As the second leg of the Bruce Mahoney games grows nearer, the SHC Football team are entering a critical period of practice time. Winning this game would mean the Irish will tie it up with the Wildcats in the race for the trophy. A loss would put us one step closer to yet another sweep from the Wildcats. Last year, Irish football was unable to defeat the Wildcats in the Bruce Mahoney game, which ended in a score of 38-14. Can they do it this Friday? Hopes are high for quarterback and team captain Michael Sargent ‘26, who speaks for the team when he says “we’re excited. These games are always a little more fun.” Although he knows that “[SI] is a good football team,” he is confident that “we should win, if we just execute [and] try to treat it like any other game.”
From JV graduates to transfer students, there have been an abundance of new additions to our varsity team that have helped us rebound from our 0-10 record last year. There have notably been many underclassmen rising to the occasion in the face of a new season. Many of you may not be aware of these players joining for their first year on varsity, but don’t sweat it. Our Fightin’ Irish football captains are here to give the rundown on which rookies have impressed them most. Here are four new players on the varsity team you should look out for during this Friday’s game:
Jared Camara ‘27 (DB/WR16)
Camara is a jack-of-all-trades. Captain and right-guard Ziontaye Ball ‘25 describes Camara as “an all-purpose threat. He can do anything.” Camara is such a valuable player to Ball and his team because he can “play offense, maybe a little defense, kicker, [and] punter.” His versatility is what will make him a key player against SI. Regardless of his position on the field, he will contribute to the dynamic and strength of the team. His demonstrated defensive valor and offensive ability will allow him to transition seamlessly between positions during what will inevitably be a fast-paced and intense game against the Wildcats. Ball says one highlight from Camara’s season is when he made an “on-side kick that won us the game against Mitty.” If Camara isn’t on the field when you expect, you’re likely to spot him during the extra point attempt after a touchdown or punting the ball across the field on a return.
Jaraiya Bellamy ‘27 (OL/DL 99)
A danger to the opposition in all aspects, Bellamy excels on both the offensive and defensive lines. Captain Dantaye Ball ‘25, who plays left guard and witnesses Bellamy’s formidable presence firsthand, is not shy to admit “he’s an animal on the field. He can do everything.” Like Camara, he is a versatile player who can use his chameleon-like style to Irish advantage on Friday night. Bellamy sees and knows the game from every point of view on the field. It will not only be his skills, but his smarts, that will take the team to the next level. Ball points out a highlight in a specialty defensive play for Bellamy, his “Tackle for loss vs. Soledad,” which he performed “[the] same vs. Wilcox.” A player’s ability to make quick, intelligent decisions in the heat of a game is crucial to the team’s success. Bellamy will bring that and more on Friday night through his skill across every position.
Kiran-Davu Tate Day ‘27 (DB/WR 10)
Sargent was happy to introduce Tate as a player to look out for Friday night. “He hits hard. He’s a straight-up dog, really,” he explains regarding Tate’s skills as a cornerback. Although Tate is still quite young, something unique as he brings to the table is his maturity. Throughout the season, Sargent has noticed that “[He’s grown] a lot emotionally and mentally. He got in his head a lot early on, but now he knows how to control his emotions and use it to better his ability.” A player like Tate is someone who his team can rely on to make the right decisions on the field, overcome adversity, and thrive under pressure. These are essential qualities for the team to have in what is likely going to be an explosive game between the rival schools.
Romeo Curiel ‘27 (OL/DL 62)
Last but not least is Sophomore Romero Curiel, who made his way to varsity on a more unconventional path; Curiel transferred to SHC from Freedom High School in Oakley, California this year. Despite his late start, left tackle Brody Hatch ‘26 has seen him “get in the backfield every play,” and further details that “he blows up plays.” Curiel plays middle linebacker and defensive tackle when the Irish are on defense. He runs like a bullet, and his captains make it clear that you don’t want to stand in his way as he moves down the field. Quoting their head coach, Hatch warns that you “don’t want to block him. You really don’t want to block him, as coach Toine says.” The defensive strength Curiel brings to the team will help the Irish shut down the Wildcats on Friday. With his help, the defensive line will be able to create plenty of opportunities for turnovers.
These four new players have brought a new wind to the Irish football program this season. We at the Emerald are beyond excited to see how these underclassmen will step up to their roles Friday night and are sure they will impress. You, the students, have two very important jobs: show up and show out. So grab your shamrock temporary tattoos, your green face paint, your bead necklaces, and all your friends. Kickoff is at 5 PM at our usual home field, Kezar Stadium, so don’t be late! You won’t want to miss this shootout.
