SPORTS
By Kim M. Braud | September 11, 2026
NEW ORLEANS - Four Louisiana high school football programs will take the field at the Caesars Superdome on Saturday, September 19, for the Allstate Sugar Bowl Inspire The City Invitational, an event bringing together high school athletics, school spirit and community pride in New Orleans.
Presented by InspireNOLA Charter Schools, the 2026 invitational is being held in honor of Ed Daniels and will feature two games, including a matchup between nationally ranked Edna Karr High School and Ruston High School.
The first game kicks off at 3 p.m., with the Edna Karr Cougars facing the Ruston Bearcats. Edna Karr, an InspireNOLA school, enters the showcase representing New Orleans against one of North Louisiana’s prominent football programs.
The evening matchup will feature St. Augustine High School against East Ascension High School, with kickoff scheduled for 6:30 p.m. The Purple Knights will give New Orleans another hometown team on the Superdome field as they face the Spartans of Gonzales.
InspireNOLA describes the invitational as a celebration of student-athletes, families, alumni and supporters, with an emphasis on teamwork, dedication and excellence. Beyond the competition on the field, the event provides student-athletes with an opportunity to play inside one of Louisiana’s most recognizable sports venues.
The invitational also continues InspireNOLA’s efforts to showcase high school athletics and the accomplishments of students throughout the region.
Event Details
What: Allstate Sugar Bowl Inspire The City Invitational
When: Saturday, September 19, 2026
Where: Caesars Superdome, New Orleans
Game 1: Ruston vs. Edna Karr - 3 p.m.
Game 2: East Ascension vs. St. Augustine - 6:30 p.m.
Tickets are available through InspireNOLA Charter Schools.
Evans Cutchmore Press will be on-site covering the Inspire The City Invitational.
Kim M. Braud is the Founder & Editor of Evans Cutchmore Press, an independent newsroom covering Louisiana and the Gulf South. Her reporting focuses on government accountability, infrastructure, business, culture, and the public policies that shape communities.
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