Athlete of the Week: Tevin Bryant

Running back Tevin Bryant isn’t one to let his emotions show on the sidelines — even in the middle of one of the best performances of his high school career.

Instead, the Braden River senior lets his hard work, dedication and commitment to his teammates simply speak for themselves.

On Nov. 6, that message was heard loud and clear by Bryant’s coaches, teammates, Braden River football fans and, of course, Englewood Lemon Bay — the Pirates opposition — as the Pirates workhorse carried the ball 18 times for 226 yards and three touchdowns — all in the first half.

Bryant scored on runs of 14, 87 and 33 yards, finishing 44 yards shy of his single game rushing record and propelling Braden River to a 48-8 victory over the Manta Rays.

“My dad told me to give 110%, so I just tried my hardest to do my best,” Bryant said. “I just like getting the ball, scoring touchdowns and being able to help out the team.”

Following his dominating first half performance, Bryant handed the ball over to backup running back Jaredd Pate — watching the second half from the sidelines.

“It let our second running back (Jaredd Pate) get some reps because he doesn’t really get to play much,” Bryant said.

Bryant began playing football when he was 7 years old at the urging of his father, Donald, a former Southeast High running back and linebacker. Bryant played flag football for the Police Athletic League before joining the Sarasota Redskins.

So far this season, Bryant is averaging 5.8 yards a carry, having rushed for nearly 1,220 yards and 16 touchdowns. Bryant is looking to continue playing football at the collegiate level and has been in contact with a few schools, particularly Kent State. But for now, the senior is focused on helping Braden River prepare for the postseason.

Tomorrow night, Bryant will play his final regular season game against Palmetto and then it’s off to the playoffs — a moment Bryant is ready for after having sat out of the playoffs last season with an ankle injury.

“It means a lot,” Bryant said. “I didn’t get to play in the playoffs last year, so I’m excited for it.”