The 2007 De La Salle football season started off with the Pilots on a hot streak, winning their first six football games before injuries took its toll on the team as it limped to a 0-4 finish with a disappointing loss in the district semi-finals against Rochester Adams. But that does not take away from some shining moments during the season itself.
* The first four games of the year saw the Pilots defense allow their opponents to score just 17 points, while scoring 147 points behind the punishing running attack of the DLS offense.
* Chad O'Shell rushing for nearly 1000 yards in 6 1/2 games and tying the school record set last year by Jimmy Berezik of 19 rushing touchdowns in one season. Chad was named to the Detroit News and Detroit Free Press Division II All-State teams.
* The thrilling homecoming win over Catholic Central in overtime, 21-14. It was the first win over CC on homecoming since 1994 and the first CC/DLS overtime game since 1982 when the Pilots beat the Shamrocks 7-6 in the last game ever played on Br. George Synan Athletic Field located at the school's previous location in Detroit.
* The emegence of two sophomores on the defensive line: Steve O'Shell and Matt Privett who held their own against some of the top players in the state of Michigan. Bad news for the rest of the league: the pair have two more years left to wreak havoc on opposing offensive lines.
* Clinching playoff and Prep Bowl berths for the second straight year - the consecutive playoff berths were the first since the 2002-2003 football seasons, while the consecutive Prep Bowls were the first since the 1993-1994 seasons
* Consecutive 6-0 starts for the football team for the first time since the 1984-1985 seasons.
* The DLS defense allowing the least amount of points in the since the 2003 season.
While in some respects the team didn't get to accomplish all the goals they had set for themselves, the 2007 De La Salle Pilots should be proud with all they achieved during the year. This season proved that 2006 was not a fluke and that De La Salle will remain a force to be reckoned within the Catholic League and the state of Michigan. The Pilots of today are continuing a tradition started 80 years ago on a dirt field on the corner of Glenfield and Conner.
As for the underclassmen, the 2008 season begins now with off-season training. It is up to you to continue the tradition of excellence achieved by previous DLS football teams.
As for the parents, students, alumni, and fans, thanks again for your support and making Warren Fitzgerald a true home field advantage for the Pilots. Thanks for the pre-game meals, the shakers, the words of encouragement, and the support you have shown over the years. As for the senior parents, please don't make yourselves strangers and continue to show the support you have shown over the past four years.
The mission goes on as the Pilots start on the road to Ford Field in 2008. As usual, good luck and Go Pilots!
