When Hollywood McArthur lost a third-round state playoff game to eventual 5A state champion Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas, 34-7, it broke an impressive eight-game winning streak.
While the 10-3 season may have not been earth shattering to many football fans, it was something special for first year head coach Robert Ortega and his Mustangs.
You see, while this program has had plenty of success through the years, turning out quality players, things have not gone well since 2020. Posting a 15-27 record during that period, a change was needed, and when Ortega, a former standout at the school was chosen, things began to turn around quickly.
With several impressive assistant coaches hired along with numerous new faces, things started to take on that championship look.
Even with the St. Thomas Aquinas in the same district, this program still managed to change the culture back to when Ortega was a defensive lineman and this team was always in the mix.
The job that the Mustangs did this past season earned Ortega the honor of South Florida Miami Dolphins Coach of the Year that gives him an opportunity to be named as National Coach of the Year, which will be awarded at this year’s Super Bowl in California.
WHAT DOES 2026 LOOK LIKE?
While the 2026 season is a long way off and understanding that we are here in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, a lot can take place in eight months.
With the way prospects change schools, the roster as it is today can change – in a minute!
As we are headed to third week of January, here is a look at the players that are expected to be back. You know that many prospects will be added before spring begins, so this is NOT the complete list that will open in late August.
PLENTY OF RISING SENIORS ARE BACK
With several prospects graduating from last year along with a few players making a move over the past month, the rising senior class (2027) will still be loaded.
Among those expected to be back in green and orange include Amari Cherenfant (OL, 6’2, 293), Jordany Clervil (OLB), elite talent Sherrod Gourdine (CB/WR, 5’11, 177), Jayden Jackson (OL, 6’1, 290), and nationally rated linebacker Debonaire Johnson (6’0, 220) and University of Miami commitment safety Jaylyn Jones (6’0, 182).
Also, keep an eye on Kayden Julmiste (WR, 5’10, 165), Nathaniel Miller (OT, 6’6, 280), Elian Casasola-Paredes (OL/TE/P/K, 6’1, 245), Guershawn Pierre (DT, 5’11, 238), Jayden Powell (DT, 6’1, 270), Victor Reyhan (DE), Caleb Saint Fleur (OLB/DE, 6’2, 230), Ramses Samson (DE), Isaiah Smith (OL), Keith Walker Jr. (CB, 5’11, 150), D’Marcus Williams (DB), Markese Wright (RB/WR) and heavily recruited Khamarian Young (WR, 6’0, 175).
With several rising seniors expected to step up, there are also underclassmen who are also going to be special – like rising juniors (2028) Kyle Aller (PK, 5’10, 165), Semaj Flowers (RB/WR, 5’7, 165), Braylon Mayo (DL), Elijah Saintil (WR), Josiah Tifa (WR, 6’0, 155) and Devor Williams (CB).
Class of 2029 rising sophomores Brenton Grant (CB, 5’7, 145), Jaylen Richardson (LB/Athlete, 6’1, 190) and offensive lineman Jahmire Simms will also be impressive.
MCARTHUR MUSTANGS
Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna, L 28-14
Miramar, W 24-14
Weston Cypress Bay, W 40-6
Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas, L 31-7
Hollywood Hills, W 70-0
Deerfield Beach, W 35-0
Lauderdale Lakes Boyd Anderson, W 44-0
Fort Lauderdale, W 39-6
South Plantation, W 55-0
Miramar Everglades, W 69-0
Stuart Martin County, W 41-13
Delray Beach Atlantic, W 17-16
Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas, L 34-7
PHOTO COURTESY OF JIM RASSOL/FORT LAUDERDALE SUN-SENTINEL
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..