Parkridge Christian Academy announces new varsity football program to begin play in the 2026 season for high school students
Coral Springs, Florida – Parkridge Christian Academy is preparing to kick off a new chapter in its athletic program with the announcement that a varsity football team will begin play in the 2026–27 school year. The addition of football marks another milestone for the school, which is currently competing at the varsity level in multiple sports following the introduction of high school grades last year.
Head coach Cory Spencer, who has been part of the school since 2021, described the announcement as a long-awaited dream finally coming true. “Adding a football program at Parkridge has been my biggest dream since starting in 2021,” Spencer said. “With the addition of high school grades last year, I’ve seen firsthand the impact a varsity football team can have on camaraderie and community within a school. It’s my hope to capture some of the same unity I experienced on Friday nights growing up in the Midwest.”
Although this will be Spencer’s first experience coaching tackle football, he brings extensive knowledge from years coaching baseball, basketball, and flag football. He also emphasized that he has surrounded himself with a strong coaching staff committed to guiding the program. “I have surrounded myself with a group of individuals who know the game and are dedicated to molding young men for Christ’s glory,” Spencer said. “I’m excited to announce the full coaching staff at our upcoming meeting.”
Preparations for the inaugural season are already underway. The team is in the process of assembling a competitive schedule that will include both local and non-local opponents. Parkridge is set to open its season with a preseason game against Ida Baker High School in Cape Coral on August 14 and will conclude the regular season with a matchup against Marathon High School on October 30.
Beyond the first season, Spencer expressed a desire to establish strong rivalries with nearby schools, including Coral Springs Charter, J.P. Taravella, and Coral Springs High School. He believes these matchups will not only challenge the team on the field but also build excitement and engagement among students, families, and the wider community.
To introduce the program and generate interest, Parkridge Christian Academy will host an informational meeting on Thursday, March 26. Coaches will outline plans for spring, summer, and fall training, as well as provide additional details regarding the team’s full schedule for the 2026 season. Students and families interested in joining or supporting the team are encouraged to attend.
The launch of a varsity football program is expected to have a broader impact on the school community. Football is known for fostering teamwork, discipline, and school spirit, and Spencer hopes the team will serve as a catalyst for uniting students across grade levels. He also stressed the importance of mentoring and character development, ensuring that the program aligns with Parkridge’s Christian values.
“This program is about more than just football,” Spencer said. “It’s about building young men of character who can lead both on and off the field while representing our school with pride.”
With the new program, Parkridge joins a growing number of schools in the region expanding athletic opportunities for students. The addition of football complements the school’s existing sports programs and reflects a broader commitment to holistic education that combines academics, athletics, and spiritual development.
As the countdown to the first kickoff continues, excitement is already building among students, parents, and the local community. The upcoming interest meeting and the announcement of the full coaching staff are expected to generate momentum and engagement ahead of the 2026 season, setting the stage for Parkridge Christian Academy to become a new presence on the South Florida football landscape.
By laying the foundation now with experienced coaches, structured schedules, and community support, Parkridge Christian Academy aims to establish a football program that not only competes on the field but also strengthens school pride, fosters lifelong skills, and builds meaningful connections among students for years to come.
