Achieving the status of state runner-up has a remarkable impact on high school football registrations, as the Lake Mary Rams can undoubtedly attest.

Scott Perry, head coach of Lake Mary, announced that a record number of 205 students registered to join the Rams for spring drills, which commenced on Monday, April 28. Both varsity and junior varsity teams will practice Monday through Friday from 2:30 to 5 p.m., while incoming freshmen will have their sessions from 5:30 to 7 p.m., Monday through Thursday.

“We have 205 kids signed up to play but only 135 cleared to practice,” Perry shared with enthusiasm, recalling the Rams’ impressive 12-3 record and state runner-up finish in Class 7A last season—the largest classification in Florida. “That’s a record for us. I need to order more helmets!”

A former offensive lineman at Florida under the legendary Steve Spurrier, Perry noted that the varsity and junior varsity squads collectively saw a turnout of 135 players who will practice together.

“We have two days in helmets followed by three days in helmets and shoulder pads,” Perry explained. “Next week, we will transition to full padded practices. There’s a lot of excitement here after competing in the state championship last season.”

Leading the Rams into the 2025 season will be rising senior quarterback Noah Grubbs, a Notre Dame commit who impressed last season with 3,024 passing yards and 37 touchdowns, alongside just 12 interceptions. He also contributed 146 rushing yards and five touchdowns.

“Noah Grubbs is an exceptional leader and player, and the offense is already looking sharp,” Perry stated. “Our defense is replacing 10 starters, but this new group is very talented and adapting swiftly, which should bode well by the time the season arrives.”

Lake Mary will host a Red vs. Gray Expo game featuring varsity and junior varsity teams on Friday, May 9. The Rams will conclude their spring drills with a matchup against The First Academy (Orlando), a strong Class 1A program, scheduled for Thursday, May 15.