News Summary

The Servite Friars are making a strong comeback this season, showcasing their track-level speed and strategic play. After a tough loss, the team has bounced back with four consecutive wins, averaging an impressive 385.4 total yards per game. Junior quarterback Kale Murphy and senior running back Gavin Gutierrez are leading the offense, while the defense has proven dominant with standout players making waves nationally. As they prepare for tough matches in the Trinity League, the Friars aim to solidify their status as one of the fastest football teams in the nation.

Servite Friars Football Surge Through Season with Track-Level Speed and Strategy

In the sunny city of Anaheim, California, the Servite Friars are making waves on the football field as the 2025 season rolls on. After a rocky start that saw them face a tough defeat against Centennial in Corona, where they lost 42-14, head coach Chris Reinert described that game as a pretty humbling experience for the young team. However, they have picked themselves up and bounced back with four back-to-back wins, outscoring their opponents a massive 180 to 69. That’s what we call a comeback!

Finding Their Footing

As the Friars are establishing their identity this season, they proudly position themselves as one of the fastest football teams nationally. Coach Reinert emphasizes that their success isn’t just about talent. The team has been hitting the weights four days a week while also juggling their daily classes. This dedication showcases their commitment both on and off the field.

With 80 players on the roster, the program thrives on a rich pool of talent, competition, and camaraderie. In a time where many high school football teams are more concerned with immediate wins, Servite stands firm in its commitment to player development, focusing on long-term growth rather than short-lived glory.

Putting Up Impressive Numbers

So far, in just five games this season, Servite is averaging an impressive 385.4 total yards per game—this is about 140 yards more than the national average. Junior quarterback Kale Murphy has been lighting it up on the field, boasting 811 passing yards with 13 touchdowns and just three interceptions. His standout performance came during the game against St. Paul, where he completed 15 out of 22 passes, amassing a cool 243 yards and tossing four touchdown passes. Talk about a way to make an impression!

Running the show alongside Murphy, senior running back Gavin Gutierrez is having an impressive season so far with 570 rushing yards, ranking second in the Southern Section Division 1 and taking the top spot in the Trinity League. Averaging 114.0 rushing yards per game with five touchdowns, he’s showcasing his versatility and speed. Not to be outdone, sophomore running back Jorden Wells, who has already made a name for himself as a former member of a CIF State champion relay team, is chipping in too. With 230 rushing yards at a staggering 7.7 yards per carry, he’s proving to be an excellent addition to their fast-paced offensive strategy.

A Powerful Offense

Keeping the rhythm alive, junior Benjamin Harris has emerged as a prime weapon in the air for Murphy, tallying 319 receiving yards and scoring five times. His performance has him ranked seventh in Division 1 for receiving yards. Adding to the mix, senior tight end Luke Sorensen, a 6-4, 247-pound powerhouse who has committed to Nebraska, has stepped up as a reliable target and vocal leader, especially in the red zone.

Defensive Dominance

The Friars aren’t just impressive on offense; their defense has been a force to reckon with. Linebackers Kaleb Aiava and Isaiah Leliua have drawn national attention, while sophomore Allen “Cinco” Kennett V is leading the team with 315 total tackles, firmly establishing himself in the spotlight. Servite has managed to rack up 251 total tackles and 32 tackles for loss, putting them well above national averages in defensive statistics.

Moreover, their secondary has been stellar, boasting six interceptions—double the national average—thanks in part to the standout play of freshman Isaiah Danns, who’s snagged two of those interceptions. With a special teams unit that features sophomore kicker Owen Erdman, who has nailed 22 out of 24 extra point attempts, the Friars are driving the opportunity for hidden yardage battles, having clocked 303 return yards this season.

What’s Next for the Friars?

As the season progresses, Servite faces a tough schedule ahead, kicking off their challenging Trinity League matches on October 3 against Santa Margarita, followed by four other highly-ranked opponents. Currently, the Friars hold the #9 spot in California and are determined to solidify their identity as one of the fastest teams in the nation. With tough opponents like Mater Dei and St. John Bosco looming, the question remains whether they can maintain their rapid rise. But one thing is for sure: this team is ready to be fast, play fast, and think fast!

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