In just two weeks, Keenan has made a 180-degree turnaround compared to last year. Coming off a 1-3 season and losing valuable contributing players, one would not expect Keenan to be heading into its third game with a 2-0 record. But the Knights are doing exactly that.
Junior captain Andrew McDonough esteems the fierce freshmen, organization and execution of the team for its success.
"The team aspect of Keenan football has never been this strong in the past," McDonough said. "The sense of ‘team' is giving us the chance of success — and we're going to take it."
The culture of Keenan's energy is contagious and undeniable throughout the lineup. The Knights know how much potential they have and they are ready to utilize it. The goal of the team is to stay focused on its ultimate goal — making the championship game in Notre Dame Stadium.
Keenan's overall strength was exemplified in the game against Dillon. With key players injured, such as senior captain Erik Blackwood, the door of opportunity opened for inexperienced team members to step up to the plate. Players such as freshmen Chris Dearolf and Ej Soto, junior Kevin Walsh and senior Nick Burley made a statement at the game by playing both offense and defense. Sophomore Jeremy Riche and junior Nate Carr also made impressive impacts at the receiver position by dodging, dipping, ducking and diving for balls in the end zone. The Knights won 14-6.
The overall culture change of the team is best expressed by McDonough.
"We go into each game expecting a win," he said.
