Football: IMG Academy to face Corona Centennial in Honor Bowl

Despite complaints that playing Florida’s IMG Academy might lead to players leaving California, IMG and Corona Centennial will play for the second consecutive season in the Honor Bowl next September at San Diego Cathedral Catholic.

CIF Commissioners gathered earlier this month in Sacramento and discussed how to deal with schools such as IMG and other prep schools who focus on athletics. Executive Director Roger Blake said no new rules had been proposed but commissioners were recommended to talk to their member schools about playing schools with similar philosophies regarding education-based high school sports.

Centennial Coach Matt Logan, who agreed in December to play IMG again, said he has no problem playing a team with players from around the country. Last season, Centennial lost to IMG, 50-49, in the Honor Bowl.

“They make us better,” Logan said.

Last month, Chaminade’s T.J. Pledger and Calabasas’ Brendan Radley-Hiles transferred to IMG. Now they’ll get to play before their Southern California families.

Mark Soto, executive director of the Honor Bowl, said in an email that the CIF gave approval for the game.

“The Honor Bowl and our nonprofit enjoys a respectful and professional relationship with the CIF,” he said. “We will always adhere to their rules and will never in any way try to circumvent their respected findings and endorsement. The Honor Bowl’s mission is to educate the students, coaches and community that support our efforts to help military veterans. We will always bring honor to the athletes, coaches, fans and veterans that support our event.”

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