Congratulations Class of 2018! 37 wins
2 nationally televised wins on ESPN | 4-time Kozik Cup winners 2 DCSAA Championships Gonzaga College High School football started in 1889. The 2017 season was the 129th Season for the Eagles on the Gridiron.
Gonzaga Football Seniors 2017-2018
Sydney Person - #5, WR (Marist College)^ Jordan Colbert - #7, DB (Columbia University)^ Maguire Dilenge - #19, WR (Wake Forest Univesity)^ *Jason Labbe II - #24, RB / DB (Merrimack College)^ Nick DeChristopher - #26, DB (University of Kentucky) *Robbie Mangas - #45, TE (Dartmouth College)^ *Jake Galli - #51, LB (Wake Forest Univesity)^ Malik Bridgeman - #55, DL (Gannon University)^ *Aidan Rafferty - #66, OL (Indiana University)^ Jack Keenan - #79, OL (University of Virginia)^ Luke Hoffman - #99, DL (John Carroll University)^ Brendan Long - Video Manager (University of Texas Austin)
* = Captain ^ = will play football in College
@GonzagaTDC
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O N
T H E
THE 129TH SEASON
C O V E R
Lead by the “Golden 11” Seniors, Gonzaga defeated an extremely talented Peddie School from New Jersey on September 8, 2017. The game was played on historic Franklin Field in Philadelpia, PA.
G A M E
T E A M
R E C A P S
The Eagles advanced to the WCAC Championship for the first time since 2011, earning a #6 ranking in the Washington Post. PAGES
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Game 11: Victory at GC to Advance to the WCAC Championship
JV / FRESHMEN The youngest Eagles earned a number of exciting wins on Buchanan Field. JV dominated the Little Hoyas.
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VARSITY AWARDS 7 seniors (above) were honored at the National Football Foundation’s 12th Annual Scholar Athlete Banquet on April 23, 2018. 23 Eagles were named AllWCAC, 5 named All-Met by the Washington Post, and 7 named All-DC by USA Today. gonzaga.org/football
F E A T U R E S
Game 3: Bouncing Back vs Peddie Game 4: Dominating Prep Game 6: Winning Under the Lights Game 7: Road Win vs #1 Stags Game 8: Senior Day and Gabe Smith ‘54 Portal Dedication
M E S S A G E S
&
R O S T E R S
4-7 Messages from the President, the
Headmaster, the Athletic Director, and the Head Coach
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Varsity Roster Gonzaga Football Coaching Staff JV Roster, Highlights, & Awards Freshmen Roster Highlights & Awards
SPECIAL FEATURES
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“NEF” - Defined by the Players, Coaches, and Alumni
26 Senior Feast & Service Project 37 Faith & Scholar Baller 38 Alumni Spotlights 52 Class of 2018 Committments GONZAGA EAGLES
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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Dear Gonzaga Football Fans,
G
onzaga is extremely proud of our long, proud, and successful tradition of football on Eye Street. In particular, we are grateful for the graduating seniors, the class of 2018, who led our return to the championship game this year. As we prepare for the 2018 season this fall, I am confident that our teams are poised to carry on the Gonzaga tradition of winning on and off of the field.
“In particular, we are grateful for the graduating seniors, the class of 2018.”
Playing in the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference, considered one of the premier high school athletic conferences in the nation, our Eagles face tough competition every time they take the field. While we would love to win all of our games, what is most important is the dedication, teamwork, selflessness, and excellent sportsmanship that our teams exhibit in victory and in defeat. In the end, it is the character of our Gonzaga community that matters most. That sense of community has grown even stronger in my almost seven years as President. I continually see our students, faculty, and staff supporting each other in all of their various endeavors, whether academic, athletic, artistic, spiritual, or professional. This is one of the many things that makes Eye Street so remarkable. I am especially grateful to all of our players and coaches for their loyalty and commitment to Gonzaga. Thank you for your support of our football teams and may God bless you all. Sincerely, Rev. Stephen W. Planning, SJ President
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HEADMASTER’S MESSAGE Dear Gonzaga Football Fans,
C
ongratulations to the 2017-2018 Gonzaga Varsity Football Team on their 9th straight playoff appearance and their first trip back to the WCAC Championship game since 2011. Students and coaches alike should be proud of such a successful season! Legendary football coach Vince Lombardi once said, “Individual commitment to a group effort - that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work.” To me, this quote demonstrates the total team mentality required in the sport of football and in life. We saw this mentality demonstrated by our young men this year. To successfully make it through a school year balancing a commitment to faith, family, school and athletics is no easy task. I know that our boys consistently give their time and effort, not for personal glory, but for the benefit of the “group,” be it on the football field, in the classroom, at home or in the larger community. Therefore, by definition, a Gonzaga football player is a man for others. It is always a good idea to reflect on the role of sports in a Jesuit school. Athletics at Gonzaga is about being generous with one’s God-given talents and life lessons like dedication, committment, and sacrifice. The hard work a studentathlete puts into the season is for the team, our school, and the season’s goal. Athletics is a part of cura personalis – the hallmark of Jesuit education – care of the whole person. Gonzaga forms young men who are well-rounded in body, mind, and spirit; young men who learn that giving one hundred percent is more important than wins and losses. The experiences of our students on the gridiron, in the classroom, and on retreats and Christian service projects, all work together in their respective formation into outstanding young men. On behalf of the students and faculty, Gonzaga’s football players and coaches, I want to thank you all for your support of this program and for helping to make athletics such a positive experience for so many. The lessons our students can learn in a program such as this will last them a lifetime. Congratulations to all the coaches and players! Go Eagles!
“I know that our boys consistently give their time and effort, not for personal glory, but for the benefit of the “group,” be it on the football field, in the classroom, at home or in the larger community.”
Sincerely, Thomas K. Every II Headmaster gonzaga.org/football
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ATHLETIC DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE Dear Gonzaga Football Fans,
G
onzaga College High School offers 17 different varsity sports. We are fortunate to have highly supportive administrative and faculty, dedicated coaches and student athletes, and loyal parents and supporters of our athletic programs. 2017-2018 was yet another banner year for Gonzaga Athletics. Varsity teams competed in 10 league championship games earning 7 titles and 1 national championship.
“A special thanks to the seniors for four memorable years. Farewell and good luck!”
Gonzaga Football had another outstanding season. The Eagles finished with a record of 8-4. For a seventh straight year, the Eagles defeated Georgetown Prep to win the Jesuit Gridiron Classic and retain the Coup-Kozik Cup. In our inaugural year with lights on Buchanan Field, the team beat McNamara to open up WCAC play with the first night game win in school history. And the team defeated Good Counsel on the road in the WCAC Semifinal to advance to the WCAC Championship for the first time since 2011. Congratulations to all of the members of the 2017 Football Team and thanks to all of our coaches’ hard work and dedication. Thanks to all of the members of the Touchdown Club for their outstanding support of Gonzaga Football. A special thanks to the seniors for four memorable years. Farewell and good luck! Eagles fly high! Have a great summer. Sincerely, Joe Reyda ‘85 Athletic Director
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HEAD COACH’S MESSAGE Dear Gonzaga Football Family,
A
fter completing my 4th “lap around the track,” this has certainly been one of the most gratifying “miles” I’ve completed in my coaching career! The inspiration to “run” stems from Gonzaga’s unique collection of people. Our student-athletes, coaching staff, alumni, faculty, football parents, and fans blend to make Gonzaga a most special environment. Every program has this collection of folks but our program’s people are devoted to selflessness, sacrifice and service for the benefit and betterment of others in the culture. Our institution’s motto of “Men for Others” lives passionately within the hearts of all of us in the Gonzaga football community. “Men for Others” aligns closely with our program’s motto of Now-Embrace-Finish. NEF reminds us to have appreciation, gratitude, and focus within the current moment. NEF encourages us to live the moment for those we love regardless of the surrounding circumstances. Ultimately, NEF urges us to give our very best from beginning to end, reminding us of how we should value the process over the product. The results of our “mile run” have been a product of our collective preparation. We have accumulated 37 victories, 2 state championships, 2 nationally televised wins, 4 Kozik cup titles, and 42 student-athletes have extended their football careers while pursuing education beyond Gonzaga. These are just a few examples of what the process yields. Most importantly however are the relationships we’ve forged, the experiences we’ve shared, the memories we’ve created, and the legacy of love we continue to strengthen. Now it’s time to start on running the next “mile.” I hope that each and every single one of you continues running with me! I’m optimistic the next 4 laps will be as exciting, challenging and rewarding as the last 4! Now let’s EMBRACE each other, and FINISH this next mile in the spirit of Gonzaga! May God bless Gonzaga’s purple football community! Love,
“I’m optomistic the next 4 laps will be as exciting, challenging and rewarding as the last 4! Now let’s EMBRACE each other, and FINISH this next mile in the spirit of Gonzaga!”
Randy Trivers Head Football Coach
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TRADITION
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COACHING STAFF
In 2017, Head Coach Randy Trivers completed his fourth year coaching at Gonzaga. During that time, he’s compiled a 37-12 record, including winning back-to-back DCSAA AA State Championships in 2014 and 2015. Trivers was also named the WCAC Coach of the Year and the USA Today Washington DC Coach of the Year in 2015. “Coach T” as he’s known to his players, has over 23 years of coaching experience at the FBS and high school levels. With 138 wins as a high school head coach, Coach T has helped more than 150 student-athletes realize their dream of playing football at the collegiate level.
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COACHING STAFF
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MERCERSBURG
K I C KO F F MA S S
E AG L E J AC K S Immediately following the Kickoff Mass on Sunday, August 6, our players and coaches departed for Mercersburg, PA for training camp. The week in Pennsylvania was a culture shaping experience where the players and coaches bonded strongly through a series of practices, strength & conditioning sessions,
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MERCERSBURG
G U E S T S P E A K E R - M R. D U G A N ‘98, W C AC C H A M P ‘96 & ‘97
E AG L E S K I T S
meetings, meals, and an array of competitions inclusive from dodgeball to dancing! Camp culminated with the players completing the captain cabinet. #66 OL Aidan Rafferty joined #51 LB Jake Galli, #24 RB/LB/DB Jason Labbe and #45 DL/FB/TE Robbie Mangas. gonzaga.org/football gonzaga.org/football
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I N
M E M O R I A M
DEEPLY MISSED. FOREVER LOVED. NEVER FORGOTTEN. ALWAYS HONORED.
E
ternal rest grant to them, O Lord; and let light
perpetual shine upon them. May their souls, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
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P R E - S E A S O N H I G H L I G H T S
MCKENNA CENTER EVENT On Saturday, August 5, Gonzaga’s football program held a joint event with the McKenna Center around the theme of perseverance. “The hope was that all involved in the activity could find inspiration to navigate their personal journey while recognizing the common ground we walk upon,” says Head Football Coach Randy Trivers. During the event—which included a wonderful lunch prepared by parents—Coach Trivers spoke about perseverance as an important characteristic of the team. Cortez McDaniel, the Director of Men’s Programs and Services at the McKenna Center, then talked about how the concept of perseverance relates to and resonates with the men from the McKenna Center. Small group discussions followed—each group included eight student-athletes, two assistant coaches, and two guests of the McKenna Center. Dr. Kim Cox, President of the McKenna Center, says the men appreciated how open the boys were. One McKenna Center guest told her it felt good to be able to tell his stories and share some of his mistakes, to encourage the young men to make better choices than he had made. One man said, “I told the boys that no matter how black everything may look, there is always a better way to respond.” After the group discussions, the team went out to practice on Buchanan Field, where guests of the McKenna Center joined them to watch.
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The preparation for the season opener intensified following our return from Mercersburg, Pennsylvania. The team competed against 4 squads on different days in a variety of scrimmage/practice formats. The opponents include Hermitage from Richmond, VA, Bishop O’Connell of Arlington, VA, Bishop Sullivan from VA Beach, VA, and Paint Branch from Burtonsville, MD. The competition provided us with excellent opportunities to evaluate and prepare for our opening contest against Gilman. GONZAGA EAGLES
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GAME RECAPS
Gonzaga - 38 Gilman - 0
August 28
WEEKLY AWARDS
MVPs: Jason Labbe II & Loic Sangwa | Outstanding D: Malik Bridgeman | Outstanding O: Jestus Johnson Special Forces: Marco Kemp | D Practice: Jack Garland | O Practice: Jalen McMurray
The 38-0 victory over Gilman in the season opener was reflective of the togetherness of the squad made clear by the multitude of contributions. The offense pounded the ball for a total of 217 yards on the ground. Offensive linemen #72 Jestus Johnson ‘20, #79 Jack Keenan ‘18, #76 Patrick Matan ‘20, #71 John O’Toole ‘19, #74 Luke Petitbon ‘20, #66 Aiden Rafferty ’18, TE #15 Justin Ball ‘19, FB #30 Jason Malone ’19, and FB #45 Robbie Mangas ‘18 paved the way for running backs #24 Jason Labbe II ’18 (11 rushes for 83 yards), #33 Lucas Warfield ‘19 (7 rushes for 68 yards) and quarterbacks #10 Sam Sweeney ‘19 (4 rushes for 22 yards) and #18 Caleb Williams ‘21 (2 rushes for 23 yards). The Offensive line also did an outstanding job of protecting the quarterback allowing no sacks as Caleb Williams threw for 151 yards passing on 6 completions with 2 touchdowns to #6 Dean Engram ‘19 (75 yard TD catch) and #5 Sydney Person ’18 (55 yard TD catch).
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GAME RECAPS
Gonzaga - 6 Viera (FL) - 21
September 1
Although the offensive balance was impressive, the defensive dominance was clearly defined by the shut-out performance in the season opener. The defense had stellar performances by #4 LB Loic Sangwa ’19 (14 tackles, 1 fumble recovery), #51 LB Jake Galli ’18 (10 tackles, 2 tackles for loss, 1 sack) and #55 DL Malik Bridgeman ’18 (4 tackles for loss and 1 interception). The defense was stingy against the run but made big plays against the pass. There were 3 momentum swinging interceptions made by Malik Bridgeman, Dean Engram, and #14 John Marshall ’19. Like the offense and defense, the special teams excelled in Saturday’s victory led by K #29 Marco Kemp ’19 (5 PAT’s, 35 yard FG, 5 Touchbacks) and punter John Marshall who converted a 1st down on a 15 yard 4th down run. In week 2, the Eagles came up short in the first night game on Buchanan Field in a hard fought game. gonzaga.org/football
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GAME RECAPS
Gonzaga - 30 Peddie - 6
September 7-9
BOUNCE BACK
CHALLENGE EMBRACED: A ONCE IN A LIFETIME
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oming off of a disappointing loss in the first night game ever on Buchanan Field, the varsity football team earned an impressive 30-6 victory over Peddie School from New Jersey on Friday, September 8. The night game was played on historic Franklin Field at the University of Pennsylvania--a memorable experience for the boys and all the fans who made the trip to Philadelphia to watch them play. The Eagles traveled to Philadelphia on Thursday after school and practiced at Temple University (pictured below) before heading to the hotel. On Friday, the players had the chance to tour the University of Pennsylvania’s campus, including a walkthrough of Franklin Field. The game was a hard-fought victory, with impressive performances from defensive back Jordan Colbert ‘18, who had two interceptions, quarterback Caleb Williams ‘21, who had two touchdowns on the ground, and linebacker/running back Loic Sangwa ‘19, who led the way on defense and also scored the other two touchdowns for Gonzaga.
“It was an amazing 48 hours for our program. Travelling together, touring an Ivy League university, and winning on hallowed football ground – it was great for our young men. The support from the parents was phenomenal. It was an experience we will always remember.” -Coach T WEEKLY AWARDS
MVP: Malik Bridgeman | Outstanding D: Jordan Colbert | Outstanding O: Caleb Williams Special Forces: Nick DeChristopher | D Practice: Derek Aikens | O Practice: Connor O’Malley | Scholar: Jack Keenan
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GAME RECAPS
WIN IN PHILLY
EXPERIENCE, A SEASON DEFINING TRIP
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GAME RECAPS
Gonzaga - 40 Prep - 0
September 16
JESUIT GRIDIRON
SEVENTH STRAIGHT COUP-KOZIK CUP WIN IN FRONT
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n front of a packed crowd and an electric atmosphere, Gonzaga defeated Georgetown Prep on Saturday, September 16, in the 15th annual Jesuit Gridiron Classic on Buchanan Field winning 40-0 to improve to 3-1 on the season. The Eagles dominated play throughout, taking a 21-0 lead into halftime behind touchdowns from John Marshall ‘19, Dean Engram ‘19, and Jason Labbe II ‘18. All eleven seniors made significant contributions in the win. Noteably, Sydney Person ‘18 connected with TE Robbie Mangas ‘18 on a 42 yard double pass to open the second half; and DL mates, Malik Bridgeman ‘18 and Luke Hoffman ‘18 tallied sacks to force one of many punts from the Little Hoyas. “This is a huge game, not just for me,” Labbe II (12 carries, 61 yards, 1 touchdown) told the Washington Post, “for our school and our entire Gonzaga community.” WEEKLY AWARDS
MVP: Robbie Mangas | Outstanding D: Sean Johns | Outstanding O: Maguire Dilenge Special Forces: John Marshall | D Practice: Joshua Williams | O Practice: Aaron Turner | Scholar: Jared Morson
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G A M E
R E C A P S
N CLASSIC
OF PACKED STADIUM ON EYE STREET
“No. 5 Gonzaga puts it all together in 40-0 win over Georgetown Prep.” -Washington Post
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N E F
D E F I N E D
NEF
“There is something powerful about when a team is able to talk about what they believe in... when your opponent lines up against you and they
NEF
see that sticker... they know what you stand for.”
“It helps not only on the field but off of the field. It will help them in the classroom. If they think about being the best brother they can be, the best
NEF it
son they can be, if they follow will help to great things in life.”
NEF
“I brought into everything in my life. Whether it be school, athletics, just working hard. It’s really pushed me to be the best I can. It’s helped me thru college and will continue to help me in the future.”
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NOW
“The word represents opportunity because it is the only thing that we have the power to control.”
“We have to keep on the straight path, have everyone doing the right
EMBRACE whatever
thing, and challenges that come.”
“Finish is one of the most important things you can have in life because if
FINISH
you everything in life, you will be successful.”
“Everyday I have to apply , because you have so many things you have to do on a daily basis... from going to class, to meetings, to practice, to weights... and then just being an ambassador for the university or the college.”
“It really gives them motivation, something to stand up and be strong with,
NEF
in any situation. is who we are. NEF is what we do. And within the Gonzaga Community and beyond, it helps these young men become Men for Others.”
“To make an impact on society, my community, my family, my school, my team: how do you do it? We like
NOW EMBRACE and FINISH is a to think that understanding great way to get there.”
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GAME RECAPS
Gonzaga - 47 Avalon - 28
September 23
WEEKLY AWARDS
MVPs: Loic Sangwa | Outstanding D: Joseph Wete | Outstanding O: Jason Labbe II Special Forces: Sean Johns | D Practice: Kye Holmes | O Practice: Jalen McMurray | Scholar: Jake Galli
The Eagles followed their victory over Prep with a convincing win over Avalon in just the 2nd meeting between the 2 Catholic schools. The Eagles flew out to a 40-0 lead in the first half and finished with a 47-28 victory on a scorching hot day on Eye Street. With the win, the team improved to 4-1 and set its sights on WCAC play. gonzaga.org/football
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GAME RECAPS
HOMECOMING September 29 Gonzaga - 38 McNamara - 0
WCAC OPENING VICTORY AND FIRST WIN UND
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n the first WCAC contest of 2017, the varsity football team dominated Bishop McNamara 38-0 to earn Gonzaga’s first home night game victory in school history on Friday, September 29. The Homecoming game was played in front of a great crowd on Eye Street. Junior WR John Marshall’s touchdown catch from freshman QB Caleb Williams in the second quarter made ESPN’s SportsCenter Top 10 (#5 on the list) and was viewed more than one million times on Bleacher Report by the end of the following day’s Homecoming Dance. The play also made the popular ESPN segment “You Got Mossed!” Williams had three touchdown passes on the night, senior DB Nick DeChristopher lead the way on defense with an interception, and junior LB Aaron Davis had a great night on special teams. With the win, the team improved to 5-1 on the year and 1-0 in league play.
WEEKLY AWARDS
MVP: John Marshall | Outstanding D: Nick DeChristopher | Outstanding O: Caleb Williams Special Forces: Aaron Davis | D Practice: Jack Garland | O Practice: Giancarlo Susi | Scholar: Harrison Sousa
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G A M E
R E C A P S
BRIGHT LIGHTS
DER THE LIGHTS IN SCHOOL HISTORY
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GAME RECAPS
Gonzaga - 26 DeMatha - 20
October 6
EAGLES BEAT #1 STAG
AFTER A DOMINATE THREE QUARTERS, GONZAGA FIN
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n front of a great crowd at the PG Sports & Learning Complex in Landover, MD, the Eagles marched 64 yards in nine plays and scored within the first three minutes. After a forced punt, an 11 play 75 yard drive was capped off by a 26-yard screen pass from Caleb Williams ‘21 to John Marshall ‘19. Three plays later, Jason Labbe II intercepted a tipped DeMatha pass and ran it back for the score. Up 19-0 at halftime and 26-0 to start the 4th quarter, the Stags would mount a furious comeback but Coach Trivers’ team continued to trust in each other to earn the victory and to improve to 6-1 overall and 2-0 in WCAC play. The No. 4 Eagles poured from the bench after senior Malik Bridgeman’s sack ended No. 1 DeMatha’s desperate yet insufficient rally. “Nobody was picking us at the beginning of the week,” Bridgeman said. “But we trusted each other. We knew we had it.” WEEKLY AWARDS
MVPs: J Labbe II & J Marshall | Outstanding D: Jake Galli | Outstanding O: Caleb Williams Special Forces: Maguire DiLenge | D Practice: Joshua Williams | O Practice: Connor Fagan | Scholar: Aidan Rafferty
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G A M E
R E C A P S
GS ON ROAD
NISHES THE JOB FOR THE VICTORY
“Gonzaga starts fast, holds on late to upset No. 1 DeMatha.” -Washington Post
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GAME RECAPS
Gonzaga - 41 Carroll - 8
October 14
SENIOR & DEDIC
GOLDEN 11 AND FIRST AFRICAN-AMERICAN GRAD
T
he Eagles beat Archbishop Carroll 41-8 on Senior Day. The day also included a great dedication ceremony at halftime to honor Mr. Gabe Smith ’54, Gonzaga’s first African-American graduate. The Eagles improved to 7-1 overall and 2-0 in WCAC play. The game included impressive performances from wide receiver John Marshall ‘19 and quarterback Caleb Williams ’21, who connected on two touchdowns for the second week in a row. The offensive line was led by John O’Toole ’19. Malik Bridgeman ’18 ran for a touchdown for the second time in his senior year. Defensively, the Eagles were led by Aaron Davis ’19 who caused three fumbles, recovered one, and scored a touchdown. Harrison Sousa ’19 also scored on defense after recovering a fumble. The special teams standout of the day was Hunter Stewart ’19. Class reunions followed the game to cap off an incredible day of celebration on Eye Street!
WEEKLY AWARDS
MVP: John Marshall | Outstanding D: Aaron Davis | Outstanding O: John O’Toole Special Forces: Hunter Stewart | D Practice: Carson Volanth | O Practice: Olu Fashanu | Scholar: Nick DeChristopher
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G A M E
R E C A P S
CATION DAY
DUATE HONORED
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S E N I O R F E A S T & S E R V I C E
The Eagles received a well-deserved break with a bye week following the Carroll victory. It was a great time to reflect on the past and plan for the future. Although the team didn’t have an opponent on the field, the Eagles partook in other valuable experiences on Friday, October 20. The senior football players and coaching staff gathered for the Senior Feast which is an annual gathering of the seniors and coaching staff at the Trivers family home. The event includes various opportunities for members of the program to reflect, share, understand and appreciate Gonzaga Football legacy and traditions. Without an opponent to face on the field, the other members of the team took on a challenge of a different kind by engaging in a beautification project through Catholic Charities. The Eagles “flew” to Alexandria and landed at the St. Martin de Porres Senior Center armed with rakes and shovels rather than helmets and shoulder pads! The team was tasked to clean, trim, mulch, rake, bag, rather than block, tackle, throw, kick and catch! The Eagles took on the challenge with great gusto by working cohesively and efficiently to ultimately enhance the grounds of the St. Martin de Porres Senior Center.
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GAME RECAPS
Gonzaga - 7 Good Counsel - 27
October 27
A goal line stand by the Eagle defense would keep the game tied 7-7 at halftime. The score remained tied late into the third quarter when Nick DeChristopher’s interception seemingly was the spark that the team needed. Unable to convert on the ensuing possesion, Good Counsel would take the lead and control the rest of the action. At 7-2 (3-1 in the WCAC) and a playoff spot clinched, the team knew that all of its goals were still in front of them. gonzaga.org/football
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GAME RECAPS
Gonzaga - 14 St. John’s - 32
November 4
The 94th game of the Modern Era saw the purple nation come out in droves to Paint Branch High School to support the Eagles. After an early special teams mistake, the team showed tremendous resilience. Touchdown passes to John Marshall ‘19 and Maguire DiLenge ‘18 would make the score 14-14 at halftime. With the loss, the team would become the #3 seed heading into the WCAC playoffs which would set up a rematch with Good Counsel back in Olney, MD.
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INTENTIONS
“This year has not been without its challenges and some of the battles our Eagle family has endured. Please continue praying for
Jake Simmons ’65
as he recovers from a successful surgical procedure to remove a brain tumor. In addition, continued support and prayers for
Scott McCaleb ‘84
who is proving that cancer is no match for an Eagle of his caliber. Both Jake and Scott have our utmost admiration, respect and love as they continue to set the world on fire as only great Gonzaga men can.” -Coach T gonzaga.org/football
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GAME RECAPS
WCAC SEMIF
Gonzaga - 24 Good Counsel - 17
November 11
“NO. 9 GONZAGA TOPPLES NO.6 GOOD COUNSEL EAR
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he Eagles defeated Good Counsel in the WCAC Semifinal on Friday, November 10 in Olney, Marlyand. After falling to the Falcons in their regular season matchup on October 27, the team returned the favor with a 24-17 victory. The first points of the game came from kicker Marco Kemp ‘19. Good Counsel would respond to take a 7-3 lead. On the ensuing possession, Loic Sangwa ‘19 ripped off a huge run leading to QB Caleb Williams ‘21 5 yard touchdown run. After a goal line stand, the Eagles took a 10-7 lead into halftime on a bitterly cold night. Tied 10-10 midway through the third quarter, Gonzaga would score the next two touchdowns—one on a 65 yard pass from Williams to Maguire DiLenge ’18, and one on a great run by Lucas Warfield ‘19. “Trivers’ word of the week to the group was ‘now,’ as in: focus on this game ‘now’ and worry about the legacy of this season later,” wrote the Washington Post. The article went on to read “Gonzaga’s Hunter Stewart punched the football loose on a routine handoff, and teammate Sean Johns fell on it. Three plays later, Warfield scampered into the end zone from 18 yards out to put the Eagles up two touchdowns.” The Eagles earned their first WCAC Championship bid since 2011.
WEEKLY AWARDS
MVPs: N DeChristopher & J Labbe II | Outstanding D: J Galli & J Wete | Outstanding O: C Warfield & R Mangas Special Forces: M Kemp & H Stewart | D Practice: D Aikens & T Rooney | O Practice: L McGrail & C Fagan
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G A M E
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INAL AT GC
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GAME RECAPS
Gonzaga - 7 St. John’s - 30
November 18
After being down 3-0 late in the first quarter on a windy day at Maryland Stadium, the Eagle offense responded with a long drive to get down to the 5 yard line. After two rushing attempts from Loic Sangwa ‘19, the ball was inside the one, leading to a touchdown scoring QB sneak from Caleb Williams ‘21. Aaron Davis ‘18 had an interception and John Marshall ‘19 forced a fumble. Lucas Warfield ‘19 made some outstanding runs. The team fought hard but could not make enough plays in the end.
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FAITH & SCHOLAR BALLER PRE-GAME
POST-GAME
TEAM GALLI - MERCERSBURG 2017 CHAMPS
Each August, seniors are selected to draft a Scholar Baller team prior to leaving for Mercersburg, PA. The teams compete not only in the fun team building activities at camp, but every week throughout the season as well. The teams forge a bond that will last beyond football, as they eat, compete, and study together during the year. gonzaga.org/football
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ALUMNI
Deandre Easterling ’15
Jack Carroll ‘15
Nick Johns ’15
Mitchell Johns ’17
Alumni in NCAA Postseason Action In December of 2017, 11 former Eagles competed in NCAA postseason play at the Division II, FCS and FBS levels. Here is the complete list: Sammy Morrison ‘15
Deandre Easterling ’15, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Miles ‘14 & Kyle ‘16 Taylor
Jack Carroll ’15, University of New Hampshire Turner Echols ’14, North Carolina A&T State University Nick Johns ’15, University of Akron Kyle Taylor ’16, University of Iowa Miles Taylor ’14, University of Iowa Sammy Morrison ’15, University of Arizona Brian Johnson ’16
Mitchell Johns ’17, United States Naval Academy
Max Fisher ’17
Brian Johnson ’16, Virginia Tech University Max Fisher ’17, N.C. State University Richie Petitbon ’15, University of Alabama
Turner Echols ‘14
Echols won the Celebration Bowl which is now recognized as the National Championship for Historically Black Colleges. Petitbon won the College Football National Championship for the second time. Congratulations to all!
Richie Petitbon ‘15
On November 16, 2017, four proud Gonzaga Football alums spoke to the team in preparation for the Championship Game in the lower commons which is formerly known as the “Old Quad.” Pictured from left to right with Coach T: David Dugan ‘98, John Gaughn ‘65, Jeff Wynn ‘80, and Col. Joseph Murray ‘85. Each shared stories of past Gonzaga Football lure and offered inspiring words of encouragement to the boys. Their support and love for the program is appreciated immensely.
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SPOTLIGHTS
JOE KOZIK ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME On November 3, 2017 in the Carmody Center, Gonzaga inducted five new members into the Athletic Hall of Fame. Among them were the 1966 & 1967 teams (above) and Kenny Pegram ‘94 (above right with Father Planning, SJ). Johnson Bademosi ‘08, a special teams standout for the New England Patriots, was elevated to a starting defensive in October, where he recorded 13 tackles in a three-game span. The team won all three games. He saw significant playing time Super Bowl LII as well. He is pictured here after the AFC Championship win over Pittsburgh on December 17, 2017. AJ Francis ‘08 recorded 18 tackles for the Washington Redskins in the final 6 games of the 2017 season. He was activated from the practice squad in November. On May 2, 2018, he signed with the New York Giants. Kenneth Hagins ‘13 played in the HBCU All-Star Game on January 14, 2018. Kenny, a linebacker at Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA, earned Special Teams MVP in the game.
Kevin Hogan ‘11 was traded from the Cleveland Browns to the Washington Redskins on April 6, 2018. In Cleveland, Kevin appeared in eight games with one start, completing 60-of-101 career passes for 621 yards and four passing touchdowns in addition to rushing 18 times for 176 yards with one rushing touchdown. During Gonzaga’s Spring Break, Coach T and Staff visited a number of college programs for professional development and caught up with alums along the way. Among them were Marcus Lewis ‘15 & Johnny Jordan ‘17 (top, University of MD), Jabari Greenwood ‘15 & Jihre Love ‘17 (bottom left, Towson University) and Max Fisher ‘17 (bottom right, NC State University).
The 2nd Annual Alumni Game took place on November 25, 2017 with the “Purple” team coming out victorous, 45-35. gonzaga.org/football
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2017 VARSIT Y STATS
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GONZAGA 41 PREP 0, SEPTEMBER 14, 2017
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JV AWARDS
Outstanding Offensive Player Jalen McMurray
Most Valuable Player Aaron Turner
Outstanding Lineman Joshua Williams
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Outstanding Special Teams Player Jackson Leggans GONZAGA EAGLES
Outstanding Defensive Player Kye Holmes
Unsung Hero Olu Fashanu
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FINAL RECORD: 5-1-1
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FRESHMAN AWARDS
Outstanding Offensive Player Jay Oliver
Most Valuable Player Hayden Fisher
Outstanding Lineman Sherman Hatton
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Maus Collins Award Jason Labbe II ‘18 Named after longtime football coach, given to the team’s most valuable player.
Joe Kozik Award Robbie Mangas ‘18 Named after the longtime football coach and AD, given to the Eagle who most emodies the motto “Man for Others.”
2017 Varsity Awards
Casey Donahue Award Loic Sangwa ‘19 Named for beloved equipment manager, given to the Eagle who does the little things and goes the extra mile without complaint to make the team better.
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Belwoar Award Maguire DiLenge ‘18 Named for beloved Jesuit teacher, earned by a Senior each year who has excelled both athletically and academically. gonzaga.org/football
Outstanding Offensive Player Caleb Williams ‘21
Outstanding Lineman Aidan Rafferty ‘18
Outstanding Defensive Players Malik Bridgeman ‘18 & Jake Galli ‘18
Outstanding Special Team Players Nick DeChristopher ‘18 & Marco Kemp ‘19
Committment & Positive Attitude
Unsung Hero Award Luke Hoffman ‘18
Outstanding Practice Player Derrick Aikens ‘20
Eagle Award John Marshall ‘19
Strength, Conditioning & Off-Season Committment
Iron Eagle Award Loic Sangwa ‘18
All awards recipients are selected by a player vote. The awards are announced at the Banquet Celebration in the Carmody Center held in January. gonzaga.org/football gonzaga.org/football
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A L L W C A C H O N O R S 23 Eagles were named All Washington Catholic Athletic Conference, the most of any school. Selections are voted on by the head coaches of all schools in the conference. 1st Team selections were: DL Malik Bridgeman ’18, DB Jordan Colbert ’18, OL Jack Keenan ’18, K Marco Kemp, RB Jason Labbe II ’18, TE Robbie Mangas ‘18, P John Marshall ‘19, OL Aidan Rafferty ’18, and LB Hunter Stewart ’19. 2nd Team selections
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A L L W C A C H O N O R S were: DB Nick DeChristopher ‘18, WR Dean Engram ‘19, LB Jake Galli ’18, OL Jestus Johnson ’20, DL Joseph Wete ’19, QB Caleb Williams ’21. Honorable Mention selections were: LB Aaron Davis ’19, WR Maguire DiLenge ’18, DL Sean Johns ’19, OL John O’Toole ’19, WR Sydney Person ’18, OL Luke Petitbon ’20, LB Loic Sangwa ’19, and RB Lucas Warfield ’19. Congratulations to all! Hail Gonzaga - Eagles Fly High! gonzaga.org/football gonzaga.org/football
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ALL - MET HONORS
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ALL - CITY HONORS
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he Washington Post recognized the following 6 Eagles for their efforts: OL Aidan Rafferty ’18 (1st Team), DL Joseph Wete ’18 (2nd Team), DL Malik Bridgeman ’18 (Honorable Mention), LB Jake Galli ’18 (Honorable Mention), K Marco Kemp ‘19 (Honorable Mention), and QB Caleb Williams ’21 (Honorable Mention). The Pigskin Club of Washington DC honored 2 Eagles at their 78th annual awards banquet. Both OL Aidan Rafferty ’18 and LB
Jake Galli ’18 were 1st Team All-Met selections. The Pigskin Club also recognized Jake Galli as the Washington DC’s top Scholar-Athlete. The USA Today and DCSAA recognized 7 Eagles for their efforts in the 2017 season: DL Malik Bridgeman ’18 (1st Team), OL Aidan Rafferty ’18 (1st Team), LB Hunter Stewart ’19 (1st Team), OL Jestus Johnson ’20 (2nd Team), OL Jack Keenan ’18 (2nd Team), DB Jason Labbe ’18 (2nd Team), DL Joseph Wete ’19 (2nd Team).
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SIGNING DAY 2018
FEBRUARY 14, 2018
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C O M M I T M E N T S
10 EAGLES TO PLAY COLLEGE FOOTBALL
DL Luke Hoffman ‘18 (above) committed to John Carroll University later in the Spring semester. OL Aidan Rafferty ‘18 (right) signed his National LOI on December 20, 2017 during the new “Early Signing Period” allowed by the NCAA.
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A Special Thanks to our volunteer photographers! This book would not be possible without your extraordinary efforts: J. Jennings, T. Militello, P. Rafferty, T. Morahan, J. Terry, T. Sousa, K. Harrison, E. Turner, and J. Simmons IV ‘65
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7 O N 7 S, B I G M A N S, O TA
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Building toughness, togetherness, and trust.
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Our summer off-season commitment was the best we’ve ever had as 34 players were recognized for attending 90% of the sessions through June and July. gonzaga.org/football
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