PIGSKIN PREVIEW 2022: Foundation Academy

The Foundation Academy Lions are looking forward to stepping onto the field to being the 2022-23 football season with a young team. 

“I’ve counted 15 freshmen so far,” head football coach Andre Walker said. “A lot of newcomers … but I’ll tell you, the difference from this year to last year is that last year we had a lot of older guys but we lacked depth. This year, we have more depth but little experience.” 

Despite having a younger team this year, expectations for the season remain the same as previous years. 

“Since I’ve been here, we haven’t had a losing season,” Walker said.

The Lions have a tough schedule to face and a few familiar opponents they haven’t seen in a few years. 

“I had to change the schedule this year,” Walker said. “It’s tough, very tough, but I want to say it’s tougher because we always try to play tough opponents to prepare ourselves for the postseason.”

The team will face Lake Highland Prep, which despite not being in Foundation Academy’s district, won the state championship in the Sunshine State Athletic Conference. The Lions also will face CFCA, which, according to Walker, is a team that holds a lot of elite talent. Orlando Christian Prep and The First Academy also are on the schedule. 

“Since I’ve been at Foundation, we’ve only beaten (TFA) once (in eight years),” Walker said. “It will be tough to get into postseason play this season, but I’m excited to see what my young guys can do.” 

The team faced a few changes in the staff but is ready prove what the boys can do, as they have gained depth and, according to Walker, “strength in numbers.” 

Some players to watch this upcoming season are linebacker Sam Zagame, who also will play on the defensive end; offensive lineman Edward Byrd; and quarterback Brady Lord.