In a highly anticipated matchup, No. 4 St. Frances Academy decisively dominated No. 12 Chaminade-Madonna with a final score of 42-13 in the Broward County Classic High School Football Showcase, held at Brian Piccolo Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This victory was particularly significant for St. Frances, as it served as a form of revenge for their previous loss to Chaminade-Madonna two years prior to the day. Head coach Messay Hailemariam’s Panthers established their dominance early, taking a comfortable 28-7 lead by halftime.
### St. Frances Academy: A Team of Resilience and Skill
St. Frances Academy entered this game with a renewed determination, fueled by the memory of their 35-14 defeat at Chaminade-Madonna in 2023. The team’s hard work during the offseason was evident as they executed both offensively and defensively with tenacity. According to Coach Hailemariam, the players’ commitment was crucial: “They worked really hard in the off-season, and I knew that if we worked the way we worked and then played a football game, the type of players we make, then we would have an opportunity to do exactly what we did today.”
The Panthers showcased a well-rounded offensive strategy centered on a strong ground game, efficiently dictating the tempo of the game. This approach allowed them to maintain control and limit the impact of Chaminade-Madonna’s star running back, Derrek Cooper, holding him to under 100 rushing yards, a noteworthy achievement against an athlete of his caliber.
### A Defense That Shines
While St. Frances Academy’s offensive display was commendable, it was their defense that stood out as potentially the best in the nation. They managed to stifle Chaminade-Madonna’s offensive efforts effectively, showcasing a roster filled with high-caliber athletes, including several Maryland and Alabama commitments. Players like five-star EDGE Zion Elee, the top defensive end in the 2026 class, and four-star linebacker DQ Forkpa, who transferred from IMG Academy, were integral to the team’s success. Their presence on the field not only elevated the team’s performance but also illustrated the depth and talent that St. Frances Academy possesses.
### Chaminade-Madonna: A Young Team on the Rise
Conversely, Chaminade-Madonna, despite the loss, displayed promising potential, especially with the inclusion of 13-year-old quarterback Malik Leonard. This young signal caller faced an uphill battle against a formidable defense but demonstrated remarkable poise under pressure. He threw for over 100 yards and a touchdown, hinting at a bright future. Leonard echoed the challenges of stepping into such a prestigious role while still in his early teenage years: “Being the field general of one of the most prestigious high schools in the nation is one of the best things that ever happened to me, but it’s not easy.”
### Future Implications
For St. Frances Academy, this victory not only provides a morale boost but also improves their standing as they prepare for upcoming games. They have a chance to return home and play games in Baltimore, where they will aim to maintain momentum. Their next matchup against IMG Academy on November 7 promises to be another high-stakes game that could further define their season.
Conversely, Chaminade-Madonna will need to regroup and build on this experience. With a young team filled with potential, they have the opportunity to learn from this encounter and improve over the remainder of their season.
### Conclusion
The decisive win for St. Frances Academy over Chaminade-Madonna reflects the evolving landscape of high school football, where talent, determination, and strategy intertwine to create thrilling narratives. St. Frances Academy proved they are a force to be reckoned with, while Chaminade-Madonna has a developing team that calls for patience and growth. As these young athletes continue their journeys, fans can look forward to future matchups that not only highlight individual talents but also the dynamic spirit of high school football.
In summary, St. Frances Academy’s dominant performance is a testament to their resilience and teamwork, setting the stage for both teams as they advance through the season. With Young athletes stepping into leadership roles, the future of high school football looks bright, promising excitement and fierce competition in the weeks to come.
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