Mt. Carmel’s Men
May 5, 2009
When Mick and I arrived to Mount Carmel High School in Chicago to visit Team USA assistant coach Frank Lenti and safety Jordan Lynch we noticed two district buildings. The original 3 story school built in 1924 that houses the Alumni Gym, most of the class rooms, and the new (much larger) expansion building built in 2005. Which holds the cafeteria, administration offices, new gym, indoor track, and weight room. As we entered the school through the original building we were instructed to head to Coach Lenti’s office, which led us into the new building and past the cafeteria where the students were eating lunch.
As we entered the athletic office we immediately noticed the two state championship trophies sitting on the floor. As Coach Lenti saw us checking them out he replied with a smile, “We’re pretty spoiled here at Mt. Carmel, we have more trophies then case space.” The high standards were very evident at the school, as coach Lenti called the pass 10-3 season “not really a good year, but not half bad.” But it’s not all about athletics at Mt. Carmel, as Coach was quick to praise alumni that have gone on to achieve other success then making it as a professional athlete.. Such as a team co-captain at Mt.Carmel (with future NFL star Donovan McNabb) who eventually became a member of the secret service, serving under President Bush.
Coach Lenti’s description of the significance of the Junior World Championship, could not be mistaken. Describing the JWC as not merely an “All-Star game,” but something much more, as “those kids will be wearing USA across their chest, representing the country.” It was easy to see that the importance of this opportunity had rubbed off on Jordan, who Coach Lenti personally recommended, describing him as an “awesome fit.”
It was evident in the way Jordan conducted himself in the interview. Saying “what ever it takes to help the team out,” when asked about making the position change from quarterback where he starred at Mt. Carmel, to playing safety for Team USA. His excitement was great to see, explaining that ” it was an honor” to have the chance to represent the United States. The best thing about Jordan is that it’s all about the game, telling us that he’s ready to “just play more football,” when asked to what he’s looking forward to the most, a testament to his desire to get better, and help improving the team anyway he can.
As Jordan escorted Mick and I around the campus we were both impressed with the history of school. Along with jerseys from the illustrious alumni such as Donovan McNabb, and Simeon Rice, there were copies of newspaper clippings dating back to the early 1900’s, old Letterman sweaters, and cases full of athletic trophies. The tradition runs deep at Mt. Carmel, and Jordan was just honored to be part of it, thanking Coach Lenti for helping him make his mark. Team USA head coach Chuck Kyle “couldn’t have chosen a better coach,” Jordan replied was asked about about playing in the Junior World championship with his high school head coach.
During our tour of Mt. Carmel High School, Jordan introduced us to Jon Hoerster, his quarterback coach, and most importantly Father Carl, the principle of school. We also had the opportunity to check out the weight room, where Jordan reminisced about 5am workout sessions, something he credited to his success, but at the same time something he will not exactly miss. From the vist Mick and I were very impressed with the tradtion of Mt. Carmel and it’s great to know that we’re just adding to it, with such an amazing and historic event as the IFAF Junior World Championship.
