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EBEL Volume 16:1
EVIEW
WALKATHON -- PG 2
November 4, 2016
MR. FRANK LITZ
HISTORIC SEASON Roncalli High School
Football team records undefeated year while setting many milestones in the process BY JOE SCHROEDER Editor-in-Chief
T
he 2016 season has been a year of accomplishments for the Roncalli football team. On Friday, October 21st, the Rebels beat Northview to win their 14th straight opening sectional game as well as notching the 200th home win of the program’s storied history. Last Friday, the Rebels edged out the Lebanon Tigers with a last second field goal from senior Patrick Sandler to put them up 34-33. The two wins, pushing their record to 11-0 on the season, were a continuation of the team’s recent success. Just two weeks before, a tight win over Guerin secured the inaugural Circle City Conference Championship for the Rebels. “When I saw that trophy, it felt like we were finally rewarded and our hard work paid off,” said senior quarterback Derek O’Connor. In addition to quarterbacking the team to such a successful season, O’Connor hit individual milestones as well. The senior set school records for both completion percentages in a game and season, while only throwing one interception the entire year. The 9-0 record is the fifth in the history of the school, and the first since 1999. “We worked hard all year to reach our goal of going undefeated,” said junior Dylan Williams.
There are many aspects of the team that contributed to the perfect year, including a strong offensive line, consistent defense, and a mix of different grade levels. “We have a good blend of sophomores, juniors and seniors. Each of us wants to contribute,” said O’Connor. The team’s camaraderie and preparation are also key to their consistency. “We have great chemistry and we all get along. Everyone is unselfish,” said senior running back Kenny Gillum. The sense of community and brotherhood among the whole team is what pushes them to excel. “We are a bunch of brothers and we have each others’ backs,” said Williams. In order to prepare for the season, the team has a year round training program including weight lifting, conditioning, and two-a-day practices. Furthermore, a lot of preparation goes into gameday in order for players to get in the right mindset. “Before a game I eat a good meal from Subway, drink some pickle juice to prevent cramping, and listen to some gangster rap while visualizing myself in the game,” said senior Josh Swan.
BREAKING RECORDS: Senior quarterback Derek O’Connor awaits the snap during the Sectional game against Northview. O’Connor set multiple passing records this year while leading the Rebels to a conference championship. PHOTO BY JULIE ALBERTSON
PHOTOS BY JOHN SMITH
CLUTCH KICKING: Senior kicker Patrick Sandler boots a 23-yard field goal as time expires against Lebanon. Sandler went 4-4 on PAT’s and 2-2 on field goals during the game, including this game winning attempt.
WRAP ‘EM UP: Alex Kuntz, a senior defensive back, wraps up Lebanon’s Jhalil Rollins (#1). Kuntz had four tackles in the game, helping the Rebel defense to hold Lebanon’s offense to only 16 points.
EXTRA YARDAGE: Senior running back Kenny Gillum stiff arms a Tiger defender while avoiding a tackle. Gillum ran for 121 yards in the game against Lebanon and led the team with a total of four touchdowns (2 rushing and two receiving).
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News: Page 2
Features: Page 3
Opinion: Page 6
With the fall muscial “Annie” right around the corner, the cast and crew are busy at work to create the best production possible.
Students tasked with juggling a part-time job and school can be under a lot of pressure. Some Rebels work unique and unusual jobs while also balancing school.
Discover the storied history of Roncalli through this recurring column. This month’s edition, learn about the school throughout the 1960’s.
Sports: Page 8
As the fall sports season is winding down, teams are remembered for their efforts and successes in the season.