St. John's Prep High School is gearing up for the 2026 campaign with a clear mission: capture the Massachusetts Division 1 state championship after finishing as runners-up a year ago. The Crusaders have built momentum through a rigorous offseason program and a roster that blends seasoned veterans with emerging talent.
A New Era for the Crusaders
At the center of the hype is junior quarterback Chris Vargas Jr., the first five-star signal-caller ever produced in Massachusetts. Ranked No. 1 in the class of 2028, Vargas committed to Ohio State over a host of powerhouse programs, and last season he threw for more than 2,000 yards with a 75 percent completion rate and 24 touchdowns while tossing only three interceptions.
Vargas will not be alone. The offense features Riley Selvais, a sophomore who already holds 10 Division 1 offers and posted 71 receptions for 1,231 yards and 15 scores as a freshman. Running back Maxwell Parent added 1,403 rushing yards and 26 touchdowns, while tight end George Patoku brings elite blocking and receiving skills. Defensively, captain Will Seaha anchors a unit that also includes linebacker Connor Quigley, safety Leo Turosky and veteran Vinny Graziani.
The new MIAA Super 8 format has turned every regular-season matchup into a potential playoff preview. Early games against Springfield Central and Central Catholic will test the team’s resolve, but the coaching staff believes the heightened stakes will sharpen the squad for the postseason.
Last year’s title game ended in a 41-35 loss to Xaverian Brothers, a defeat that left a bitter taste but also highlighted Vargas’s resilience; he missed two games due to injury yet still delivered a dominant performance in the playoff loss. The experience has fueled a collective determination to close the gap.
If the Crusaders can translate their talent into execution, the pursuit of a tenth state title could become a defining chapter in Massachusetts high school football history.
The combination of a marquee quarterback, a deep supporting cast and a schedule that leaves no room for complacency has created a palpable buzz around the program. Fans, alumni and local media have begun to circle the team’s progress, eager to see whether the early promise will materialize into a championship.