“Palmetto, Northwestern, Edison: The Blueprint of Champions”

In the opening round of the GMAC Tournament, Edison handled business against Homestead with a 20–7 win, pulling away by two possessions as expected. Despite the loss, Homestead showcased a rising star in true freshman Jordyn Warren, who finished the regular season with 48 receptions, 619 receiving yards, and 9 touchdowns. Those are elite numbers at any level, and her impact is far from over—expect her name to continue surfacing deep into playoff conversations.

Game 2 featured a highly anticipated matchup between Palmetto and South Dade, led by two respected programs. The first half was a defensive battle, ending 0–0, but Palmetto made decisive adjustments and dominated the second half, securing a 26–0 victory.

In the third matchup, Ferguson faced Southridge in a defensive showdown. Southridge successfully neutralized Ferguson’s top offensive weapon, Victoria Holder, and kept the entire offense off the scoreboard. However, Ferguson’s defense flipped the script. Evelyn Naranjo and Emily Naranjo each recorded pick-sixes, accounting for all the scoring in a 13–0 Ferguson win.

The fourth game saw Coral Gables take on Northwestern, with expectations leaning toward Northwestern—and they delivered. Quarterback Teshara Robinson was efficient, going 16-of-21 for 178 yards and 2 touchdowns. On defense, Neveah Ward was dominant, recording 7 flag pulls and 3 sacks. Northwestern secured a 13–0 shutout.

In the semifinals, Edison met Northwestern in a highly competitive, back-and-forth battle. Both offenses were explosive, but Dezaria Hampton proved to be the difference-maker. She contributed 2 receiving touchdowns and added an interception, impacting the game on both sides of the ball. Neveah Ward continued her standout tournament performance with 10 flag pulls and 5 sacks. Northwestern advanced, showing they are built for a deep playoff run.

On the other side, Palmetto faced Ferguson and controlled the game from start to finish, winning 20–0. Ferguson’s offense struggled throughout the tournament, but their potential suggests they could rebound in upcoming district play.

The championship game featured Palmetto vs. Northwestern—two elite programs with strong reputations in girls flag football. The matchup lived up to expectations, with both teams trading momentum and each recording two interceptions. Jade Yacinthe made a major impact with two receiving touchdowns, while Neveah Ward once again delivered in key moments, finishing with 9 flag pulls and 4 sacks.

The game pushed into overtime, where once again Dezaria Hampton rose to the occasion. With the ball in her hands, she sealed the victory, earning Northwestern the 2026 GMAC Championship.

The GMAC Tournament continues to set the standard for what elite teams truly look like. Records can be misleading—some teams stack wins against average competition, but when matched up against elite programs, the gap becomes clear. Teams either get exposed, or they prove they belong at the highest level.

Right now, it’s clear: Palmetto, Northwestern, and Edison define championship-caliber football.

Even with Edison’s second-round exit, don’t be fooled—they remain one of the top three teams in the state of Florida. One tournament loss doesn’t erase what they are. With elite playmakers on both sides of the ball, they’re still a major threat. And there’s a name people aren’t talking about enough yet—Saryah Williams. Expect that to change quickly. She has the ability to shift games, and she’ll make her presence felt in the playoffs. Remember the name.

Palmetto may have lost a significant senior class in 2025, but under Coach Kevin Mujica, nothing has slowed down. That’s what elite coaching looks like—reloading, not rebuilding. Palmetto is still winning at a high level and will be a serious problem in the playoffs.

Northwestern has always been known for producing football talent—but this year feels different. There’s a different level of explosiveness, depth, and confidence. They’re loaded across the board, and when they’re clicking, they’re dangerous. All eyes are on Dezaria Hampton—she’s must-see every time she steps on the field.

The playoffs are coming—and the standard has already been set.