Holy Family Football Falls Short in Class 3A Semifinals, 21-14

URGENT UPDATE: Holy Family football’s remarkable journey has come to a heartbreaking end as they lost to No. 1 Windsor, 21-14, in the Class 3A state semifinals on November 4, 2023. Coach Mike Gabriel praised his players for their relentless spirit, stating, “Our kids are just warriors, man. They played with such courage,” highlighting the emotional intensity of the match.

The fifth-seeded Tigers battled valiantly against the top-seeded Wizards, showing resilience and determination on their opponent’s home turf. Despite their efforts, the game concluded just one step shy of their second title appearance in three years, leaving fans and players devastated but proud.

The first half saw both teams showcasing their defensive prowess. Holy Family set the tone by stopping Windsor on a crucial fourth-and-4 early in the first quarter. However, it was Windsor’s Adrian Czyszczon who drew first blood with a 5-yard touchdown run, putting the Wizards ahead 7-0 with 4:31 remaining in the half. Holy Family quickly responded; following a muffed punt recovery by Roman Ochs, quarterback Kaden Hopkin connected with Ochs for a game-tying touchdown just before halftime, finishing the first half at 7-7.

As the second half unfolded, Holy Family surged ahead with a spectacular 31-yard touchdown pass from Hopkin to Nick Leopardi, giving them a 14-7 lead. However, Windsor retaliated with two touchdowns from Mason Moore and Czyszczon, reclaiming the lead and sealing the game. Holy Family’s last offensive effort fell short on a fourth-and-9 at midfield, ending their season with an impressive 11-2 record.

Gabriel reflected on the team’s journey, emphasizing the hard work and dedication of his 15 seniors. “They just proved me wrong and proved a bunch of people wrong. They should walk around with their heads high,” he said, encapsulating the pride felt by the team despite the loss.

As Windsor prepares to face No. 2 Pomona in the title game, the emotional impact of this semifinal defeat resonates deeply within the Holy Family community. The players and fans are united in their belief that the team’s effort and camaraderie transcended mere talent, making this season unforgettable.

The Tigers’ valiant performance in the Class 3A semifinals not only showcased their skill but also highlighted the spirit of teamwork and determination that defines Holy Family athletics. As the dust settles, the lessons learned and bonds forged this season will undoubtedly carry forward into future competitions.