The Pensacola News Journal’s all‑area flag football awards for the spring season have turned the spotlight on a group of standout players and a coach whose performances defined the year.
Avery Didion of Navarre was crowned Player of the Year, capping a season in which she amassed 121 receptions for 1,453 yards and 17 touchdowns while also contributing 100 flag pulls and 11 interceptions on defense.
Defensive standout CariAnn Allen from Booker T. Washington earned Defensive Player of the Year after recording 37 tackles and 31 sacks, and adding 21 catches for 379 yards and three scores on offense.
Rising Stars and Veteran Leaders
Newcomer of the Year Avery McBride from Pace impressed with 413 completions out of 599 attempts for 4,190 yards and 52 touchdowns, complemented by 333 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown.
Drew Lafontant, also of Booker T. Washington, was recognized as Coach of the Year after steering his team to an 11‑3 record and delivering the program’s first ever state playoff victory.
The honors extend beyond individual accolades; Booker T. Washington enjoyed its winningest season in school history and broke new ground with a playoff win, while Gulf Breeze posted its strongest campaign since 2022, winning more games than in the previous two seasons combined. Meanwhile, Pace secured a playoff berth for the fifth straight year, underscoring the program’s consistency.
These recognitions underscore the growing prominence of flag football in the region.