Luke Dempsey, Happy football, Sr.

On the field: Happy looks far from the same team since a season-opening 52-6 loss at home to Nazareth. Since that defeat, the Cowboys have regrouped by winning three straight games including a come-from-behind 41-40 victory at home against McLean last Friday. Luke Dempsey has put the Cowboys on his back through this win streak and this season. Against the Tigers, the senior was unstoppable running the ball 27 times for 258 yards with six touchdowns. He also caught two passes for 30 yards, then defensively, Dempsey made his mark with 13 total tackles.

Through the season so far, Dempsey is putting together quite the resume with 993 yards rushing on 121 carries with 19 touchdowns. He’s added 173 receiving yards with another four scores and has made a total of 55 tackles.

Coach Stacy Perryman: “Last year was tough for us. We missed the playoffs and we were fueled coming into this year. Nazareth then beat us and I think we overthought that game. We went back to focusing on building our foundation and getting back to being us. Culture is a part of that and Luke is a huge part of our foundation and culture. He is one of the best kids around and he is as tough as they come. His progression has come by figuring out how to play running back and he has taken off with that. I love how tough he is and what he’s been doing for us.”

Dempsey: “We’ve had a lot more focus on this season and we didn’t want a repeat of last year. We just need to keep getting better each and every week and all play for each other. The biggest problem for me last year is I was overthinking everything. I’m trying to go out now and play free and play for my teammates. I’ll do whatever I can for those guys and get us a win.”

About Dempsey

Favorite band or musician: Hudson Westbrook

Favorite social media platform: Instagram

Favorite athlete: Barry Sanders

Bet you didn’t know: He loves to hunt and fish.

Parents: Justin and Julie Dempsey