JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The streets of Jacksonville came alive on Saturday as Raines High School’s victorious season was celebrated by a lively crowd of students, families, alumni, and local supporters. This gathering was in honor of the Vikings clinching the state title.

This triumph, marking Raines’ first state championship since 2018 and the fourth in the school’s history, filled the neighborhood with enthusiastic cheers and a palpable sense of school pride.

Commencing at Lonnie C. Miller Sr. Regional Park, the parade traveled along a nearly two-mile stretch of Moncrief Road before circling back to Raines. Players proudly showcased their championship trophy and rings, waving to the cheering fans as music and chants resonated through the air.

Head coach Donovan Masline reflected on the victory, emphasizing that it symbolizes much more than just a triumph on the field.

“They went out there, they played with passion, they played with dedication to play with grit, and they played with that Viking mentality and you know, they embodied it and that’s what we want to do in life,” said Masline. “We want them to go out and embody being a Viking.”

The Vikings capped off what they called their “Revenge Tour” with a dramatic 23–22 win over Miami Northwestern, securing the Class 3A State Championship and avenging last season’s playoff loss.

Wide receiver Dominic Jones said the team believed they could finish the job after falling short the year before.

“We knew we could win it all when we lost last year to Northwestern,” said Jones. “The thought of the revenge tour, we already knew.”

The victory solidified the program’s legacy, adding another title to the school’s history and reinforcing the culture Masline has built within the team.

“People need to see our story, they need to know why you play this game” said Masline.

Masline added that the team’s work ethic throughout the season set them apart.

“In our weight room, those that invest most are the last to surrender,” Masline said. “And you know, it just speaks volumes to what we put in every day and day out in the amount of work, the amount of dedication, sacrifices. And to see us come out and you know, come out with the win, it was phenomenal and we just know we can celebrate and bring one back to Raines.”

Saturday’s parade was also a family affair, with parents and relatives lining the route to cheer on the players. Coach Masline’s father said the championship means more than just a trophy for the school.

“It brings the community together, it brings a whole lot for everybody,” said Masline’s father. “It’s not just Raines High School, it’s the whole community.”

The celebration capped off a historic season for Raines — one filled with pride, perseverance, and a championship the community won’t forget.