By Alexander Soroko
Following two hard-fought losses to Brophy and Poston Butte at the beginning of the season, St. Mary’s varsity football team went on five-game winning streak and finished the season with an overall record of 7-3 and their second consecutive berth in the state playoffs.
As the season progressed, the Knights scored key victories over Kellis (41-14), Benjamin Franklin (14-10), Greenway (21-0), Thunderbird (49-14), Moon Valley (31-8), Shadow Mountain (42-0), and Seton (48-21).
The Knights then scored a first-round playoff victory against Buckeye (34-31). In the second round, the Knights lost a nail-biter (on a last-second field goal) to eventual state champion, Casa Grande (31-29).
At the end of the season, Head Coach Jose Lucero said, “We accomplished a lot this season. Led by our seniors, we were able to overcome some early season adversity and put together a great year. We are proud of the effort and focus our team brought every Friday night.
"We are fortunate to return a lot of players for next year’s team. We hope our seniors for next year can follow in the footsteps of those who came before them and help guide the team to great success."
Several varsity Knights were recognized for outstanding performances this season. These players included:
