Sarasota Christian running back Elijah George was named Sarasota Athlete of the Week on Tuesday, July 14, as he prepares for his senior season as the Blazers' top returning offensive playmaker.
The recognition, awarded by Your Observer, comes as Sarasota Christian replaces 10 of the 50 players who graduated this spring, including the program's four-year starting quarterback, who started every season since the football program was established in 2022. Fall practice begins Monday, July 27.
Senior running back takes on larger offensive role
George rushed for 367 yards on 77 carries during his junior season, averaging 36.7 rushing yards per game in a pass-oriented offense.
Before the 2025 season, the Sarasota Herald-Tribune identified George as the team's primary ball carrier out of the backfield, a role expected to grow following this year's graduation losses.
The Blazers finished 5-6 in 2025 and lost 23-17 to Master's Academy in the first round of the SSAA Class 3A playoffs after posting a 6-5 record in 2024.
Sarasota Christian began competition in eight-man football in 2022 before transitioning to the traditional 11-man game under head coach Jacob Spenn, who enters his fifth season leading the program.
Family support helped shape football journey
George said he began playing football as a freshman and credits his parents, Jacob and Joette George, with encouraging him to stick with the sport.
"My parents (Jacob and Joette George), because there have been times where I've wanted to quit and give up," George told Your Observer when asked who has had the greatest influence on his football career. "But they really pushed me to never quit and keep working hard."
Over the past three seasons, George has expanded his role beyond running the ball, developing his blocking and pass-catching skills.
He said he has spent the offseason preparing through team workouts, seven-on-seven competitions against other schools and individual training sessions.
Looking ahead to his final season
George said his goals for his senior season are to help Sarasota Christian reach the district playoffs, leave a lasting legacy at the school and build strong relationships with his teammates during his final year.
The Blazers have not yet released their 2026 football schedule.
