Written By: Coach Buckets @PreWarWesley
Topeka, Kansas, played host to the Elite 7Evens Mid America Shootout, bringing together some of the top young talent in the country for a highly competitive event. Saturday’s pool play set the stage for an action-packed weekend, with several standout performances, particularly in the 15U division. As always, The Platform remains committed to its mission of “Exposing The Unexposed,” providing well-deserved recognition and exposure to rising athletes nationwide. Here’s a look at some of the top performers who made their mark in Topeka.
Blue Zambo| Class of 2028 | WR/DB | Mill Valley HS | 7v7: StrongSide KC | Twitter: @BlueZambo3
Every tournament, Zambo proves why he’s one of the most dominant players in the 15U division and this weekend in Topeka was no different. A standout athlete with a natural feel for the game, Zambo not only excelled at his own age level but also made an impact on the 18U Strongside squad.
On offense, Zambo’s explosiveness off the line, smooth route running, and reliable hands made him nearly unstoppable. His quick acceleration and shiftiness allows him to create separation with ease, and once the ball is in his hands, he rarely lets it hit the ground. He finished the day with three touchdowns, showcasing his ability to be a go-to playmaker.
Defensively, Zambo was even more impressive. His jaw-dropping vertical leaping ability gave him a clear advantage in breaking up passes, while his precise hand placement and rip technique consistently disrupted opposing receivers. He racked up three interceptions and two pass breakups, making his presence felt in every phase of the game.
As one of the highest-ranked prospects in Kansas for the 2028 class, Zambo’s stock is rising. Expect his recruitment to pick up steam in 2026 and 2027 as he continues to prove he’s one of the top young talents in the Midwest.
Easton Melton | Class of 2028 | Quarterback | Maize HS | 7v7: Wichita Wheat | Twitter: @E3Easton
Easton Melton delivered another dominant performance on Saturday at the Elite 7Evens Mid America Shootout. The Maize High School (KS) quarterback showcased his elite arm strength, pinpoint accuracy, and high football IQ, solidifying his reputation as one of the top young passers in the region.
Using his tall, powerful frame, Melton consistently zipped passes through tight windows, splitting defenders and converting key first downs. His deep ball was a thing of beauty, perfectly placed in the bucket—just out of reach of defenders but right where his receivers could make a play. His ability to read coverages and adjust his throws accordingly was on full display, proving he has both the physical and mental tools to excel at the next level.
Playing at Maize High School, a well-known quarterback factory, Melton is poised to carry on the program’s legacy and potentially set a new standard of excellence. With performances like this, his stock is sure to rise as he continues to develop into one of Kansas’ premier quarterback prospects.
Cooper Cranston| Class of 2028 | Safety / Wide Receiver | Holcomb HS | 7v7: Kansas Colts | Twitter: @CooperC_VII
Cooper Cranston continues to prove why he is one of the most explosive and dynamic athletes in the 15U ranks, while also making a significant impact on the Kansas Colts’ 18U squad. A true game-changer on both sides of the ball, Cranston has the versatility, physicality, and football IQ to take over a game at any moment.
At safety, Cranston plays the position at an elite level. His instincts and field vision are second to none, allowing him to read the quarterback while tracking receivers in his zone. He brings a physical edge, knocking receivers off their routes and disrupting passing lanes with his aggressive playstyle. When the Colts needed a stop, Cranston was the one making the big pass breakup or interception.
With years still left to develop, Cranston is well on his way to becoming one of the top safety prospects in Kansas for the 2028 class. Expect his name to be at the top of recruiting rankings in the near future as he continues to dominate at both the 15U and 18U levels.
Jacksen DaSilva | Class of 2028 | Linebacker | Jefferson West HS | 7v7: Top City Most Wanted | Twitter: @dasilva70884
Jacksen DaSilva may be a hidden gem for now, but his play at the Elite 7Evens Mid America Shootout proved that won’t be the case for long. Competing with first-year program Top City Most Wanted, DaSilva has already established himself as a defensive force, where he acts as a steel curtain against crossing routes.
What sets DaSilva apart is his high football IQ and discipline in zone coverage. He never gets baited out of position, staying locked into his responsibilities while punishing receivers who enter his territory. His ability to communicate with defensive backs and quickly recover into his zone allows him to consistently disrupt plays, racking up pass breakups and interceptions with ease.
DaSilva’s performance is a perfect example of why 7v7 football provides valuable exposure for up and coming athletes. As he continues to shine for Top City Most Wanted, expect his name to rise in recruiting rankings and catch the attention of college scouts.
