Observer Preps 2017 Football Preview: The First Academy Royals

Coach: Leroy Kinard (10th year)

2016 record/notes: 10-1; fell in Class 3A Regional Semifinals

Region: 3A-R2

Players to watch: Alexander Eleyssami, senior (quarterback); Parker Mara, senior (wide receiver); Mike Shanahan, senior (offensive/defensive line); Rolous Frazier, junior (running back)

Outlook: After a standout season in 2016, head coach Leroy Kinard and company have many of their top playmakers back for another run at it in 2017. For the Royals, who dominated their district last year during their undefeated regular season, the end of district play is an interesting twist, though they are playing many of the same opponents this fall.

Rolous Frasier is back for more after averaging nearly 10 yards per carry last fall.

Fun fact: After a strong career at Liberty University, Royals head coach Leroy Kinard played in the NFL for the New York Jets from 1991-92.

Awesome alumni: Royals alum Garrett Williams is a junior tight end for the Clemson Tigers and was part of the program’s national championship team this past season.

Schedule

Aug. 25 — vs. West Oaks, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 1 — vs. Foundation Academy, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 8 — at Orlando Christian Prep, 7 p.m.

Sept. 15 — vs. Bayshore Christian, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 22 — at Calvary Christian, 7 p.m.

Oct. 6 — at Four Corners, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 13 — vs. Trinity Prep, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 20 — vs. Agape Christian, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 27 — at Lake Highland Prep, 7 p.m.

Nov. 3 — vs. The Villages, 7:30 p.m.