The Cadets have been working hard to prepare for another football season! During preseason, Maguire Palian ’30 even earned a remarkable win at Quaker Steak & Lube for finishing his bucket of hot wings the fastest. After months of exhausting scrimmages, heavy gym sessions, positional drills, and late-afternoon practices, the team was ready for their first game.
Facing a seasoned squad on the road in the season opener proved to be a tough test, and while the scoreboard didn’t go their way, the Cadets showed incredible heart and resilience through every quarter. Even when falling behind early against a fast, aggressive opponent, the team never quit fighting, displaying true grit on defense and battling until the final whistle. The game served as a valuable baseline, offering the young squad a clear look at where they can grow and sharpening their competitive fire for the rest of the season.
R.J. Zitzelsberger ’30 shared that high school football has been a big adjustment, especially playing against juniors and seniors as a freshman. “The pace is faster, the crowd is louder, teams are tougher,” he said. He also emphasized the importance of putting the team before yourself and having more of a “we” over “me” mentality—a mindset that is already bringing the locker room closer together through early-season adversity.
Bry’Naza Walker ‘28, the only female player on the team, hopes to encourage more girls to participate in sports, regardless of whether they are traditionally male dominated. Although the Cadets didn’t get the result they hoped for in their first game, they are staying positive and looking ahead.
This team has the drive, the heart, and the dedication to make big strides forward. Be sure to come out in full force to support the Cadets as they bring the energy to their next game on Friday, September 4! Go Cadets!
