From the President
Dear De La Salle Community:
A school is measured not simply by what it achieves, but by who it forms and how that formation takes place. Since 1965, De La Salle High School has remained steadfast in its mission to receive boys and graduate men. It is fitting, then, that as we close our Diamond Jubilee year, this issue of The Union reflects on 60 years defined not merely by milestones, but by the lives shaped within this community.
Our 60 for 60 series captures this spirit well as it tells stories of people, places, and moments that together paint the story of a mission lived faithfully over time. That same sense of continuity is reflected in the individuals we highlight. It is especially fitting that we honor Terry Eidson, whose 45 years of extraordinary dedication have helped shape generations of young men, while also recognizing Dan Murphy ’09, who now welcomes the next generation of Spartans as our Director of Admissions. Their stories reflect both the strength of our tradition and the promise of what lies ahead.
You will also see throughout these pages that our mission is as vital as ever, evidenced in what our students are building together. This inaugural year of our House System has already become a defining expression of brotherhood; animated by student leadership, spirited competition, and a shared pride that has drawn our community closer together. Campus Ministry remains the heartbeat of all we do as a Lasallian Catholic school, grounding every endeavor in faith and guiding our students to encounter the needs of others with compassion and conviction. The National Honor Society has emerged as a true bastion of service on campus, modeling what it means to lead through action. Likewise, this year’s Giving Week was a historic success, far surpassing even our high expectations, and stands as a testament to the generosity and belief of our community. An example of how it is already bearing significant fruit can be found in our theater program, where Company is featured as a story of that impact.
As we look back, we also look ahead with intention. Continued investments in our campus and programs reflect our commitment to providing an environment where every student can grow and thrive. These efforts are not simply about what we build, but about who our students become. Lasallians form young men of faith, integrity, and scholarship “together and by association,” and even a few moments on Winton Drive make that unmistakably clear.
Sixty years have shaped this brotherhood; now, through the lives of our students, that legacy continues to unfold. I’d like to think St. John Baptist de La Salle would be pleased with our mission, which ripples throughout all that we have done and will do. May this issue of The Union invite you to read, reflect, and recommit to the mission that binds us together.
Warmly yours,
David J. Holquin
De La Salle
UNION MAGAZINE | SPRING 2026
In This Issue
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Steve Abreu ’83, BoardChair
Cathy Avila, AP ’18, ’20
Blas Guerrero, AP ’21
Joan MacDonald
Debbie Meeks AP ’20, ’22, ViceChair Br. Michael Meister, FSC
Margie Morris, AP ’14
Kristen Thall Peters, AP ’10, ’12
Larry Puck
Dave Simons
Greg Varni ’01
Chase Wheeler ’09
PRESIDENT’S CABINET
David J. Holquin President
Heather Alumbaugh, PhD VicePresidentforAcademicLife
Mark Chiarucci VicePresidentforAdvancement
Chris Garavaglia VicePresidentforFinance
Leo Lopoz ’94 VicePresidentforAthletics
Spencer Shively VicePresidentforMission
Content
Rich Davi, Mark Chiarucci, Katherine Fordon, David Holquin, Akosua Ombonga, Clayton Tanner, Ida Tolentino, Karla Wiese
Photos
De La Salle High School, Studio One Photography, Tod Fierner Photography
Design
Marsha Sanchez
Comments, questions, news?
Editors: Rich Davi and Katherine Fordon
Contact: DLSCommunications@dlshs.org
Produced by Office of Advancement, De La Salle High School 1130 Winton Drive, Concord, CA 94518 Tel: (925) 288-8100 Fax: (925) 686-3474 dlshs.org
About the Union Magazine
The De La Salle “Union” is a bond of unity for the extended De La Salle family — alumni, parents, alumni parents and the many friends who make up our school’s growing family. Read the Uniononline at dlshs.org/union.
The School Seal
The school seal is an important part of the identity of De La Salle High School. The symbols used to make up the seal have particular meanings that reflect the values and purpose of the school. In the center of the seal is the Chi Rho (Kye Row). This is the Greek abbreviation of the title “Christ.” The first two letters of the word Christos or “Christ” are “Chi” and “Rho,” represented in the Greek alphabet as a capital “X” and “P.” The fleur-de-lis, with “lis” meaning lily in French, reminds us of our French origins with Saint John Baptist de La Salle. The lamp is a symbol of knowledge, reminding us of our primary purpose as a school — education. The section of broken chain represents freedom — freedom from ignorance. The chain surrounding the seal signifies strength and unity. “Les Hommes de Foi” is French for “Men of Faith.”
Faith
Integrity
Scholarship
A L asting
Offering: Elliot Carlson ’26 and the Altar That Endures
There’s something revealing about what a school places at the center of its Mass. At De La Salle, that center has been renewed, not by an outside gift, but by the work of a student.
For the Class of 2026, Elliot Carlson’s legacy is an altar.
The idea took shape during the 2023–2024 school year in Andrew Berkes’ Lasallian Leadership class. After helping set up countless liturgies, Elliot saw that the existing “table altar,“ assembled before each Mass and growing increasingly unstable, no longer reflected the significance of what it was meant to hold.
“The altar at the time was pretty [bad],” Elliot said simply. “So I decided to make a new one.”
What followed was a summer of work, more than 100 hours, designing and building a permanent altar of red oak and acacia wood. By August 2024, it stood ready for the first all-school Mass.
More than beautiful, it is now a true altar. During its blessing, a relic from a 1929 altar stone discovered in campus storage was placed within. Though the saint remains unknown, the altar is now consecrated, grounding each Mass in tradition and reverence.
It is used for one purpose alone: the celebration of the Mass. And in that quiet, enduring way, it will serve generations of Spartans to come.
Read the full story about De La Salle’s new altar and all of our 60 for 60 stories at www.dlshs.org/60for60.
SIGNED IN STONE
Father LaSalle and Elliot sign the a relic from a 1929 altar stone discovered in campus storage.
PROUD MOMENT
Elliot and his parents celebrate the moment and his craftsmanship
&
Dan Murphy '09
Director
of Admissions
Dan Murphy brings a storyteller’s instinct to his work as Director of Admissions, shaped by his own experience as a De La Salle alumni (class of '09) and a deep appreciation for the journeys that shape each Spartan. Whether he’s encouraging students to take meaningful risks, celebrating the quiet moments that define the community, or exploring new places with curiosity, Dan approaches his role and his life with a genuine belief in connection, purpose, and the power of making people feel seen and heard.
What is one thing you like to do when you finally have a free block of time?
As a Bay Area native and current San Francisco resident, I love how day trips are right in our backyard. If a weekend allows for it, my wife and I will head out for a hike in the hills, a visit to a winery, a drive to the mountains, or catching a game or new museum exhibit. I love that you can fit so much into a single day and still feel like there’s more to explore.
What is the one thing you would change about the world?
Looking around the world, there is so much worry, instability, and unfairness, especially for the youngest and eldest members of our communities. If I could wave a magic wand, I would love to give people a renewed sense of hope and security, so they know the future is worth fighting for even when the present feels bleak. I wish everyone could feel that their life has dignity, purpose, and the support they need to thrive.
What is the biggest risk you have ever taken in your life?
While I now love getting up and talking to groups, large and small, that confidence did not always come naturally. Signing up for a public speaking class in college felt like a huge leap of faith, and I was honestly terrified. Looking back, I credit that risk with helping me grow into my voice, trust what I know, and learn how to meaningfully connect with an audience.
What is your biggest accomplishment?
As the oldest of four kids, I consider my biggest accomplishment being a good big brother and role model to my two younger sisters and younger brother. It has been incredibly impactful to watch them grow into their own paths while knowing I had a part in supporting them along the way. The fact that they followed in my footsteps and attended Carondelet and De La Salle still makes me smile, who knew back then that admissions would become such a central part of my life?
What are you obsessed with?
As my wife, family, and friends will tell you, I am absolutely obsessed with airplanes and college basketball. When we are out and a plane flies overhead, I’ll pull out my phone to see where it’s
Left to Right: Matty Sarubbi '09, Michael Murphy '15, Dan Murphy '09, TJ Kelly '09, Matt Schuster '09, and John Schneider '09
Celebrating 45 Years of Terry Eidson at De La Salle
Teacher Coach Mentor Friend
‘ ’
I see teaching as a vocation. I’ve been blessed to teach inspiring young men for so many years.
or more than four decades, few individuals have embodied the spirit and mission of De La Salle High School more completely than Terry Eidson. Teacher, coach, administrator, mentor, and friend: Eidson’s impact has been woven into nearly every corner of the Spartan community since he first stepped onto campus in the early 1980s. Now, after 45 years of service, the longtime educator is nearing retirement, leaving behind a legacy defined not simply by wins or titles, but by relationships and the lives he helped shape.
Eidson arrived at De La Salle in 1981, joining a young football program and a school still establishing its identity. Fresh out of UCLA and later earning his teaching credential and master’s degree in theology from Saint Mary's College of California, he came to Concord with a sense of purpose. Teaching Religious Studies quickly became his professional home, but it would prove to be only one of many roles he would play in the life of the school.
Over the years, Eidson served as Assistant Dean of Students, Director of Student Activities, head of the Religious Studies Department, and Athletic Director. He also became a familiar presence in campus ministry and countless student programs. Each role reflected the same philosophy: education was not simply about academics or athletics, it was about forming young men of character.
“I see teaching as a vocation,” Eidson once said of his work. “I’ve been blessed to teach inspiring young men for so many years.”
Terry’s fingerprints were on everything we did, from defensive schemes to the culture we built.”
— Bob Ladouceur
Yet if the classroom shaped Eidson’s daily work, athletics became the stage where his energy and personality were most visible. Few assistant coaches in high school football history have been as influential as Eidson during his tenure alongside legendary head coach Bob Ladouceur.
The partnership between the two became one of the defining dynamics of the De La Salle dynasty. Ladouceur’s calm, measured leadership paired perfectly with Eidson’s emotional intensity and booming sideline presence.
“For 30-plus years, Terry was my right-hand man,” Ladouceur said. “People often saw me as the face of the program, but Terry’s fingerprints were on everything we did, from defensive schemes to the culture we built.”
Together, the two helped construct what became the most dominant high school football program in the nation. During Ladouceur’s 34-year tenure, the Spartans compiled a 399–25–3 record and produced the historic 151-game winning streak that remains the longest in high school football history.
For 31 of those seasons, Eidson served on the varsity staff, including many years as defensive coordinator and special teams coach.
“Terry had this incredible ability to connect with kids,” Ladouceur said. “He brought energy, humor, and passion to everything he did. Where I was quiet and reserved, Terry was loud and emotional, and that balance worked for us.”
But Eidson’s influence extended well beyond football. Over the years, he coached baseball and golf as well, eventually becoming the school’s head golf coach. His leadership as athletic director during the 1990s and early 2000s helped guide the school into a new era of national competition and exposure.
His contributions earned numerous honors, including Aflac National Assistant Coach of the Year in 2002 and North Coast Section Athletic Director of the Year in 2003. He was also named SFNO District Distinguished Lasallian Educator of the Year in 2022, one of the highest recognitions in the De La Salle educational network.
In 2023, Eidson and Ladouceur were inducted together into the De La Salle Athletic Hall of Fame, an appropriate moment for two men whose careers were so closely intertwined.
After 45 years of service, the longtime educator is nearing retirement, leaving behind a legacy defined not simply by wins or titles, but by relationships and the lives he helped shape.
FOLLOW THE LEADER
Yet perhaps the most telling reflection of Eidson’s legacy comes from those who followed him in the program.
Current De La Salle head coach Justin Alumbaugh ’98 played for the Spartans during the height of the winning streak and later coached alongside Eidson before taking over the program.
“Coach Eidson is one of the pillars of this place,” Alumbaugh said. “He taught us what it means to care deeply about the kids you coach. The culture people talk about at De La Salle, that culture exists because of men like Terry.”
Former Spartan standout and the school’s current Bishop Cummins Scholar Program Coordinator, Garth Adlao ’93, remembers Eidson’s unique mix of intensity and compassion.
“He could be fiery and demanding on the field,” Adlao said. “But the reason it worked is because every player knew he loved them. He wanted the best for us not just as athletes, but as men.”
For Patrick Walsh ‘93, head varsity football coach at nearby Serra High School, and a former De La Salle assistant football coach, Eidson represents a generation of coaches who built something larger than a football program.
“Terry helped create a model for what high school coaching should look like,” Walsh said. “It was about faith, accountability, and building relationships that last long after graduation.”
Those relationships have always mattered most to Eidson. Throughout his career, he has remained closely involved in student life beyond athletics, including two decades helping lead the school’s annual toy drive and mentoring students in the Bishop Cummins Scholar Program, which supports first-generation college-bound students.
Even after stepping away from full-time coaching duties in 2019, Eidson couldn’t stay far from the field. He continued assisting the program and eventually returned to the sideline to help with special teams and safeties under Alumbaugh.
It was simply part of who he is.
“Terry loves coaching,” Ladouceur said. “It’s his passion. But more than that, he loves being around young people and helping them grow.”
After more than four decades at De La Salle, Eidson’s legacy cannot be measured only by championships, awards, or even the famous winning streak. His true impact lives in generations of students who learned from his example.
The voice that once echoed across Spartan practices, the teacher who challenged students to think deeply about faith and character, the mentor who believed in young men before they believed in themselves: that is the legacy Terry Eidson leaves behind.
And in the halls, classrooms, and fields of De La Salle High School, it will continue to resonate for years to come.
“Personally, I think it touches the heart of every single kid that’s in the program, because those community service ideas, many of them came from them.” —Jon Norfolk
At The Heart Of the Matter!
On any given week at De La Salle, much of what sustains the school’s academic and service culture happens quietly, often without recognition, and almost always without pause. At the center of that quiet momentum is the National Honor Society (NHS), a program that has grown in both size and significance, shaping not only the students within it, but the broader school community and far beyond.
“Today, the National Honor Society is the backbone behind the scenes,” says moderator Jon Norfolk. “Behind the scenes, they are leaders and ambassadors of the school. It’s turned into that. And wherever somebody turns, they’re always going to come to the National Honor Society for help or whatever they need.”
That help begins in the Learning Center, where NHS students serve as the primary academic tutoring support system on campus.
According to Norfolk, NHS tutors make up roughly 80 percent of the tutoring resources available to students throughout the year, a steady, daily presence that reinforces De La Salle’s commitment to brotherhood and academic excellence.
“That is a huge resource that we need on a daily, a weekly, monthly, yearly basis,” explains Norfolk.
But the impact of NHS extends well beyond academics. If the Learning Center is where students support one another inside the classroom, then community service is where NHS defines itself outside of it.
Over the past several years, the program has expanded rapidly, growing from around 80 members to 125, with projections reaching 175 next year. With that growth has come a remarkable increase in service initiatives, many of them conceived and led by students themselves.
“It is very much student driven,” Norfolk says. “Personally, I think it touches the heart of every single kid that’s in the program, because those community service ideas, many of them came from them.”
Those ideas have translated into tangible, wide-reaching impact across the local community. NHS students volunteer with organizations like Challenger Baseball, where they spend Sundays supporting youth with disabilities, building relationships that extend far beyond the field. They organize large-scale donation drives through partnerships like Thrive to Drive, collecting clothing and essential items for families in need. They collaborate with food banks, assist with school-wide events, and lead fundraising efforts that directly benefit charitable causes.
One recent example stands out: a student-led Make-A-Wish Foundation poker fundraiser that far exceeded expectations.
“Our National Honor Society president was able to raise and exceed his goal by actually 2,000 percent,” Norfolk recalls. “He only thought he was going to get a grand, but he got three grand!”
Moments like these reflect what Norfolk sees as the most meaningful aspect of NHS. “Those are the things that are most memorable to me,” he says, “where all three categories of leadership, ambassador, and fundraising are happening at the same time.”
Even as the program grows, NHS remains grounded in a high standard of scholarship. Students must maintain a rigorous 3.65 unweighted GPA to be eligible, no small feat in a curriculum filled with honors and AP courses. Yet Norfolk believes what makes De La Salle’s chapter distinct is not just academic excellence, but the freedom students have to shape their own experience.
“What’s so unique to De La Salle’s National Honor Society is you get to create your own events,” he says. “It just has to embody character, scholarship, leadership, and service.”
That same spirit of innovation is evident in the way NHS supports students academically. This year, the Learning Center introduced new tools like a student-designed “live tutoring board,” making it easier than ever for students to seek help. The goal is not just efficiency, but accessibility, removing the hesitation that can sometimes surround asking for support.
“Sometimes kids come in here embarrassed,” Norfolk notes. “I think the system just creates more opportunity to say, ‘I need help and I’m not afraid to ask for it.’”
In the long view, that lesson may matter most.
“I don’t think they’re going to remember the grades they got on a test,” he says. “But I do think they’ll remember the Learning Center as a place where they could ask for help. And I think that’ll go a long way in life.”
Looking ahead, the challenge is not maintaining momentum, but channeling it. With more students joining each year, the need for expanded service opportunities continues to grow.
“We need to add as many community service events as possible for 175 students,” Norfolk says. “It’s not just a résumé builder, that’s what’s going to make it really great. It’s something to spark passion and service for these young men.”
For Norfolk, the mission is simple: make visible what is already happening.
“Let’s just continue to educate the community about what NHS is doing in a calendar year, because it’s a lot.”
And it is. Not always seen, not always celebrated, but deeply felt in classrooms, in communities, and in the lives of the students who carry that work forward.
These Upgrades are a Hit!
INVESTING IN EXCELLENCE
Campus improvements continue to take shape as we invest in spaces that better serve our students, studentathletes, and the broader community. What began as a vision for the Community Plaza & Athletic Complex is quickly becoming a reality. Following the completion of the all-turf baseball and practice field last February, recent additions include new batting cages, a “throw wall,” an access road with parking, and a new scoreboard. Each of the philanthropically funded elements enhance both the student-athlete experience and overall campus functionality.
On February 26, we marked the completion of the next phase of the Athletic Complex, further expanding training and access around the baseball field. These upgrades reflect a continued commitment to thoughtful campus development and high-quality facilities that support growth, competition, and community for years to come.
“The new De La Salle batting cages are a huge boost for our baseball program. They benefit every level by giving our players a dedicated place to get their swings in regardless of the weather.” – Bubba Vargas ‘26
Bringing Down House
Competition, Camaraderie, and Community in Full Swing
The De La Salle House System has brought energy, connection, and a healthy dose of competition to campus throughout the school year. Whether gathered in mentor groups or as a full school community, students have embraced opportunities to come together in both spirited fun and meaningful reflection, including school liturgies.
This semester has been filled with memorable moments; Pictionary showdowns, rounds of Imposter, the alwayscompetitive Winton Games, a fast-paced Jeopardy Challenge, and a Don’t Break the Ice full-school House competition. A recent rally added even more excitement, featuring creative games like “Cupid Says,” led by a spirited cupid, and “Musical Hearts,” a seasonal take on the classic musical chairs game.
Beyond the games, the House System continues to strengthen brotherhood and school pride, with each activity contributing to the race for House points. The balance of camaraderie, competition, and shared experience is what makes the House System such a vital part of student life at De La Salle.
House System Energy!!!!
A Christmas Tradition THE GOAL
Unite musicians from both schools and draw a wider audience.
Each December, the Hofmann Center fills with the joyful sounds of Christmas, brought to life by the combined talents of the De La Salle and Carondelet band and choir. What began in 2008 as a simple collaboration has grown into one of the community’s most cherished traditions.
Band Director Larry Colon recalls the original idea: to unite musicians from both schools and create something that would draw a wider audience. The result was more than a concert, it became a celebration. From the beginning, the Hofmann Center has served as its home, offering a warm and familiar setting for this annual gathering.
Over time, the performance has developed its own beloved traditions. The choir’s spirited “12 Days of Christmas” and the band’s classic “Sleigh Ride” remain annual highlights, tying past and present together in a shared musical experience.
Beyond the music, the concert stands out as a rare and meaningful collaboration between the two schools. The Hofmann Center is nearly always filled to capacity, and the inclusion of local middle school students adds another layer of community connection.
For students, families, and alumni alike, the concert represents more than a performance: it is a celebration of unity, tradition, and the enduring power of music to bring people together.
Scan the QR code to read the full Christmas Concert story and all of our 60 for 60 stories.
in Harmony
On Stage! Company
Shines in a Standout Year of Theater!
De La Salle and Carondelet Company have delivered an exceptional season of theater, showcasing both talent and ambition. From the imaginative Black Box production of Frozen Jr. to the gripping intensity of The Crucible, each performance has impressed. Seniors took center stage in the whirlwind 24Hour Play, creating an entire production in just one day, while Melancholy Play highlighted the program’s artistic range. The momentum continued with Little Shop of Horrors performed this past April, ending another remarkable year for Company.
Frozen Jr.
Melancholy Play
What a way to end the year! $1,411,856 raised for Annual Fund, so far
The generosity shown during De La Salle’s record setting 2025 Giving Week continues to make a meaningful impact on the 2025–2026 school year. Thanks to the dedication of the De La Salle community, donors helped raise a total of $1,411,856 for the Annual Fund by the end of December 2025.
One of the most immediate impacts of Giving Week (raising over $665k) support is the continued investment in De La Salle’s faculty and staff. Exceptional educators are the heart of the De La Salle experience, and Annual Fund contributions allow the school to strengthen a culture of growth and excellence among teachers. Before the start of the school year, faculty members gathered for two days of professional development focused on refining teaching practices, exploring innovative grading methods, and deepening their commitment to diversity, inclusion, and belonging.
The Annual Fund also supports the school’s commitment to maintaining standards in Lasallian Catholic education. During the 2025–2026 school year, De La Salle began its Western Catholic Educational Association (WCEA) accreditation process. This rigorous evaluation reflects the school’s dedication to preparing young men of faith, integrity, and scholarship while continuously improving its academic and spiritual programs.
Student life is another area where the impact of support can be clearly seen. Programs such as Kairos retreats continue to provide transformative experiences for students. Recently, Kairos 159 and 160 returned from retreat, where students reflected deeply on faith, friendship, and personal growth. One participant described the experience by saying, “I have made brothers for life.” These powerful moments are made possible through donor support and extend beyond retreats into the school’s house system, athletics, performing arts, and numerous student activities.
Finally, the Annual Fund plays a critical role in expanding access to a De La Salle education. Tuition alone does not cover the full cost of educating each student, leaving a gap of more than $3,462 per student. Annual Fund contributions help close this gap while also supporting financial aid for one in three students.
The impact of 2025 Giving Week and the Annual Fund is clear: through generosity, the De La Salle community continues to empower educators, enrich student experiences, and expand opportunities for young men throughout the 2025–26 school year.
MinistryMusic Munchies &
MMM Wednesdays have become a defining rhythm on De La Salle’s campus: an inviting blend of prayer, music, and community that gives students a meaningful way to begin their day. What started in the 2019–2020 school year as “MMM Thursdays,” inspired by former Campus Minister Mary Hassett, has grown into a beloved tradition rooted in connection and creativity.
Held once a month on late-start Wednesday mornings, MMM stands for Ministry, Music, and Munchies and offers students an optional space to gather, reflect, and recharge. Live music draws students in, whether it’s upbeat guitar-driven performances or more traditional, prayerful songs. And intentional, themed prayer connects to moments throughout the year, from Veterans Day to Lent. As Campus Minister Andrew Berkes explains, “community doesn’t just happen. You have to be intentional about it,” a philosophy that sits at the heart of MMM.
Visual elements in the Inner Court, like largescale rosaries and seasonal displays, transform an everyday space into something reflective and engaging. Beyond the atmosphere, the impact is deeply personal. Students who participate, especially those who lead the prayer service, grow in confidence, voice, and spirituality, while the space itself continues to expand in inclusivity and student involvement.
At its best, MMM Wednesdays are both meaningful and fun: a moment of stillness, music, and community that continues to shape the spiritual life of De La Salle in authentic and lasting ways.
Mentors
What do you want to be?
Alumni Senior Career Day was held on February 20 in the Hofmann Student Center, welcoming more than 40 alumni back to campus to share their experiences after DLS and the career paths that led them to where they are today.
The event began with a keynote address from Brian Leffler ’97, co-founder of Kinder’s BBQ and CEO of Navigate CPG. Seniors then participated in two breakout sessions, hearing from alumni across a wide range of industries and professions.
The day was a win-win for everyone involved: seniors gained valuable insight and advice, while alumni enjoyed the opportunity to return and support the next generation of Spartans. As Keyon Johnson ’94 shared, “I enjoy providing real information for students to prepare themselves for the future. Also it is something that I wish I could have had when I was in their shoes.”
Anthony McLennan ’01 echoed that sentiment, saying, “I always was impressed by mentors and instructors who had a lot of experience. I was happy to share, and it was also very important to me to be able to finally reconnect with my hometown community, specifically the DLS community.”
The common feedback from the senior class was that they wished they had more time and could have stayed longer to listen and learn from the alumni, a true testament to the value of this event. Senior Graham Schlicht summarized it this way “Career Day was super insightful and it was awesome to see how the alumni want to give back to the community and see younger generations succeed in fields they are interested in!”
Thank you to all of our alumni who generously gave their time and shared their wisdom.
“I enjoy providing real information for students to prepare themselves for the future.”
— Keyon Johnson ’94
Spartans Action in
FLAG FOOTBALL
De La Salle’s Alumni Affinity events continue to bring Spartans back to campus to reconnect with former teammates, support current players, and celebrate the traditions that define the Spartan brotherhood.
The annual Alumni Soccer Game on November 26, 2025, kicked off the season, featuring matches between Frosh, JV, and Varsity vs. Alumni, with the alumni pulling out a hard-fought win. On December 20, alumni returned for the Rugby Alumni Game, a spirited touch match followed by a gathering at Rocco’s to continue the celebration.
Basketball Alumni Night on December 22 began with the current Spartans defeating River Islands High School before alumni took the court in a competitive matchup of their own. Afterward, players, families, and alumni gathered in the LAPC for a shared meal and time to reflect on the legacy of Spartan hoops.
Wrestling Alumni Night on December 27 brought alumni back to the Hofmann Center to reconnect over food and drinks before cheering on the current Spartans as they took on Ponderosa High School. Adding a fun new tradition was the Alumni Family Flag Football Game, which quickly turned into a full family showdown when alumni kids joined in, creating a night full of laughs, great plays, and Spartan spirit. The event was such a hit that another family game is already being planned.
These events continue to strengthen the bond between past and present Spartans while celebrating the pride, tradition, and community that make De La Salle special.
RUGBY
Reunited!
Class Reunions — 2025 Recap
De La Salle recently celebrated two special milestone reunions, bringing Spartans from different generations back together to reconnect and celebrate their shared history.
The Class of 2020 gathered at Masses Sports Bar & Grill for their 5-Year Reunion, enjoying a fun evening of reconnecting, sharing life updates, and reminiscing about their time on Winton Drive. With great food, drinks, and plenty of laughter, the night was a reminder of the strong bonds formed during their years at De La Salle.
Meanwhile, the Class of 1970 celebrated their 55th Reunion, marking a meaningful milestone for the school’s second graduating class. After their 50th reunion was postponed due to COVID, classmates were excited to finally come together and celebrate, reconnecting with one another and even welcoming former teachers Mr. Sabbagha and Mr. Staszkow to the festivities. The
Future Plans
After exploring different ideas over the past few years and giving thoughtful consideration to what best serves our alumni community, we have finalized a new reunion structure in collaboration with Carondelet. Going forward, De La Salle will officially host the 5, 10, 25, and 50-year class reunions.
The 5-Year Reunion will continue to be held on the Wednesday night before Thanksgiving at a local bar or restaurant. The 10 and 25 year reunions will be held on September 19 at two separate locations while the 50 year reunion will be held on October 17 in the Innovation Center at Carondelet.
If you are part of one of these reunion classes in 2026 and would like to help coordinate or energize your class around the celebration, please reach out to Director of Alumni and Family Engagement Clayton Tanner directly at tannerc@dlshs.org as we would love your involvement. Please note that if your class year does not fall into one of these reunion cycles, De La Salle is still happy to support your efforts by providing class lists and promoting your gathering
Eat, Pray, Fun.
Spartan Night at the Colombo Club
On February 19, 125 alumni, former parents, and current parents gathered for the annual Spartan Night at the Colombo Club in Oakland, making it a record-breaking year for attendance. The evening began with a lively cocktail hour as guests reconnected and built new friendships.
The program opened with a prayer from President David Holquin, followed by an Alumni Association update from Director of Alumni and Family Engagement Clayton Tanner ’06. Guests then enjoyed a family-style dinner featuring ravioli and chicken cacciatore before the night wrapped up with a fun raffle filled with DLS swag and special giveaways.
As Pat Oswald ’83 shared, “The Spartan Night at the Colombo Club is one of my family's favorite events. It's a chance to get together with Spartan Alumni, enjoy some great ravioli, and embrace the legacy that has been created over the last 60 years of the school.”
Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the evening so memorable. We look forward to continuing to grow this special tradition in the years ahead.
Spartan Sports
The fall and winter athletic seasons solidified the Spartans' reputation as a premier power in Northern California, marked by recordbreaking streaks and elite individual performances across the sports of cross country, football, water polo, basketball, soccer, and wrestling.
2025 FALL SPORTS REVIEW
Football once again led the way, finishing 12-1 and advancing to the CIF Open Division Championship. The Spartans captured their 33rd consecutive North Coast Section title with a 24-17 win over Pittsburg and were ranked 22nd nationally. The team navigated one of California’s toughest schedules with victories over Lakeland (FL), Serra, St. Francis, Grant Union, St. Mary’s-Stockton, and Cathedral Catholic. Jaden Jefferson and Bubba Vargas were named EBAL and Cal-Hi Sports Offensive and Defensive Players of the Year. First Team All-EBAL honorees included Wyatt Ferguson, Myah Telona, Brayden Knight, and Landon Cook, while Jayden Nicholas, TJ Finau, Peli Pasa, Brady Smith, Dylan Scott, and Ben Glover earned second team honors.
Water polo continued its tradition of excellence, finishing 21-7 overall and 9-0 in league play to win a fifth straight EBAL title and the program’s 20th league championship overall. The Spartans reached the NCS Open Division and NorCal playoffs for the fifth consecutive year and advanced to the Northern California Final Four for the second straight season. Senior Sloan Brown was named EBAL Offensive Player of the Year, while senior goalkeeper Will Corr earned Defensive Player of the Year honors. First Team All-EBAL selections included seniors Hayden Tully, Tanner Lustig, and Tyce di Pretoro, while junior Gabe Skov earned second team all-league honors.
Cross country delivered one of its strongest seasons in recent memory. Senior Heath Salter won the NCS Division 2 individual title in 15:16.2, while the Spartans placed fourth as a team at NCS and advanced to the CIF State Championships, finishing 13th in Division 2. The team also captured titles at the Dougherty Valley Wildcat Invitational and UCSB Gaucho Invitational. Salter earned First Team All-EBAL honors, while senior Ryan Cabreira was named second team all-league.
WINTER
SPORTS BROUGHT MORE SUCCESS
Soccer finished 16-6-1 overall, and 8-1 in EBAL play to claim first place in the league. The Spartans advanced deep into the postseason, including a victory over Vintage in the NCS Open Division third-place match and a NorCal playoff win over Leigh. Ryan Roy was named EBAL Defensive Player of the Year, while senior Preston Spalasso, juniors Flynn Salyapongse and Ellis Toal, and sophomore Garrett Paik were first-team all-league selections. Senior Bryce Vincent and junior Joey Ospeck were second-team honorees.
For updates on the sports season and post-season schedules, visit the De La Salle Athletics website at www.DLSSpartans.org.
Basketball compiled a 24-8 record and finished first in EBAL at 7-2. After a runner-up finish in the EBAL Tournament, the Spartans earned third place in the NCS Open Division with a win over Dougherty Valley before advancing to the CIF State NorCal Open Division playoffs. Ibrahim Monawar and Davit Pachulia earned First Team All-EBAL honors, and junior Olanre Owoborode was a second-team all-league selection.
Wrestling capped the winter with an eighth-place finish at the NCS Championships. Heavyweight Wyatt Ferguson won the NCS title at 285 pounds and advanced to the CIF State Championships. Cameron Shirazi and Domenic Novosel also contributed
In Memoriam
Jim Collins - De La Salle Golf Coach (1958 - 2026)
Earlier this year, De La Salle was saddened by the passing of Head Varsity Golf Coach Jim Collins, who died in January 2026. Since 2022, Coach Collins led the program with quiet strength, a warm spirit, and a deep love for the game. More than a coach, he was a mentor and steady presence, devoted to developing the mental and physical abilities of his players while shaping them into young men of character. We keep Coach Collins’ family and our golf community in our prayers as we grieve his loss. His legacy endures in the countless lives he influenced, the relationships he built, and the success of a program that captured two state, three NorCal, four North Coast Section, and four East Bay Athletic League championships during his tenure. Above all, Coach Collins will be remembered for his devotion to those he loved most, his sons, Ryan and Matt, and his cherished grandchildren.
Beverly Morgan (1940 - 2026)
Beverly Morgan, a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away on Friday, February 13, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her family. Bev was a long-time employee of De La Salle High School, beginning work here in 1976 as the Cafeteria Manager and then transitioning to Business Office Manager, where she worked with employees and families until June 2006. She made many lifetime friends while employed at De La Salle. She had a deep love for the school and was a true Spartan. She loved to dance, RV, and being with her family and friends. She is survived by her husband of 66 years, Jay Morgan, daughter, Kathy Resch, son, Tim Morgan, five grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, and two great, great grandchildren. She will be missed.
Dr. John Kane Wilhelmy (1937 – 2025)
Dr. John Kane Wilhelmy lived a life defined by service, generosity, and a deep commitment to community, values he embodied at De La Salle High School. An accomplished orthopedic surgeon, he practiced for more than 35 years in Walnut Creek and was a founding member of Muir Orthopedic Specialists. Known for his warmth and integrity, he cared for generations of patients and earned the respect of colleagues. At De La Salle, “Doc” served as team doctor for the football program for more than 20 years. A trusted and steady presence, he supported student-athletes both on and off the field, offering care, encouragement, and guidance while modeling compassion and humility. John passed away peacefully in December 2025 after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. He is survived by his wife, Mary Louise; his sons Christopher '03, Sean '04, and Patrick '07; their families; and four grandchildren. His legacy endures in the lives he touched and inspired.
We also remember...
Tancred Agius, father of faculty member Alex Stevenson and grandfather of Carter Stevenson '20 and Max Tarasow '25
Barbara Bloch, grandmother of Cole C. Perry '14
Ann Borg, mother of Edward Borg '77
Jim Collins, De La Salle golf coach
James Dickson, father-in-law of faculty member Lillian Dickson, father of Thomas Dickson '87 and Timothy Dickson '94 and grandfather of Kyle Dickson '19 and Kevin Dickson '20
Lou Dunn, friend of De La Salle
William E. Emmerling, Sr., father of William Emmerling, Jr. '81, Mark Emmerling '84, and Robert Emmerling '89
Mary Erbez, mother of David Erbez '85
Jacqueline Galvin, friend of De La Salle
Al Giannell, grandfather of Isaac Good '11
David Graff, father of Peter F. Graff '86 (deceased)
Joseph Haley ’83, father of Michael Haley ‘27 and brother of Daniel Haley ‘69, Matthew Haley ‘71, Brother Lawrence Haley ‘72, Neil Haley ‘74, James Haley ‘78 and Timothy Haley ‘84
Andrea Hop, grandmother of Daniel Peterson '18 and Matthew Peterson '18
John Malan, father of James Malan '80 (deceased)
Michael McKay, Sr., De La Salle Whitecoat, father of Michael McKay, Jr. '94 and Jennifer (McKay) Weber CHS '95
Dennis Moody, father of De La Salle College Counselor
Lisa Sciacca
Beverly Morgan, former De La Salle staff member and mother of staff member Kathy Resch
Theresa Navarro, grandmother of Westley Hart '15 and Jesse Hart '14
Jesse Neumann ‘00
James Nitsos, father of Kevin Nitsos '76
Daniel Nunes '85
Lois Owens, mother of Owen Owens '74, Sean Owens '77 (deceased), Patrick Owens ' 78 (deceased), Terrence Owens '80 (deceased), Kevin Owens '82, and Shannon Owens '74
Jo Ann Pelster, mother of John Pelster ‘87, Thomas Pelster ‘88, and grandmother of James Pelster ‘15
Patricia Roberts, grandmother of Riley Hilt ‘19
Margery Alice Salt, mother of staff member Alison McNell and grandmother of Richard McNell ’03, Samuel McNell '08, John McNell '09 and Bradley McNell '12
Cindy Walsh, wife of Justin Walsh '91
Kirk Watson, father of Chad Watson '01
John (Doc) Wilhelmy, father of Christopher Wilhelmy '03, Sean Wilhelmy '04, and Patrick Wilhelmy '07
Robert Winbigler, father of Kurt Winbigler '05
De La Salle
Saturday, May 2 Auction - Diamond Jubilee
Monday, May 4
New Student Welcome Night
Friday, May 15
Baccalaureate Mass & Reception
Sunday, May 17
Graduation, Class of 2026
Monday, June 22 Brother Maris Golf Tournament Crow Canyon Golf Club
Friday, August 14 First Day of Classes for 2026-27
Thursday, September 3 Back-to-School Night
Friday, September 25 Hall of Fame Induction
Friday, October 23 Homecoming Football Game
Sunday, November 1 Open House