Key Highlights
- Southampton Academy’s Raiders advance to the 2025 VI8FL state championship with a 10-0 record.
- The Raiders defeated Blessed Sacrament Huguenot Catholic School 54-0 in the VI8FL state semifinals on October 30, 2025.
- The state championship game will take place Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the Dinwiddie Sports Complex.
- Southampton Academy’s senior athletes Lorenzo Arce and Ethan Webb were key contributors in the victory.
Southampton Academy’s Unbeaten Season Paves Way for Championship Game
The Southampton Academy Raiders have secured their place in the 2025 VI8FL state championship, advancing with a perfect 10-0 record. Their triumph over visiting Blessed Sacrament Huguenot Catholic School by a score of 54-0 on October 30 marked the final game of their regular season. This victory sets up an eagerly anticipated rematch against Brunswick Academy, who are the defending champions.
Southampton Academy Head Coach Cole Heiderich expressed his pride in the team’s performance, stating, “I thought we came out a little lethargic, a little slow, but the boys responded well, and it’s always good to have a goose egg up on the scoreboard…” The coach continued, emphasizing the importance of intensity and execution: “The way we finish in terms of intensity and execution is going to determine the whole season.”
Key Players Contributed Significantly to Victory
Ethan Webb, a senior athlete, led Southampton Academy’s offensive efforts. He went 11-for-14 passing for 188 yards and three touchdowns, averaging 17.1 yards per completion. Webb also carried the ball 12 times for 84 yards and a touchdown while running for four two-point conversions.
Senior tight end Ashton Whitehead had two catches for 76 yards and two scores, he caught a two-point conversion, and also added a rushing touchdown.
Senior athlete Lorenzo Arce recorded five catches for 42 yards and carried the ball for a two-point conversion. Hunter Bell, another senior on the team, had three carries for 21 yards and a touchdown while also finishing with four catches for 70 yards and a touchdown. Heiderich highlighted Bell’s performance, saying, “It was his first night really running the ball at the tailback position.” Bell contributed significantly to the Raiders’ success.
Defensive Teamwork Also Played a Crucial Role
The defensive efforts of Southampton Academy were noteworthy as well. Senior linebacker Grant Applewhite recovered two fumbles, and sophomore defensive tackle Ethan Hatch caught an interception. The defense was crucial in holding their opponent to zero points, demonstrating the team’s all-around performance.
Preparation for State Championship Game
With the state championship game set for November 8, 2025, at the Dinwiddie Sports Complex, Heiderich and Webb both emphasized the importance of staying focused. Webb reflected on his last home game, saying, “I’ve got next week, trying to get ready, trying to stay focused for the state championship.” Coach Heiderich added, “We have played our last game of the season at home, but the job’s not done yet. So I’m trying to keep the eyes on the prize.”
The Raiders are determined to avenge their loss from October 24, 2025, when they fell to Brunswick Academy in overtime. Both Coach Heiderich and Webb expressed their commitment to executing well and staying focused for the upcoming game.
