February 23rd marked a special memory for the Indianapolis Cathedral High School football team, which they are sure to never forget. The 7th Annual MaxPreps Football Tour of Champions presented by the Army National Guard arrived in Indianapolis to honor the Fightin' Irish for their championship season and high national ranking position, but most importantly, the character that was molded over the season. The trophy presentation to the football team took place at halftime of the boy's varsity basketball game.
As Sergeant Ellett of the Indiana Army National Guard presented the "Minuteman" trophy, the crowd cheered with everlasting school spirit for the well-earned efforts of their beloved football players. The "Fighting Irish" ranked No. 63 in the MaxPreps Freeman poll out of 16,000 high school football teams in the country! This honor is not strictly based upon the numbered wins, but the overall effort, positivity and perseverance shown throughout the season. As the senior captains began their interviews, the high energy was hard to surpass. Although each player conveyed a tough facade, all answers conveyed life lessons and truths that were emphasized by their head coach, Rick Streiff. In an earlier interview Coach Streiff was noted for his positive outlook and constant fight to strive for a team goal. Team Captain, John Zupancic, discussed the importance of a reputation and how the attitudes and actions that each player performs is a direct reflection of their school. It is obvious why this school was chosen for this award. The constant character traits of dedication and perseverance were instilled in each player to perform to the best of his abilities and to never give up – and these traits symbolize the "Minuteman" trophy.
In other interviews, the remaining two captains (Bailey and Willis) mentioned their favorite season memory was "winning the state championship!" This victory placed the football team as the 4A state champions, for the ninth time. At the presentation Thursday night, the team was also presented with an Army National Guard championship rafter banner to be displayed in their gymnasium.
As the entire team stepped onto the gym floor to accept their new hardware, you could feel the excitement rise when cameras flashed and people applauded! When the microphone was passed to the representative from the Indiana Army National Guard, the crowd became restless. Sergeant Ellett congratulated them on their hard work and expressed the similarities between their team's efforts and those of the Army National Guard. They both work hard daily to reach a common goal. With team work and admired characteristics, the two groups were not so different. After the trophy presentation, the basketball game had resumed, however, the high spirit still soared through the gym rafters. Although the spotlight had moved on, the brilliant glow still lingered in each of the player's faces.
Time will pass, and the award will be presented to other teams in the years to come, but the building and molding of a character will last for a lifetime.
