VERO BEACH — Vero Beach High School’s football team is heading back to the state championship for the first time in over four decades, fueled by a heart-stopping double-overtime victory that has the community buzzing.
The undefeated Fighting Indians edged out Miami Palmetto 45-44 in a Class 7A semifinal Friday night, securing their spot in the title game against Lake Mary. It’s Vero Beach’s first appearance in the Florida High School Athletic Association championship since 1981, when the team claimed its only state crown.
Sophomore defensive back Jamarion Hillsman sealed the win by breaking up a 2-point conversion pass in the second overtime, denying the Panthers a chance to extend the thriller. His brother, senior Jonathan Hillsman, starred on offense with a pair of third-quarter rushing touchdowns and the game’s lone overtime score on a 10-yard swing pass.
Senior quarterback Efrem “EJ” White was nearly flawless, completing 21 of 23 passes for four touchdowns. He connected with sophomore wide receiver Latravious Woods for two scores in the first half and found senior wideout Jarvis Jones for a touchdown on the opening play of the fourth quarter.
Vero Beach (14-0) dominated much of the season, outscoring opponents by an average of more than 30 points. The team’s defense, anchored by players like the Hillsman brothers, held firm in critical moments despite Palmetto’s late rally that forced extra periods.
Lake Mary (11-3) advanced with a 31-26 upset over Venice in the other semifinal. The Rams are the reigning Class 7A runners-up, having fallen in last year’s final, and bring a resilient squad that has overcome injuries and tough matchups.
The championship is set for Dec. 13 at South Dade Kia Field at Pitbull Stadium in Miami. Kickoff time and broadcast details were not immediately available, but the game will be streamed on the NFHS Network.
For Vero Beach, the matchup represents a chance to end a 44-year drought and add a second trophy to the school’s history. Jankowski, in his 14th season, has built a powerhouse program that emphasizes discipline and community pride.
Tickets for the final are available through GoFan, with admission starting at $17 in advance.