St Thomas Aquinas High School Football: A Dynasty of Faith

In the heart of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, St. Thomas Aquinas High School football isn’t just a program—it’s a legacy. The Raiders, clad in navy and gold, dominate the gridiron at Brian Piccolo Memorial Stadium, where the roar of the crowd echoes the pulse of a community united by faith, tradition, and an unrelenting drive for excellence. This isn’t merely a team; it’s a powerhouse that has redefined high school football in Florida’s cutthroat 5A landscape. In this 1,600-word deep dive, we’ll unravel the Raiders’ storied history, break down their dominant 2024 season, spotlight the players and coaches fueling their success, and explore the community impact that makes St. Thomas Aquinas a name synonymous with greatness. Ready to discover why the Raiders are a force to be reckoned with? Let’s hit the field.

What Makes St. Thomas Aquinas Football Exceptional?

Florida is a football mecca, and St. Thomas Aquinas stands as one of its crown jewels. Nestled at 2801 SW 12th St, this private Catholic school, part of the Archdiocese of Miami, blends rigorous academics with an athletic program that’s the envy of the nation. The Raiders aren’t just playing for wins—they’re chasing immortality, with a record 16 state championships, including a historic six straight from 2019 to 2024.

What sets them apart? It’s a trifecta of elite coaching, NFL-caliber talent, and a culture rooted in faith and discipline. From alumni like Michael Irvin and Joey Bosa to current stars drawing college scouts, St. Thomas Aquinas churns out athletes who shine on Saturday and Sunday. Their games are more than matchups; they’re spectacles that pack stands with 6,000-plus fans, all rallying behind a program that’s as much about character as it is about championships.

St. Thomas Aquinas Football: The Essentials

Here’s the quick playbook on the Raiders:

This snapshot is just the beginning—let’s dive deeper into the Raiders’ world.

A Storied Past: The History of St. Thomas Aquinas Football

Founded in 1936 as part of St. Anthony School, St. Thomas Aquinas High School moved to its current Fort Lauderdale campus in 1952, laying the groundwork for a football program that would become a juggernaut. The Raiders’ rise to prominence began in the 1990s under coach George Smith, whose disciplined approach yielded their first state title in 1992. By 2007, under Roger Harriott’s early tenure as an assistant, the Raiders claimed their fourth championship, setting the stage for a dynasty.

The pinnacle came from 2019 to 2024, when St. Thomas Aquinas made history with six consecutive FHSAA 5A state titles—a feat unmatched in Florida high school football. Their 115 total state championships across all sports, including 16 in football, earned them the nation’s top athletic program title by MaxPreps in 2011. With alumni like Geno Atkins, Asante Samuel Jr., and Dallas Turner now in the NFL, the Raiders’ pipeline to the pros is undeniable.

Key Moments in Raiders History

• 1992: First state championship, marking the start of a dominant era.

• 2008: Back-to-back titles with a 15-0 season, showcasing offensive firepower.

• 2024: Sixth straight 5A title, a 34-0 rout of Lakeland, cementing their legacy.

The Raiders’ ability to reload talent while staying true to their Catholic values keeps them at the forefront of Florida football.

How Did St. Thomas Aquinas Perform in 2024?

The 2024 season was a masterclass in dominance for the Raiders, finishing 12-3 and clinching their sixth consecutive FHSAA 5A state championship with a 34-0 shutout over Lakeland on December 13, 2024. Despite three regular-season losses, including a 28-27 heartbreaker to Chaminade-Madonna, St. Thomas Aquinas roared through the playoffs, outscoring opponents 176-87 across four games. Their No. 5 ranking in Florida and No. 40 nationally underscored their season-long excellence.

2024 Season Match Scores

Here’s the Raiders’ complete 2024 schedule:

Standout Games of 2024

• Dec 13 vs. Lakeland: A 34-0 shutout in the 5A final showcased a suffocating defense and explosive offense.

• Nov 29 vs. Atlantic: A 49-42 thriller highlighted the Raiders’ resilience in high-stakes moments.

• Aug 30 vs. Chaminade-Madonna: A one-point loss fueled their redemption arc.

The Raiders’ ability to rebound from setbacks defined their championship run.

Who Are the Stars of St. Thomas Aquinas Football?

The Raiders’ roster is a breeding ground for elite talent, with players who dominate locally and attract national attention.

• Andrew Indorf – Senior Quarterback

  • 2024 Stats: 1,800+ passing yards, 20+ TDs, clutch in the state final.

  • Impact: A dual-threat leader whose poise anchored the offense.

• Chance Washington – Senior Running Back

  • 2024 Stats: 1,200+ rushing yards, two TDs in the championship game.

  • Future: Committed to a Power 5 program, a bulldozer in the backfield.

• Cedric Wyche – Senior Running Back

  • 2024 Stats: Caught a TD pass in the state final, versatile playmaker.

  • Legacy: A multi-dimensional threat who sparked big plays.

The defense, led by players like Trevor Sommers, held opponents to 15 points per game, a testament to their physicality.

What’s the Raiders’ Practice Schedule?

Success starts in the grind. Here’s a glimpse into St. Thomas Aquinas’ weekly routine:

This regimen, compliant with FHSAA rules, builds physical and mental toughness.

How Does St. Thomas Aquinas Prepare for Glory?

The Raiders’ formula for success is meticulous and multifaceted.

Coaching Mastery

Head coach Roger Harriott, a St. Thomas Aquinas alum, blends faith-driven leadership with tactical brilliance. His seven state titles and Coach of the Year honors reflect his impact. Athletic Director Twan Russell, a former NFL player, ensures the program runs like a well-oiled machine.

Training That Forges Champions

• Offseason: Weight room sessions and speed training start in January.

• In-Season: Daily practices emphasize precision and physicality.

• Film Study: Hours dissecting opponents’ tendencies give the Raiders a strategic edge.

Community Passion

Brian Piccolo Memorial Stadium pulses with energy, drawing massive crowds. Pre-game Masses and community service initiatives, like food drives, tie the team to Fort Lauderdale’s heart.

What Are the Raiders’ Fiercest Rivalries?

Rivalries fuel the Raiders’ fire, with matchups that electrify South Florida.

• St. Thomas Aquinas vs. Cardinal Gibbons

  • 2024 Result: 28-21 win, a defensive slugfest.

  • Why It Matters: A Broward County clash with playoff implications.

• St. Thomas Aquinas vs. Chaminade-Madonna

  • History: The 2024 loss (28-27) stung but spurred their title run.

  • Edge: High-scoring battles test both teams’ mettle.

How Can Fans Stay Connected?

Want to ride with the Raiders? Here’s how:

• Live Streams: Watch on NFHS Network or aquinasathletics.com.

• Scores & Updates: MaxPreps, On3, or FloridaHSFootball.com.

• Social Media: Follow @STA_Football on X for real-time buzz.

Tips for Aspiring Raiders

Dream of wearing navy and gold? Here’s your path:

• Start Early: Play for feeder programs like St. Anthony’s middle school.

• Excel Academically: Meet the school’s rigorous admission standards.

• Show Grit: Attend summer camps to catch coaches’ eyes.

Why St. Thomas Aquinas Football Matters

The Raiders are more than a team—they’re a beacon of Fort Lauderdale pride. Their 16 state titles and NFL alumni inspire the next generation, while their faith-based mission fosters leaders. Every tackle, touchdown, and trophy reflects a community’s belief in excellence.

Fun Fact

St. Thomas Aquinas has sent 18 players to the NFL Draft since 2012, more than any other high school in the nation!

See Also: fballquery.com

Conclusion

The 2024 season cemented St. Thomas Aquinas as Florida’s gold standard, with a sixth straight state title and a roster brimming with promise. Under Roger Harriott’s guidance and fueled by a fervent fanbase, the Raiders are poised for more historic runs. They’re not just playing football—they’re building a dynasty rooted in faith, family, and tradition. Want to witness their next chapter? Tune in, grab a ticket, and join the roar at Brian Piccolo Memorial Stadium. Go Raiders!