IMG Academy (Fla.) vs. Phenix City Central (Ala.) cancelled due to Hurricane Helene

The nation’s top high school football game of the week between IMG Academy (Fla.) and Phenix City Central (Ala.) has been cancelled due to the incoming Hurricane Helene.

Central High, which was scheduled to host the matchup on Friday night, confirmed the news on Wednesday afternoon, stating that the game cancellation was a mutual decision and that both teams have agreed to reschedule for next season:

“Out of an abundance of caution, the Central-Phenix vs. IMG Academy football game scheduled for Friday, September 27, 2024, is canceled due to the incoming Hurricane Helene. The safety of our student-athletes, coaches, employees, and fans is our first priority. This game cancellation was a mutual decision between both organizations. However, both teams have already confirmed that a game will be scheduled again for next season at Garrett-Harrison Stadium. Red Devil Nation is excited to welcome them back then.”

Helene officially strengthened into a hurricane on Wednesday with landfall expected for late Thursday evening. The models show the eventual category 3 storm hitting the Florida panhandle, parts of Alabama, and Georgia before continuing north through the United States.

Plenty of action across the Southeast will be postponed or rescheduled this week as Helene nears. The matchup between IMG, ranked No. 10 nationally in the On3 Massey Ratings, and Central, ranked No. 24, was set to highlight the high school football slate across the nation this week.

Both teams are also ranked No. 1 in their respective states. IMG is 4-1 this season and is now set to return to action on Oct. 4 at Venice, the No. 2 team in the Sunshine State. Central remains 5-0 and will also return on Oct. 4 with Auburn, the No. 2 team in Alabama, coming to Garrett-Harrison Stadium.