Ascension Episcopal Secures Victory, Remains Undefeated at 5-0

The Ascension Episcopal Blue Gators maintained their undefeated streak by defeating Vermilion Catholic 35-14 in a District 5-1A football matchup on October 6, 2023. With this victory, the Blue Gators improved their record to 5-0, demonstrating their commitment to a physical, run-oriented style of play while minimizing turnovers.

Ascension Episcopal showcased their offensive strength early in the game, with quarterback Branon Mitchell scoring the first touchdown on a 1-yard run at the 2:21 mark of the first quarter, putting the team ahead 7-0. The defense quickly followed suit; on the next possession, Sport Gros intercepted a pass and returned it 25 yards for a touchdown, extending the lead to 14-0.

Coach Jay Domengeaux emphasized the importance of physical play and ball security throughout the week leading up to the game. “We talked all week long about being physical and protecting the football, and we’ve really done that all year long,” he stated. “The guys really enjoy that brand of football, and I’m very proud of the way they played tonight, and the way they’ve played all year.”

The Blue Gators continued their momentum into the second quarter, with Owen LeBlanc scoring on a 5-yard run, bringing the score to 21-0. Vermilion Catholic managed to score just before halftime, with William Simon completing a 1-yard touchdown run to make it 21-7.

Despite their efforts, Vermilion Catholic was unable to capitalize on their opportunities. Early in the second half, they drove into the Ascension Episcopal red zone but turned the ball over on downs. “That was huge, because we talked at halftime about how important it was to get a stop right there,” said Coach Domengeaux. “I was really proud of our defense for stiffening up, keeping them out of the end zone, and getting the ball back for us.”

Ascension Episcopal struck again in the third quarter when Mitchell scored his second touchdown on a 41-yard run, increasing the lead to 28-7. “Branon brings a little versatility,” stated Domengeaux. “He can run for a little bit of power when you need it, he can run for a big game-breaker, and he can also throw the ball down the field.”

Vermilion Catholic fought back, with Simon scoring a 13-yard touchdown early in the fourth quarter, narrowing the score to 28-14. However, Ascension Episcopal put the game out of reach at the 6:05 mark when Mitchell connected with Preston Peebles on a 26-yard scoring pass, sealing the 21-point victory.

“This is a real quality win for us,” Domengeaux remarked. “VC is a quality team, which means this is a real quality win for us. I like when we take care of the football. There have been a couple of times when we’ve been a little risky with it, but when we take care of the football, we execute pretty well.”

As the season progresses, Ascension Episcopal’s combination of physical play and effective ball management continues to set them apart in their pursuit of an undefeated season.