While the news that North is closing (for now) is disturbing and short sighted, one of the responsibilities is to provide options for the parents of our boys and this responsibility is shared by the Archdiocese, the school and the stakeholders of the school (Alumni, Coaches, Friends of North Catholic).
While the school’s leadership is struggling with this, these stakeholders are taking this responsibility seriously and are hard at work trying to develop options and solutions for our boys. As previously reported by Mike Ferris last week, the Jesuit model called “Cristo Rey” appears to provide the largest opportunity for our community, our parents and their children. I urge to you take another look at what Mike reported because it does provide some much needed “hope” in what many would advise is a hopeless situation.
This model is a regimented, college prep program that focuses it resources on providing educational opportunities to those who cannot afford the traditional Catholic school education. With tuition and fees approaching $6,000 per year, the middle class and poor and being forced to find alternatives, namely the charter schools or the public schools. The problem here is that most have chosen the charter school road and what they are facing are waiting lists, long waiting lists.
Here are some things that we need to keep in front of us. First of all, while the focus of this program is to assist those who cannot afford Catholic education, there is a cost for it. It roughly runs anywhere from $7 to $10,000 per student. This model however leverages a co-op approach whereby each student works one day a week. In researching the web sites of various Cristo Rey schools, these work opportunities are with colleges, law firms, accounting firms, etc. The pay for these boys is directly received by the school to underwrite some of the cost of the program.
This program however will not remove the necessity of North to fund raise and honestly, fund raise like it never has before. In the past, North has been fractured by the number of hands reaching out to a small pool of donors. It has been the school, it has been the Friends of North Catholic (FONECHS), it has been the Alumni Association and it has been the sports teams.
If North is to get a second chance, its fund raising needs to be more focused, more intense and more effective in reaching the tens of thousands graduates, not just the thousands. There have been a lot of good things happening behind the scenes, for example, FONECHS has offered to merge its non-profit into the Alumni Association allowing for the Alumni Association to be the primary fund raising arm. FONECHS is also willing to provide additional lists of candidates to the Alumni and to work with them on a more intense “calling” effort. The point here is that in this next chapter (if there is one); please expect that you will be called upon to help.
We had a great Soccer Alumni event yesterday. Close to 80 people attended at one point or another, in weather that was pretty nasty. In most of our conversations, we reminded them that they will be asked to help monetarily and it was well received. The Alumni and FONECHS are sensitive to the economy and its impact on all households and their pocketbook. You can say what you want about our current President (Obama), but how he funded his campaign is the new paradigm. Most of his war chest was amassed from individuals that gave $50 to $100. Now let’s use North under this scenario. If we can get 10,000 North graduates to contribute $100, by my math this would bring $1,000,000 annually. If we can now get our Alums to bring others into the fold, this number gets exponentially bigger.
One reason that Cristo Rey is a good thing for the Archdiocese to consider besides the continuation of Catholic education in the inner city, is the collateral benefit to the parish. Since these boys will possibly go to North under this Cristo Rey designation, North will not be part of the Archdiocesan system. By not being part, the parishes will not be assessed for high school tuition. These funds can now be diverted to more direct programs that each parish needs to provide its parishioners.
Remember, NO SURRENDER, the stakeholders of North believe this to insure that NO FALCONS LEFT BEHIND!
FABLIO!
No Surrender!! We Are NC!!
In support of North Catholic, a rally was held on the front steps of the school tonight. One of the highlights of the evening was a banner that was hung on the fence outside of the school. (see photo below).
In attendance were current students, alumni, coaches, teachers and even people who work in the offices at North Catholic. We even had people who never attended North, nor had a family member attend our school, but who came out to show their support for the school that we all know and love.
The “No Surrender” banner that was hung was signed by all who attended as a sign of solidarity. We are sending a message to anyone who will listen, that North Catholic is worth saving.
Greg Smith ('82) signs banner (above)
Mike McBride ('81) signs banner (above)
The banner was provided by our soccer coach, Jerry Brindisi (see photo below). It will be hung at every soccer game this year. And, don’t be surprised if it shows up at a football game or two along the way.
Soccer coach, Jerry Brindisi
In the spirit of “No Surrender”, we will continue to keep our message on the front burner. Many in our community feel that we got a raw deal in the closing of North, and the message needs to get out to the masses. DO NOT GIVE UP! To use the message of our motto, take hold and never let go! Now is the time to raise you voice. Now is the time to pray. Now is the time to let people know how you feel about the decision to close North Catholic. We can’t afford to surrender. WE ARE NC!!
North/Frankford Game Update
The Northeast Catholic Administration has asked that the following be posted:
Due to the anticipated high demand for tickets to the final North/Frankford Thanksgiving Day football game, a larger and more prominent venue is being considered for this annual game. The administrations of both Northeast Catholic and Frankford High Schools have agreed, in principal, to move this game from the current location of Frankford's War Memorial Stadium. At this time, these plans have not yet been finalized, but both schools are working very hard to make this game as accessible as possible to all of the alumni and fans of both programs who plan to attend this game. When details are worked out and a location is finalized, we will post that information on TheFalconNest.com, as well on www.NorthCatholicFootball.com. Also, continue to check www.NorthCatholic.com for more information.
Due to the anticipated high demand for tickets to the final North/Frankford Thanksgiving Day football game, a larger and more prominent venue is being considered for this annual game. The administrations of both Northeast Catholic and Frankford High Schools have agreed, in principal, to move this game from the current location of Frankford's War Memorial Stadium. At this time, these plans have not yet been finalized, but both schools are working very hard to make this game as accessible as possible to all of the alumni and fans of both programs who plan to attend this game. When details are worked out and a location is finalized, we will post that information on TheFalconNest.com, as well on www.NorthCatholicFootball.com. Also, continue to check www.NorthCatholic.com for more information.
Critical Thinking: Education Alternatives to Consider
The Office of Catholic Education determined last week that both Northeast Catholic and Cardinal Dougherty demographic shifts and trends offered no other alternative than closure to solve the problem of declining enrollment. Many knowledgeable education experts recognize that declining enrollment is due to several other factors as well. The one that jumps out most is the cost of Catholic education these days. Even with roughly 85% of the students at North receiving some sort of financial aid, the $5,100 per year price tag is still out of reach. The only real alternative to these parents beyond typical public school education is the charter school approach.
There is no doubt that a Catholic education, especially in the city of Philadelphia, is a quality education. Students get challenged academically, prepare for college, and they get the necessary discipline that will help set them on a path for success; not only during their college years, but for the rest of their lives. But, the question still remains; how do you provide that quality Catholic school education in poor neighborhoods, at a cost that is affordable to even the poorest of the poor? That question, my friends, has already been answered.
A New Catholic School Model
What if I were to tell you that there is an organization which has answered the very question that we are asking and wondering? What if I told you that this organization is providing quality Catholic high school education to over 5,000 students throughout the USA, at half the cost of current Philadelphia Catholic tuition? What if I told you that well over 95% of their students get accepted to 4 year colleges? Well, folks, all of these things are true in other cities, and it can happen in Philadelphia too.
Cristo Rey Network
The Cristo Rey Network is a non-profit organization, created by a Jesuit priest in Chicago in the mid-1990’s. The model that was created for that first school has been used in 24 high schools in 18 states. Simply put, the school partners with local businesses to provide entry level employees (students). These students go to school for 4 extended school days a week, and then work on the 5th day. The money that the student earns is paid directly to the school to cover part of their tuition. Think of it as a sort of cooperative program which catapulted a local college into a national powerhouse, Drexel University. Its co-op program is considered the gold standard across the country and has been duplicated successfully by hundreds of other schools. Why not then, push it down to a more grass roots level, like high school?
In addition to this new way of paying for the cost of the school, the benefits of such an institution far outweigh any negative aspects. The discipline at these schools is stricter than even the strictest of Catholic schools. The academic level is very intense, with 99% of their graduates getting accepted into 4 year colleges. The bottom line is that there is some sacrifice from the student and their families, but that sacrifice is rewarded when the child graduates and is accepted into their choice of schools or careers.
The best part of this model is the fact that Catholics and non-Catholics alike, in the very neighborhoods where Northeast Catholic is currently located, will continue to have an option for a neighborhood Catholic High School, and at prices that even the poorest of the poor can afford.
What Does This Mean to Northeast Catholic?
If the Cristo Rey model was introduced to Philadelphia and the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, Northeast Catholic could not only be saved, but it could thrive well into the future. North would continue to serve the community; in spite of the continuing demographic shifts plaguing tuition based educational systems. It would serve those same people who have felt disenfranchised by the current state of the economy in many urban settings throughout the country. And, finally, it would allow Northeast Catholic to continue it’s tradition of excellence that has been present for the past 83 years.
Stay Tuned in the coming days for more information on the future of Northeast Catholic.
(Tom Crossett contributed to this article)
Tenui Nec Dimittam
Archdiocese Unleases Nuclear Option on North
MONEY TRUMPS SPIRITUALITY AND MISSION IN THE CITY, 1,200 BOYS AND GIRLS LEFT TO FEND FOR THEMSELVES AS ARCHDIOCESE EXPANDS IN WHITE SUBURBIA NORTH AND WEST OF PHILADELPHIA
Education: As They See Fit
On a visceral level, I can understand the decision today to close storied North Catholic and Cardinal Dougherty. As far as I am concerned, the Archdiocese has removed itself from educating all its children to educating those few who can afford it. This happened several years ago as evidenced by its decision to build two new, state of the art high schools in well to do, suburban white areas of Royersford/Pottstown and in Hilltown, Bucks County. Do you think it was just a coincidence that diverse schools like North and Dougherty are the first to fall? My best friend said it best tonight, "the Church is Catholic chasers" and I would add, the whiter, the better because white begets green, green as in money. Furthermore, I would suggest that Catholicism is more about business and money than it is about religion. Cruel assessment I know, but to those who have lived it both as a Catholic and as someone involved with the Church and its children there is no substitute for experience.
This decision, like many that are made by highly secretive and sensitive organizations was heavy handed, and made without any input from the school after repeated efforts and pleadings to allow it to move forward. It was an easy decision (so says the Archdiocese) based on the numbers but I would have to ask you, “do you trust the representatives of the Church to be reliable with future enrollment decisions given its past indescretions” or would one think it would present numbers to rationalize its case?
How then, I ask you, can a school like Little Flower blossom, which is located in the same neighborhoods of North and Cardinal Dougherty. Wouldn’t the impact of the demographics be similar? A cynic might wonder about West Catholic and Hallahan and its demographics and trends. A cynic might ask how many Catholics are being educated at schools like West Catholic (and others)and a cynic might question the motives of some decision makers that once worked there.
I saw a quote today commenting on this decision as a cowardly one. I would have to concur, not only was it cowardly and made by cowards, it became more offensive because of the isolation that the Archdiocese performed on these schools as the decision was being rendered. Isolation over the last six months when the school presented an action plan to make it work and if that fails, close it. That is what gentleman and good business people do, they compromise for the best deal. In this case, our plan and compromise was for the boys that we educate. At least we remember the children.
As a Catholic, I was raised under the assumption that these men who become priests are a level above us in honesty, commitment and religion based on the vows that they took. What I have found to be truer is that those involved in education are dishonest by nature, not interested in the inner city unless it makes money and only religious when it suits their needs such as Sunday mass, weddings and funerals (which all raise money, go figure). In this case in particular, it would give Bernie Madoff a run for his money. Sad to say, but unfortunately true.
Finally, let’s examine the money motive. The schools close and leave 1200 boys and girls to fend for themselves, without any commitment to their financial aide status. The Archdiocese still has responsibility for each physical plant I believe. Those children who decide to continue with their Catholic education would then swell near by schools. This, I would think, would call for additional teachers namely from the closed schools, so what is it really saving? Well, like all good corporate citizens, they would be forcing more boys and girls to seek alternative education systems like public and charter schools transferring the financial burden on the cash strapped City. One might argue that this decision will push more poor and lower middle class children further from the Church. A cynic might question the mission of the Church and one might conclude that it is not about the flock or the children, it’s all about the money.
Education: As They See Fit
On a visceral level, I can understand the decision today to close storied North Catholic and Cardinal Dougherty. As far as I am concerned, the Archdiocese has removed itself from educating all its children to educating those few who can afford it. This happened several years ago as evidenced by its decision to build two new, state of the art high schools in well to do, suburban white areas of Royersford/Pottstown and in Hilltown, Bucks County. Do you think it was just a coincidence that diverse schools like North and Dougherty are the first to fall? My best friend said it best tonight, "the Church is Catholic chasers" and I would add, the whiter, the better because white begets green, green as in money. Furthermore, I would suggest that Catholicism is more about business and money than it is about religion. Cruel assessment I know, but to those who have lived it both as a Catholic and as someone involved with the Church and its children there is no substitute for experience.
This decision, like many that are made by highly secretive and sensitive organizations was heavy handed, and made without any input from the school after repeated efforts and pleadings to allow it to move forward. It was an easy decision (so says the Archdiocese) based on the numbers but I would have to ask you, “do you trust the representatives of the Church to be reliable with future enrollment decisions given its past indescretions” or would one think it would present numbers to rationalize its case?
How then, I ask you, can a school like Little Flower blossom, which is located in the same neighborhoods of North and Cardinal Dougherty. Wouldn’t the impact of the demographics be similar? A cynic might wonder about West Catholic and Hallahan and its demographics and trends. A cynic might ask how many Catholics are being educated at schools like West Catholic (and others)and a cynic might question the motives of some decision makers that once worked there.
I saw a quote today commenting on this decision as a cowardly one. I would have to concur, not only was it cowardly and made by cowards, it became more offensive because of the isolation that the Archdiocese performed on these schools as the decision was being rendered. Isolation over the last six months when the school presented an action plan to make it work and if that fails, close it. That is what gentleman and good business people do, they compromise for the best deal. In this case, our plan and compromise was for the boys that we educate. At least we remember the children.
As a Catholic, I was raised under the assumption that these men who become priests are a level above us in honesty, commitment and religion based on the vows that they took. What I have found to be truer is that those involved in education are dishonest by nature, not interested in the inner city unless it makes money and only religious when it suits their needs such as Sunday mass, weddings and funerals (which all raise money, go figure). In this case in particular, it would give Bernie Madoff a run for his money. Sad to say, but unfortunately true.
Finally, let’s examine the money motive. The schools close and leave 1200 boys and girls to fend for themselves, without any commitment to their financial aide status. The Archdiocese still has responsibility for each physical plant I believe. Those children who decide to continue with their Catholic education would then swell near by schools. This, I would think, would call for additional teachers namely from the closed schools, so what is it really saving? Well, like all good corporate citizens, they would be forcing more boys and girls to seek alternative education systems like public and charter schools transferring the financial burden on the cash strapped City. One might argue that this decision will push more poor and lower middle class children further from the Church. A cynic might question the mission of the Church and one might conclude that it is not about the flock or the children, it’s all about the money.
North Wins, Keeps Pace With LaSalle and Judge
North Beats Roman, 4-2, Martinez, Hall and Hiltwine Score In The Win
Archbishop Ryan was once again hosted our home game against Roman as we head into the second half of the season. I don’t think I have said this all year, but thanks to George Todt for his generosity and for being a gracious host.
North has struggled in the past few games with scoring as its defense and the goal keeping of John McCarthy kept it in games and was a big reason for several of its wins. But last night it seems that North’s offense awoke. While Roman had the first real crack at goal in the tenth minute, a ball that McCarthy was able to get his finger tips on to deflect off the cross bar, North for the most part pushed the action and attempted to exploit the Roman defense. Forwards Martinez and Hall continually found open teammates running through on the flanks. When the flanks were covered they spotted other midfielders or defenders as they pushed into the bottom third. Sr. Dan Micucci missed from 12 with a bullet over the right corner soon after Ira Woodruff missed from 18 on a through ball from Martinez.
In the 15th minute, Austin Baranukas delivered a ball into the box that we steered onto the foot of Martinez alone on the 18 going toward goal. He calmly slipped a low ball into the far corner to make the score 1-0. Just a few minutes later, Hall was sent in on the left side and he too slipped a low shot into the far corner to increase the lead to 2-0. Ten minutes later, after another ball served from Baranukas into the box was corralled by Hall, he possessed, beat his men to the line, held possession and slipped the ball to Frosh, Justin Hiltwine who deflected the pass into the goal for a 3-0 lead and his first goal as a Falcon.
With a 3-0 lead, North did not take anything for granted against Roman. North again tried to push the action. Roman was dangerous a few times on the counter as North looked for its fourth goal. McCarthy came up big on a swerving shot from the 18 on one of these counters. After losing possession at midfield, North again was on its heels. Roman attacked on the right flank into the box and towards the goal line. As many of us can attest, the ball actually went out of bounds by about two feet. Somehow however, the referee was not in position to see this. While we have all been told to play the whistle, the natural inclination is too relax as the ball heads out of bounds. In this case, North did just that. The quick thinking Roman forward just served a line drive across the box unto the head of a Roman forward that beat the startled and frustrated McCarthy.
Soon after, North got the three goal cushion back. Martinez, as he did all night, gained possession at 40 yards out on the near, left side. He possessed going left to right and probably got fouled two or three times with no calls. His penetration put him in the penalty box where again he was fouled and awarded the PK. Martinez drove a low hard shot into the lower left side of the cage to make the score 4-1 with about 17 minutes left to play. Roman again did not die or lay down. They attacked where they could and with 14 minutes remaining, a Roman forward was able to break through North’s right backs for a 1 on 1 with McCarthy. The striker hit a ball that John was able to deflect it but its pace and spin moved it into the goal. While that was the final score (4-2) each team created several more attempts before the final whistle.
Next up is the Prep at the Dairy Fields in Fairmount Park, right off Kelly Drive at 3:30 tomorrow afternoon. Friday brings the Lions of O’Hara for a 5:30 game time tilt at Lighthouse field.
Let’s not forget our Annual Alumni Game scheduled for 10/17 at 2PM at Danubia. This is our kick-off for the start of our Hall of Fame selection and brings ideas and names forward. For $50, you are most importantly supporting the cause and our legacy, will receive the collectable North Soccer Alumni t-shirt plus there will be some food and refreshments. Come and bring the kids as well.
Archbishop Ryan was once again hosted our home game against Roman as we head into the second half of the season. I don’t think I have said this all year, but thanks to George Todt for his generosity and for being a gracious host.
North has struggled in the past few games with scoring as its defense and the goal keeping of John McCarthy kept it in games and was a big reason for several of its wins. But last night it seems that North’s offense awoke. While Roman had the first real crack at goal in the tenth minute, a ball that McCarthy was able to get his finger tips on to deflect off the cross bar, North for the most part pushed the action and attempted to exploit the Roman defense. Forwards Martinez and Hall continually found open teammates running through on the flanks. When the flanks were covered they spotted other midfielders or defenders as they pushed into the bottom third. Sr. Dan Micucci missed from 12 with a bullet over the right corner soon after Ira Woodruff missed from 18 on a through ball from Martinez.
In the 15th minute, Austin Baranukas delivered a ball into the box that we steered onto the foot of Martinez alone on the 18 going toward goal. He calmly slipped a low ball into the far corner to make the score 1-0. Just a few minutes later, Hall was sent in on the left side and he too slipped a low shot into the far corner to increase the lead to 2-0. Ten minutes later, after another ball served from Baranukas into the box was corralled by Hall, he possessed, beat his men to the line, held possession and slipped the ball to Frosh, Justin Hiltwine who deflected the pass into the goal for a 3-0 lead and his first goal as a Falcon.
With a 3-0 lead, North did not take anything for granted against Roman. North again tried to push the action. Roman was dangerous a few times on the counter as North looked for its fourth goal. McCarthy came up big on a swerving shot from the 18 on one of these counters. After losing possession at midfield, North again was on its heels. Roman attacked on the right flank into the box and towards the goal line. As many of us can attest, the ball actually went out of bounds by about two feet. Somehow however, the referee was not in position to see this. While we have all been told to play the whistle, the natural inclination is too relax as the ball heads out of bounds. In this case, North did just that. The quick thinking Roman forward just served a line drive across the box unto the head of a Roman forward that beat the startled and frustrated McCarthy.
Soon after, North got the three goal cushion back. Martinez, as he did all night, gained possession at 40 yards out on the near, left side. He possessed going left to right and probably got fouled two or three times with no calls. His penetration put him in the penalty box where again he was fouled and awarded the PK. Martinez drove a low hard shot into the lower left side of the cage to make the score 4-1 with about 17 minutes left to play. Roman again did not die or lay down. They attacked where they could and with 14 minutes remaining, a Roman forward was able to break through North’s right backs for a 1 on 1 with McCarthy. The striker hit a ball that John was able to deflect it but its pace and spin moved it into the goal. While that was the final score (4-2) each team created several more attempts before the final whistle.
Next up is the Prep at the Dairy Fields in Fairmount Park, right off Kelly Drive at 3:30 tomorrow afternoon. Friday brings the Lions of O’Hara for a 5:30 game time tilt at Lighthouse field.
Let’s not forget our Annual Alumni Game scheduled for 10/17 at 2PM at Danubia. This is our kick-off for the start of our Hall of Fame selection and brings ideas and names forward. For $50, you are most importantly supporting the cause and our legacy, will receive the collectable North Soccer Alumni t-shirt plus there will be some food and refreshments. Come and bring the kids as well.
Football Team wins League Opener 33-18
We’ll begin this week by apologizing for being a little absent last week. After taking the entire staff to Irish Weekend, in North Wildwood, some of the younger staffers went missing, and the rest of us had to search the entire Jersey shoreline to find them. They were found, unharmed, on the beach of Asbury Park. Yes, they ended up all the way up in North Jersey. It’s a great and very long story, but way too long for this column. Needless to say, the entire staff was back in the office by Friday, just in time to prepare for the Lansdale Catholic game. A couple of them will be docked for this.
Game Summary
It was good to see the Falcon offense come back from their two week break, and it was especially good to see Eugene Byrd back to 100 percent health. Eugene rushed 23 times for 193 yards, including touchdowns of 91 yards and 17 yards. With Lansdale Catholic leading 12-6 coming out of halftime, the Crusaders started the second half with a 63 yard drive, down to the North 5. It looked like Lansdale Catholic was on a roll and the Falcons were back on their heels. But, the Crusaders fumbled the ball, which was caused and recovered by Stephen Rooney (5 tackles, 1 interception, 1 forced and recovered fumble). It was a remarkable play, and the turning point in the game. After a 3 yard run by Byrd on the first play, Eugene took the next handoff and sprinted 91 yards for the game tying touchdown. On Lansdale Catholic’s next possession, they gained 12 yards on two plays, before a botched screen play resulted in Rooney recording his first interception of his career. At this point in the game, Rooney was a one man wrecking crew. He was causing nothing but fits for the Crusader offense. Rooney returned the interception to the Crusader 17, where it only took 1 play for Eugene Byrd to rush for the final yards and the go ahead touchdown. At the end of three periods, the Falcons now held an 18-12 lead. In the fourth quarter, Reid found Julian Huggins for a 13 yard touchdown. Julian caught the ball despite being interfered with on the play. Byrd converted the 2pt conversion with a run. With the game still in reach for the Crusaders, they began their fourth quarter drive at their own 22. After an incompletion and a short gain, John Ziegler sacked the quarterback, causing a fumble, which was recovered by Steve Anderson, which shut the door on this game. The Falcons scoring was capped off with a 2 yard run by Anthony Reid. Sean Reidy made the PAT. Lansdale Catholic scored a late touchdown to make the final 33-18. Outstanding defensive players were, in addition to Stephen Rooney, Gabe Toledo (9 tackles, 1 assist and a pass defense), Daniel Clark (8 total tackles and a forced fumble), David Williams (10 total tackles, 1 TFL), and Jack Schanz (3 TFL's and 1 sack)
Did You Notice….
….Taylor Rand once again got things going with a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem. One note here……The Falcons are 2-0 when Taylor sings and 0-3 when she doesn’t. Makes you wonder.
….The cost of admission was $6, as opposed to the normal $5. The extra dollar was donated to the Coaches vs Cancer organization, for cancer research.
….that Mike Kaiser, our normal home game announcer, was not at the game. There was a rumor that the Kaiser family had some sort of family reunion or something. Don’t they know that you can’t have family functions during football season. We’re blaming Tom Kaiser, Mike’s brother, for this one. As our former Athletic Director, he should know better.
….speaking of announcers, what was the deal with that nitwit they found to announce the game? What did they do, find some random guy walking in the gate and ask him to do the job? It was so bad that the crowd was chanting, “We want Kaiser!….We want Kaiser!” We sometimes poke a little fun at Mike Kaiser, but the guy they had in the booth for this game makes Mike seem like the late great Harry Kalas. From what we understand, the person responsible for finding an announcer is the athletic director. That folks, would be Mr Paul Dixon. Sorry Paul, but you get the blame for this fiasco in the booth.
….the Lansdale Catholic people tailgating in the parking lot on the North Catholic side of the field before the game? Now that’s dedication to their team.
….the guy with the mullet in the North Catholic bleachers? Hello??!! It’s 2009, not 1985. It was a very Retro look on that guy.
….the guy in the NC stands pleading for the coach to pass the ball in the fourth quarter, with the Falcons leading by 21 points, the running game working, and the clock running? Now we know why he’s a fan and not a coach. By the way, if you see me before the next game, stop by and I’ll give you a couple of dollars to go buy a clue.
Faces in the Crowd…..
….Sitting in the “Super Fan” box was Tim Murphy and Ed White (true super fans). Joining them in the box was Bainesy and Mr and Mrs Finn.
….The NC basketball team was well represented with assistant coach, Tom Ballard, as well as several members of the varsity team.
….Spotted at halftime was former players Daryl Robinson, Radcliffe Phillips and Ricardo Pierre.
…We also ran into the Glackin brothers, Ed and Joe. Now these are two of our favorite people and they are both huge North Catholic supporters. By the way, working the steps at Citizen’s Bank Park as an usher must agree with Ed, as he’s looking quite svelte these days.
....Speaking of Ed Glackin, he was spotted hanging out with his former chain gang mate, Carter Fellenbaum. Carter has become quite the NC fan.
….We ran into our Athletic Director, Mr Paul Dixon, at half time. But, as AD’s usually are, Mr Dixon was busy running around making sure the entire behind the scenes operations run smoothly.
Well Falcon fans, that wraps up another week on the trail of the Falcons football team. Next week, the Falcons return to Frankford stadium to take on the Patriots, of Archbishop Carroll in a non-league contest. The game will be Saturday afternoon at 1:00PM. Come out and support the team.
Ryan Upends North, 3-1
Miscues the Difference in the Match as Ryan Cashes In on Two Penalty Kicks
Analysis
Funny how the games look in person and then when you watch the film, how different it was. That could be said about Friday night's setback against Ryan. While North fell by the score of 3-1, it wasn't so much any dominance by Ryan but more of mistakes by North. From the start of pre-season, the one question that the coaching staff had was the back line. With the graduation of All-Catholics Mark Pugliese and Pat Greer, who was going to step up. While different combinations have been experimented through the season, what has been a fact is that the backline of North has really been the unsung hero of the campaign so far. The play of first year starters Dan Venuto, Mark Brown, Austin Baranukas coupled with Senior Tyler Ward and Ira Woodruff at times has been nothing less that stellar.
Like anything else, perfection can only last so long. On Friday night, Ryan capitalized on two mistakes resulting in penalty kicks that even all-world keeper, John McCarthy was unable to stop. These mistakes were the real undoing in the match.
The emotions after the match lend more to blame a lack of effort and passion which is only natural but the film lies about nothing. In the aftermath and on the cutting room floor, what really happened becomes clear. For most of the game, North did well in possessing the ball. Forwards Martinez and Hall continually checked off the front line to receive the ball from the midfield or the backs and tried to find open teammates on the wide sides of the field. The buildup, in most cases, was good but the final pass or cross were not. The first and third goals were examples of just that, lost possession and Ryan counters. When we lost these balls, we were committed forward where both the midfield and backs were pushed deep into the offensive zone. Ryan was fortunate to clear both opportunities which created numbers against one North back. Give Ryan credit, many times these rushes are stopped but not this time. The first resulted in the penalty kick and the second gave the Ryan striker a one on one with McCarthy.
The Match
The loss put and end to North’s undefeated run in the PCL Red Division by besting the Falcons by the score of 3-1 on Friday night. This loss drops North in a three way tie for first place in the Red Division along with LaSalle and Judge as the first half comes to a close.
The score line might be a little deceiving for those not at the games. The difference in the game was not the Ryan attack, more the fouls that North committed in the penalty area. North allowed two penalty kicks that allowed Ryan to tie and take the lead in the game. Most every game, the Falcons ask Keeper John McCarthy to be a star, this day though, it would be too much of anyone to stop two penalty kicks in a span of twenty minutes.
North started the game well. In the 10th minute, Juan Pablo Martinez collected a ball in a scrum in the Ryan box and was able to nudge it through both the defenders and the keeper to put North ahead. That score stayed until about 1 minute left in the first half. While the game was somewhat see-sawed, North at times created several chances with its possession up front and at midfield. The final pass though was problematic. In the final minute of the half, North was agonizingly close to adding to its score when it lost possession in its offensive, bottom third. The clearing ball went right to a Ryan forward who had clear sailing from his 50 into North’s penalty area. Sr. Mark Brown ran sixty yards to catch the Ryan forward near the penalty area. Unfortunately, he accidentally clipped the Ryan players heal which resulted in a penalty kick. Score at half now was 1-1.
The second half began much like the first half begun, back and forth action in the middle part of the field. North seem to exert more pressure towards goal but continually seemed to lose the ball to stop any build up or offensive momentum. About 20 minutes into the half, Ryan attacked on a diagonal from the central midfield into the right corner of North’s penalty area. There was some contact between a North defenders and the Ryan player fell and was awarded another penalty kick to make the score 2-1 in Ryan’s favor.
Trying for the equalizer North pushed more men forward to create scoring chances. Tyler Ward, hit the goal post from 20 out off a feed from Martinez. Ward also pushed one over the bar from the 8 a short time after as did Khristian Hall. With about 5 minutes left, Martinez missed wide left from the 18 and North hit the outside of the net from in close in the final two minutes.
With only a minute to go, North was awarded a free kick, 70 yards from goal on the far side of the field. McCarthy took the kick and sent it toward the Ryan 18. The ball was first flicked into the box but Ryan was able to clear it with the ball to the right flank at midfield where a Ryan forward, unmarked was able to push to possess and steam forward. Freshman Kevin Lockhart tracked down the Ryan player but he found another forward ten yards inside. Moving right to left across the box, the Ryan forward placed a hard shot just inside the upper left corner that McCarthy was unable to stop, mainly because he had to sprint 50 yards to bet back into the net after that free kick. This insurance goal was the final tally.
Next week is a tough week for all PCL teams as three games are on hand. On Monday night, North hosts Roman at Ryan at 7 PM. On Wednesday, it travels to play the Prep and 3:30 at the Dairy Fields in Fairmount Park and on Friday we host O’Hara at Lighthouse Field at 5:30 PM.
Analysis
Funny how the games look in person and then when you watch the film, how different it was. That could be said about Friday night's setback against Ryan. While North fell by the score of 3-1, it wasn't so much any dominance by Ryan but more of mistakes by North. From the start of pre-season, the one question that the coaching staff had was the back line. With the graduation of All-Catholics Mark Pugliese and Pat Greer, who was going to step up. While different combinations have been experimented through the season, what has been a fact is that the backline of North has really been the unsung hero of the campaign so far. The play of first year starters Dan Venuto, Mark Brown, Austin Baranukas coupled with Senior Tyler Ward and Ira Woodruff at times has been nothing less that stellar.
Like anything else, perfection can only last so long. On Friday night, Ryan capitalized on two mistakes resulting in penalty kicks that even all-world keeper, John McCarthy was unable to stop. These mistakes were the real undoing in the match.
The emotions after the match lend more to blame a lack of effort and passion which is only natural but the film lies about nothing. In the aftermath and on the cutting room floor, what really happened becomes clear. For most of the game, North did well in possessing the ball. Forwards Martinez and Hall continually checked off the front line to receive the ball from the midfield or the backs and tried to find open teammates on the wide sides of the field. The buildup, in most cases, was good but the final pass or cross were not. The first and third goals were examples of just that, lost possession and Ryan counters. When we lost these balls, we were committed forward where both the midfield and backs were pushed deep into the offensive zone. Ryan was fortunate to clear both opportunities which created numbers against one North back. Give Ryan credit, many times these rushes are stopped but not this time. The first resulted in the penalty kick and the second gave the Ryan striker a one on one with McCarthy.
The Match
The loss put and end to North’s undefeated run in the PCL Red Division by besting the Falcons by the score of 3-1 on Friday night. This loss drops North in a three way tie for first place in the Red Division along with LaSalle and Judge as the first half comes to a close.
The score line might be a little deceiving for those not at the games. The difference in the game was not the Ryan attack, more the fouls that North committed in the penalty area. North allowed two penalty kicks that allowed Ryan to tie and take the lead in the game. Most every game, the Falcons ask Keeper John McCarthy to be a star, this day though, it would be too much of anyone to stop two penalty kicks in a span of twenty minutes.
North started the game well. In the 10th minute, Juan Pablo Martinez collected a ball in a scrum in the Ryan box and was able to nudge it through both the defenders and the keeper to put North ahead. That score stayed until about 1 minute left in the first half. While the game was somewhat see-sawed, North at times created several chances with its possession up front and at midfield. The final pass though was problematic. In the final minute of the half, North was agonizingly close to adding to its score when it lost possession in its offensive, bottom third. The clearing ball went right to a Ryan forward who had clear sailing from his 50 into North’s penalty area. Sr. Mark Brown ran sixty yards to catch the Ryan forward near the penalty area. Unfortunately, he accidentally clipped the Ryan players heal which resulted in a penalty kick. Score at half now was 1-1.
The second half began much like the first half begun, back and forth action in the middle part of the field. North seem to exert more pressure towards goal but continually seemed to lose the ball to stop any build up or offensive momentum. About 20 minutes into the half, Ryan attacked on a diagonal from the central midfield into the right corner of North’s penalty area. There was some contact between a North defenders and the Ryan player fell and was awarded another penalty kick to make the score 2-1 in Ryan’s favor.
Trying for the equalizer North pushed more men forward to create scoring chances. Tyler Ward, hit the goal post from 20 out off a feed from Martinez. Ward also pushed one over the bar from the 8 a short time after as did Khristian Hall. With about 5 minutes left, Martinez missed wide left from the 18 and North hit the outside of the net from in close in the final two minutes.
With only a minute to go, North was awarded a free kick, 70 yards from goal on the far side of the field. McCarthy took the kick and sent it toward the Ryan 18. The ball was first flicked into the box but Ryan was able to clear it with the ball to the right flank at midfield where a Ryan forward, unmarked was able to push to possess and steam forward. Freshman Kevin Lockhart tracked down the Ryan player but he found another forward ten yards inside. Moving right to left across the box, the Ryan forward placed a hard shot just inside the upper left corner that McCarthy was unable to stop, mainly because he had to sprint 50 yards to bet back into the net after that free kick. This insurance goal was the final tally.
Next week is a tough week for all PCL teams as three games are on hand. On Monday night, North hosts Roman at Ryan at 7 PM. On Wednesday, it travels to play the Prep and 3:30 at the Dairy Fields in Fairmount Park and on Friday we host O’Hara at Lighthouse Field at 5:30 PM.
North Takes Down Judge 1-0
McCarthy, Martinez, Hall and Defensive Backline Hold Judge Scoreless for Taut 1-0 Victory
Well the waiting is over and the final score is in, North holds on and defeats neighborhood rival, Father Judge to remain unbeaten in the PCL Red Division and remain in first place. It is still early in the season with eight more games until the real season, the playoffs. Played in front of a packed house, the Crusaders and Falcons gave the crowd their money’s worth. The game was highly contested, physical, and offensive with North’s early goal the difference in the match.
It is the usual story line for the Falcons, even though is was shorthanded due to suspensions from the previous match, with its defensive line not allowing many penetrating balls through and forcing Judge to shoot from long range. When Judge did get inside the box, McCarthy was able to make several sensational saves to keep his clean sheet.
It’s interesting though to hear and see how others perceive the contest. Many were still shaking their heads and wondering out loud how in god’s name North won the game. Well, it is really simple to be honest. First we scored more goals, albeit just one and we let up less, which would be 0. Yes, yes, Judge controlled more play, yes, Judge created more attack, yes, Judge had more shots but think about one thing for just a minute. Do you remember the Washington Generals, you know, the basketball team that the Harlem Globetrotters beat up on a regular basis. Did you ever go to the game or watch it on television. Who held the ball longer? Think for a moment, hmmm, I betcha it was the Generals but who won every game (except one)? It was the Trotters. All that is meant here is that possession does not always lead to goals and victories, especially when you have the best keeper in the league, City and surrounding counties playing for you.
Early in the match, North created several scoring opportunities. In the 10th minute, Sr. midfielder, Juan Pablo Martinez flicked a ball past the keeper but it ricocheted off the crossbar. But in the 20th minute, Martinez again was able to control the ball when he spotted Sophomore Hall splitting Judge’s back. Slotting ball in front of his run, Hall was set alone on the Judge keeper. Like a wily veteran, Hall deked the keeper and nestled a shot into the unmanned net.
With 60 minutes remaining, Judge turned up the pressure, but could not find the equalizer before half. The second stanza began where it ended with Judge pushing as much as it could into North’s defensive zone. While on its toes most of the half, the fact that the ball remained in North’s half allowed the Falcons to get behind the ball and force most shots from outside the penalty area. A keeper the ability of McCarthy easily handled most shots. As in the first half, the few dangerous balls in the box were handled by McCarthy.
North finishes up the first half by visiting Ryan on Friday evening. Game time is set for 7 PM. Come root your Falcons on!
Well the waiting is over and the final score is in, North holds on and defeats neighborhood rival, Father Judge to remain unbeaten in the PCL Red Division and remain in first place. It is still early in the season with eight more games until the real season, the playoffs. Played in front of a packed house, the Crusaders and Falcons gave the crowd their money’s worth. The game was highly contested, physical, and offensive with North’s early goal the difference in the match.
It is the usual story line for the Falcons, even though is was shorthanded due to suspensions from the previous match, with its defensive line not allowing many penetrating balls through and forcing Judge to shoot from long range. When Judge did get inside the box, McCarthy was able to make several sensational saves to keep his clean sheet.
It’s interesting though to hear and see how others perceive the contest. Many were still shaking their heads and wondering out loud how in god’s name North won the game. Well, it is really simple to be honest. First we scored more goals, albeit just one and we let up less, which would be 0. Yes, yes, Judge controlled more play, yes, Judge created more attack, yes, Judge had more shots but think about one thing for just a minute. Do you remember the Washington Generals, you know, the basketball team that the Harlem Globetrotters beat up on a regular basis. Did you ever go to the game or watch it on television. Who held the ball longer? Think for a moment, hmmm, I betcha it was the Generals but who won every game (except one)? It was the Trotters. All that is meant here is that possession does not always lead to goals and victories, especially when you have the best keeper in the league, City and surrounding counties playing for you.
Early in the match, North created several scoring opportunities. In the 10th minute, Sr. midfielder, Juan Pablo Martinez flicked a ball past the keeper but it ricocheted off the crossbar. But in the 20th minute, Martinez again was able to control the ball when he spotted Sophomore Hall splitting Judge’s back. Slotting ball in front of his run, Hall was set alone on the Judge keeper. Like a wily veteran, Hall deked the keeper and nestled a shot into the unmanned net.
With 60 minutes remaining, Judge turned up the pressure, but could not find the equalizer before half. The second stanza began where it ended with Judge pushing as much as it could into North’s defensive zone. While on its toes most of the half, the fact that the ball remained in North’s half allowed the Falcons to get behind the ball and force most shots from outside the penalty area. A keeper the ability of McCarthy easily handled most shots. As in the first half, the few dangerous balls in the box were handled by McCarthy.
North finishes up the first half by visiting Ryan on Friday evening. Game time is set for 7 PM. Come root your Falcons on!