O’Dea Football’s Return to the Big Stage: Young Stars Step Up as the Irish Chase Back-to-Back Titles

By Zion Moimoi and Lamar Darden

SEATTLE- O’Dea football is headed back to the state championship for the second straight year, continuing a tradition of toughness, discipline, and next-man-up mentality. This season hasn’t been the smoothest as injuries, roster changes, and young players forced into bigger roles have affected the season, but the Irish have responded the same way they always do. 

Two players have been at the center of that resilience: linebacker J’Andre Castillo AKA Problem, a transfer from Garfield who has quickly made his statement on special teams and has earned the trust of the defense, and defensive end Keelan Thomas, who is preparing for the game he didn’t get the chance to play in last year. 

Castillo Steps Into the Spotlight 

With standout linebacker Timo Sousou sidelined after a fractured foot injury, O’Dea needed someone to step in and fill a major defensive role. Castillo, despite being new to the program, has embraced that challenge with maturity and focus. 

Heading into the championship, Castillo’s mindset has been described as intensely locked in. Coaches and teammates say he’s shown all week that the moment isn’t too big for him. His attitude echoes that confidence. 

He made it clear that the opportunity means everything after a season full of adjustments switching schools, learning a new system, and earning his spot. Castillo emphasized that this title shot represents more than just a game. 

“I’m excited, but I’m locked in,” he explained. “With everything I had to learn coming here, I want this championship really bad. It would prove all the work was worth it.” 

Stepping into Sousou's role is no easy task, but Castillo has shown he’s ready. 

“When they told me I had to step up, I didn’t hesitate,” he said. “It’s for Timo, for the team, for all of us."

Thomas Ready for His Moment After Last Year’s Setback 

For defensive end Keelan Thomas, this championship represents a redemption moment. Last season, he was sidelined and forced to watch the state title game from the bench. This time, he’ll be on the field from the opening whistle. 

Those around the program say Thomas has carried silent determination all year. Every practice rep, every film session, and every game built toward this opportunity. 

Thomas noted how much the senior group has impacted his development and readiness. 

“The seniors have been guiding me since day one,” he said. “They showed me how to play confident and how to act like a leader. They’ve pushed me to be ready for this role.” 

Even with his preparation, the atmosphere of a championship game brings a mix of nerves and confidence. Thomas acknowledged both. 

“I’m nervous, but it’s the good kind,” he admitted. “Once that first hit happens, it turns into confidence. It’s still football at the end of the day.” 

O’Dea’s Championship Identity 

As O’Dea prepares for another shot at a state title this time defending it, the team’s identity remains unchanged: discipline, physicality, and unity. This season’s journey has showcased the depth of the program, with players like Castillo and Thomas stepping forward when their names were called. 

Both players embody the Irish mentality focused, prepared, and motivated by more than individual accolades. Their stories highlight the backbone of O’Dea football: young athletes rising to meet the moment. 

With one game left and history calling, the Irish head into the championship confident in their preparation and hungry to cement a back-to-back title run.