1 – Cardinal Mooney
The Cougars are likely the best team in the area. Their wins over the last two seasons show a team that has things figured out. They can and do compete with the best teams in the state. Coach Derek Wagner didn’t shy away from the new found target on his team’s back. Instead he scheduled games in 2019 against Florida powerhouses Lake Highland Prep (Febuary 22) and St. Andrew’s (March 8). Unfortunately, Mooney lost some very good players in 2018. On the plus side, TLR sees their younger players as the ones that will carry the mantle. This team has extreme depth and talent. Regardless of who has graduated, look for the Cougars to continue dominating in 2019.
2 – Out-of-Door
Out-of-Door and Riverview are both playing second fiddle to the much more talented Cardinal Mooney squad, but the battle for the #2 seed will be lively. The Thunder get the nod from Tampa Lax Report in 2019 due to the loses suffered by Riverview in 2018. Look for these two teams to go toe-to-toe on March 5 when they meet at Riverview. Coach Meyer is optimistic about other district 17 teams, stating, “I do feel St. Stephen’s will be greatly improved and Lakewood Ranch High will also be very much improved.” Let’s hope TLR can get down south to catch a game.
3 – Riverview
The Rams could very easily be #2 in our prediction for 2019. However, with the transfer loss of one of the best goalies in the entire region, Riverview may struggle in the cage. Even with the loss, we believe the Rams and Out-of-Door will battle hard for the second seed in district 17.
4 – St. Stephen’s Episcopal
District 17 has a dropoff after the top 3, but the Falcons have held steady in the 4 seed and we don’t see that changing in 2019.
