Ocean Lakes football is back in the beach district. On Feb. 26, the Dolphins took home the 18-9 win against the Kellam Knights in a highly anticipated season opener. 

“I just want to play the sport I love. The team, myself, and coach Mike as our OC (Offensive Coordinator) are going to do what needs to be done, and everyone will see Ocean Lakes add another championship to the collection,” said junior Karvelis Scott.

Unlike a season with warm weather with hundreds of fans in the stands, this year will begin with cooler temperatures and no spectators. The season will consist of five games: Kellam, Landstown, Princess Anne, Tallwood, and Green Run. Instead of the usual eight teams that make the playoffs, only four teams will compete for a state title. 

“The defense will be fast and athletic as usual; we have a lot of new coaches,” said coach Chris Ramey. “Everyone is working hard and taking coaching…We should be competitive this year.”

Teams in the 6A district can only have a maximum of 50 players on a team, so for the first time in a long time, “cuts” were made. With a majority of returning players, the team only added a small group of new faces.  Safety protocols have restricted water sources and masks are required anywhere indoors. The team has relied on the gym foyer/hallway, bus loop, gym, and even the Sportsplex for practice. 

The Dolphins will have to deal with the loss of key seniors who are injured or graduated early.

“We will go week by week, going 1-0 every week. We worry about the opponent that is in front of us,” said junior Jahleel Culbreath.