One of the best teams from the 2025 season, Cardinal Newman has a jam-packed 2026 regular season slate ahead of them.
The Crusaders begin their season with a high-level showdown against Notre Dame commit Wonderful “Champ” Monds IV and Vero Beach in the Kick Off Classic. Week 1 sees Cardinal Newman host the Community School of Naples, followed by another high-level clash on the road against Cardinal Mooney. Weeks 3-5 see the Crusaders host John Carroll, travel to face an uber-talented West Boca team, and then come back home to host Jensen Beach.
Following a bye in Week 6, the Crusaders run a serious gauntlet to finish their 2026 regular season. The games from Weeks 7-12 are as follows:
- Week 7: @ Atlantic
- Week 8: vs. Chaminade-Madonna
- Week 9: vs. West Broward (HOMECOMING)
- Week 10: @St. Andrew’s
- Week 11: vs. Carrollwood Day (SENIOR NIGHT)
In this slate, Cardinal Newman is set to battle with five teams that played in a state championship game last season, with Cardinal Mooney and West Boca being state championship winners. Additionally, the Crusaders will face a plethora of high-level talent over the course of the 2026 season. From Monds IV to Davin Davidson to the very impressive all-around rosters of West Boca and Chaminade, there is an argument that Cardinal Mooney is playing one of the toughest slates in the entire state of Florida.
When taking a look at Cardinal Newman’s roster for 2026, though, it is clear the Crusaders still have plenty of talent. Transfer quarterback Pedro Martinez Jr. should be an extremely fun option at quarterback, while wideout Justin Barrea will provide explosiveness all over the field. Michael Louidort is an imposing presence coming off the edge for the Crusaders’ defense, while Colt Hauser and Jasiah Thomas provide some nice size on the offensive line.
How Cardinal Newman’s team grows and develops over the summer months will be critical for success this season, as once Week 0 hits, the Crusaders will be ready to roll. And if 2025 is any indication, they should be in a good place once again heading into the 2026 season.
