Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Elijah George

The Blazers will be a different team this fall. They lost 10 of 50 players from last season to graduation, including their four-year starting quarterback. Elijah George offers continuity for Sarasota Christian football. The rising senior running back/linebacker registered 367 yards on 77 carries in 2025, averaging 36.7 rushing yards per game in a pass-heavy scheme. Ahead of the July 27 start to fall practice, George is the Sarasota Athlete of the Week.

What have you been up to this summer to prepare for the fall?

I've been training at our football workouts — they do it for all athletics. I've also been doing seven-on-seven (football). We do practices and games against other schools, and those have helped a lot. And I've done some training on my own.

What goals do you have for your senior season?

I'm hoping to maybe get to districts, leave a good legacy for myself at the school and really bond with my teammates for my last year.

When and why did you start playing football?

I started playing in freshman year. I had never really had a passion for a sport until I started playing football, and so I knew I was going to love it more than any other sport. 

How have you improved since the beginning of junior year?

I've developed myself to be a more versatile running back. I've taught myself how to block and catch instead of just being able to run the ball, which is also a key to being a running back.

What have you really focused on as of late?

My catching. It could use some work, but it's getting there.

Why have you stuck with this sport over time?

My parents (Jacob and Joette George), because there have been times where I've wanted to quit and give up. But they really pushed me to never quit and keep working hard.

Which quote or piece of advice have you always carried with you?

Our school uses Proverbs 27:17, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another."

What's a fun fact about you not many people know?

I enjoy listening to reggae music. I really like "Let's Do It Again" by J Boog. 

Who is your favorite professional athlete and why?

Jayden Daniels. I'm a big Commanders fan. He's not the biggest guy on the field, and I can kind of relate myself, but he doesn't quit. He really works hard for his team, and you can tell.

If you could go anywhere for a dream vacation, where would you go and why?

Japan. It's really cool over there and futuristic. They've got a lot of stuff over there that's pretty cool, like heated toilets.

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would you eat and why?

There's actually a pizza place called Mellow Mushroom, and they have my favorite pizza. I like the "Mighty Meaty" pie.

Finish this sentence. Elijah George is...

Determined.