With less than a month to go before National Signing Day, athletes in South Florida are still scrambling to make one of the most important decisions in their young lives.

While many have already left early to begin their collegiate careers, one of the most talented regions of the country for high school football still has several athletes still searching for a college scholarship.

The success that this area has achieved over the years continues to come back and haunt many talented prospects who now have to wait for that tickle down effect to fall their way.

As many football prospects as we develop in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties each year, the need for exposure has become greater — and with so many post season all-star events to choose from, the numbers’ game squeezes very good players out of the mix.

Because of four post season exposure events in South Florida, athletes are now getting that extra film to send out to colleges and universities. For Monsignor Pace 6-1, 175-pound defensive back Malik Kearse, it was an early season injury that put his recruitment on hold. But thanks to this Saturday night’s annual Public vs. Private All-Star Game at Monsignor Pace, he is getting that second chance.

“To be out here for a week and to actually show colleges that I can play, is something that other areas of the country could never provide that opportunity,” Kearse said. “It gives you that chance to show that you can get it done against elite talent.”

Kearse isn’t the only player who will be helped in some way by either the Public vs. Private contest — or Friday night’s Under Armour Dolphins Miami-Dade vs. Broward contest at Sun Life Stadium.

Running back Sean Caranza of Ferguson finished among the top backs in a very competitive Miami-Dade County. Now, he will have a chance to prove his numbers against aggressive Broward prospects who will be battling for that same spotlight.

“A game like this really gives these athletes some additional experience and film,” said Troy Drayton, who helped to coordinate the Dolphin event. “Just to come out here and compete against some of the best in the area is what’s all about.”

While the 2013 season officially comes to an end for some this weekend, others who are still looking for that elusive scholarship will continue to do what is needed to realize that dream. One that started years ago.