McHale leads Crusaders
to another victory

By Melissa Yerkov
Times Sports Editor

During his sophomore year at Father Judge, Andrew McHale caught eight passes for 116 yards and reached the end zone three times for the Crusaders.
His junior year was an improvement — he scored 42 points, rushing for 175 yards and grabbing 11 passes for 154 yards.
He’s hoping to keep it going this season.
Now a senior, McHale kicked off his final year of football for the Crusaders by being a big part of a 28-10 victory over Council Rock North on Sept. 1. McHale ran for 168 yards and scored two touchdowns.
He came out even stronger in the Crusaders’ second game, scoring two more touchdowns as Father Judge defeated Northeast High School, 38-7, on Sept. 7.
"I feel great," McHale said after Friday night’s victory. "It’s good to get another win. We’re trying to win a championship this year."
McHale, who’s primarily a running back, scored the Crusaders’ first touchdown against the Vikings within the first three minutes of the game. Kicker Brian Rickus later added a field goal with 1:52 left in the first quarter.
As time wound down in the second quarter, defensive back Adam Nowak and wide receiver Tom Ryan scored on plays for the Crusaders, boosting the Father Judge lead to 24-0 at the end of the half.
The rest of the game was just as productive for Judge, with running back Rob Harris and McHale scoring Crusader touchdowns. Northeast’s only score came on a TD by senior tight end Tyrik Clary.
"I think our guys played well," said Father Judge coach Tom Coyle. "They came out and they made some plays in the early stages of the game. They took control of the game. We’re very happy."
McHale ran for 110 yards, caught three passes for 36 yards, and had an interception.
But the 5-foot-7, 190-pound athlete insists he doesn’t get preoccupied with numbers.
"I don’t worry too much about personal stats or anything," he said. "I’m more of a winner. I just want the team to win."
As one of the more versatile players on the gridiron, McHale can be found playing at running back or wide receiver, as well as safety on defense, and he handles all of the Crusaders’ return work.
"Andrew is a playmaker," said Coyle. "He knows how to make things happen on the field. And he is a great leader."
In addition to McHale’s guidance on the field, seniors Jim DiLisio, Paul Volpe, Anthony Marascio and Dan Keenan have formed a solid nucleus for the Crusaders.
"Having that leadership role feels real good," said McHale. "We have a pretty good team, so it feels great to be one of the main guys. This is definitely my biggest year — my biggest role carrying the ball and everything. I’m happy that I can contribute a lot to the team."
Although he has no definite plans for college yet, McHale knows that wherever he ends up, football will be involved.
"The best part is just being out on the field with your teammates and playing football together," said McHale. "I love the game. I love going to Judge, and I’m definitely looking forward to a great senior year." ••
Sports editor Melissa Yerkov can be reached at 215-354-3035 or myerkov@phillynews.com