Kicking with Chemistry - Strong Connections Define Central Catholic’s Football Specialists

Central Catholic High School’s specialist’s unit has been calling itself the Trinity or the Trifecta because it’s made up of three senior student-athletes who have known each other for a long time.

Grady Rough is the long snapper for the Fighting Irish, Ryan Dempsey is the holder, and Blake Moody is the placekicker.  They all attended Christ the King for elementary school.  Ryan and Grady have known each other since kindergarten, and Blake came to Christ the King when he was in 4th grade.  They trust each other and have worked hard to make a great team.

Central Catholic’s placekicker has worn jersey number 6 for many years, so Blake knew that would be his number for his senior year.  Ryan wanted to wear the number 9, which is the number previously worn by his cousin, Jake.  Grady had previously worn number 42, but he decided to change to number 15.  They all like the idea that their numbers add up: 9+6=15.

“We’ve known each other for so long, and this gives us a special bond,” said Ryan.  

“Our connection makes communication easier,” Grady added.  “It’s also great to be able to spend time with close friends every day at practice.”

“It means a lot for us to be able to experience this together because we’re such good friends,” Blake agreed.  “We are really able to trust each other and rely on each other.”

Mike Padgett, who works with the specialists as an assistant coach for CCHS, says that the three work well together and make a good team.  They work every day at practice on their technique and timing, which is an important key to their success.

The Trifecta and the Fighting Irish return to the gridiron against Rocky River on Friday, November 21 in the regional final of the OHSAA Division III State Playoffs. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m. at Robert J. Bishop, Jr. Stadium on the campus of Clyde High School.