Alec Cromie spent last season as Weeki Wachee’s junior varsity quarterback. His only varsity action came in the last game of the season against Nature Coast. This season, Cromie is the Hornets’ sophomore starter. At 6-foot-3, 190 pounds he is a big pocket passer who has allowed the Hornets to switch from an option to a pro-style offense. In his first regular-season start, Cromie set the bar high by hitting 12 of 19 passes for 201 yards and five touchdowns against Interlachen. Now comes a tougher test against neighborhood rival Springstead. Cromie talked about his fast start and Friday's game.
Having played only junior varsity last season, how were the nerves before your first start in the preseason game against Lecanto?
“I was a little nervous. I wanted to perform well and it took me a while to settle in. But I knew there were good players around me. I just had to relax and get them the ball.”
Did that game help you to relax a little more against Interlachen?
“I think I settled in pretty good from the start. I definitely felt better. Once I started throwing some passes I got more comfortable. I did have a few mistakes but I’ve just got to keep working hard and try to eliminate them.”
And I’m sure it helps to have players like Shawn O’Gorman (107 yards rushing, 89 receiving vs. Interlachen) around you.
“It’s great to know there are players like that. Shawn contributes to the team in so many ways. Nobody works harder and he’s always willing to stay after practice and work on some things if I need him too. All of the upperclassmen have been great. If I have questions I know I can go to them.”
Have you been the big quarterback type since your youth league days?
“Actually I didn’t start playing football until the eighth grade. I’m a basketball player. I got talked into trying out for football by one of my middle school coaches.”
And have you become a football player year round?
“No. I still play basketball. I’m going to continue to play both sports until it becomes apparent I’m better at one than the other. If there’s a chance to play one in college then I’ll focus on that sport.”
Lastly, you play against Springstead this week. How nice would it be to beat the neighborhood rival?
“They were very good last year. I believe they won the district and were in the playoffs. So yes, it would be nice to beat a team like that. It’s good to play a team like that so you can see how good you are.”
Contact Rodney Page at page@tampabay.com. Follow @RodneyHomeTeam.