In the most recent edition of the “Holy Wars” game, fans were in for a thrilling football affair. The game was competitive throughout the first half, both teams were opportunistic defensively and forced multiple turnovers. However, Joliet Catholic took control of the game and held a 30-7 lead with 5 minutes to go in the 4th Quarter. Providence Catholic was the epitome of “Play until the final whistle.” They fought hard in the final 5 minutes, recovering multiple onside kicks and scoring multiple touchdowns. Providence Catholic had the ball and a chance to win the game with under 1 minute remaining but the Hilltoppers defense stepped up forcing the final stop. In the end, Joliet Catholic prevailed 30-27.

MVP

Jayden Armstrong
Joliet Catholic

SCHOLAR ATHLETES

Martikai Nathaniel

Joliet Catholic

Martikai is a Horatio Alger National Scholar and excellent three-sport AP/Honors student-athlete competing in varsity and 7-on-7 Midwest Boom national football, USATF club and varsity track, and varsity and AAU volleyball, where his teams have placed at state, regional, national championships, and Junior Olympic levels, while also breaking school and All Conference track records. He shows leadership both on the field and in the classroom. Off the field, he maintains a 4.54 GPA as a member of National Honors Society, National English Honors Society, Mu Alpha Theta Honors Society, and Econ Club. Martikai plans to pursue a Finance degree at a four-year university and continue his journey as an Investment Banker. With his talent, discipline, and drive, he is certain to achieve continued success in all his future endeavors.
Gunnar Thormeyer

Providence Catholic

Gunnar Thormeyer is a distinguished scholar-athlete whose academic excellence has earned him recognition as an AP Scholar and membership in both the National and Spanish Honors Societies. His leadership and service shine through his roles as a Student Ambassador, Sacristan, Eucharistic Minister, and Veritas Award recipient. Gunnar is passionate about community impact. He is a committee member on the junior board of Young Hearts for Life and volunteers with the American Humane Society. He has been a varsity athlete in both football and track for the past 3 years. As an IESA State Champion and 2025 Discus State Qualifier, he plans to continue competing in football and discuss while pursuing a double major in Physics and Mechanical Engineering at Wabash College next fall.

GAME SUMMARY