The nerves are gone and Justin Holman is ready to lead his team deep into the playoffs.

Holman, Stephenson’s senior quarterback, earned the starting job last season after a stellar game off the bench.

Stephenson head coach Ron Gartrell said he saw the athletic ability in Holman last season but did not start him in the opener.

“Last year he had some nerve problems before that first game,” Gartrell said. “He sat out one quarter but then he got in there and had a great game. We knew once he overcame being nervous he would be OK.”

Holman led the Jaguars in a 9-2 season with 739 yards passing, eight touchdowns and 91 yards rushing with two touchdowns.

Gartrell said he has enjoyed coaching Holman and he is looking for big things from his senior quarterback.

“He has paid his dues in this program and he has worked hard all along the way,” Gartrell said. “He has really grown mentally and physically and his leadership has been a plus for us.”

Gartrell said Holman has matured from the nervous athlete he was last year into one of the top leaders for the Jaguars.

“He has a tremendous concern for other people and he is just such a great and respected athlete on this team,” Gartrell said.

Holman is verbally committed to play for the University of Central Florida next season.