The First Academy Earned FHSAA Open Division Spot
The Orlando-based program secured a top-eight ranking in Florida following a competitive showing against IMG Academy.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Football
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The First Academy climbed to No. 6 in the Florida high school football rankings after a recent matchup against the state's No. 2 team. Despite a 48-27 loss to IMG Academy, the program has secured a position within the FHSAA Open Division's top-eight bracket.
Why it matters
The team advanced in the rankings due to the high strength of their opponent, IMG Academy, which is currently ranked No. 3 in the country. This upward momentum positions The First Academy to contend for a postseason slot in the elite eight-team Open Division.
The First Academy currently holds the No. 6 ranking in Florida, moving up from No. 11 at the start of the season. The team lost their last game 48-27 to IMG Academy despite holding an early 24-7 lead.
The players
The First Academy
This Orlando-based high school football program has ascended to the state's Top 8 within the FHSAA Open Division.
IMG Academy
Based in Bradenton, this nationally recognized athletic institution is currently ranked No. 2 in Florida and No. 3 in the country.
The details
The First Academy entered the state's top-eight designation despite falling by 21 points to IMG Academy last week. The program displayed competitive depth by leading the nationally-ranked opponent 24-7 at one point in the contest.
Timeline
The First Academy lost to IMG Academy last week.
The First Academy has a bye week this Friday.
The First Academy hosts Cocoa on Oct. 2nd.
The First Academy plays West Boca Raton on Oct. 16th.
The First Academy plays at Lakeland on Oct. 30th.
Season Trajectory
The First Academy's rapid ascent into the Top 8 significantly alters the playoff picture for the FHSAA Open Division. Their performance against a nationally-ranked power establishes them as a credible threat for the remainder of the regular season schedule.
The First Academy holds a 6th-place ranking in the computer-determined FHSAA standings, putting the program on track for a postseason berth. Fans and scouts should note the upcoming schedule includes key matchups against Cocoa, West Boca Raton, and Lakeland.
The takeaway
Maintaining a high rank despite a loss highlights the weight given to the strength of schedule in high school sports. Programs like The First Academy demonstrate how challenging non-conference opponents can prove beneficial for postseason positioning.
Further reading
For more updates on regional high school matchups, visit Football.
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