Regina rally celebrates feat and support behind it

IOWA CITY – Iowa City Regina football players entered the school's gymnasium to a well-deserved standing ovation, and, in turn, the Regals applauded those that supported them.

Family, fans and members of the school community attended a pep rally Sunday evening to celebrate the Regals' fourth straight state title and set the state's all-time longest win streak. It also served as a chance for them to turn the praise on those who filled the bleachers on one side of the gym.

As Regina Coach Marv Cook and the Regals seniors took the microphone, the theme was thanking the supporters that make an impact around and off the field.

'We wouldn't be here without you and the coaches,' senior Adam Demory said before adding, 'I wouldn't want to end this any other way than this.'

The top-ranked Regals (14-0) beat Fort Dodge St. Edmonds, 35-0, to win the Class 1A championship Friday at the UNI-Dome in Cedar Falls. The pep rally was a chance to honor the squad that won a 56th straight game and joined Solon (2007-10) as the only Iowa programs to win four titles in a row. Regina has won the last two 1A crowns after two consecutive in 2A.

'What a ride,' Regina Booster Club President Tom Brandt said. 'Regina High School, hats off to you.'

The nearly 90-minute ceremony opened with a brief word and introduction of the team, which entered in a cue. They donned gray t-shirts that had '56' and '4' on opposite sides of the Regina logo on the front, commemorating their achievement. A slideshow of still photos played on a loop on a small portable screen. The trophy sat next to the dais for all to see.

'It's been a fun year with these guys,' Cale Lehman said. 'It's sad to see it end.'

One of the priests stepped forward and offered a prayer and some perspective about the streak.

'How many fingers am I holding up?' Father Rudy Juarez asked while flashing four and then 10 digits. 'Think of the possibilities.'

Cook and players shared some thoughts and anecdotes. Some were direct comments to what makes the program success, including the players' the dedication, training, support staff and coaches. Others were funny, while others seemed touching.

Senior running back Riley Dixon passed on a little advice to the juniors. He said this might be the greatest time of their lives, so cherish it.

'Don't take it for granted,' said Dixon, who turned from the microphone while apparently suppressing his emotions. 'It ends fast…I'm glad we brought another one back.'

Senior Elliot Halsch was one of a few that showed his appreciation to the young men, who suited up each game and took the field alongside him. The accomplishments were made together.

'You guys are great,' Halsch said. 'There's a lot of support out there.'

Cook, who received a standing ovation after he was introduced as owning an 88-5 record over seven seasons, admitted it is bittersweet to part with another group of championship seniors. He loves seeing them take pictures with the championship trophy, but realizes it will be the last time they sport a Regals uniform.

'It's a great group of young men,' said Cook, noting he hopes players apply the lessons learned in football to their daily life. 'I'm proud to have been their coach.'