Known for producing NFL talent, Hahnville, Destrehan meet in epic quarterfinal

There are only eight football teams left in the Class 5A playoffs and two of those teams hail from St. Charles Parish, which is a remarkable feat considering the fact that 32 teams began their playoff journey three weeks ago.

Unfortunately, one team’s season will end on Friday when Destrehan hosts Hahnville in an epic quarterfinal.

Destrehan entered the season as one of the favorites to win the state championship after falling just short of the title game last year. This season, Destrehan has cruised through their schedule with a 12-0 record, winning every game but one by double digits.

Hahnville, meanwhile, was supposed to be in a rebuilding year with a new coach and new offensive scheme. Somebody forgot to tell the Tigers that.

Hahnville is currently 9-3 on the season and pulled off a huge upset last week by knocking off No. 5 Haughton, 28-14.

The success both teams have enjoyed this season is a testament to the talent and support system for young football players in the parish. But that success is nothing new. Both teams have a storied tradition that has helped fill NFL rosters for years.

This year, the state of Louisiana produced more NFL players, per capita, than anywhere else in the world. Many of those players come from south Louisiana, and Hahnville leads the state with four players currently on NFL rosters.

Those players include halfback Alfred Blue (Houston Texans), safety Dawan Landry (New York Jets), safety LaRon Landry (Indianapolis Colts) and wide receiver LaRon Byrd (Miami Dolphins).

Destrehan has been just as successful placing players in the NFL, with three alums currently in the league. They include punter Mike Scifres (San Diego Chargers), receiver Damaris Johnson (Houston Texans) and cornerback Josh Victorian (Detroit Lions).

One of the greatest safeties in NFL history is also an alum of Destrehan. Ed Reed recently wrapped up a storied career that included nine Pro Bowl selections and the NFL record for interception return yards.

He is a lock for the Hall of Fame.

More than 30 other former Hahnville and Destrehan students are currently playing football in college or for other professional leagues besides the NFL.

“The success both these schools have is a testament to the kids, parents, community, recreation department and everyone that promotes football,” Destrehan head coach Stephen Robicheaux said. “Both schools have great football tradition because the parish realizes how important sports are and there is great support.

“The most important thing is the great athletes we have in the parish. There is a reason why south Louisiana produces so many players for the NFL.”

So head out to Wildcat Stadium on Friday at 7 p.m. to witness the best high school football has to offer. You might get the chance to see a future NFL player in action.For more information on the game, see the stories in sports.

 

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