# US high school football season commencement

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/us-high-school-football-season-commencement
> Updated: 2026-09-01T01:33:00.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 2.

The 2026 high school football season has commenced with early regional results and the establishment of state rankings.

Initial matchups saw varied outcomes, including a narrow 42-40 overtime victory for Venice against Rabun Gap-Nacoochee and a 63-point offensive display by Port Charlotte. Other early games, such as those involving the Chapman Panthers and Broome Centurions, faced scheduling challenges due to weather.

As the season progressed into early September, rankings emerged highlighting dominant programs. IMG Academy maintained its No. 1 state and national ranking following a 59-10 win, while St. Thomas Aquinas and Miami Columbus secured top positions. In regional Florida rankings, Venice continued to lead, while Port Charlotte moved to the second position despite a loss to Clearwater Central Catholic caused by multiple player injuries.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-01: Florida high school football rankings show IMG Academy and Venice leading

Florida high school football rankings feature IMG Academy at No. 1 and St. Thomas Aquinas at No. 2 following dominant Week 2 performances. Regional rankings place Venice and Port Charlotte at the top.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/florida-high-school-football-rankings-show-img-academy-and-venice-leading

### 2026-08-25: High school football season begins with early regional victories

Early high school football matchups see Venice, Port Charlotte, and Charlotte leading regional rankings, while Chapman secures a win despite weather-related game delays.

10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/high-school-football-season-begins-with-early-regional-victories

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Cite as: US high school football season commencement. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/us-high-school-football-season-commencement