The Ronald McDonald House Charities team built a commanding early lead before severe weather brought a premature end to the 55th annual McDonald’s Lehigh Valley All-Star Classic last Thursday night at Nazareth’s Andy Leh Stadium.

With 6:11 remaining in the third quarter, thunderstorms forced officials to stop play, resulting in a 34-16 victory for the Ronald McDonald House team.

Led by Southern Lehigh’s Sean Steckert and Easton’s Cole Ordway, the Ronald McDonald squad scored on its first four possessions and amassed 34 first-half points. Steckert opened the scoring with a three-yard touchdown run, while Ordway contributed a 62-yard touchdown run and a touchdown pass.

Northampton’s Noah Kline was one of the game’s top performers, catching two touchdown passes from Palisades quarterback Jack Trickel and adding several extra points. Lehighton’s Caden Meek also found the end zone, hauling in a touchdown pass from Ordway.

The Ronald McDonald House team was coached by Bangor’s Vinnie Andrews, who guided an offense that showcased the depth of talent assembled from schools across the region.

Despite the loss, the St. Luke’s team produced several highlights. Emmaus standouts Kai Jefferson-Rushing and Peter Sherman each scored touchdowns. Jefferson-Rushing caught a touchdown pass from East Stroudsburg North quarterback Wayne King, while Sherman added a rushing touchdown and completed a two-point conversion pass to Parkland’s JJ Brader.

The annual all-star event brings together many of the region’s top graduating seniors while raising funds and awareness for local charitable causes. Although weather prevented the game from reaching its conclusion, players and coaches were able to celebrate their final high school football experience while supporting the mission of the Ronald McDonald House Charities.