Watch CBS News

Doral Academy Advances To Round 3 With Stunning Win

When the 2017 high school football season began, Jase Stewart looked over his Doral Academy roster and felt that winning the district title was a reality.

Last Friday night, the Firebirds, who had beaten Nova in the first round of the state playoffs for the schools' first ever post season win, took things one step further.

Facing off against power Palm Beach Gardens Dwyer, it was all about defense and senior kicker Christian Ramirez in a baseball-like 6-5 win. The victory, which showcased the talent that this young team has, was something that nobody expected – but the Firebirds. This is a team that has won 10 games and is getting better each week.

"We are around these young men every day and know what they are capable of," Stewart said. "This is really a program on the rise – with the education and athletics – I think people will be surprised at how this school becomes a household word."

Senior quarterback Miles Hayes rallied the team, which had fallen behind late, 5-3, but that's when the gifted senior kicker, who is regarded as one of the best in Florida, went to work and booted the game winner.

While national power St. Thomas Aquinas may have an edge this week in the Region Finals in Fort Lauderdale, Stewart understands that things change quickly, and with the kind of talent he has on the roster – and the student/athletes coming aboard next year – this may not be a slam dunk anymore.

With that late win over Dwyer, the Firebirds join Cardinal Gibbons, Miami Palmetto, Miami Central, Hialeah Champagnat, Plantation, Davie Nova, Miami Christopher Columbus, Plantation American Heritage, Fort Lauderdale University School, Miramar and Western as the McDonald's Team of the Week.

About McDonald's Team of The Week:
Every week – throughout the high school season, WQAM, South Florida High School Sports and McDonald's will choose a "Team of the Week" – based on performance and sportsmanship. The team will be awarded a $250 Arch Card for their outstanding performance.

About South Florida High School Sports:
Catch the South Florida High Sports Radio Show each Monday night (9-10) on WQAM (560AM). For the past 10 years, the players and coaches who are making the headlines, join the program. You will learn a lot!

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.