Rugby delivered a commanding performance in the state semifinals defeating the East Jefferson Warriors 66–12 and securing a berth in the Louisiana state championship for the fourth consecutive year.

Senior center Jack Holley opened the scoring in the opening minutes, slashing through the Warriors’ defense. Moments later, a dominant maul deep in East Jefferson territory allowed senior hooker James Cangelosi another try, and senior captain and blindside flanker Frank Finicle added one more after a punishing run that showcased his power and pace.

With East Jefferson pulling defenders into the line, senior wing and reserve halfback Cole Maestri executed a perfectly weighted English box-kick. Senior wing Ben Burkett was first to the ball, collecting it and racing to the try zone. By halftime, Jesuit held a 50–0 lead.

The second half featured liberal substitutions but no let-up in intensity. Junior fullback Ford Frischhertz, making his playoff debut, electrified the field with explosive speed and sharp instincts. Early in the half, Frischhertz bulled through a seam and raced untouched to dot down. Later, he scrambled across the pitch to haul a Warrior into touch.

Jesuit’s offensive output was broad and balanced, with eleven tries scored by ten players: seniors Burkett, Cangelosi, Finicle, Holley, Alec Pou, and James Roniger (two tries); juniors Frischhertz and Andrew Koloski; and sophomores Finn Luke and Matt Scalise.

The victory sends the Jays into their fourth straight state championship, where they will face crosstown rival Brother Martin on Sunday, April 27, at the Shrine on Airline. Kickoff is scheduled for 5:15 p.m. The match serves as a doubleheader with NOLA Gold hosting the Seattle Seawolves at 3 p.m. A single ticket grants admission to both matches. Tickets are available for all ages 3 years and older.

As the Jays prepare for the final test of the season, they stand one victory away from becoming only the second program to claim four consecutive state championships.

Senior Frank Finicle was named the Player of the Year, and thirteen Blue Jays earned spots on the High School All-State team.

Frank Finicle– Player of the Year

Jonah Ory

James Roniger

Ian Miranda

Evan Couillard

Jack Holley

Chris Bourg

Ben Burkett

Andrew Sampedro

Cole Maestri

Alec Pou

James Cangelosi

Gio Matrannga