Three years ago, Archbishop Murphy High School football stood at a crossroads. Coming off a winless season, the Wildcats were searching not just for victories, but for identity. What followed was a deliberate rebuild that ultimately reshaped the program from the inside out. 

That transformation reached its pinnacle this past season under the bright lights of Husky Stadium, where Archbishop Murphy capped a perfect 13–0 season with a 35–20 victory over Tumwater to claim the Class 2A state football championship. For head coach, Joe Cronin, the journey to that moment began with something far more foundational than X’s and O’s. 

“I really feel that relationships are key in the culture of a program,” Cronin said. “Our staff did a great job of building relationships with the players, and we also built team building activities, so the players got to know each other. Building those bonds really helped us gain trust among each other, which was the foundation of the program.” 

That foundation was critical in shifting a struggling program toward long-term success. Before wins followed, trust had to come first. Only after those relationships were established did the Wildcats turn their focus toward physical and on-field development. 

“From there we got to work in the weight room and on the field to have success on the field,” Cronin said. “It’s a process, but it all starts with relationships!”

Off the field, the coaching staff introduced a system designed to reinforce both competition and character. Players were placed into “CATS teams,” built around the four pillars of the program: Commitment, Attitude, Toughness, and Service. 

“We put the players in CATS teams: Commitment, Attitude, Toughness, and Service (4 pillars of the program),” Cronin explained. “They competed in academics, community service, dedication to the weight room, and in team building completions.”

The approach turned everyday responsibilities into shared goals, creating buy-in across the roster. Cronin likened it to a familiar cultural touchstone for the players. “It’s similar to Harry Potter with the houses,” he said. “The winning team won a trip to Wild Waves and the Team Cup! We competed all off season and in season. Again, that built relationships and a competitive culture.”

That competitive culture revealed itself right away. “We won our first game! That helped,” Cronin said. “I think that was big for the players. From there, we just continued to work, stay positive, and build.” 

The early success reinforced belief within the locker room and set the tone for a season. For Cronin, one moment best captured how far the program had come. 

“Playing in Husky Stadium was pretty cool for the players, coaches, and community,” Cronin said. “To see how far they have come in 3 years – it was through their hard work and dedication. The stands were packed, and it was a great day for AMHS. I was honored to be a part of it! Great group of young men.”

With a 35–20 win over Tumwater, the Wildcats claimed their first state championship since 2016—an achievement earned through relationships, resilience, and a shared commitment to something bigger than the scoreboard.