Xavier facing off in Bayonne, N.J. Opposite page: Charles Giraud ’12 breaks into St. John the Baptist’s secondary; Above left: The Knights went undefeated in league games and won the Division Championship for the first time ever; Below left: Defense was the unsung hero of 2011 allowing an average of only 14 points per game. Photos by Megan Stevens.
2011 Xavier Football Stats and Fast Facts Record: CHSFL AA-A (7–0)* Overall (8–3) 2011 CHSFL AA-A • Regular Season Champions* • Howie Smith Trophy Winners Point Differential: +157 2 Shutout Wins *First season in Xavier history having both the Division Championship and a 7–0 record.
gave a superstar’s performance, he remained impressively humble. “It was still Brent’s team,” he said. “After he got hurt, he was still a leader from the sidelines. He helped me. He helped everyone.”
the school. “I always knew that he had an immense physical impact on our players, but I never realized the emotional connection that they had,” said Coach Stevens. In lieu of flowers, the family requested that
howevser, saw the 2011 season from a different perspective. “The season was definitely a success,” he said. “It was a young team and a lot of us had to step up. Everyone played their roles and for that, I’m proud.”
“With a record of 39–15 over the last five winning seasons...this has become the winningest era in Xavier history.” The most devastating event of the season was one that affected the entire Xavier community. On September 29, JV assistant and strength and conditioning coach Bill Costa passed away. Costa joined the Xavier family in 1998 when his son, current freshman coach James Costa ’02, became a student at
friends make donations to Xavier High School in order to buy new equipment for the school’s weight room. “Nearly $12,000 has been raised. I think that’s a testament to who he was.” According to the New York press, Solomon was the “King” of Xavier’s victorious year. He,
Coach Stevens’ pre-game practice speeches where he would bellow, “We’ve got something to play for!” possessed more meaning than anyone outside the huddle could ever understand. “I’m really proud of these kids,” said Coach Stevens. “For having this much success during this season, I am incredibly proud.” Xavier Magazine
21.