Following their 25-20 Region Final loss to eventual 4A state champion Plantation American Heritage, Archbishop McCarthy head football coach Jake Pew, his assistant coaches and players were hurt.
This is no longer a program that is happy to just be in games with powers, the Mavericks have to be considered as one of Florida’s top programs.
The growth of this team didn’t come overnight. While they finished 10-3 and won the most competitive Class 4A district in the state – where all the teams advanced to the post season – they still believed that they had as good a chance to play for a state title as any other team in Florida.
What they accomplished over the past two years is show that they are ready to make an impact every year – no matter what class or who they have to beat to win a district, region or get to state.
While they lose some quality talent, you can guarantee that the returning players plus other prospects that could make their way to the school in the off-season will keep the Mavericks in the spotlight.
KEY RETURNERS WILL LEAD THE WAY
While there are some top players that will need to be replaced, this team is really in good shape with prospects who are ready to make a statement.
The Class of 2027 seniors will be led by standout running back Damien Grant, defensive lineman Samuel Boatwright, receiver Malik Denson, Ji’Koi Highsmith (DE/OLB), Jacarri Watson (CB) and receiver Ja’kobi Williams.
The class will also look to Elijah Blanc (WR), Noah Corton (OL), Lorenzo Fernandez (SS/P), Emmanuel Gomez (OT), Michael Johnson (K), Nathan Molien (OLB), Joshua Seymour OL/DL), Oscar Sola Jr. (OLB/FB) and linebacker Maikel Suarez.
STRONG UNDERCLASS GROUP GIVES THIS PROGRAM PLENTY OF OPTIMISM
The Class of 2027 will certainly be a great starting place in the 2026 season, but underclassmen have been getting ready for their chance as well.
Among those in the Class of 2028 (rising juniors) will be talented defensive back Justin Antenor, Guru Bustillos (WR), Isaiah Cunningham (DE), Luke DeFaria (OL), Noel Estrella (OL), Shane Harrilal (OL), Lucas Inestroza (RB), Michael Llanos (OL) and versatile Jayllen Morgan (RB/SS).
The Mavericks may have one of the top 2029 group of athletes in south Florida – with elite prospects Chadwic Small (OL) and Ethan Jones (WR/TE) leading the way, but there are more.
Players such as A.J. Berman (S), Derrick Bloodshaw (WR), Marcus Boynton (DT), Rocco Fantigrassi (OL), Amari Jenkins (FS), Isaiah Nathan-Marsh (WR), Derwin McLeod (RB/LB), Dawson Monroe (OT), Kenneth Rowell (CB), Marc-Antoine Sinclair (TE) and rising quarterback Dalis Stuart.
ARCHBISHOP MCCARTHY
Fort Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons, W 42-35
Community School of Naples, W 14-10
Miami St. Brendan, W 56-0
Miami True North Classical Academy, L 31-6
Boynton Beach Somerset Canyon, W 41-0
Miami Norland, W 21-14
Plantation, L 28-27
Plantation American Heritage, 13-10
Fort Lauderdale Calvary Christian, W 38-7
West Palm Beach The King’s Academy, W 48-7
Hialeah, W 49-6
Miami Norland, W 24-14
Plantation American Heritage, L 25-20
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For the past 55 years, we have spent more time on football fields than anyone in the country. From games to practices, camps, combines and 7-on-7 events, we get to as many events as possible to see the athletes LIVE. Follow us on Facebook (Larry Blustein), Instagram (OurBoyBlu) and Twitter (@PrepRedzoneFL). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..