Blainey Dowling’s return to football in Chicago marked a tough 42-point loss in difficult weather. Despite the defeat, the St. Xavier senior quarterback, who previously attended Mount Carmel, described his comeback as a blessing. This sentiment is rooted in a career marred by two elbow surgeries, resulting in doctors recommending a medical retirement.
“Initially, retiring seemed the best choice,” Dowling admitted. “But coming to St. Xavier turned out to be a blessing every day.” Despite the 59-17 defeat to Indiana Wesleyan, Dowling completed 175 yards and achieved two touchdowns.
Freshman wide receiver Coen Demack became instrumental with five receptions for 81 yards, including a 56-yard TD, propelling St. Xavier to a brief 17-7 lead. Senior defensive back Owen Schickel made significant contributions with 14 tackles, 10 of them solo, and two forced fumbles. Indiana Wesleyan, now 4-0, was led by Arjun Lothe’s 278 yards and three TDs, and Ryan Whitwell’s 243 rushing yards contributing to two touchdowns. Blake Brumbaugh also made the most of his three catches, gaining 170 yards and three touchdowns.
Returning to play in front of family since 2022 was a unique experience for Dowling, who helped Mount Carmel clinch a state title then. “Thankful to the Lord for letting me play,” Dowling noted. “My siblings were thrilled to watch.”
Dowling’s current season highlight includes a 449-yard, four-TD performance against Taylor in Indiana, earning him MSFA Midwest League Offensive Player of the Week. St. Xavier’s Coach Mike Feminis recognized Dowling’s immediate impact, emphasizing his playmaking abilities despite years without action. “I reminded him he can’t easily resume his state championship form,” Feminis said. “Like a prizefighter returning after a gap.”
Demack, a former Bishop McNamara student, emerging as a favored receiver with 27 catches, praised Dowling’s competitive nature and attitude. “He’s a winner, evident in his leadership,” Demack stated. “Losses ignite his determination.”
St. Xavier’s losing record is partly due to challenging matchups, which Feminis prefers for preparation ahead of the MSFA Midwest season. Their schedule included a 49-14 loss to NCAA Division III’s 12th-ranked Wisconsin-Whitewater. Dowling reflected on this adversity, acknowledging the tough teams weren’t an excuse, stressing the need for a turnaround.
Beyond football, Dowling, a communications major, dreams of running a training facility. “I wish to guide young talents, showing resilience and adversity management,” he shared. “Circumstances don’t define you; persistence leads to success.”
Report by Jeff Vorva, Daily Southtown freelance contributor.