San Antonio, Texas – The Texas Lutheran Bulldogs secured their third straight Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) championship Saturday afternoon, defeating Centenary 28-20 in a game that blended triumph with solemn remembrance.
Community gathers to honor lost students
Before kickoff, the university community gathered on the field to honor three students who had tragically died in separate automobile crashes earlier in the week. Deyreck Dean and A’Jean Augustine were killed in a crash early Monday, while Joseph Angel Sanchez Jr., a non‑football student, died Tuesday in a separate Wilson County accident. The university described all three as “beloved” and said they will be “deeply mourned by friends, professors and loved ones.”
In a moving tribute, the Bulldogs carried the jerseys of Dean and Augustine onto the field, and players painted the initials of the fallen on their faces. The ceremony underscored the close‑knit nature of the Texas Lutheran campus and the role of faith and family in supporting one another during hardship.
Game highlights
After the remembrance ceremony, the Bulldogs came out firing. Early in the first quarter, quarterback Elijah Favela called his own number and powered up the middle for a 7‑0 lead. Later, Favela dropped back near the 25‑yard line and launched a deep pass that senior wide receiver Ja’Mare Nichols hauled in, securing a second touchdown despite tight coverage.
The Bulldogs’ defense forced a crucial fumble on the ensuing kickoff, setting up a short field that helped maintain their momentum. Centenary fought back, narrowing the gap, but Texas Lutheran’s balanced attack and disciplined defense held firm through the final minutes.
Significance of the championship
Winning a third consecutive SCAC title highlights the program’s consistency and the leadership of head coach Coach Name (name not provided in source). The victory also reflects the resilience of a team that chose to play in honor of their departed classmates, embodying the university’s commitment to community, faith, and perseverance.
Students, faculty, and local supporters praised the Bulldogs for their dedication on the field and their respectful tribute off it. The championship adds to Texas Lutheran’s growing reputation in Division III football and offers a hopeful note for the campus as it moves forward from a week of sorrow.
Looking ahead
With the regular season concluded, the Bulldogs now turn their focus to postseason play, where they will represent the SCAC in the NCAA Division III playoffs. The team hopes to continue its winning tradition while keeping the memory of Dean, Augustine, and Sanchez close to their hearts.
University officials announced plans for a memorial service later this month, inviting the broader community to join in honoring the lives of the three students. The service will provide an opportunity for healing and reaffirm the university’s core values of faith, family, and individual liberty.
Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.
