Friday night was more than just another football game at South Lake High School. It was a celebration of the past, present, and future of Eagles football. At halftime of their commanding 61-0 win over Davenport, South Lake honored one of its most decorated alumni, former offensive lineman T.J. McCoy, with induction into the school’s Football Hall of Fame.

For TJ, who went on to play at the University of Florida and the University of Louisville, the honor represented a full-circle moment, one that carried deep personal meaning.

“This moment means so much to me and my family,” TJ says. “I wouldn’t be here without the daily love and support of my amazing wife, Mariah McCoy. She holds me down through everything and pushes me to keep going.”

TJ also expressed gratitude to his parents, Tony and Jodie McCoy, who he says laid the foundation for his success.

“Thank you for always believing in me even when others didn’t,” TJ says. “Thank you for your constant support, for your sacrifices and for giving up your time to help me chase my dreams of playing football at the highest level. I am who I am today because of your love and guidance.”

He didn’t forget the coaches who shaped his career at South Lake either, thanking former head coach Mark Woolum who is a current coordinator with South Lake High and former assistant coach and current East Ridge High head coach Donnie Burchfield for pushing him to grow as both a player and a man.

“Legacy continues,” TJ says. “Thank you again to South Lake High School Athletics for welcoming me into the Hall of Fame.”

TJ’s career has long been remembered in Clermont for the toughness he displayed in the trenches. As one of the top linemen to ever wear the Eagles’ uniform, he helped set a standard for future generations. His collegiate stops at Florida and Louisville showcased his talent on a national stage, but his roots,  and his pride, have always been in Groveland.

For current players watching from the sidelines, the moment was a reminder of what is possible. Coaches emphasized to the team that TJ once wore the same uniform, practiced on the same field, and dreamed the same dreams.

The ceremony came in the middle of a statement win for South Lake, which improved to 3-1 on the season. From the opening kickoff, the Eagles overwhelmed Davenport with an offensive and defensive onslaught that turned the game into a rout by the end of the first quarter.

South Lake scored 41 points in the first 12 minutes, forcing Davenport into mistakes. By halftime, the Eagles led 61-0, allowing younger players valuable snaps in a running-clock second half.

Quarterback Tre Kelly was sharp, completing 11 of 17 passes with two touchdown throws and adding a 7-yard scoring run. Receivers Isaiah Pina and Keydrick Powell hauled in the touchdown passes, while the ground game leaned on running back Malik Holman, who tallied 107 rushing yards and a touchdown. Tyrese Thomas and Zaide Nance also contributed scores as South Lake’s depth was on display.

(Tre Kelly and Keydrick Powell have been completely in sync this season. The two are among the top quarterback and wide receiver combos in Central Florida. Photo Credit – Brenda Anderson Photography.)

Defensively, the Eagles were just as impressive. Ahvioume Scott and Chase Coello each recorded two interceptions, taking away any hope of momentum for Davenport. Ramond Carter posted three sacks, keeping constant pressure on the quarterback, while linebacker Tyson Williams led the team with 12 tackles. Jesse Barker Jr. and Brandon Dipaolo added steady performances, ensuring Davenport never found a rhythm offensively.

While the scoreboard reflected South Lake’s present dominance, the ceremony for TJ McCoy highlighted the program’s tradition of producing standout athletes. TJ also still contributes every year to our area with the TJ McCoy football camp every summer which brings together former NFL, Professional and Collegiate football players who help shape the next generation of athletes.

South Lake’s Hall of Fame committee has made it a priority to honor players who not only excelled on the field but also represented the school with character and leadership. TJ’s career, from high school stardom to playing in two major college programs made him a natural choice.

With their Hall of Fame night behind them, the Eagles will look to build on their 3-1 start as district play heats up. The lopsided win over Davenport showed that South Lake has the firepower to contend for their second straight district championship. Games against Horizon High, Forest High and Lake Minneola High remain along with a big rivalry matchup against East Ridge High as well.