Union AcademyUnion Academy (5-6, 0-4)
The Cardinals have improved from 4 wins in the previous 2 season to 5 last year while making the playoffs under HC Mason Sledge. The QB position open now that junior Parker Frazier has transferred out of Union Academy after throwing for 1700+ yards and 16 TDs as a sophomore. The opportunity gives sophomore Nico Mendoza the job of starting QB for Union Academy. Mendoza played in one varsity game as a freshman and was the starter for the JV team in 2024. The Cardinal rushing attack returns 1 of their top 4 rushers from last season. Senior Elijah Shine ran for 159 yards on just 14 carries should be the main ground gainer. The graduation of WR Breshen Bennett (653 yds & 8 TDs) is a huge loss but Kayden Crooke had 365 yards receiving on 27 receptions including 2 TDs in 2024 as a junior will be back. Senior kicker Stephen Gonzales is on point after hitting 31-of-31 on PATs and 6-of-8 on field goals for the Cardinals in 2024.
The Cardinal defense graduates 3 of their top 5 tacklers from 2024. John Carlos Leon is the Cards leading tackler back after 61 stops in 2024. Jordan Smith had 53 stops for the Cardinal defense in 2024. Breshen Bennett was dominate on defense and his loss will be felt. The Cardinals will be at South Rowan Aug. 22nd to open the 2024 season.