Texas high school football is more than a sport—it’s a way of life. And in the heart of Riverview, just outside Tampa, Sumner High School football is carving out its own chapter in this storied tradition. Since opening its doors in 2020, the Sumner Stingrays have wasted no time building a reputation as a fierce contender in Florida’s ultra-competitive 7A landscape. With a perfect streak of playoff appearances, electrifying talent, and a community that rallies behind every snap, Sumner is proving it’s here to stay. In this 1269-word deep dive, we’ll unpack the team’s meteoric rise, recent performances, key players, and what fuels their success—complete with a look at their practice schedule. Ready to discover why Sumner High School football is turning heads? Let’s hit the field!
What Makes Sumner High School Football Stand Out?
Florida high school football is a proving ground for talent, and Sumner High School is quickly becoming a name to watch. Nestled in Hillsborough County, this relatively new program has defied the odds, making the playoffs every year since becoming eligible—a feat unmatched by any other school in state history. But what’s the secret sauce?
It’s a blend of innovative coaching, raw athleticism, and a tight-knit community that treats Friday nights like a sacred ritual. From the roar of the stands at Stingray Stadium to the buzz of college scouts, Sumner football embodies the spirit of the game with a modern twist. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just dipping your toes into the world of high school athletics, this team’s journey is one you won’t want to miss.
Sumner High School Football: The Basics at a Glance
Here’s a quick rundown of what defines the Sumner Stingrays:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Riverview, Florida, in Hillsborough County |
| School Established | 2020, part of Hillsborough County Public Schools |
| State Championships | None yet, but consistent playoff contenders |
| Recent Ranking | Reached No. 25 in Florida (MaxPreps, 2024) |
| Notable Players | Tyreek Green (QB), Anthony McBride (RB), Jaheim Clarke (WR) |
| Head Coach | Sean Mulrooney, known for building the program from scratch |
| Rivalries | Newsome, Alonso, Strawberry Crest |
| 2024 Record | 8-3, lost 34-27 to Newsome in 7A Regional Quarterfinals on Nov. 15, 2024 |
This snapshot sets the stage—keep reading for the full playbook!
How Did Sumner High School Football Get Started?
Sumner High School opened in 2020, smack in the middle of a global pandemic. Launching a football program under those conditions could’ve been a fumble, but the Stingrays turned it into a first-down sprint. Under head coach Sean Mulrooney, the team hit the ground running, posting a 6-4 record in their inaugural 2020 season and qualifying for the playoffs—a rare feat for a rookie program.
Since then, Sumner has been a postseason fixture, reaching the 7A playoffs every year. That’s right—no other Florida school can claim that kind of consistency straight out of the gate. It’s a testament to the vision of the coaching staff and the hunger of a community eager to establish its own football identity.
Key Milestones in Sumner’s Short History
- 2020: Debut season with a 6-4 record and a playoff berth.
- 2022: Advanced to the 4M Region 2 championship game, falling just short of a state title run.
- 2024: Finished 8-3, cementing their status as a rising power in 7A football.
How Did Sumner Football Perform in 2024?
The 2024 season was a rollercoaster of highs and heartbreak for Sumner. With an 8-3 record, the Stingrays showcased their offensive firepower, averaging over 30 points per game. Their playoff journey ended in the 7A Regional Quarterfinals with a nail-biting 34-27 loss to rival Newsome on November 15, 2024, but not before leaving a mark on the season.
Standout Games of 2024
- Week 9 Victory: A 45-7 blowout over Strawberry Crest, where quarterback Tyreek Green threw for three touchdowns and ran for another.
- Playoff Exit: The 34-27 defeat to Newsome, a back-and-forth battle that highlighted Sumner’s resilience despite the loss.
Sumner’s 2024 campaign earned them a peak ranking of No. 25 in Florida (MaxPreps), proving they can hang with the state’s best.
2024 Season Stats
- Record: 8-3 overall.
- Offense: Aver手工
Averaged 30+ points per game.
- Defense: Held opponents to under 20 points in five games.
Who Are Sumner High School’s Star Players?
Sumner’s roster is stacked with talent destined for the next level. Here are the standouts driving the Stingrays’ success in 2024:
Tyreek Green – Quarterback Extraordinaire
- Class: 2025.
- Stats: Over 2,000 passing yards, 25 TDs, and 400 rushing yards.
- Future: Drawing interest from Division I programs like USF and FAU.
Green’s dual-threat style—pinpoint passes paired with breakaway speed—makes him the engine of Sumner’s offense.
Anthony McBride – Running Back Beast
- Stats: 1,200 rushing yards, 15 TDs, including a 200-yard game vs. Alonso.
- Impact: A workhorse who punishes defenses and keeps the chains moving.
Jaheim Clarke – Wide Receiver Weapon
- Stats: 800 receiving yards, 10 TDs, with a knack for contested catches.
- Future: A sleeper recruit with growing college interest.
These stars, backed by a gritty offensive line and a ball-hawking secondary, keep Sumner in every game.
What’s Sumner High School Football’s Practice Schedule?
Success doesn’t happen by accident—it’s forged in practice. Here’s a look at Sumner’s weekly regimen during the 2024 season:
| Day | Activity | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Film review, light conditioning | 3:30–5:30 PM |
| Tuesday | Full pads practice, offense vs. defense | 3:30–6:00 PM |
| Wednesday | Special teams, situational drills | 3:30–5:30 PM |
| Thursday | Walk-through, game plan finalization | 3:30–5:00 PM |
| Friday | Game day—pre-game prep and warm-ups | Varies |
This disciplined approach ensures the Stingrays are sharp and ready come kickoff.
How Does Sumner Prepare for Gridiron Glory?
Sumner’s rise isn’t luck—it’s strategy. Here’s how they build a winning culture:
Coaching That Connects
Sean Mulrooney’s leadership is the backbone. He blends modern spread concepts with a focus on fundamentals, turning raw recruits into polished players.
Training That Tests Limits
- Weight Room: Offseason lifts build power—think squats, bench presses, and agility drills.
- Summer Camps: Open to youth, these sessions scout future Stingrays while sharpening current ones.
- Mental Prep: Film sessions break down opponents, giving players an edge.
Community That Fuels Passion
From packed bleachers to the Athletic Booster Club’s concessions, Riverview rallies around its team. The annual Stingray 5K Color Run on April 12, 2025, is a perfect example—raising funds for Moffitt Cancer Research while uniting the town.
What Are Sumner’s Fiercest Rivalries?
Rivalries add spice to football, and Sumner’s matchups deliver.
Sumner vs. Newsome
The 2024 playoff loss (34-27) stoked this growing feud. Expect fireworks next season.
Sumner vs. Alonso
A 27-20 win in October 2024 showed Sumner’s edge, but Alonso’s always a threat.
Sumner vs. Strawberry Crest
Sumner’s 45-7 rout in 2024 was a statement—this rivalry’s one-sided, for now.
How Can Fans Stay in the Loop?
Want to follow the Stingrays? Here’s how:
- Live Games: Stream on NFHS Network or catch highlights on YouTube.
- Updates: MaxPreps and @SumnerHSFootball on X keep you posted.
- Events: Check sumnerhsfootball.com for schedules and ticket info.
Tips for Aspiring Sumner Stingrays
Got dreams of wearing the Stingray jersey? Try this:
- Start Young: Join Riverview youth leagues to build skills.
- Hit the Books: Eligibility means grades matter—aim for a 3.0 GPA.
- Show Up: Attend Sumner’s summer camps—coaches notice hustle.
Why Does Sumner High School Football Matter?
Sumner isn’t just a team—it’s a symbol of a community on the rise. In a state where football is king, they’re rewriting the script for new programs. Their perfect playoff streak, electric playmakers, and relentless spirit make them a team to watch—today and tomorrow.
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Conclusion
Sumner High School football’s 2024 season ended short of a title, but their trajectory is skyward. With a pipeline of talent, a mastermind coach, and a fanbase that bleeds green and gold, the Stingrays are building a legacy—one electrifying play at a time. Think they’ll hoist a trophy soon? Follow their journey and see for yourself—Friday nights in Riverview are only getting bigger. Dive deeper at sumnerhsfootball.com and join the roar!
