By Will Hutchinson

Of the Gleaner

Football is one of the most physically demanding sports. For the Golden Eagles, this 2015 football season was one to remember with many ups and downs. The ups included qualifying for the playoffs. The downs included multiple injuries.

One of the positions most impacted by injuries was that of quarterback. Lacking experienced players in the position, the varsity looked to the sophomore team, and Chris Ripley, ‘18, was called upon to fill the spot.

The transition for Ripley was not easy. “The biggest difference between sophomore and varsity football is the speed and intensity of the game. The varsity level is much more experienced and enhanced athletically,” said Ripley.

Mr. Cole Smith, a first year coach at Wahlert Catholic, worked with the quarterbacks and also the running backs on the team.

Smith said, “One of the hardest parts about the situation was having more people pick up more time on the field. Chris did a great job of coming in and filling one of the most important positions on the team. He showed great leadership attributes.”

Although there were times of great turmoil, some memories stood out more than others.

“I really enjoyed the West Dubuque game. I threw my first varsity touchdown pass, and most importantly, we got the win on homecoming,” said Ripley

Next year Ripley will be on varsity and expectations are high for qualifying for playoffs for a third year in a row.

Smith, too, is eager to see the 2016 eagles. “I’m looking forward to the young talent of the sophomore class and how well they grow into their bodies in the weightroom over the summer,” said Smith.

Ripley hopes to continue to build Wahlert’s football program.

“Next season I look forward to continuing to establish Wahlert football as a successful program,” he said