On New Year’s Day, as Notre Dame prepares to face Georgia in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals, defensive tackle Gabriel Rubio is reminded of his close friend Jason Onye. Since returning from foot surgery in October, Rubio has kept in touch with Onye, who has been absent from the team due to personal reasons, but is staying engaged with his studies back home in North Providence, Rhode Island.
Rubio is set to make his first career start in place of the injured captain Rylie Mills. He has been touched by the support and encouragement he receives from Onye, who frequently texts him before games, urging him to excel. This bond has been vital not only for Rubio but for other teammates who miss Onye’s presence on the field.
Coaches and players alike acknowledge Onye’s contributions before he stepped away, highlighting his potential and performance during his time at Notre Dame, including a notable game against Purdue where he achieved 1.5 sacks. Coach Marcus Freeman expressed a desire for Onye to return to the team when he is ready, underlining the importance of providing support during difficult times.
Xavier Truss, Onye’s former high school teammate, reminisced about Onye’s growth both as a player and as a person, showcasing the mutual respect and support within the team bonds. Truss spoke fondly of Onye, emphasizing the potential he saw in him from an early stage.
Rubio, who plans to return for a fifth season in 2025, hopes to share the field with Onye again, trusting that his friend will navigate his personal journey at his own pace. This sentiment reinforces the strong sense of camaraderie and understanding among the players, ensuring that each individual is supported on and off the field.
In summary, as Notre Dame heads into a crucial game, the spirit of teamwork and friendship shines through the absence of Onye, reminding us of the strength found in support systems and the resilience of athletes facing personal challenges. It’s a testament to the bonds formed in sports, proving that even in difficult times, there is hope for recovery and future success.