Sebastian River High School (SRHS) has selected seniors Michael “Mullet” Howard and Daniel “Ollie” Oliver as the spotlight players for the upcoming football season. The talented duo, with their unique strengths and aspirations, are poised to make a significant impact on the field.
Michael “Mullet” Howard # 44
A dedicated inside linebacker, Howard’s passion for football ignited in ninth grade. His ambition extends beyond high school, with dreams of playing at the collegiate level while pursuing a business degree.
“Football has taught me so much and shaped me into the man I am today. It has taught me that there are no boundaries between me and my goals. I can push myself to reach my goals that I first thought of as unreachable. It has taught me discipline to show up daily and push myself to my limits,” Howard told Sebastian Daily.
Mullet is grateful for all the support he has received throughout his life.
“I want to thank God and my mom, who has always been there for me and has always been my number 1 fan. I also want to thank Coach Freeman, Coach Perry, Coach Butler, and Coach Jeff for always pushing me to be the best I can be. They have taught me so much on and off the field and have been great role models,” Howard stated.
Here is what the SRHS coaches had to say about Howard.
Coach Perry told us, “Mike has always put the team first, before himself. He truly loves playing football; you see it in his preparation during the game week.
“Mike works extremely hard and is focused on the task at hand! He has had a great camp, is becoming a great leader, and can’t wait to see him light it up on Friday night, Coach Frank stated.
Coach Butler said, “I’ve had the privilege of coaching Howard for the last four years, and he is a relentless and competitive player who works hard and is a tough fighter.”
Daniel “Ollie” Oliver # 70
A versatile offensive and defensive lineman, Oliver has been a consistent force on the football field for four years. His sights are set on continuing his football career in college while studying Aviation and Aerospace.
Coach Perry has had the most significant impact on Oliver during his time on the field.
“He pushes me hard every day and wants me to be the best I can be,” Oliver told Sebastian Daily.
He also recognized his grandparents, who he says have always been supporting and loving.
The coaches mentioned Oliver’s determination, discipline, and positive attitude.
“Ollie is focused and determine when needed. He works hard, consistently. His talent is not taken for granted or devalued. He is a symbol of putting his head down and doing the dirty work,” Coach Perry stated about the senior.
Coach Frank said, “Oliver has come a very long way in the three years I have known him. His ability to overcome life and dominate on the field will take him a long way. He always has a way of putting a smile on my face or making me laugh during practice while also being serious about what he is doing!
Coach Harris describes Daniel as dedicated, hard-working, and a team player.
As the SRHS Varsity football team prepares to face the Terriers in Titusville on Friday at 7:00 p.m., Howard and Oliver will undoubtedly be key players to watch.