Jacksonville, FL, August 15, 2025
News Summary
Raines High School has canceled its season-opening football game against Miami Central, originally scheduled for August 23. The announcement was made on August 14, with Raines administrators citing external factors and safety concerns related to game coordination. As a result, Raines will likely have a nine-game season unless a new matchup is arranged. Fans who purchased tickets through GoFan will receive refunds. Raines is still set to begin its regular season at home against Sandalwood on August 29.
Jacksonville, FL – Raines High School has announced the cancellation of its football season opener against Miami Central, which was set to take place on August 23. The decision was made public on Thursday morning, August 14, through the school’s official Facebook and Instagram pages.
While the specific reasoning behind the cancellation remains undisclosed by both Raines and Miami Central, Raines administrators indicated that external factors contributed to the decision. A spokesperson from the Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) also mentioned challenges in coordinating an acceptable start time for the game that would ensure safety and security, especially in consideration of weather conditions.
The cancellation leaves Raines with potential scheduling implications this season, as there are currently no plans to reschedule the game. As it stands, Raines may face a nine-game season, unless a new matchup can be secured during the weeks of August 22 or the previously scheduled bye week on September 19.
In the USA TODAY Florida Network Super 25, Raines is currently ranked No. 20, while Miami Central holds the No. 11 position. Miami Central is coming off a tumultuous previous season where they started with an 8-1 record, only to have to forfeit eight games due to fielding an ineligible player. Conversely, Raines enjoyed an unbeaten regular season last year, winning their first 13 games before losing in the Class 3A state final to Miami Northwestern.
For fans who purchased tickets through GoFan for the canceled game, refunds will be processed. Post-cancellation, Raines is still set to commence their regular season at home against Sandalwood on August 29. Moreover, the Raines football team plans to hold their kickoff classic on August 15 at KIPP Bold City.
This is not the first time Raines has faced a cancellation due to circumstances beyond their control. Last season, their game against Madison County was also canceled due to Hurricane Milton; Madison County eventually went on to win the FHSAA Rural championship.
As the season approaches, fans are expressing disappointment over the cancellation of what was anticipated to be an exciting matchup between Raines and Miami Central. Updates on refund procedures and other information have been shared via social media channels to keep the community informed.
Upcoming Events
- Kickoff Classic: August 15 at KIPP Bold City
- Regular Season Opener: August 29 against Sandalwood
Super 25 Rankings
| Team | Ranking |
|---|---|
| Miami Central | No. 11 |
| Raines | No. 20 |
Key Features of the Cancellation
- Cancellation Date: August 14
- Original Game Date: August 23
- Potential Game Schedule: Nine games for the season
- Opportunity for New Matchup: Weeks of August 22 or September 19
- Refunds for Tickets: Yes, through GoFan
FAQ
What game was canceled?
The football season opener between Raines High School and Miami Central was canceled.
When was this announcement made?
The cancellation was announced on the morning of August 14.
Why was the game canceled?
No specific reason was provided, but issues related to safety and coordination by DCPS were indicated.
Will the game be rescheduled?
There are currently no plans to reschedule the game.
What is Raines’ upcoming schedule?
Raines is scheduled to start its regular season at home against Sandalwood on August 29.
How will ticket refunds be handled?
Refunds for tickets purchased through GoFan will be issued for the canceled game.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- First Coast News
- Wikipedia: High School Football in the United States
- Jacksonville.com
- Google Search: Florida High School Football Cancellation
- News4JAX
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football (Sport)
- Sports Illustrated
- Google News: Raines High School Football
Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
