Raines High School Cancels Football Season Opener

Categories: National School NewsWeather Delays/Cancellations

The football field at Raines High School, empty ahead of the planned season opener.

News Summary

Raines High School has canceled its upcoming football season opener against Miami Central, originally scheduled for August 23. The announcement was made on August 14, but no specific reason for the cancellation was provided. Both teams may face implications from this decision, as Raines now looks at a nine-game season instead of ten. Fans who’ve purchased tickets will receive refunds. The cancellation follows a similar situation last season as preparations continue for Raines’ home opener against Sandalwood.

Jacksonville, FL – Raines High School has announced the cancellation of its highly anticipated football season opener against Miami Central, which was scheduled for August 23. The decision was made public on the morning of Thursday, August 14, via the school’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

Neither Raines High School nor Miami Central has provided specific details regarding the reason for the cancellation. Furthermore, there are currently no plans to reschedule the game, leaving Raines with the likelihood of a nine-game season schedule instead of the usual ten. This could have implications for the team’s preparation and overall standings in the upcoming season.

Raines High School has the option to secure a new opponent for either the week of August 22 or September 19, as the latter was originally set aside as a bye week. In the meantime, any fans who purchased tickets for the canceled game through GoFan can expect to receive refunds, ensuring they are compensated for their advance purchases.

School administrators have acknowledged that “some things were out of our hands” related to the cancellation. A spokesperson from Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) mentioned that they faced difficulties coordinating an acceptable start time for the contest, factoring in both security and safe weather conditions crucial for a large sporting event.

This cancellation comes at a time when both teams are looking to establish themselves early in the season. Miami Central is currently ranked No. 11 and Raines holds the No. 20 spot in the USA TODAY Florida Network Super 25 rankings. Last season, Raines finished their regular schedule unbeaten at 13-0 but lost in the Class 3A state final to Miami Northwestern. Meanwhile, Miami Central had a rocky previous season, starting with a strong 8-1 record before being forced to forfeit eight games due to fielding an ineligible player.

Interestingly, Raines faced a similar situation last year when their game against Madison County was canceled due to Hurricane Milton, an event that ultimately did not hinder Madison County’s successful campaign, as they went on to win the FHSAA Rural championship.

As the schedule stands, Raines is set to kick off their regular season at home against Sandalwood on August 29. Ahead of that matchup, the Raines football team is planning to hold their kickoff classic on August 15 at KIPP Bold City, allowing players to showcase their skills despite the earlier setback.

The cancellation has been a disappointment for fans, particularly those eagerly anticipating the showdown between the two noted teams. Raines High School has communicated to its community about the procedures for refunds through various social media channels, ensuring fans are informed of their options following the sudden cancellation.

For those interested in following the Raines football team throughout the season, local readers can obtain a 25% discount on a yearly NFHS Network pass for 2025 by using the promo code USATODAY25 before September 7.

As the preparations continue for the upcoming season, both teams will be looking to rebound and solidify their standings within Florida’s competitive high school football landscape.