Guest: Derrick Baker (16)

Host: Tim Guerrette Welcome to 239 Uncensored everything Southwest Florida and beyond and your Host, Tim Guerrette. This episode features Derrick Baker, a 16-year-old elite football player making waves nationally.

Derrick started his football journey in SWFL (Naples/Estero Forida) watching the game with his dad around age four or five. He played his youth football in Estero and then on with the Cypress Hornets, forming a "super team". His path led him to the East Coast of Florida for 8th grade with the Carol City Chiefs, and then he attended St. Thomas Aquinas for his freshman and sophomore years, getting playing time and loads of recognition.

Derrick made a major move, transferring to Milton High School in Georgia at the end of his sophomore year. Milton is a strong program with recent back-to-back state championships. He found the athletes there were immediately motivated to work.

Now a 6'1", 225-pound quarterback, Derrick is known for his ability to both throw and run, with a 40-yard dash around 4.5 and speed hitting 21+ mph. He trains intensely for speed and mobility. A major influence is Cam Newton, with whom he built a relationship playing for the C1N 15U seven-on-seven program, now participating in C1N 18U with Cam.

Derrick describes Cam as energetic, serious about winning, and a valuable mentor who is the same on or off camera. Derrick understands and is learning to navigate the evolving landscape of NIL, (having to work through recent deals) and complexities of the college transfer portal. Derrick currently holds over 20 college offers, from programs including Ohio State, Auburn, Miami, and Ole Miss. Auburn was the first to offer after his move to Georgia.

Derrick is focused on building relationships with college coaches and sees playing high-level college football and potentially the NFL as a realistic plan. His immediate family has moved to Georgia to support him, while older siblings manage their family's business here in Naples, Florida.

Watch and listen to hear Derrick's insights on discipline, team camaraderie, and his journey from Southwest Florida to becoming a nationally recognized high school football player! Join us LIVE at http://www.239LIVE.com or on Facebook and YouTube! 239 Uncensored, call Tim Guerrette 239-249-9423 OT Media SWFL Derek Jones 239-241-1839

Welcome to the 239 Uncensored Podcast, everything Southwest Florida and beyond! In this episode, we sit down with the impressive 15-year-old freshman football player, Kurtis Jones. Kurtis plays center at South Fort Myers High School, where he was on both the JV and Varsity teams as a freshman.

Kurtis shares insights into: The importance of the center position, describing it as the most physical and mentally demanding role on the field. He highlights the need for a high IQ, knowing plays and assignments, and having great footwork.

His journey in football, starting around age five, and how watching NFL games with his dad fueled his passion. He discusses finding his love for football around age 12 and realizing what position he was good at and needed to study. Overcoming challenges, including being born prematurely at 2 lbs 11 oz, and playing against older, larger high school teammates while being 5'7" and 270 lbs. He explains how being underestimated sets a "fire" in him and motivates him to train harder.

His biggest accomplishment this year: getting very close to God and how faith is essential to his life and achievements. Memorable football moments, including his final 14U youth season where he became a starter and had a play, the "Kurtis special," named after him, and a high school game against Fort Myers where he felt he succeeded against expectations. Kurtis discusses the following: His experience playing on both grass and turf fields, the pros and cons of each for his position.

The significance of the relationship between the center and the quarterback. The competitiveness in the trenches and how trash talk can sometimes escalate but also motivate. The importance of teamwork over being a "one-man army," emphasizing that teams need to be a single unit. He also touches on supporting teammates when they make mistakes. The value of leadership even as a freshman, and how watching film is crucial for game preparation.

Players who have positively impacted him, including his friend, who he's played with since age six, who took him under his wing as a freshman. He also shouts out to Derek Baker as an upcoming player to watch from here is Southwest Florida.

His future aspirations, including his dream college, the University of Florida (UF), and his hope for an opportunity to play in the NFL. Looking up to and studying NFL great Jason Kelce for his footwork and technique. Managing his busy schedule, balancing school, football, religion, and personal life, and waking up at 4:30 am for his routine.

The tremendous support from his father, who started "OT Media" to help Kurtis and other kids get exposure, and how his dad helps less fortunate players. His deep commitment to playing football, stating he would only stop if he were "dead," and acknowledging how medical advancements help players recover from injuries.

Kurtis shares a clutch moment from a recent season where he helped lead his team to a game-winning touchdown and two-point conversion in the fourth quarter. Kurtis demonstrates maturity beyond his years and an old soul with strong values, guided by his faith and supportive family.

Watch the full interview for an insightful conversation with this talented and inspiring young athlete!

#239Uncensored #Podcast #Football #HighSchoolFootball #SouthwestFlorida #Center #Faith #JasonKelce #UF #UniversityOfFlorida #Athlete #Inspiration #Teamwork #OTMedia #KurtisJones

Tune in to this special episode #141 of the 239 Uncensored Podcast, featuring an incredibly talented local eighth grader from Community School in Naples, Florida. Jaden Boom Phillips!

Get to know this rising football star as he discusses his early experiences with the game, including his dad's influence and his transition to running back. Jaden shares his thoughts on balancing academics and athletics, his impressive skills and the mentality that has already garnered attention from colleges.

Learn about Jaden's mentors, including his dad and brother, and the importance of a motivating coach. He also sets his goals for the upcoming high school season at CSN, aiming to start, achieve significant rushing yards and tackles, and even compete for a state title.

Discover the dedication behind his success, including his rigorous training routine with morning lifts and speed work with local coaches.

Jaden opens up about handling the early attention from D1 offers and his experience as an Under Armour All-American.

He offers valuable advice for other young athletes aspiring to reach his level, emphasizing the "slow grind". Beyond football, Jaden shares his interests in family, friends, and track. Hear about his future career aspirations, including potentially coaching or working in sports medicine.

Also, find out the origin of his nickname, "Boom", and get inspired by this humble and driven young man who is making waves in Southwest Florida football!

This is a can't-miss interview showcasing the bright future of local sports. #239Uncensored #NaplesFootball #HighSchoolSports #JadenBoomPhillips #YouthFootball

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