Senior Marc Dougherty (Colby College), head football coach Mark Songy, and senior Perry Ganci (Nicholls State University)

Two seniors on Jesuit High School’s football team committed to continue their academic and athletic careers on the collegiate level. The commitments were made in front of a large crowd of family, friends, and teammates who gathered in St. Ignatius Hall on Wednesday, Feb. 6, the National Signing Day for high school football players all over the country.

View the Photo Gallery of NCAA Football Signing Day

Marc Dougherty, who anchored Jesuit’s defense as middle linebacker, will attend Colby College in Waterville, Maine. 

Jesuit’s head football coach, Mark Songy, had this to say about Dougherty: 

“In expressing the value of Marc Dougherty to our team, it is an understatement to say that he will be difficult to replace. Marc was a four year starter and a model team player. In those years, Marc has shown a coachable attitude and a cerebral approach to the game. It’s been a real joy to watch him develop over the years to become a standout leader of the defense, serving as a team captain this season. He was essential to getting our guys in the right fronts and coverages when it was needed. In addition to his 93 tackles, he picked up one fumble recovery, two pass deflections, and an interception which he returned 49 yards. On and off the field, Marc’s example has laid the groundwork for our younger players. Colby College is getting a real asset in Marc Dougherty, and although he will be greatly missed for his on-field production, I’m excited for Marc as he begins a new journey in becoming the man God has made him to be.”

Perry Ganci, who led the team in tackles and sacks, signed a National Letter of Intent with Nicholls State University in Thibodeaux, LA.

Coach Songy added these words about Ganci:

“Perry Ganci has been an exceptional talent for our program as a three year starter and a driving force of this football team as captain. On the field, he was key to any defensive success we have had. He racked up an impressive 116 tackles this season, including 15.5 sacks. He has a tremendous motor, which is infectious to all our players to never stop giving it everything they have. He brings that same intensity to every practice and has rounded out his athletic talent as a two-sport athlete by also participating in the wrestling program. More than anything, the type of guy that Perry is has been a great example for our team. Perry will undoubtedly go on to be a super addition to Nicholls State. Our team will miss the leadership and example he has provided.”