Salesianum may have had the advantage Nov. 12 on the field in its annual rivalry football game against St. Mark’s, but Spartans officials had nothing but positive vibes from the experience. More than 7,000 fans attended the game, which Salesianum won, 41-0.
For the first time, the game was played at Delaware Stadium on the campus of the University of Delaware. The evening included tailgating, a “fan zone” and a photo booth. More than 500 St. Mark’s alumni, donors, staff, diocesan staff, students and parents were treated to pizza before the game.
Ten middle schools set up exhibits in the fan zone to host students and their families.
“Win, lose or draw, the level of engagement we demonstrated showed the middle schools exactly what it means to be a part of this family,” St. Mark’s admissions director Matthew Evans said.
On the day after Veterans Day, St. Mark’s alumnus Gunnery Sgt. Chuck Rotenberry (Class of 1997) and Salesianum graduate Lt. Col. Matthew Capodanno (Class of 1994) were honored for their service. In addition, Mark Aitken of Horizon Services and his son, Patrick, awarded St. Mark’s senior Jacob DiSabatino and Salesianum senior Randy Mueller the Horizon Helps Spirit Award for their efforts in the community.
As for the game, Bishop Malooly was named the honorary captain. He met both teams at midfield before the game for the coin toss.
The Sals’ Colby Reeder continued his outstanding season with four more touchdowns. Salesianum, the top-ranked team in Division I, finished its regular season with a record of 9-1 and awaits its seeding in the playoffs. That announcement should come Sunday.
St. Mark’s finished its first season in Division II at 4-6.
