Adding another banner to the crowded rafters, Cardinal Gibbons claimed the Wells Fargo State Cup title, marking the school’s 19th time winning the state’s top award for overall sports excellence.
Leading with 875 points earned across five sanctioned state championships (and two non-sanctioned titles, although those points did not count towards Wells Fargo competition), the athletic programs battled their way to the top.
Trailing behind the Crusaders with 842.5 points was Marvin Ridge from just outside of Charlotte.
Both Cardinal Gibbons and Marvin Ridge outscored the winners of the other classifications.
“We don’t focus on winning; it’s a goal. It is something we want to do, but it’s not for the win; it’s not for the scoreboard. Our success is a byproduct of investing in our teams, living out our mission, and our faith,” said Athletic Director Tonya Holmes.
Looking back to the fall, women’s tennis, women’s cross country, and women’s field hockey set the bar high, each claiming a state championship.
Following these achievements, men’s and women’s swimming and cheerleading secured their rings.
Ending the year, the men’s lacrosse team took home the trophy, defeating their longtime rival, Lake Norman.
“Winning the Cup is a powerful statement because we continue to be a force in the entire state, but nationally that gives us a lot more prowess. It is really special to be able to maintain a level of excellence over the years,” stated Holmes.
The Wells Fargo Cup award has symbolized overall sports excellence among North Carolina high schools since 1979.
All schools that finish in the top eight standings in an NCHSAA state championship event will receive State Cup points.
Cardinal Gibbons now totals 15 NCHSAA Cups and 4 NCISAA Private School Cups.
The Athletic Department takes pride in its young athletes’ skill and determination as they grow and develop through sports. With another successful season in the books, Cardinal Gibbons athletics is already looking ahead to defend its title. Each program will work toward another triumphant year and the opportunity to bring home the Wells Fargo State Cup once again.
“I want everyone to feel like they are valuable to our program, no matter how far they go in the playoffs. I love getting to see new teams contribute; these points mean our coaches are locked in, our community is supportive, and every athlete has an opportunity to be a representative of Cardinal Gibbons,” said Holmes.
