Can the Choctaw Indians Break Niceville's Football Dynasty This Season?
Okaloosa County, United States - As the school year wraps up and anticipation fills the air, the Choctawhatchee High School football team is gearing up for a season that many believe could see them challenge the long-standing dominance of Niceville football. Coach Frank Beasley is at the helm, his experience and insight setting the stage for what fans hope will be a breakthrough year for the Indians at Etheredge Stadium.
The focal point for Choctaw this season will undoubtedly be the offensive line, which, although young, has shown marked improvement during spring practices. Coach Beasley has expressed confidence in their physicality and overachieving mindset, essential traits for competing at a high level. With the return of standout players like rising senior Tamen Zabetakis and rising junior Carter Marracco, the team is well-positioned to make significant offensive strides.
Key Players and Expectations
Last season, Zabetakis and Marracco accounted for most of the team’s passing yards, setting a high bar for 2025. Zabetakis is on the mend from multiple injuries but has demonstrated substantial promise during the offseason. Marracco’s versatility as an athlete will be crucial as the team navigates a challenging schedule that features district games against formidable opponents like Rickards, Fort Walton Beach, and Arnold.
On the ground, running back Von’Tavius Keller, fresh off a breakout sophomore season in which he rushed for a staggering 1,774 yards and scored 21 touchdowns, will be pivotal for the Indian offense. Tight end Ryno Burks is another player to watch, known for his blocking skills but also showing potential as a receiving threat. Together with defensive stalwarts Mario and Ellis Alloway, who each recorded over 70 tackles last season, these players will form the backbone of the team.
Adding to the excitement are new transfers DJ Spence and Deshawn Simmons, both of whom are expected to contribute positively to the 2025 roster. Coach Beasley remains dedicated to the holistic development of his players, emphasizing not just athletic prowess but also academic education and exposure to college coaches, as he has successfully helped several athletes secure places at prestigious institutions like Stanford and Tennessee.
A Historic Background
| Year | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | South Walton | 66-30 |
| 2022 | South Walton | 63-27 |
| 2022 | Mosley | 63-34 |
| 2013 | East Gadsden | 60-0 |
| 1978 | Rickards | 63-0 |
| 1977 | Southside | 63-0 |
With the season opener against Milton set for August 14, all eyes will be on the Choctaw Indians as they aim to prove that this could be the year they break through the Niceville football hegemony. As Coach Beasley puts it, it’s about nurturing relationships with players, fostering camaraderie, and focusing on the broader picture—which includes their future beyond high school. With a team full of talent and fresh enthusiasm, perhaps this year, Choctaw can shift the dynamics of local high school football.
For further updates on their statistics and live game performances, check the official Choctaw athletics page at gochoctaws.com, and revisit their historical achievements highlighted by Get the Coast.
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| Ort | Okaloosa County, United States |
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