Windermere coach Riki Smith expects character, not another unbeaten season

Published On: August 21, 2025

The Windermere football team went unbeaten in the inaugural season of the Orange County Public Schools experimental Independent Division.

However, as the school begins its ninth year, winning is in the air, thus the Wolverines might have raised the bar. Following an undefeated football season, the boys’ basketball team advanced to the 7A state championship game. The public may begin to anticipate triumphs.

The previous year was fantastic. According to Windermere coach Riki Smith, it was truly a blessing. However, the regime has completely changed. You must proceed. “That team is gone,” I inform the guys.

Being a better football squad than we were the previous season is the only goal I have. The record isn’t really my main concern. It is primarily concerned with the program’s overall nature, character, and future course.

Reviews of the independent format have been conflicting. It goes without saying that 2024 was a fantastic year for Windermere players and supporters. However, teams lose the opportunity to compete for a championship when the FHSAA district competition is removed from the schedule.

Although it hasn’t been decided yet, there has been discussion about adding an Independent Division championship game for this year.

Smith stated, “We just played who was on the schedule because it wasn’t up to me.” I didn’t really look into the differences between being independent and not. I’m more concerned with concentrating on one game at a time. At the end of the season, we simply let things happen as they are.

I believe the independent league has advantages. Many of these teams have not enjoyed much success in the past. As a result, players feel they can succeed on the football field because they can play teams on the same level.

Smith claimed that in previous seasons, he would have to search the corridors for players. Windermere had to hold tryouts for the first time last year because of the large number of pupils who showed out for football.

Despite losing some important seniors, Windermere remains optimistic.

The defense will be led by senior cornerback CJ Bronaugh, who committed to Florida over the summer after winning state crowns in the 100- and 200-meter dashes in the spring.

Following the loss of senior Jack Reilly, the Wolverines are engaged in a quarterback competition. Lyman is replaced by senior Breylon Sanchez, who is vying for the starting position alongside junior Dean Monroe.

Smith hopes junior receiver Eddie Russomanno and senior running back Henry Rogers have another successful season. Rogers rushed for 595 yards and seven touchdowns while missing three games. Junior receiver Jaylen Davis and senior offensive guard Will Trimble have also had successful camps.

East River (6-5) and Oak Ridge (7-4) were the other two teams who finished the inaugural independent season with winning records. Under coach Leroy Kinard, Innovation had a stellar 5-5 regular season in the high school’s inaugural year. The Bulls lost to Oak Ridge in a bowl game despite having no seniors.

This year, three of the eight have new coaches. Steve Charles, the Bears’ third coach in three seasons, takes over at Cypress Creek, where the team has dropped 21 straight games. Cameron Phillips, the Falcons’ third coach in three seasons, took over as East River’s coach after Adam Chappell resigned in June. At University (Orlando), whose coach Jeremy Palmer died in June from cancer, former Faith Christian coach Dave Carrington takes over.

The Colonial Grenadiers

Austin Rocheleau is the coach (second year, 3–7).

2024: 3–7.

Bears of Cypress Creek

Steve Charles is the coach (first year, 0-0).

2024: 0–10.

Falcons of East River

Cam Phillips is the coach (first year, 0-0).

2024: bowl loss, 6-5.

Bulls of Innovation

Leroy Kinard is the coach (career 120–52; second year, 5–6).

2024: bowl loss, 5–6.