By Michael Fitzgerald ’26

At 1:18 p.m., we got off the bus and walked across the field, making our way to the locker room. Walking across the field, I took it all in. I thought back on all the early mornings, workouts, hard work, and sacrifice we all made to get here. This game meant a lot, but I wasn’t only doing it for myself or the team, but for the people in the stands who have supported me all throughout the journey.

As we made our way into the locker room, all I could think about was the game. Nothing else crossed my mind, and I was fully locked in. I got ready and headed over to the trainer. As I was getting taped, I could see the other team walking in. I couldn’t wait to get out there and face them.

As we went out to do the coin toss, the fans started to appear. After the coin toss, we headed back to the locker room, and Coach gave us a pep talk. Everyone was laser-focused and ready to play. As I led the team back onto the field, I felt the cold air touch my skin, and it gave me a rush. Our offense struck first and gave us the lead on a rushing touchdown by senior quarterback CJ Gray. Now it was our turn to go out there.

The defense played great and went two drives, letting up zero points. As St. Rita was backed up about to punt, we got the signal from our coach to rush the punter. I got in my stance and was ready. As the ball was snapped, the punter caught the snap on a knee in the end zone, causing a safety. As we ran off the field, there was so much excitement in the air. We had all the momentum.

As the game went on, it was an all-out battle. The score stuck at 9–0 with the Crusaders ahead until late in the fourth quarter when our quarterback ran for 54 yards, bringing us down to the 11-yard line. The stands and sidelines both roared, going crazy. Just three plays later, we scored another touchdown with four minutes left and went up 16–0. With such little time left, we went back out on defense and knew what to expect.

St. Rita had a turnover on downs, and we ran off the field with excitement, for we knew that we had won. As CJ kneeled the ball, we all ran onto the field, celebrating with each other. We shook hands, said “good game,” and then ran over to the student section. I was not able to contain my excitement and started going crazy. I think that moment was one of the best moments of my whole life.

This moment was extra special to me because seven years prior, I watched my brothers lose a state championship wearing the same jersey I was wearing. Them being there to see me win meant a lot to me and is something I will never forget.