Iconic Season Wraps Up for High School Football in Louisiana
This year in Louisiana, the 2024 high school football season closed with a bang, especially for teams in the Lafayette Parish and nearby areas. The excitement peaked as three local teams fought for glory in the LHSAA Football Prep Classic, all emerging victorious. Cecilia, Catholic-New Iberia, and Vermilion Catholic proudly secured state championships and are bringing the coveted trophies back to their communities.
Overall, an impressive 28 area teams made it to the playoffs, showcasing the talent present across Lafayette, Acadiana, St. Landry, St. Martin, and Iberia parishes. As the season wraps up, standout players have emerged, leading to the compilation of an All-Metro first and second team, complete with Offensive and Defensive MVPs.
A highlight of the season was the Bulldogs’ determination. The team claimed the LHSAA Non-Select Division II championship, thanks in large part to senior quarterback Solari. He faced many challenges, including injuries and three regular-season losses, but that did not hold him back. During the playoffs, Solari led his team, overcoming every opponent as the 18-seed. In the state championship game, he threw for 217 yards and recorded three total touchdowns, demonstrating his talent.
On the defensive side, Broussard from the Cougars shined in his role as cornerback. His season began strongly, finishing with eight interceptions, the highest in the state, and he proved vital in the team’s playoff run.
Meanwhile, Coach Prejean guided the Screaming Eagles to a perfect season, achieving a remarkable 14-0 record. They faced Ouachita Christian for the LHSAA Select Division IV state championship and triumphed with a score of 33-21 to claim their third title in school history.
All-Metro First Team Highlights
Here are some key players from the first team:
- Quarterbacks: Jonathan Dartez (Vermilion Catholic), Luke Landry (Catholic-New Iberia)
- Running Backs: D’Shaun Ford (Opelousas), Doug E Viltz (Teurlings Catholic)
- Wide Receivers: Brayden Allen (Lafayette Christian Academy), Davian “Diamond” Jackson (Westgate)
- Defensive Backs: Derrick Collins (Southside), Kaleb Daniels (Teurlings Catholic)
The All-Metro teams and the impressive performances of these athletes serve as a testament to the strength of football in the region. With the 2024 high school football season now behind us, fans will look forward to what next year will bring.
