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

UPDATE: In a thrilling Class 3A state semifinal matchup, Holy Family football faced off against top-seeded Windsor but fell just short, losing 21-14 on November 25, 2023. This heartbreaking defeat ends the Tigers’ impressive season at 11-2 and marks a significant moment for the team, which had a rocky start with a 6-5 record earlier this year.

Holy Family coach Mike Gabriel expressed immense pride in his team’s performance, stating, “Our kids are just warriors, man. They played with such courage.” The Tigers fought valiantly against the Wizards on their home turf, showcasing their resilience and determination throughout the game.

Windsor struck first with a 5-yard touchdown run from Adrian Czyszczon late in the first half, putting them ahead 7-0. However, Holy Family quickly responded. After a critical fourth-down stop, the Tigers regained possession and tied the game 7-7 just before halftime, thanks to a touchdown pass from quarterback Kaden Hopkin to Roman Ochs.

The second half saw Holy Family take a brief lead when Hopkin connected with Nick Leopardi for a 31-yard touchdown, bringing the score to 14-7. Despite the momentum, the Tigers were unable to maintain their advantage, as Windsor’s defense tightened and the Wizards countered with two more touchdowns.

As the game progressed, fatigue set in for Holy Family. Gabriel acknowledged the challenge, saying, “I think they figured us out a little bit and we wore down a little bit.” Ultimately, the Tigers’ final offensive push was halted on a fourth-and-9 play at midfield with just four minutes left, sealing their fate.

The emotional toll of the game was palpable, with players expressing pride in their journey. Ochs reflected on the team’s spirit, stating, “Holy Family athletics, it’s not just a team. It’s a band of brothers, band of sisters.” He emphasized the hard work that brought them to this pivotal moment.

With this loss, Windsor advances to the championship game against Pomona, set for next week. Holy Family’s remarkable season serves as a testament to their perseverance and unity, leaving a legacy that will inspire future teams.

As fans and supporters reflect on the Tigers’ journey, the spirit of resilience and teamwork remains a defining feature of Holy Family football. The community is encouraged to celebrate their achievements and look forward to what the future holds for this talented group.