St. Frances Academy in Maryland has announced a 2026 football showdown with Vero Beach, Florida, slated for September 4, marking the opening week of Vero Beach’s schedule.
A clash of elite programs
The Maryland powerhouse, which finished inside the top five of last year’s USA TODAY Super 25, capped a 9‑1 2025 campaign with a 37‑20 victory over Corner Canyon in the Overtime High School National Championship.
Vero Beach entered the 2025 season with a 14‑1 record, averaging 41.9 points per game before falling in the FHSAA Class 7A state championship in a dramatic finish.
Star power on both sides
Both squads are loaded with Power Four prospects, including Texas Tech commit Anthony Sweeney, Texas A&M commit Raylaun Henry and Jermaine Smith Jr., while Vero Beach returns Notre Dame quarterback commit Champ Wonderful Monds IV who threw for 691 yards and seven touchdowns last season.
Monds injured his ankle during the opening classic against Miami Norland but returned for the postseason, showcasing resilience that adds intrigue to the upcoming matchup.
The game will serve as Week 3 for Vero Beach and is expected to draw significant attention from college recruiters and high school football fans across the nation.