Plant City High School Raiders

4M District 7 Head Coach: Terrence Hicks (2 years)

The Raiders are looking to take things to the next level after a 3-7 finish to the 2022 season. Head Coach Terrence Hicks says the key to the team’s success is to play “sound football,” noting the Raiders have the talent, have the coaches, and it’s time to have a laser focus on the small details.

Plant City also has a rising junior at quarterback this year with Chris Denson. Denson previously played at Mulberry High School, and Hicks says Denson is already showing leadership skills wise beyond his years.

Hicks said: “He’s the first one to practice, always encouraging the guys, holds private sessions with his guys to ensure they are on the same page and getting better. He’s a great kid. The expectation for him is to have a come-out year. Light the city up and put everyone on notice.”

Defensively, the Raiders are ready with Donta Jenkins returning; Jenkins was the only sophomore in the state from the front seven to be named to the All-State 4M team. Hicks is also excited to have lineman Davin Stone, safety Chase Dexter, Trae Smith, and Mike Bell on defense.

Hicks said: “Last year was [Davin Stone] first year playing the defensive lineman position. He went and dominated; now he’s a manchild and a freak in the weight room, and it shows on the field. A few others are safety Chase Dexter, who has 12 offers; Trae Smith, who is certified as the fastest kid in Hillsborough County, running a 10.5; and Mike Bell, our LB, who just picked up his first offer.”

The Raiders’ first pre-season game is against Lake Gibson, but they’re focused on the Newsome game. The Raiders have lost to the Wolves in the 2021 and 2022 seasons.

Plant City’s roster is stacked with 21 seniors this year. Hicks says the seniors have a motto: “Brick By Brick.”

“...Their last year of High school will be the first bricks laid for this program under me as Head Coach. They understand they are setting the example and leading this program for all future years to come. They accepted the challenge. They’re ready to go out with a bang.”