10/29/18
Madeline Suarez
On October 19, 2018 in Mustang Valley, the ATI (Abbott-Tech/Immaculate) football team took on Wilcox Tech under the lights for the annual homecoming game. Every year, this game attracts IHS alumni, a large portion of the student body, and countless other fans. It provides a time for the entire Immaculate family to come together and cheer on the team. “The Stable,” which is the IHS student section, was packed with students all decked out in white for the “white-out.” Students were able to enjoy the game with friends as Mustang spirit was on full display to bring Spirit Week to a close. There were also many alumni that came back to watch the game and reconnect with old friends, teachers, and coaches.
One alumnus who came to game to the game was Mickey Pascuzzi ’70. Shortly after graduating from Immaculate, Pascuzzi began volunteering as the IHS athletic trainer after noticing that there was a need for someone with relative experience and equipment on the sidelines. Being an emergency medical technician, Pascuzzi went on to volunteer for 25 years on the sidelines of Immaculate’s sporting events and was inducted into the IHS Athletic Hall of Fame. Pascuzzi enjoyed being invited to share a few words with the current team and commented, “It totally surprised me that not only did I get to reminisce with so many familiar faces, but was also able to make new friends such as Deacon Jeff. It [extended the family feeling] when people that I didn’t even know prior to the game treated me like they knew me forever. That meant a lot to me and is what it means to be a Mustang.” Returning for Homecoming marked 52 years since Pascuzzi attended his first Immaculate football game. “It’s always fun to come back and see the students and staff of Immaculate,” shared Pascuzzi.
The IHS cheerleaders gave a great halftime performance, followed by the introduction of Immaculate’s Homecoming Court. A total of 14 seniors were introduced, with Mikey Basile and Kayla Mingachos being announced as Homecoming King and Queen.
The Mustangs won the game with a final score of 50-20, bringing their season record to 4-2. Head Coach, Rich Holmes shares some highlights from the game including Matt Christe (Immaculate student) rushing for 242 yards and scoring four touchdowns and Anthony Frasier (Abbott Tech student) rushing for 215 yards and scoring three touchdowns. “It was the first time in my 36 years of coaching that two players rushed for over 200 yards in one game,” said Holmes. CJ Cianflone (IHS) passed for two touchdowns, while Ethan Garcia (IHS) and Tommy Fahey (IHS) playing great defense. Holmes also added, “Homecoming is great for the fans. The ATI fans were treated by a dominant offensive and a strong defensive performance. Thanks to all of the Immaculate and Abbott Tech fans who came out to support the team’s effort.”
Mustang Minutes 