Local sports fans have the opportunity to cast their ballots for the top performers in the region, as the nominees for the TCPalm Boys Athlete of the Week for December 8-13 have been announced. This week’s slate of candidates is dominated by standout performances from the Vero Beach High School football team following their appearance in the Class 7A state championship game, alongside impressive showings from athletes at St. Edward’s School and Sebastian River High School.
The weekly poll, which highlights excellence in high school athletics across the Treasure Coast, is proudly sponsored by Audi Stuart. The winner will receive a custom Athlete of the Week shirt provided by BSN SPORTS. Community members and fans are encouraged to vote early, as the polls close promptly at noon on Thursday.
Note on Voting: Nominees are selected by staff based on submissions or staff observations. Winners are contacted weekly following the conclusion of the poll.
Vero Beach Football Dominates Nominations
The Vero Beach Fighting Indians secured three nominations this week, a testament to their explosive offensive and defensive efforts during the Class 7A state title game against Lake Mary. Despite the intense pressure of a championship matchup at Pitbull Stadium, several individual players delivered historic stat lines.
Local Nominees from Indian River County:
- Jordan Crutchfield (Vero Beach Football): In a remarkable defensive display, Crutchfield secured three interceptions during the Class 7A state title game against Lake Mary.
- Jonathan Hillsman (Vero Beach Football): The senior running back was a force on the ground, rushing for an impressive 238 yards on the state championship stage.
- Efrem White (Vero Beach Football): Displaying incredible versatility, the senior achieved a rare “hat trick” of touchdowns, recording a passing, rushing, and receiving touchdown in the title game.
- Connor O’Brien (St. Edward’s Soccer): The senior goalkeeper was a wall for the Pirates, collecting a staggering 34 saves across three shutout victories.
- Juan Osorio Espitia (Sebastian River Soccer): The junior contributed significantly to the Sharks’ offense, totaling three goals and two assists during two wins.
Regional Nominees:
In addition to the Indian River County standouts, athletes from across the Treasure Coast are vying for the title:
- Amado Bocalandro (Jensen Beach Wrestling): The senior helped the Falcons secure the District 14-2A dual title by collecting two pins in a combined time of just 2 minutes and 33 seconds.
- Ethan Chevres (Tradition Prep Basketball): Averaging 25.5 points on 50 percent shooting, the senior helped lead the Pirates to a pair of wins.
- Jaiven Jackson (Morningside Academy Basketball): The junior posted a double-double average of 23.5 points and 14 rebounds through two victories for the Eagles.
- Jayden Prosper (St. Lucie West Centennial Basketball): The senior was highly efficient, averaging 22 points per game on 68 percent shooting from the field across three wins.
Residents are encouraged to visit TCPalm to support these student-athletes before the Thursday deadline.
