GMAC Tournament Game 2: Palmetto vs. South Dade — Coaching, Discipline, and Defensive Firepower

Game 2 of the GMAC Tournament brings us a compelling matchup between Palmetto and South Dade—two programs led by some of the most respected coaches in girls flag football.

Palmetto is guided by Coach Kevin Mujica, a proven winner who has already delivered a state championship to the program. On the other sideline stands Coach George Sands, who led Homestead to a Final Four appearance in last year’s state championship run. Having seen Coach Sands operate in-game, it’s clear—he understands how to control tempo, manage both sides of the ball, and put his players in positions to succeed. His patience, combined with a high football IQ, makes South Dade a dangerous opponent in any situation.South Dade brings a balanced and versatile offense into this matchup.

Danielle Ortega has thrown for 1,040 yards with 12 touchdowns, while Fernanda Moreno adds another dynamic element at quarterback with 602 passing yards, 9 touchdowns, and just 3 interceptions. Their dual-quarterback ability gives defenses multiple looks and keeps opponents guessing.

At receiver, junior standout Kiani Graham leads the way with 470 yards and 9 touchdowns, proving to be a reliable playmaker. Takaylah Strowbridge complements the offense with 370 yards and 5 touchdowns, giving Palmetto another consistent target in key moments.

Defensively, Palmetto is aggressive and disciplined.

Takaylah Strowbridge, Fernanda Moreno, and Giselle Felix each have 29 flag pulls, showing their ability to swarm to the ball and limit big plays. In the trenches, Ella Terrero has emerged as one of the most disruptive rushers in the tournament, totaling 16 sacks and even recording an interception from the defensive line—an impressive display of awareness and athleticism.The secondary is just as dangerous.

Strowbridge leads the defense with 6 interceptions, adding 115 return yards and 11 pass deflections. Kiani Graham and Giselle Felix have each recorded 4 interceptions, making Palmetto a true ball-hawking unit capable of flipping momentum instantly.

Palmetto has a major X-factor waiting in the wings.

Zakiera Cobb is a name to watch. Once fully healthy, she has the potential to elevate Palmetto to another level. Her return could be the spark that makes Palmetto a serious problem not just in this matchup, but throughout the remainder of the playoffs.

This game will likely come down to execution, patience, and which team can better control the pace.With elite coaching on both sidelines and playmakers across the field, expect a physical, high-IQ battle where every possession matters.

Coach George Sands, who continues to build one of the most impressive turnarounds in the state. After a 2-8 season in 2025, Sands has flipped South Dade into a dominant 9-1 team this year—one of the biggest program transformations in girls flag football.

Coach Sands ability to control the game, manage tempo, and maximize his roster stands out immediately. His teams play with patience, intelligence, and confidence—traits that show up in big moments.

South Dade’s offense is steady and efficient.

Quarterback Sariah Bartley has thrown for 1,339 yards and 17 touchdowns while adding 4 rushing touchdowns, proving she can impact the game in multiple ways. While she’s thrown 9 interceptions, her overall production and playmaking ability keep the offense moving.

At receiver, Zion Davidson leads the way with 310 yards and 5 touchdowns, while Kayla Wheeler and Tavia Foster have each added 4 touchdowns, giving Bartley multiple reliable targets.

But South Dade’s identity is built on defense—and it’s been elite.

Zion Davidson leads the team with 36 flag pulls, followed closely by true freshman Jeda Thompson with 33. Thompson has also been a dominant force off the edge, leading the team with 17 sacks. Fellow freshman standout Grace Contreras has added 16 sacks, forming one of the most dangerous young pass-rushing duos in the tournament.

In the secondary, Sariah Bartley and Keslin Miguel have each recorded 2 interceptions, contributing to a defense that thrives on discipline and limiting big plays.

And the most impressive stat of all—South Dade has allowed just 12 points all season.

That level of defensive dominance is rare and speaks directly to their preparation, execution, and coaching.

Final Take- This matchup comes down to one key factor: coaching.

Palmetto may have the edge in overall talent, but Coach George Sands has proven he knows how to win, adjust, and keep his team in every game. His ability to control tempo and lean on an elite defense makes South Dade extremely dangerous.

Expect a low-scoring, defensive battle early, with adjustments in the second half determining the outcome.

Prediction: This is as close as it gets—a true coin flip.