Looking for suggestions on budget cam with external controls for scouting/game film new or used

I have been shooting scout and game footage for my son's football team for years using a Canon HF200. In terms of image quality it's fine, but the AF is simply too slow and the lack of external controls makes it lackluster with a fluid head and external monitor, so it's time to upgrade.

I'm looking around or under $800 with the following minimums:

• 1080p+
• external controls (LANC or similar for variable speed zoom)
• solid state media (XD preferred)
• fast autofocus
• HDMI video out

I'm open to new or used consumer or pro gear. I'm open to a camcorder or a 4/3 with a power zoom. Something like the Canon XF100 or equivalent seems like a possible contender.

Suggestions would be appreciated and if you have a different approach instead of my minimums, by all means I'd like to hear it.