandria Henry
Year
1983
Arielle Rausin
2010,2011,2012
Field Events
Shot Put
Discus
Triple Jump
Pole Vault
High Jump
Long Jump
Track Events
1983
2008
1983
State Champions
Class, Event
3A- Long Jump
Adaptive Track & Field
Distance
19' 1 1/4"
56
Team Records
Championships
Year
1976
Conference/District
South Florida Conference
Place
Runner Up
1983
South Florida Conference
District
Champion
Champion
3A-12
1984
District
Runner Up
3A-12
1996
District
Runner Up
5A-11
1997
District
Champion
5A-11
1998
District
Champion
4A-14
1999
District
Runner Up
4A-14
2006
District
Runner Up
4A-7
2008
District
Runner Up
4A-7
Place
9th
Class
3A
Appearances at State Meet Top 10
Year
1983
Dandria Henry preparing for the long jump, 1983.
Classification