Leo Lowin took Jeff Monken’s words to heart as he posed for a photo with Army’s football MVP award at the team banquet Wednesday.
Lowin was informed by Monken that this would be the senior captain and three-year starter’s last opportunity to address the 2023 team as the banquet
The three-year starter and senior captain ended his short speech with the accustomed “Beat Navy.” But, what Lowin said before the rallying cry encapsulates the team’s camaraderie and brotherhood.
Lowin thanked Army’s coaching staff, specifically Mike Viti, Conor Hughes, Justin “Juice” Weaver, Sean Saturnio, Nate Woody and Monken, on making an impact on the man he’s become, his parents and family for their ongoing support and his teammates.
“People who sat in this room in years past and people that are sitting here now how much you mean to me,” Lowin said. “To be able to cross paths with each and every one of you has meant the world I think we are all truly blessed to be in this room today and to be able to know each other. It’s not often that you get able to be surrounded by such a high quality group of people like right now.
“I’m looking for to what happens in the future. Our (seniors) time is done. We worked hard as you guys will continue to work hard. There’s a lot in the future for you guys. These are some of the best memories that you’ll make. I don’t know what’s going to happen with life after this but you might give it everything you got right now.”
Lowin’s excellence on and off the field was honored during the banquet as he was recognized seven times – three for postseason accomplishments and four individual/team awards. Lowin also received the Chase Prasnicki Memorial Awards (honoring the senior that best displays the characteristics of the former Army football player), the William C. Whitehead Jr. Memorial Award (graduating senior with highest class standing). He was one of 16 finalists for the Campbell Trophy, considered the academic Heisman.
Senior apache (linebacker/nickelback) Jimmy Ciarlo was honored with the Black Lion Award for leadership, devotion and self-service. Senior defensive end Austin Hill was voted the team’s mot inspirational senior.
COL Thruston Hughes Memorial Award (team MVP): Leo Lowin
Black Lion Award (Given for leadership, courage, devotion and selfless service): Jimmy Ciarlo
Chase Prasnicki Memorial Award (senior player who best displays characteristics of former Army football player Chase Prasnicki): Leo Lowin
Anthony Miller Coaching Staff Award (team’s most inspirational player): Austin Hill
Creighton W. Abrams Memorial Award (Team captains): Jimmy Ciarlo, Austin Hill, Leo Lowin, Connor Finucane
LTG Garrison Davidson Award (graduating senior who maintains highest military grade): Cam O’Gara
Major William C. Whitehead Jr. Memorial Award (graduating senior with highest class standing): Leo Lowin
Thomas West Hammond Memorial Award (outstanding lineman): Connor Finucane
COL. James B. Gillespie Memorial Award (player who displays outstanding dedication, unfailing performance and is consistent contributor to team): Quindrelin Hammonds
COL Joel B. “Dopey” Stephens Award (outstanding offensive and defensive scout team player): Lloyd Benson, Kody Harris-Miller
Army Lifter of the Year (player who performed at high level in weight room): Beau Lombardi
