- April 20, 2024
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The Flagler Palm Coast Bulldogs football team will have a new starting quarterback when the fall season starts.
Bentlee Critcher, who was FPC’s starting QB and kicker last season, will be transferring to Warner Christian, in South Daytona.
“I would say a few weeks ago it kind of popped up, and it developed from that,” Critcher said in a phone interview Tuesday.
As of right now, Critcher said he will be homeschooled, but will play sports at Warner Christian. He has filed all the necessary paperwork with the Florida High School Athletic Association to complete the transfer and allow him to play sports, according to his family.
He intends on playing football, running track and possibly playing soccer.
Critcher was named the Bulldogs’ starting QB last season when Cory Soard was injured in a preseason game. Critcher completed 89 out of 188 passes for 1,022 yards, six touchdowns and seven interceptions. He set the school record when he drilled a 47-yard field goal in May, in FPC’s spring game.
FPC coach Caesar Campana said Critcher developed well at QB last season.
“I enjoyed working with him as his position coach because he was so eager to work hard and learn how to get better,” Campana said.
However, Campana said, as a football coach, you have to deal with all kinds of player issues.
“I am always ready to replace any starter in a moment’s notice.” Campana said. “Critcher leaving our program is only a temporary setback for the Bulldogs.”
At Warner Christian, Critcher said he will be playing some QB, as well as some wide receiver, defensive back and will do all of the kicking duties.
Last season, the Eagles lost in the Class 1B state championship to Glades Day, 42-35. The Eagles went 13-1, the only loss coming in the state championship.
“I want to be part of the team and help them be successful,” Critcher said. “I will do whatever they need me to do.”
FPC will miss Critcher on the track as well as the gridiron.
In the end, though, Campana wishes Critcher luck in his change.
“Overall, I am sure that Bentlee will do well wherever he is homeschooled and that his leaving FPC is a good thing for all parties involved,” Campana said. “I want to wish him well.”
