St. Augustine High School is racing to raise money for travel expenses before its huge Final Four football game in South Florida this Friday.

For the second year in a row, the St. Augustine Yellow Jackets (11-1) have made it to the state semifinals in the 4A division. They will take on top-seeded Plantation American Heritage (10-2) in an away game.

Since public school sports programs rely on community support for funding, the Jackets’ Athletic Boosters are working hard to raise the needed money. Vice President Jen Stevenson explained that fundraising for the playoffs can only start once the team advances to the next round.

“It’s a scramble,” she said, adding that they didn’t know where the next game would be played until Saturday.

Community Support Needed

The team secured a spot in the semifinals last Friday after a tough 13-6 win against Choctawhatchee. As soon as the matchups were decided, the booster club sent out fundraising letters on Sunday, asking local businesses and residents for support.

“We need your help to raise funds for travel, buses, team meals, and other expenses,” the boosters posted on Facebook.

Stevenson hopes they can raise enough money to bring the entire team, including band members and cheerleaders, to the game.

A Tradition of Football Success

St. Johns County Director of School Services David Simpkins said the team’s playoff run brings the community together.

“It’s huge,” he said. “Seeing St. Augustine make it to the semifinals two years in a row is great for the kids and the whole area.”

Athletic Director Quinterrance Cooper, a former Yellow Jackets quarterback who led the team to its only state championship in 2005, said St. Augustine has one of the most loyal fan bases in the county.

“This program is built on tradition,” he said. “Playoff games aren’t in the budget because they aren’t guaranteed, but when we need help, the community always steps up.”