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By Marcus Benjamin @_benjaminmoney
The Chaminade-Madonna Lions scored touchdowns on all seven possessions in the first half in route to a dominating 56-0 victory in the 3A regional final. Senior running back Shaun Shivers rushed six times for 154 yards and three touchdowns.
“He’s been doing it all year,” said Head Coach Dameon Jones. “I’m proud of him, proud of the offensive line opening up some holes for him. Proud of my offense and my defense, they did a wonderful job and on to the next round.”
Benjamin seemed to be overwhelmed from the start by Chaminade’s team speed. The Lions jumped out to 21-0 lead in a game played at Calvary Christian Academy in Fort Lauderdale. The Auburn commit Shivers reeled off runs of 59, 57 and 26 yards and did not play in the second half.
“My O-line came out dominating fast and the holes were big and I just do what Shaun do, just hit the holes fast.”
Shivers had a noticeably different demeanor at the end of the game against American Heritage (Plantation) earlier this season. Chaminade would suffer as loss that night to the number one team in South Florida according to Maxpreps 41-13. The Lions have since won 8 straight games by a combined score of 356-39. Defeating playoff teams American Heritage (Delray), University School and Doral Academy along the way.
“American Heritage was an eye opener in a lot of ways,” said Coach Jones. “We made some adjustments offensively and defensively and it’s worked for us. [And] we have the turn up belt. Whenever you make a play, offense, defense or special teams you have a chance to win that belt.”
Quarterback Daelen Menard connected with Marvin Alexander on two touchdowns in the first half to lead a balanced offensive attack that seemed get into another gear after that Heritage game.
“We grew as a team, now our offense is clicking and we’re playing Chaminade football. We’re peaking at the right time,” said Shivers. “We just focus one game at a time. That’s our motto. One game at a time. We never look ahead. We just focus on the next week.”
The drive to Orlando continues next week as Chaminade travels to Tampa Bay to take on Clearwater Central Catholic in the state semifinals. Florida State University (Tallahassee) will travel to Oxbridge Academy (Palm Beach) next week in the other bracket. Chaminade lost in the championship game last year to Trinity Christian Academy (Jacksonville) 24-13.
