If you told Miami Immaculata LaSalle head football coach Helder Valle before the season that his team would win their first district title in 50 years and post a 12-1 record, there’s nothing about that statement he wouldn’t have liked.
But when you achieve success and believe in yourself as a team, there is no ceiling too high, and that’s why the loss to Fort Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons in the Region Final was something that was hard to swallow.
Over the past few seasons, this program has established itself as a program that is one of the best in 2A – with quality coaching and outstanding play.
With every win in 2025, the Royal Lions grew in confidence. With several veterans combined with elite younger prospects, this is now a team that is ready for the challenge, and even though the stakes have risen with additional competition added to the mix, there is a belief that this off-season is only going to strengthen this program and see some new faces added to something positive.
WHAT’S EXPECTED IN 2026?
While a 12-win season is always a high bar to achieve, once you’ve been there, you understand that it’s a standard that needs to be set to stay among the top programs.
If this team is to be successful again in 2026, the Class of 2027 rising senior class will be important. Among the prospects expected to make an impact include three-year varsity starter Phillip Jones Jr. (OLB/DE). This is a gifted player that opponents need to gameplan for.
In addition, there are Jordan Diaz (MLB/DT), Anthony Gerald III (OL), Christian Guillaume (OL/DL), Torrance Jones (WR/FS), Kevin Matas (OL), Jaiden Rosado (OL) and versatile Tyrone Williams III (WR/CB).
As the rising seniors figure to add the experience and leadership, the underclassmen will also have plenty to add. Class of 2028 rising junior standouts Adrian Cox (RB) and Nate Merrell Jr. (QB) are special. But so are Alejandro Feria (OL), Kareem Forbes (DB), Trayton Jones (CB), Matteo Miller (PK), Jonathan Mompremier (DT/OG), Christian Perez (QB), Jayvion Robinson (WR), Christopher Spikes (S) and receiver Kamari Vasquez.
Also keep an eye on some freshmen (2029) from this year like Julian Alvarez (DE), Jayden Cabrera (OL), Marc Delacruz (WR), Antwan Jones (CB), John McCray (MLB) and Luis Ignacio Varela (RB).
IMMACULATA LASALLE ROYAL LIONS
Miami High, W 35-0
Miami Jackson, W 50-0
Miami Belen Jesuit, W 34-3
Miami Booker T. Washington, W 31-0
Miami Ransom Everglades, W 21-17
Pembroke Pines Somerset Academy, W 42-0
Miami Springs, W 49-12
Miami St. Brendan, W 40-0
Hialeah Gardens Mater Academy, W 21-18
Miami Dr. Krop, W 31-0
Homestead Somerset Academy Silver Palms, W 42-7
Miami Ransom Everglades, W 42-16
Fort Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons, L 20-17
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
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..