Colin McEniry did not foresee his last football season at Marmion unfolding as it has. McEniry, a 6-foot-3, 185-pound senior receiver, earned the title of CCL/ESCC Red Offensive Player of the Year last season. He attracted interest from Ivy, Patriot, and Pioneer league coaches who wanted his game film from the initial weeks of this season.
However, four days before the season opener, the team had to adapt as sophomore quarterback Andrew Saltijeral was sidelined due to a preseason injury. McEniry found himself unexpectedly tasked with stepping into the quarterback role. “I’ll be honest, I was super freaking out,” McEniry said. His only prior quarterback experience was from childhood flag football.
Last season’s Marmion quarterback transferred, leading McEniry to take some practice snaps during summer workouts. Coaches named him as a backup option, unsure if Saltijeral was prepared, until his injury clarified McEniry’s role. Despite also starting as a linebacker, McEniry’s skills made him a logical choice. “You’re putting your best athlete and smartest player at quarterback,” said Coach Adam Guerra. “He understands the complete offense.”
“Am I gonna be able to play in college?”
McEniry had recruitment concerns. College coaches wanted footage highlighting his play. Coach Guerra reassured him, explaining that stepping into this role demonstrated leadership and team spirit. This transition came with challenges. “I hadn’t been hurt in two years playing both ways,” McEniry shared about his first contact-free practice.
His initial 7-on-7 practice performance seemed discouraging with few completions, but things improved. McEniry’s efforts contributed to Marmion’s 1-1 record, losing narrowly to Racine Lutheran before beating Lincoln Park decisively.
“I was super nervous the first two drives,” McEniry recounted. Yet, a successful 80-yard drive in the game instilled confidence. His basketball experience as a defensive leader further showcased his strong leadership skills.
Statistically, McEniry has thrown 14 of 24 passes so far this season. He completed 7 of 15 for 58 yards and a touchdown in the opening loss. Against Lincoln Park, he improved to 7 of 9, adding a rushing touchdown.
“Colin is the ultimate team leader,” Guerra commented. There’s potential to build on McEniry’s performances. Despite describing himself as critical of his timing, McEniry sees the potential to better use the pocket and reduce turnovers.
Expanded playoff qualifiers offer hope even with the challenging CCL Purple schedule. “We can definitely turn some heads, even without me as a receiver,” McEniry stated.