Federal Way, WA – The Todd Beamer High School football team honored six seniors on October 22 at Federal Way Memorial Field, continuing their season with modified games after the varsity schedule was cancelled earlier in the month. The cancellation, announced on October 1, was attributed to safety concerns, injuries, and player ineligibility, drawing significant attention throughout the state.
Senior offensive lineman Carter Jackson, one of two senior starters, expressed the team's initial devastation following the cancellation news. He noted that the team initially believed they would not have any more games or a senior night. However, head coach Rodney McCurry and the school administration actively worked to secure additional games, a development Jackson described as a significant relief, allowing the seniors to play out the remainder of their final season, even if it wasn't a varsity schedule.
The senior night game against Kentlake resulted in a 37-6 loss, but the outcome was secondary to acknowledging the six graduating players. Coach McCurry highlighted the commitment of the coaching staff to the seniors behind the scenes. Jackson himself is a key player, described by McCurry as a "True Titan" who has been with the program since his freshman year. McCurry noted Jackson's strong character, status as a 4.0 student, and characterized him as the "heart and soul of our team."
Jackson has served as a pivotal leader for the team, especially given its relatively inexperienced roster. He leads the offensive line in daily drills and film sessions, actively taking in younger players and consistently supporting his teammates. He maintained confidence in the team's ability to persevere through the challenges of the season, never doubting them.
Beyond the field, Jackson has been vocal in defending his teammates and the program online against "rumors and misinformation." He emphasized that the team's core desire is to play football and clarified that challenges stemmed from academic problems, grades, and multiple season-ending injuries, rather than placing blame on the coaching staff.
During the senior night game, senior defensive player DreShawn Reddick provided a moment of on-field success, intercepting a pass from Kentlake quarterback Isaak Young and returning it 55 yards for a touchdown. Coach McCurry pointed to Reddick’s play as an example of the team's ongoing fight and dedication despite a challenging season, stating pride in all the players.
The Todd Beamer team is scheduled to play one final game on October 26, traveling to Snohomish High School to face their JV squad. Federal Way Public Schools Director of Equity and Athletics John Yellam confirmed the game is still on schedule. Should there be any changes, Todd Beamer's Athletic Director, Amber Plummer, is expected to provide updates.
