Miramar High Football Team Heads To State Championships

MIRAMAR (CBS4) - Several South Florida high schools are sending their football teams to the state finals this weekend. The teams from Miramar, Miami Central and Miami Norland are all undefeated and ready to take their skills to the field in Orlando.

All three teams are hoping to win a second state championship.

A pep rally was held Thursday morning at Miramar High School before the team boarded busses for Central Florida.

"It's our senior year and it's our time to shine," said Kevin Gonzalez who is an offensive lineman for the Patriots.

Their season has been filled with triumph and tragedy. In July, during a hot summer day practice, player Isaiah Laurencin went into cardiac arrest. He died hours later. The Patriots said this weekend's game is for him.

"It's our time to make it happen for Isaiah, our fallen Patriot," said Gonzalez. "We're going to bring home a win for him."

Hundreds of teens filled the school's gymnasium to show support as students sent their beloved team off with spirit and pride.

"I'm really excited, I hope we win," said Kiona Baker who is a varsity cheerleader for the Patriots. "I'm ready to cheer them on and I can't wait!"

The Miramar High School football team is ranked number one in the state of Florida and number three nationwide. The Patriots are looking to complete their first undefeated season in school history. The team is currently 13-0 and has outscored their opponents 422-100 on the season.

"They're ready," said Head Coach Damon Cogdell. "This is a humble team, there's a lot of character on this team. It's a great group of individuals and I'm sure they'll be fine on Saturday."

Broward Public Schools Superintendent Robert Runcie said he is anticipating a win in Saturday's game against H.B. Plant High School from Tampa in the inaugural championship game for the newly created 8A classification.

"We've been undefeated for a reason." said Patriots cornerback Tracey Howard. "And we're going to continue that out."

The team looks to capture their second state championship in three years and challenge for the first Mythical National Championship in school history.