DeSoto High School’s football program apologized Monday after several team captains declined to shake hands with St. Thomas Aquinas before a nationally watched season opener in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Video from Saturday’s coin toss shows Aquinas captains offering their hands at midfield. Most of DeSoto’s captains kept their hands at their sides. The clip spread quickly online as the Florida powerhouse jumped to a 38-0 halftime lead. A running clock was used in the second half. Final score: St. Thomas Aquinas 38, DeSoto 14.
On Monday, the DeSoto football account posted that the program had addressed the incident and called it a chance for players to learn.
DeSoto Football has addressed the incident that occurred at the St. Thomas Aquinas football game. We view this as an opportunity for our young men to learn and grow from their mistakes.
— DeSoto Football (@FootballDesoto) August 31, 2026
We would like to formally apologize to the St. Thomas Aquinas community, coaching staff, and…
“We would like to formally apologize to the St. Thomas Aquinas community, coaching staff, and football team for what occurred,” the statement said. “We take full responsibility for the conduct of our players and are committed to ensuring our student-athletes uphold the standards of sportsmanship and character that our program and community expect.”
Coach Claude Mathis told The Dallas Morning News the captains made the call without telling coaches. He said star running back SaRod Baker was the only DeSoto captain who shook hands. Mathis said he apologized to Aquinas’ coach and athletic director and spoke with his players privately. He also said there was trash talk before the game, but that is no excuse.
“They made a mistake. They are kids,” Mathis told the Morning News. He said the full team shook hands after the game and that there were no issues then.
DeSoto ISD Athletic Director Dr. M.T. Tyeskie posted that the captains “made a poor decision,” that it is “not our standard,” and that the players involved “will have consequences.” Tyeskie said Coach Mathis is not being fired and the players are not being removed from the team.
DeSoto, a recent UIL state champion now in Class 5A Division I, opened against one of Florida’s traditional powers in the Broward County National Football Showcase. The Eagles are scheduled to play Allen next.
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