Palmetto Ridge Rallies for First Win Since 2024

Palmetto Ridge secured a significant 28-14 victory over Bonita Springs on Monday, August 31, 2026, marking their first win since October 2024. The Bears overcame a 14-7 halftime deficit with a dominant second-half performance. Nicholas Dibenedetto ignited the comeback with an impressive 85-yard kickoff return to start the third quarter, setting the tone for the team's resurgence.

Head coach Jordan Hampton earned his first career win, a moment he described as "everything" after taking over as interim head coach midway through the previous season. His leadership and the team's "mental reset" at halftime were crucial in turning the game around. The Bears' defense stepped up, forcing turnovers, including one recovered for a touchdown, and a strip-sack returned for another score in the fourth quarter.

Bonita Springs struggled in the second half, with coach Tony Mattalo lamenting the inability to stop special teams and defensive touchdowns. He noted the team's offensive promise in the first half but acknowledged costly turnovers and mental errors in the latter half. Despite an 0-2 start, Mattalo saw positive signs from his team's effort and adherence to a new, complex system.

This win signifies a potential fresh start for Palmetto Ridge, who had not won a local game since a 20-0 victory against Bonita Springs on September 20, 2024. Coach Hampton emphasized the team's commitment to a "relentless pursuit of turning this program around" and playing to their "standard and culture."