South Bend Clay Football: Legends and Historic Moments in Final Season
South Bend Clay football is entering its final season with a mix of nostalgia, anticipation, and a desire to end on a high note. The South Bend Community School Corp. trustees made the decision in April to close Clay and consolidate it with Adams, Riley, and Washington, making this the last season for the Colonials.
The final season will kick off with a home game against Hammond Bishop Noll, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Friday. Both teams are eager to secure their first win in at least two years. Noll’s last victory came in August 2021, while Clay has been on a 28-game losing streak since their last triumph in August 2020.
In light of the final season, it is only fitting to take a look back at the legendary moments and notable players in Clay football history. To capture the essence of the program’s best, former athletic director Greg Humnicky and former head football coach Mike Kuntz were consulted to help identify the top teams, moments, and players.
While Clay has had a rich football history, there are two standout seasons that deserve special mention. The first is the undefeated 1976 team, led by head coach Elmer Britton. Despite their remarkable 10-0 record, they failed to qualify for the Class 4A playoffs due to a lack of games against teams at that level. Nevertheless, their victories over prominent schools like Penn and Goshen cemented their place in Clay’s history. They concluded the season with a memorable 10-8 win over Culver Academy.
The second notable season is the magical run of the 2002 team. This team not only won Clay’s lone 4A sectional and regional championships in program history but also reached the semi-state stage. Coached by Mike Kuntz, the team showcased star players such as defensive end Michael Macellari, quarterback Craig Moore, and linebacker Adam O’Neil. Their journey came to an end in a close 17-14 defeat against Fort Wayne Bishop Dwenger after surrendering a 14-0 lead in the fourth quarter. Nonetheless, the 2002 team left an indelible mark on Clay football.
One of the pivotal moments in Clay’s history came in 1999 when they defeated defending 4A state champion Goshen against all odds. Head coach Mike Kuntz was on the verge of stepping away from the program after a series of disappointing seasons, but the upset victory over powerhouse Goshen turned the tables. The game was played amidst a winter storm, with players shoveling snow off the field before kickoff. Clay’s defense rose to the occasion, intercepting three Goshen passes and securing a remarkable 14-13 upset victory. This win marked a turning point for Kuntz’s career and propelled the program into a new era of competitiveness.
While the team accomplishments tell a compelling story, the individual contributions of players cannot be overlooked. Among the notable players who have left a lasting impact on Clay football are running back Marlon Jacobs, defensive end Michael Macellari, linebacker Adam O’Neil, and wide receiver George Iams. Their records and achievements on the field have secured them a place in Clay’s storied history.
As South Bend Clay Football faces its final season, the legacy and memories of extraordinary teams, moments, and players will forever be etched in the annals of the program. Despite the challenges faced in recent years, the Colonials will step onto the field with determination and pride, aiming to create a memorable farewell season.
