As another thrilling football season comes to a close, Archbishop Riordan’s varsity team showcased determination, grit, and teamwork, finishing with an impressive 12–1 record. Every game was filled with hard-fought battles, standout plays, and moments that highlighted players’ dedication on the field. This season was about the talent, leadership, and heart that made the Crusaders a force to be reckoned with around the Bay.
This year is especially memorable because some of Riordan’s top football players, specifically seniors, will be taking their talents to Division I programs. Their commitment to excellence has left a lasting mark on the program and inspired teammates across the roster.
Some players are even graduating early: Tommy Tofi ’26, Cynai Thomas ’26, Michael Mitchell Jr. ’26, and Skylar Tiatia ’26.
In addition to those graduating early, other notable players who are worthy of watching are Judge Nash ’26, Sione Fanaika ’26, Michael Langi ’26, Kyle Welch ’26, and Perrion Williams ’26. Every single one of these players made a lasting impact on the team, but they are moving on to bigger things, either next semester or in the fall.
“Take it one day at a time, embrace every single moment because it goes by really fast, play for yourself and play for your teammates,” Thomas stated.
Tofi, one of the most dominant linemen Riordan has ever seen, will be attending the University of Oregon.
“I chose Oregon because they were really the first team that actually recruited me before my whole recruiting started to blow up, and a lot of coaches who were recruiting me got fired or took another coaching job, besides Oregon. It was the clear choice for me,” Tofi said.
Riordan’s wide receiver room has been filled with elite receivers over the years, but this year it included multiple standout receivers, including Judge Nash ’26 and Cynai Thomas ’26.
Thomas, one of Riordan’s most explosive and reliable wide receivers, is committed to Oregon State, joining the Beavers next year. Thomas’ elite speed, sharp route-running, and ability to shine made him one of the team’s most dangerous offensive weapons.
“I’m going to Oregon State because that’s where I felt the most comfortable and most at home, and I feel I can have the most success there,” Thomas said.
Nash will continue his academic and athletic journey at Harvard University in the fall. Nash was known on the Riordan offense for his remarkable catching ability and as an end zone threat.
In the 2025 season, he began with numerous multi-touchdown games and he led the receiver room with the best average receiving yards per game.
On the defensive side, Tiatia, a 6 foot 1 inch, 215-pound linebacker known for his toughness, instincts, and leadership, has signed to continue his football career at San Jose State University. Tiatia has been the heart of Riordan’s defense, consistently making crucial plays and setting the tone for the entire unit.
“I’m going to San Jose State because I really love the campus setting there and the culture,” Tiatia said.
Finally, Mitchell, a four-year Crusader Varsity quarterback, is committed to Stanford University. Mitchell has been the center of Riordan’s offense because he has been a threat to every defense with his elite running ability and arm strength.
At Stanford, he will be staying close to home while coming closer to his dream of playing professional football.
Mitchell stated, “I chose Stanford because I believe in what Coach Luck is building there and I’m excited to be a part of it! Also, you can not beat the education.”
As players hang up their Crusader jerseys, each player remembers the work he has put in these past four years and hopes to perform with passion and courageous efforts in their college careers and beyond.
