'Person you could always count on.' Cathedral's McCullough takes inspiration from brother

At Cathedral High School in Indianapolis, a powerful tradition has emerged in honor of a young football player who left an indelible mark on the team. Mario McCullough, who tragically lost his life in a shooting when he was just 17, has inspired his brother Telli and countless teammates to carry on his legacy through the wearing of his No. 2 jersey.

McCullough's coach, Bill Peebles, recalls the defensive back's impressive skills despite his small stature. "Built like Bob Sanders," Peebles said, "he was probably going to play safety in college." Tragically, this potential was cut short when Mario was shot and killed in a triple shooting on North Emerson Avenue in late March of 2020.

In what would have been Mario's senior year, his No. 2 jersey has been carried to midfield by his fellow seniors before each game. In November, Cathedral's team bus stopped along the stretch of road where Mario's shooting occurred, where the team gathered for a pregame rosary in his memory. Telli, Mario's younger brother, has taken on the role of managing his legacy.

Upon Mario's passing, Telli struggled to look at any images of his brother out of fear of crying. However, the memory of his brother has persisted through the years, as the Cathedral football program has continued to honor his memory.

Each year, the senior captains choose the player who will wear No. 2. So far, no one has declined the honor. Jeff Utzinger, a fifth-year senior at Indiana who wore the number this season, said, "He was the hardest worker I knew, and he represents everything you want in a football player." Marcus Shannon, a senior linebacker who wears the number this season, added, "It will continue as long as I'm here."

The tradition has led to an unexpected dynamic on the Cathedral football team. With the addition of both Xavier Dangerfield and Telli McCullough to the two-back set, the 5A third-ranked Irish have a dynamic duo that has rushed for a combined 666 yards and 7 touchdowns through five games. Telli, now a junior running back, has grown into a powerful player, with the support of his friend and teammate Dangerfield. Together, they hope to not only honor their fallen teammate but also achieve a 5A state championship title.