Philadelphia, PA, December 8, 2025
Two schools from the Philadelphia Catholic League, Roman Catholic High School and La Salle College High School, clinched important PIAA football championships. Roman Catholic made history with their first Class 5A title, while La Salle triumphantly secured their Class 6A championship. Both teams showcased exceptional performances, with standout players leading the way in their respective victories. The achievements of these schools highlight the competitive spirit and talent within the Philadelphia Catholic League, which has a strong tradition of excellence in athletics.
Philadelphia Catholic League Teams Secure PIAA State Championships
Philadelphia, PA – Two Philadelphia Catholic League high school football teams clinched PIAA state championships over the weekend, marking significant achievements in their programs.
Roman Catholic’s Historic Victory in Class 5A
Roman Catholic High School secured its first-ever PIAA Class 5A state championship by defeating Bishop McDevitt (Harrisburg) 28-6 on Friday night at Chapman Stadium in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. Senior quarterback Semaj Beals, a three-star University of Akron recruit, led the team with four total touchdowns, completing 18 of 26 passes for 231 yards. The Cahillites dominated the first half, leading 21-0, and forced four turnovers throughout the game. Junior linebacker Walter Hudson recorded 11 tackles and an interception, while junior defensive back Chase Hinton also had an interception. Seniors Antwan Smith Ray and Julian Enoch each recovered a fumble. Roman Catholic outscored its opponents 180-53 in four PIAA playoff games.
La Salle College High School’s Triumph in Class 6A
La Salle College High School captured its first PIAA Class 6A state championship since 2009 by defeating Pittsburgh Central Catholic 34-20 on Saturday night. Senior safety Joey O’Brien, a five-star University of Notre Dame recruit, delivered an outstanding performance with 10 receptions for 98 yards, three interceptions—including a 95-yard touchdown return—and a touchdown pass. Senior quarterback Gavin Sidwar, a three-star University of Missouri recruit, completed 21 of 28 passes for 182 yards and two touchdowns, adding 32 rushing yards on four carries. This victory also made La Salle’s head coach, Brett Gordon, and his late father, Drew Gordon, the first father-son duo to win PIAA state football championships.
Background on the Philadelphia Catholic League
The Philadelphia Catholic League, established in 1920, comprises 18 Catholic high schools in Philadelphia and the surrounding suburbs. Both Roman Catholic and La Salle College High School are prominent members of this league, which has a rich history of athletic excellence.
Recent Achievements in the League
In addition to the football championships, other schools within the league have achieved state titles in various sports. For instance, Archbishop Ryan and St. Hubert’s captured state titles at the 2024 PIAA Competitive Spirit Championships.
Looking Ahead
The successes of Roman Catholic and La Salle College High School highlight the competitive nature and talent within the Philadelphia Catholic League. These achievements set a high standard for future seasons, inspiring other schools in the league to strive for excellence in their athletic programs.
FAQ
- Which Philadelphia Catholic League teams won PIAA state football championships?
- Roman Catholic High School won the Class 5A championship, and La Salle College High School won the Class 6A championship.
- Who was the standout player for Roman Catholic in the Class 5A championship?
- Senior quarterback Semaj Beals led the team with four total touchdowns, completing 18 of 26 passes for 231 yards.
- What notable achievement did La Salle College High School’s coach accomplish?
- Head coach Brett Gordon and his late father, Drew Gordon, became the first father-son duo to win PIAA state football championships.
- When was the Philadelphia Catholic League established?
- The league was established in 1920 and comprises 18 Catholic high schools in Philadelphia and the surrounding suburbs.
- Have other schools in the league won state titles recently?
- Yes, Archbishop Ryan and St. Hubert’s captured state titles at the 2024 PIAA Competitive Spirit Championships.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Headline | Philadelphia Catholic League Teams Secure PIAA State Championships |
| Teams Involved | Roman Catholic High School and La Salle College High School |
| Championships Won | Roman Catholic won Class 5A; La Salle College won Class 6A |
| Notable Players | Semaj Beals (Roman Catholic); Joey O’Brien (La Salle College) |
| Coaching Achievement | Brett Gordon and Drew Gordon became the first father-son duo to win PIAA state football championships |
| League Background | Established in 1920, comprising 18 Catholic high schools in Philadelphia and surrounding suburbs |
| Recent Achievements | Archbishop Ryan and St. Hubert’s won state titles at the 2024 PIAA Competitive Spirit Championships |
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