Cathedral Catholic High School student-athlete Thomas Kane-Berman ’18 knows what it means to be a part of a family.

“The best thing about being a Don is the brotherhood that comes with it, we’re a family,” Kane-Berman said. “I’m proud to be part of it. It’s nice to know that you don’t have to be blood related to be a family.”

In a contest between two Carmel Valley high schools, Kane-Berman and his fellow football teammates will combine camaraderie and athletic ability when the varsity football team takes on the Westview Wolverines today at Westview High School.

In addition to cultivating the Dons spirit, the varsity team participates in special rituals to help build unity, focus, and spirituality.

According to Head Coach Sean Doyle, the team attends mass before every game, and then it shares a pregame meal. Finally, the players meditate in prayer garden to center themselves on their God, family, and teammates.

Coach Doyle describes his senior players as motivated, passionate, and driven.

“The seniors mentor me to be a great player and leader,” CCHS offensive lineman Tommy Lyle-Temple said. “That way, I can help mentor the team when I’m a senior.”

Confidence and trust were huge contributors in the Friday Night Light’s win against Damonte Ranch (49-12) and at last Thursday’s Honor Bowl win against Catholic Central (28-25), Coach Doyle said.

Pursuing passion helps the team become dedicated and determined to achieve a Holy Bowl win this season, according to Coach Doyle. Although the team boasts many KUSI interviews and letter of intent signings, what goes on behind the locker room exemplifies the real mission of the program and the school community.

“CCHS has instilled a sense of unity and spirituality from the religion classes to the athletic department,” Coach Doyle said. “The team describes its daily motto as being a ‘Champion of God’ every time it walks onto the field.”