Oviedo, Pine Ridge hire cousins on same day

“It wasn’t planned that way, so that’s what makes it really cool,” said Mayo.

Mayo, who led Port Orange Atlantic to a 13-8 record as head coach the past two seasons, is tasked with rebuilding the reputation of a traditionally solid program beset by allegations of bullying and hazing among players in recent years under former coach Matt Dixon.

Mayo previously made head coaching stops at Tampa Chamberlain and South Daytona Warner Christian.

He’s also coached quarterbacks at Warner University and served as an assistant during turnarounds at both DeLand and Port Orange Spruce Creek.

Mayo cites current and former area coaches such as Kevin Pettis, Tim Smith, Steve Allen and Travis Roland as those he’s learned from over the years.

“After meeting the people [at Oviedo], it was everything it was cracked up to be,” said Mayo, 38. “There’s nothing but positive things to say about the program and I’m super excited about the opportunity. I’m on a mission and I don’t want to let anyone down.”

Atlantic finished 8-4 this fall in Class 5A and won its first playoff game since Mayo was a player at the school in 1996. The Sharks’ last previous playoff appearance was in 2012.

Washington, 26, served as defensive coordinator this season under Mayo, who was an assistant coach at Atlantic when Washington played for the Sharks. Washington finished his prep career as a quarterback at nearby New Smyrna Beach, where he later got started as an assistant coach before teaming with Mayo.

“I knew I wanted to get into coaching and I knew he was going to be the right guy,” said Washington. “He holds everybody to the same standard and there’s a lot of tough love involved. As far as accountability, there’s no him.”

Washington said Sunday he was already evaluating talent at Pine Ridge while looking over film. He was also busy replying to messages of support that came his way through phone calls, texts and social media posts.

“I know he’s young, but he’s a football rat,” Mayo said of his second cousin. “I see a lot of myself in him with knowing both sides of the ball, being willing to put in the hours and willing to ask questions. I think he has it all.” wavering with