Football Recap: St. John Paul II Academy Takes a Loss

Fans were treated to a battle of the Eagles on Friday. St. John Paul II Academy fell just short of North Broward Prep by a score of 27-24. St. John Paul II Academy was not able to make up for their loss to North Broward Prep from their previous meeting back in October of 2024.

Leanthony Hardin

Rushing Yards

09/04/25 @ Jupiter Christian	-4
09/15/25 vs Saint Andrew's	19
09/19/25 vs Somerset Prep	33
09/26/25 vs Pine Crest	49
10/03/25 @ North Broward Prep	119

Despite the defeat, St. John Paul II Academy saw an underclassman step up: freshman Leanthony Hardin rushed for 119 yards and one touchdown while picking up 7.4 yards per carry. Those 119 rushing yards set a new season-high mark for Hardin. Nicholas Pouncey was in the mix too, providing St. John Paul II Academy with two TDs.

North Broward Prep got their victory on the backs of several key players, but it was Ralph Diaz out in front who threw for 152 yards and one touchdown while completing 76.5% of his passes, and also rushed for 63 yards on only seven carries.

St. John Paul II Academy now has a losing record of 2-3. As for North Broward Prep, they now have a winning record of 4-3.

Looking ahead, St. John Paul II Academy will square off against American Heritage at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. The Eagles' defense better be ready for this one: the Stallions have averaged an impressive 43 points per game this season. As for North Broward Prep, they will take on Calvary Christian Academy at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday. This will be North Broward Prep's first chance to prove their worth in the conference.