Benjamin looking for contest

Thursday game against Cardinal Newman has been canceled

The Benjamin-versus-Cardinal Newman football game scheduled for Thursday has been canceled, according to Benjamin athletic director Ryan Smith.

“Newman did just confirm earlier [Wednesday] that they needed to cancel,” Smith said in an email. “I defer to them on [a] statement as to why. We understand their cancellation.”

Benjamin was scheduled to begin its season Friday. The Buccaneers have not scheduled a new game for this week, nor have they scheduled a makeup game against Cardinal Newman.

“Our coaches will try to reschedule for a later date, but [it is] challenging,” Smith said.

Cardinal Newman AD Andre Torres could not immediately be reached for comment Wednesday afternoon.

Benjamin is seeking a game for Thursday night, as the school will close at 5 p.m. on Friday and not reopen until Monday morning because of Rosh Hashanah, a Jewish holiday that begins at sundown Friday.

The Crusaders opened their season last week with a 19-0 loss against Calvary Christian.

The Eagles also needed to find a new opponent for this week. They were scheduled to play American Heritage-Delray on Thursday, but that game was postponed following the death of Stallions head coach Brian Sheridan.

Calvary Christian has scheduled a new game against Homestead Everglades Prep at home for Friday night.

“The CCA community is saddened to hear of the passing of Coach Brian Sheridan, Head Football Coach for American Heritage Delray,” the school wrote in a statement on Twitter. “Our prayers are with Coach Sheridan’s family and the Stallion Football community. … There is no greater influence in a young person’s life than that of a Coach. It is clear that Coach Sheridan filled that role with energy & enthusiasm to the very end! Out of respect for Coach Sheridan & the entire Stallion Community, this Thursday’s contest has been postponed.”