Emmanuel Fitzgerald – RB San Mateo Bearcats

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Emmanuel Fitzgerald

Height: 6’1″ | Weight: 215 lbs
School: San Mateo Bearcats
Position: Running Back (RB)
Class of: 2025
GPA: 3.95

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Athletic Achievements

  • 2024 Season Honors:

    • Offensive Player of the Year – PAL Ocean Division
    • Running Back of the Year – PAL Ocean Division
    • First Team All-League – PAL Ocean Division

  • 2023 Season Honors:

    • First Team All-League Running Back/Fullback – PAL Ocean Division
    • Male Athlete of the Year – Voted by the San Mateo High School faculty.

  • Performance Highlights (2024):

    • Returned from an 11-month neck injury and a torn meniscus to dominate the season.
    • Averaging 8.4 yards per carry since his return.
    • Rushed for 765 yards and 5 touchdowns in just 4.5 games, with limited play in his first game back.
    • Helped lead the Bearcats to a 6-1 start, positioning them for a potential league title and CCS playoff berth.

  • Performance Highlights (2023):

    • Rushed for 1,200 yards and 12 touchdowns in 9 games.

Coach’s Praise

Coach Marcus Jones:

  • “Emmanuel is an incredible young man who just happens to play varsity football with his two younger brothers. He’s a role model on and off the field, not only for his biological brothers but for his football brethren as well.”
  • “A scholar-athlete and one of the hardest-working individuals I’ve coached in my eight seasons, Eman is a special talent and leader for this team.”

Team Impact

  • A critical contributor in San Mateo’s triple-option offense, bringing a unique skill set to his team.
  • His leadership has helped the Bearcats secure two league titles in the last three years, with a strong chance to win a third in 2024.

All-Star Nomination Notes

Emmanuel Fitzgerald is the complete package—a powerhouse running back and a dedicated scholar-athlete. Overcoming significant injuries, including an 11-month neck injury and a torn meniscus, Emmanuel has returned to dominate on the field, averaging 8.4 yards per carry and rushing for 765 yards in just 4.5 games.

A leader in San Mateo’s triple-option offense, Emmanuel is a playmaker who thrives under pressure and sets an example for his teammates with his relentless work ethic. As a 3.95 GPA student, Male Athlete of the Year, and multi-year all-league selection, Emmanuel is a role model on and off the field. His impact on the San Mateo Bearcats, both as a player and a leader, makes him a deserving candidate for All-Star recognition.