Senior receiver Quentin Burrell had multiple reasons for choosing Mount Carmel. The football program’s pageantry and the surrounding glory played a part. As a Michigan recruit, Burrell travels from Evanston daily, understanding that while Ann Arbor offers his future, the present moments of high school sports are precious. Burrell shared, “I’m going to be in college soon, but right now, I have to play where my feet are and do the best things I can. My life revolves around this building. I’m very glad that all the hard work is paying off.”
Burrell’s contributions were clear on Friday night, as he made four catches for 67 yards and scored a touchdown, helping the host Caravan to a 49-14 victory over Providence in a Catholic League crossover game in Chicago. Senior quarterback Brady Cloherty also stood out, completing 25 of 33 passes for 373 yards and seven touchdowns, leading Mount Carmel to a 5-2 record. For Providence, junior tight end Jonathan Osborne scored on a 93-yard pass, with three catches totaling 155 yards. Quarterback Dominic Vita threw for 218 yards.
Burrell’s 11-yard touchdown catch at the end of the second quarter propelled the Caravan to a 28-14 halftime lead. Junior receiver Marshaun Thornton admired Burrell’s humility and dependability, stating, “He’s just a humble guy who goes out there and is always dependable. He doesn’t care who’s making plays as long as the team prospers.”
Another Michigan recruit, senior defensive back Tavares Harrington, will join Burrell. They have played together since age 13 with the Naperville Patriots. Harrington said, “You see what Q does on the field and then in school, he’s so personable. Everyone loves him.”
Burrell’s ability to stretch the field allowed junior tight end Ty Kennedy to achieve three touchdown catches. Thornton also scored a touchdown. Burrell remarked, “We have many playmakers here, so the ball needs to be shared. We have a tight end excelling, a quarterback doing his part. It’s everyone contributing.”
Family plays a crucial role in Burrell’s life. His sister, Kali, served as his inspiration. She was a two-time academic all-conference forward for Michigan’s women’s soccer team. Burrell stated, “My family has really raised me well. I aimed to follow in my sister’s footsteps. There was always friendly competition, and I wanted achievements to match hers.”
Burrell often visited campus to watch his sister, which paved the way for his decision to choose Michigan over Notre Dame, Alabama, Auburn, and Boston College. He considered quitting football in eighth grade to focus on basketball, but his father encouraged him to continue. Now, he is a three-year starter with two state championship rings. During his first two seasons, Burrell made a significant impact with 142 catches and 2,396 yards, setting program records and scoring 34 touchdowns.
Reflecting on his journey, Burrell said, “I entered varsity in my sophomore year, winning state, and aim to finish my senior year winning state. There’s always room for growth.”
On Friday, Burrell played only the first half, which allowed senior receiver Danny Leyden to score in the third quarter. Burrell expressed gratitude, saying, “There’s nothing more I could ask for than being with my guys. I know the time is limited, but I cheer on every moment and am thankful.”
Patrick Z. McGavin is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.
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