HUNTERSVILLE — During the Crusaders’ halftime celebration Friday, fans, alumni, faculty and students cheered even louder than usual as Christ the King Catholic High School was presented with the 2024-2025 Wells Fargo State Cup.
“Within our own class we have shown growth, maturity, discipline and talent,” said President Dr. Carl Semmler. “We are reputable members of the organization and successful at what we do.”
This is the first year the Crusaders won the annual Division 1A first place award for overall sports excellence.
Semmler and Director of Advancement Nicole Seeling credit last year’s athletic director, Markus Duckworth, and this year’s athletic director, Jen Tuschong, all the coaches, parents and students for their dedication and hard work.
“In our locker rooms, on the field, and in the classrooms, we try to create a spirit of dedication, fortitude, patience and sportsmanship,” Semmler said. “There is a real sense of positivity, and it all pays off. Our athletic teams are doing well.”
Although the Wells Fargo State Cup is traditionally given during a football home game, the award is based on all a school’s sanctioned sports. Points are awarded on a sliding scale to all schools that finish in the top eight positions in a North Carolina High School Athletic Association state championship event – 50 points for first, 45 for second, 40 for third, etc. Five participation points are awarded for each team that competes in an NCHSAA playoff event.
“These students strive for excellence in all areas of their lives, and that is reflected in how they treat each other and their drive to win,” said Seeling.
The Crusaders took the Wells Fargo Cup win with 432.5 points, a 50-point gain on runner-up Bishop McGuinness High School with 382.5 points, winning accolades, a large banner, and the silver cup. Semmler said it make a great addition for the new trophy case, which will be in the atrium of CTK’s new building expansion.
“I would never say that God would favor one team over another, but I do think when you are in a right relationship with Him, you are in the right relationship with your own body, and you perform to the best of your abilities,” said Semmler. “And that gives you the best chance at success.”
— Lisa M. Geraci, photo provided