My Football Experience at Mater Dei High School

High school is never easy, nor was making the varsity football team as a freshman.

Mater Dei Football

Mater Dei High School’s football training camp during the summer of 1984 was hell— nothing like what I’d expected. Far from receiving an open-armed reception, I entered as a fifth stringer, fighting my way up the ranks. As far as the coaches and other players were concerned, I was just a wide-eyed, overeager freshman with pipe dreams.

Did I belong?

I remembered Marv’s goals in the garage. Numbers didn’t lie. But building relationships and camaraderie hadn’t been targets on the wall, so I was ill-equipped to navigate the favoritism of other quarterbacks who were long-standing teammates. Receivers stretched extra wide or fought for another step to secure a ball from their buddy. In contrast, they switched on autopilot and were a little less motivated during my reps. Nothing was worse than knowing that the ten guys in the huddle didn’t want me to be the eleventh.

Despite the interpersonal challenges, more reps elevated my confidence. Meanwhile, the starting and second-string quarterbacks became increasingly concerned about their hold on the top spots. They simply couldn’t match my touch, accuracy, and timing. By the end of hell week, it was apparent to the coaches and most of the team that my dream could become a reality. But when camp ended, I was left hanging on the ladder waiting for a final decision.

Two days before the first game, Coach Chuck Gallo announced the starting lineup. I would be the first freshman in Orange County history to begin the season at quarterback. Overwhelmed by the news, I couldn’t wait to tell Marv. I caught a ride home and burst through the garage door to find him sitting at the kitchen table with Traci.

“I’m starting at quarterback,” I announced, eyes dancing as if it was CNN breaking news.

Traci nodded, largely unfazed by the statement that had little effect on her world. In contrast, Marv leaned back, soaking in the moment of triumph. I watched the edges of his mouth curl into something loosely resembling a smile.

“I did it, Marv.”

“Yup, you earned it, Orange.” Marv didn’t seem surprised. He wouldn’t say he was proud, but I knew it. “That’s what loading the wagon will get ya.” Marv couldn’t resist the opportunity to use one of his catchphrases.

It was about as much celebration as I’d get out of him on a good day.

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