After humble beginnings at the launch of the program in 2013, the steady climb continues for the Falcons, who had become a district title threat annually until low participation numbers caused a pause during the 2024 season. SSES had posted three consecutive 11-win seasons and a 33-10 record from 2021-23, including its first district championship in 2021.
The rise for Saint Stephen’s actually began during the COVID-shortened 2020 season. SSES was off to a 5-0 start and, after outscoring opponents 77-24, the Falcons looked poised for great things when the season was shelved. An 11-3 record and district crown followed in 2021. The 2022 Falcons fell short of repeating, but did register an 11-4 mark that included wins over Lakewood Ranch, Manatee, Sarasota Riverview, and Tampa Catholic. It was another step forward for a program in just its 10th season of existence. The 2023 Falcons posted an 11-3 mark, with two of their three defeats coming at the very end of their season against state-ranked No. 16 Sarasota Cardinal Mooney – in the district title game and regional quarterfinal playoff.
The program has produced several collegiate players, including 2023 grad Matt Vara, who helped the University of Tampa reach the NCAA Division II Final Four as a freshman in 2024.
