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Crusaders Optimistic Despite Loss

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By MATTHEW POSTINS, Tribune correspondent

Published: December 10, 2007

ORLANDO - The emotions already had started pouring out of his players when Tampa Catholic coach Bob Henriquez stood in front of them and boldly told them, "We'll see them again. We'll see them again."

"Them" - Madison County - ended Tampa Catholic's dream of a first state championship Saturday at the Citrus Bowl, as the Cowboys beat the Crusaders 28-7. The Crusaders' greatest season, including a school-high 12 wins, ended for 15 seniors, including running back Drew Zink, who heard Henriquez's postgame speech loud and clear.

"I hope TC can get back in 2008," Zink said. "This is it for me. I hope they can somehow get back and play them again. I won't get a chance to."

Even Saturday night's loss didn't dim the accomplishments of his players, Henriquez said. When he returned in 2005 the Crusaders were coming off a 1-9 season and most of the seniors on this team played for an undefeated junior varsity as freshmen in 2004.

Three years later, nearly 5,000 poured into the Citrus Bowl to watch them play for a state title.

"Once they let it sink in, they'll appreciate what they've accomplished," Henriquez said.

Several minutes after Henriquez's postgame speech, some seniors, like defensive end Marco Mendoza, were beginning to understand what their coach meant.

In the days leading up to the game the seniors talked about wanting to leave a legacy for the players that would come after them, much like the players in the 1990s did under Henriquez before the program fell on hard times.

Three straight playoff appearances after a 1-9 season is certainly a good start.

"We've left a great legacy," Mendoza said. "We brought wining back to TC."
Zink is looking forward to next year, even though he'll only be a spectator now.

"We're leaving expectations," Zink said. "Next year they have some shoes to fill. They have to work hard."

What about next year? The Crusaders lose those 15 seniors, and that includes their entire starting offensive line and their top three linebackers, Will Greaves, Blair Harvey and P.J. Briody.

But, the Crusaders will have sophomore quarterback Christian Green back. Seven months ago he was a wide receiver. Another year of coaching under Henriquez and quarterbacks coach Shane Stafford may only make the athletic Green more dangerous.

"We have 35 returners and as long as you have Christian Green, you have a shot," Henriquez said.

Henriquez will spend his spring looking for replacements for his offensive line and linebackers, refining Green's play and keeping the program's momentum moving forward.

And as for seeing Madison County again? Well, Henriquez backed off that statement later - but only slightly.

He said he's certain the Cowboys will be back, given their stable of juniors, which include their top two running backs.

As for the Crusaders? Well, if he can fill those holes next year ...

"If we can develop the offensive line and linebackers, we have a chance," Henriquez said. "It's a tough road to get to state. A lot of things have to fall into place. We've been here now and I think the guys will be hungry for it again."

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