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Random Acts of Character Displayed In Winning A Title

In reflecting on the 2007 Quince Orchard Cougars’ 36-30 State Championship win over Arundel, I wanted to sum up several years of commitment by the players, coaches and support team which ultimately led to my dubbing the victory “Destiny Completed.”

From the years of training, teaching and character building by the Cougars’ coaching staff dedicated to preparing their athletes with the mental toughness required to win big games to Joe Mencarini’s (Assistant Coach and Head Coach Dave Mencarini’s father) battle with cancer and culminating with quarterback Jaron Morrison’s sprained ankle suffered in a playoff victory against Sherwood. A plethora of additional stories, equally as important, surround the aforementioned events. Some are public knowledge but others will remain sealed within the confines of the locker room.

The drama that would unfold during a turbulent and awe-inspiring rally in the State Title game was a culmination of developed character, perseverance and leadership, utilized when it was needed most.  

With a 13-0 record entering the State Championship game, positive attitudes and character was plenty. Life was good and practices were hard but tolerable. The Quince Orchard Cougars were on top of the world and everyone was telling them so.

In their historic victory over Arundel, the Cougars found themselves in unfamiliar territory. For the first time all season, an opponent was dictating the play on the field. From the pace of the game to their unconventional formations, Arundel had everything going for them in building a 23-7 lead with eight minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. What led to the Cougars’ enigmatic comeback victory?    

The following are examples of the “CHARACTER” displayed that night that may help explain the Cougars’ State Championship comeback victory.

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QB Jaron Morrison #4 – An Injured Ankle But A Strong Heart 

Cougars' senior quarterback Jaron Morrison refused to allow an injured ankle to stand in his way of throwing the game winning 75-yard touchdown pass to Travis Hawkins. 

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Quince Orchard Defensive Coordinator Mike Neubeiser gives senior LB Jack Nagle a congratulatory hug after the Cougars defeated Arundel 36-30 for the State Championship.

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RB Thomas Addison #2 – The Constant Cougar! 

RB Thomas Addison was held in check by Arundel for three plus quarters, but frustration never settled in on the Cougars' big play man.

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Nickel DB Anthony Nettles #10 – Beaten, But Not For Long!

DB Anthony Nettles watches his man catch a touchdown pass that would give Arundel a 23-7 lead late in the third quarter.  However, Nettles never never put his head down and came back to knock away a critical fourth down pass late in the game to seal the Cougars State Championship victory.

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