Palmetto Ridge Football

Palmetto Ridge coach Ryan Mitchell led the Bears to a 21-7 spring football victory over host LaBelle in his debut as head coach.

New head coaches, some of them leading teams for the first time. Teams looking to build on last season’s success or generate momentum heading into the summer. Division I recruits seeking to satisfy expectations.

When Collier County's football teams wrap up their spring games Friday, it will mark the end of high school sports for the 2011-12 school year.

While the games are just exhibitions, St. John Neumann and Estero will have their hands full as they play the area’s first spring football contests this week.

Palmetto Ridge High School invites all Bears fans to the the annual Spring Green & White football scrimmage on Friday at 5:30 p.m. at Bear Stadium.

A staple of high school football and a rite of passage for many young athletes could be eliminated in Collier County if new rules are passed by the state's prep sports governing body.

Notes from area spring football practices

The first day of May marks the start of spring football practice in Florida and the enthusiasm and excitement that comes with a new season.

One local high school football player could make a name for himself in the recruiting world this weekend, which could eventually lead to a college scholarship.

The games might be the same next high school football season, but there will be plenty of changes on the sidelines.

2012 week-by-week schedules

2012 team-by-team schedules

For Palmetto Ridge athletes Jessica Montalvo and Richardson Giordani, family ties were an important factor before picking their college destinations.

The Palmetto Ridge High School football program will hold a “Meet the Coach” picnic to meet new coach Ryan Mitchell and his staff on Saturday.

Palmetto Ridge has hired Ryan Mitchell as its new head football coach, replacing Dan Newbrough.