South Lakes 2025 Preview

South Lakes had a historic run in 2023, going undefeated and winning the Concorde District title. Last season didn’t quite mirror that success in the win column, but it wasn’t for lack of talent or effort. The Seahawks were right there in several key games, dropping two heartbreakers by a combined three points—one on a blocked game-winning field goal and another on a missed extra point in overtime. They also gave up a last-second touchdown in a tight game against Chantilly. Head coach Jason Hescock said it best: “Our emphasis has been on FINISHING what we start.”

And from what we’ve seen this offseason, the Seahawks have taken that to heart. They’ve looked sharp and motivated during 7-on-7 work this summer, showing signs of the same athleticism and physical edge that helped them dominate two years ago. “This year’s crew is hungry and relentless,” Hescock said, and that shows in both returning veterans and promising younger players stepping into bigger roles.

Offensively, South Lakes is retooling after graduating 23 seniors, including standout skill guys Alec Saunders, Cody Wood, and Matthew McArthur, along with two-time All-Region left tackle Xvavier Swain. But the cupboard is far from bare. Tight end Nate Zschunke (6’3, 230) brings size and versatility to the offense as a three-sport athlete, and Nick Picarelli returns at receiver after a strong offseason in the weight room. Dual-threat sophomore Joshua Dagbe had an explosive offseason and has the potential to become a difference-maker on both sides of the ball.

The backfield features senior Dalton Blakeney (5’6, 190), a powerful runner with two years of varsity experience. Up front, the line will be led by Chris Kishimoto (5’11, 250), Kamrann Choudhry (5’11, 230), and senior anchor Milo Wilkins (6’2, 280), who can play any spot across the front and leads with his work ethic.

Defensively, safety Eric Kowalcyk and junior Cameron Soto return to lead a secondary that also includes two-way senior Labeed Zaib. The linebacker corps gets a boost from experience and physicality, and kicker Nick Bertoni returns as a two-year starter to handle all special teams duties.

This group knows it has something to prove. With a schedule that opens against playoff-tested programs like Yorktown, Battlefield, West Potomac, and Robinson, South Lakes will know early who they are. “How we FINISH the first few games will tell us a lot,” Hescock said. And if early signs from the summer are any indication, the Seahawks are focused, physical, and out to reclaim their place near the top of the Concorde.