ST. PETERSBURG, FL – November 13, 2024 – St. Petersburg Catholic High School (SPCHS) football is celebrating an unprecedented season, capped by an undefeated regular season record and a district championship – the program’s first in recent history. The Barons enter the FHSAA Class 1A Region 3 playoffs this Friday, November 14th, as the #1 seed, hosting Evangelical Christian at Joe Paul Stadium at 7:00 p.m.
The team’s success is fueled by record-breaking performances. Quarterback Chase Hansen shattered expectations, setting a new all-time Pinellas County passing touchdown record with 45 TDs across both the regular season and playoffs. He is currently on pace to break the State of Florida FHSAA record. Senior Brendan Wright was a key target, contributing 16 receiving touchdowns.
Defensively, Courtney Taylor established a new school record with 126 tackles this season.
Head Coach Jesse chinchar has been recognized for his leadership, earning the Florida Athletic Coaches Association (FACA) 1A Coach of the Year award. Three Barons – Defensive End Colton Shaw, Wide Receiver Brendan Wright, and Cornerback Keyshaun Birks - received FACA All District recognition. Five seniors – Safety Forrest Loving, Linebacker Courtney Taylor, Defensive Lineman Devion Frazier, Linebacker Alex Malysko, and Wide receiver Brendan Wright – were named to the Pinellas County Senior All Star team.
Four SPCHS student-athletes have committed to Division I scholarships,continuing the school’s tradition of academic and athletic excellence.
The program’s resurgence coincides with new leadership in the athletic department.Ryan Mueller, a 2012 SPCHS alumnus, returned in early 2025 as Athletic Director, spearheading program and coaching changes, including a complete renovation of the school’s weight room.
“This season represents everything we strive for at St. Petersburg Catholic High School, a commitment to excellence in all things and building leaders on and off the field,” saeid Coach Chinchar. ”Our players made history, and they’ve set a new gold standard for what it means to be a Baron.”
Athletic Director Mueller added, “It’s an exciting time to be part of the Baron family. our student-athletes, coaches, and community have worked tirelessly to elevate every aspect of our program. The results certainly speak for themselves.”
