SENIOR TIGHT END CONNOR BEADLES powers through a tackle after intercepting a pass during the Cubs’ 26-24 loss to Notre Dame on Nov. 4. The game was varsity’s last of the season.
Following a bye week, the Cubs concluded their season with a 3-7 record and a 2-4 Mission League record after losing the last two games by a combined three points.
On Friday, Oct. 28, the Cubs played the Bishop Alemany Warriors, a team whose 2-2 Mission League record was tied with the Cubs at the time. After a battle to the last possession, the Warriors came away with a narrow 17-16 victory over the Cubs for their third road win of the season.
Senior quarterback Sean O’Malley finished with 144 all-purpose yards with two touchdowns, one on the ground and one through the air.
On the defensive side of the ball, junior linebacker Tommy Vanis finished with 10 tackles, one of which was a sack on Alemany senior quarterback Myles Bryant.
On Friday, Nov. 4, the seniors were honored with the annual “Senior Night,” the last home game of the season against the Notre Dame Golden Knights of Sherman Oaks. After trailing 20-10 at halftime, the Cubs rallied back with a 14-0 fourth quarter, but fell short on a missed two-point conversion, finishing the game with a 26-24 loss to Notre Dame.
(I’m adding the stats when they get posted)
Throughout the season, the coaches have watched the players grow and mature together. Head coach Marvin Sanders believes the team this year was special to him. He said, “Every team is different, but this team is special. I’ve seen these seniors for the four years that I’ve been here, and I believe this is a special class.”
The seniors reflected on their four years of Loyola football. Sean O’Malley, who has served as Loyola’s varsity starting quarterback since his sophomore season, said, “It has been a ride. I still remember the first day of summer freshmen football practice. My Loyola football experience has been a memorable one, and I wouldn’t trade it for any other.” O’Malley has served a crucial role for the Cubs, leading the offense as a dual-threat specialist and a captain.
On the defensive side, senior linebacker Winston Anawalt concluded his third season with the varsity team. As a junior and senior, Anawalt led the team in tackles and has recorded 90 tackles this season alone. Reflecting on his time on varsity, Anawalt said, “These years have been fun. I have played with many great players, and each year, I have learned something new. All three teams have been special, and I will remember these days for the rest of my life.”
At the end of the season, the Cubs finished sixth out of seven teams in the Mission League, placing above Crespi. The three teams at the top–Serra, Bishop Amat and Chaminade–will represent the Mission League in the CIF Southern Section playoffs this year.
