North Texas high school football team apologizes to Florida team for pregame handshake incident

A North Texas high school football team is apologizing after members refused to shake hands with an opposing team at the start of a nationally televised game.

Video of the game shared on X shows the DeSoto Eagles meeting at the 50-yard line with the St. Thomas Aquinas High School team from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Saturday, Aug. 29. While the St. Thomas Aquinas team offers hands out for the handshake, the players from DeSoto do not return the gesture.

On Monday, the team shared a statement on X, apologizing for the behavior.

"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. We would like to formally apologize to the St. Thomas Aquinas community, coaching staff, and football team for what occurred," the statement reads. "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.  Best of luck for the remainder of the season to St. Thomas Aquinas and thank you for your understanding on this matter."

St. Thomas Aquinas won the game 38-14. DeSoto's team, led by head coach Claude Mathis, is a four-time state champion in the UIL's 6A division. St. Thomas Aquinas has earned 17 state titles, with seven consecutive titles earned under current head coach Roger Harriott.