By Jim McGrath | jmcgrath@alextimes.com
In a football season full of highlights from the Port City, few stories have captivated local gridiron fans like the upswing of the St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School program.
A key reason for the transition back to relevance for coach Vashon Winton’s team has been the inspired play of the team’s aerial attack. Junior receiver Landon Scott has been a key cog within the attack, logging 24 catches for 398 yards and seven touchdowns. Senior receivers Nathan Sciurba and Aiden Friend have combined for 23 catches.
But the centerpiece of the Saints’ aerial attack has come from a pair of sophomores: quarterback Anthony Youngblood and receiver Ryan Herring. And with two full seasons remaining in their prep careers, the two are creating a highlight reel that will gain viewers far beyond the Interstate Athletic Conference and Alexandria city limits.
Here’s the proof: Through eight games, the Saints have posted a 4-4 mark, with an away game against Landon School (4-4) on tap to complete their season. Win, lose or draw, SSSAS will finish at least three games better than last season’s 1-8 record, although Youngblood is quick to defend the ability of that squad.
“I never saw us as a 1-8 team last year,” Youngblood told the Times. “I always thought we were better.”
The young quarterback certainly has mirrored the improvement of his team. Last season, the then-freshman tossed eight touchdowns and threw for 1,267 yards, while completing 54.6% of his passes. In 2026, with a game to go, the Saint signal caller has thrown for 1,490 yards and 18 TD’s, with a slight improvement (55.5%) in completion percentage.
Herring’s progress has been more dramatic. The six-footer hauled in five passes for 89 yards and a score in 2025. This season, the Junior Olympic track All-American has grabbed 43 passes for 695 yards and 11 touchdowns – not bad for a second-year receiver.
“I switched to wide receiver in the ninth grade,” Herring said. “I was always a defensive back.”
Youngblood’s first recollection of his favorite target was different.
“We met during the summer before eighth grade. I remember noticing how super skinny he was,” Youngblood recalled. “I found out later that he was just recovering from pneumonia.”
A bond was formed.
“I figured, if he just had pneumonia and he’s out here practicing, that showed me the kind of mentality he has,” Youngblood said.
The pair went to work at improving their on-field connection.
“He impressed me with his route running, and his ability to run double moves,” Youngblood added.
Then there is the speed: Herring has run track since the age of five, and is becoming a force on the oval. The 200 meters may be his best event, with Herring posting a time of 22.92 seconds as a freshman, while reaching the finals at the Virginia Independent Schools state meet in May.
“I worked my butt off,” Herring added. “After we first met in eighth grade, I searched to see who he was. He is the best quarterback I have ever played with.”
To emphasize their willingness to work, Winton added, “This isn’t just during the football season. They continuously work together during the offseason.”
In fact, Youngblood will join Herring on the track after the football season.
One factor which can’t be overlooked is the mentoring from their older teammates, particularly Scott. “He’s like a coach on the field,” Youngblood said, with Herring adding,
“Even today at practice, on one play I wasn’t lined up correctly and he made sure to tell me.”
These facets have helped the Saints with their improvement, but Winton credits all the players.
“I believe it is all about the commitment of our guys,” Winton said. “We have a good core of guys who are sticking together, and dedicating themselves to the game in the offseason.”
The best may be yet to come.
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