Jack Muldoon ‘75 has guided the Friars to their first-ever PIAA Class 4A State Championship. In this Q&A, he reflects on the journey, the players, and the community that made it all possible.
Q: Tell us about your coaching style.
Coach Muldoon: My first year as Head Coach at Bonner & Prendie we only had about 34 guys, so we started out light in numbers. We were up to over 110 in our program this year. The program has grown significantly since then, but the core message from the first year to now has never changed. The most important thing is the relationships we build with these young men. They'll give you their best on and off the field if you're real with them and treat them with respect.
This year's team exemplifies that commitment. Out of 20 seniors, 19 have played together since freshman year. As we like to say " For growth we plant seeds, not sod." These boys have shown great Loyalty to our school and program, a defined trait of Friars football for over 70 years. They were on a mission from the time we lost in the state playoffs the prior year until our state championship win in December. It was something that we openly talked about, and prepared for every day.
Q: How do players balance schoolwork with the game?
Coach Muldoon: Our entire coaching staff emphasizes balancing academics and athletics. We talk to students about excelling in the classroom as much as they do on the field. Academics come first, and athletics accompanies that to help them achieve their goals.
This year, 19 players made the honor roll, including eight seniors. Their dedication in the classroom mirrors their commitment on the field. We've built a culture celebrating success in both areas.
Q: What makes this winning team unique?
Coach Muldoon: Over the past four years, this group of seniors has been one of the most successful in Friars football history. They won the District 12 city title all four years, claimed the Philadelphia Catholic League Title two years ago, and made the state playoffs each year, finishing off this year with a state title. They know how to win.
This year's team was bigger, stronger, and faster because they committed to the off-season training and weight room training that we prepared for them. They didn't miss practices, meetings, or games. They understood the mission and were all in.
Q: How would you describe the team's dynamic?
Coach Muldoon: They're easy to coach because they understand what it takes to be successful. They've matured as a group and they love to play football! Very talented, clearly understood the goal they wanted to achieve, as well as the hard work and sacrifice it took to get there.
Our coaching staff mirrors this commitment and as well our team's diversity. Our players need to have mentors they can relate to—successful men from all walks of life who also love football. Seven of my coaches have master's degrees, own their own businesses, we have teachers, tradesmen… many different careers and life experiences. We're here to win, but our primary goal is to mentor, teach and care for these kids and their future.
And I have an All-Star coaching staff! A committed, passionate and talented group.
No doubt that they carry me!
Q: What lessons do you hope the younger players learned from this team?
Coach Muldoon: I emphasize the example set by the seniors on my team. I told our sophomores and juniors that if they weren't paying attention to how the seniors acted, then shame on them. They set the standard for how to go about business every day.
Our seniors played a significant role this year, ensuring a bright future for Friars football. We've established an excellent destination for area youth players who want to attend a school of faith, get a quality education, and compete at a high level. We're here to make men out of them—to hold them accountable, mentor them, and care about them.
Q: What role did the Bonner community play in the team's success?
Coach Muldoon: The entire B&P community played a role in this team's success. My wife and family are so supportive as are all of my staffs families. My coaches' families sacrificed a lot to let us do what we love to do. Our alumni are amazing. They have been there in every way possible to support the team on the sidelines and at home, many saying how proud they felt of how well this team represented Bonner & Prendie and the Philadelphia Catholic League. Several said they noticed how disciplined and respectful our players carry themselves. I am very proud that they feel that way.
Q: What does winning the state championship mean to you?
Coach Muldoon: Winning a state championship validates all the hard work and dedication. It's not just about the trophies but the relationships, the lessons, and the journey.
A lot of positive press and attention has come along for us and the school. Very much deserved for the school, as everyone here works very hard to create a great atmosphere for these students to spend their high school years.
Our team was recognized by the Philadelphia Eagles, as well as Upper Darby Council for winning the state championship, again very appreciative of the positive attention for our team and our school.
As the Friars celebrate their historic season, they're already setting their sights on the next chapter—continuing to uphold the legacy of Bonner & Prendie football. We don't just want to win; we want to do it right.