The 2014 Linfield Wildcats get together one last time at annual team banquet

If Linfield is having their annual team banquet during the month of February, that probably means the team had a heck of a season.  That holds true for 2014 as this team meet one final time at the Covenant Church in McMinnville to celebrate an emotional season on and off the field.

After Coach Smith provides his opening remarks on the season that was and what is on the horizon for the Wildcats, the players are provided a great meal organized by the fine folks associated with the Covenant Church.  The dinner effort is spearheaded by the 'Cats equipment manager Mack Farag and a number of supporters.  After the players settle in we roll out the program's annual highlight video (all 1 hour and 35 minutes of it).  From there a number of support people and players are recognized, seniors hand out their mock awards, letters are handed out, NCAA playoff swag, All-Conference plaques, team awards, and then the seniors are recognized by their position coaches.

Remembering and honoring Linfield Linebacker Parker Moore was a integral part of the evening as Parker will have a lasting impact on these players, coaches, and program for the rest of their lives. His legacy will never be forgotten and will only be solidified in the years moving forward.

This is an incredible group of young men and this past season had many great highs and the lowest of lows that we could imagine. Through it all, this team found their salvation between the lines and came up 20 yards shy of playing for a National Championship. There are so many teams that Linfield has produced that I hold dear but the 2014 Linfield Wildcats is a team that I'll never forget as long as I remain on this rock. Beyond football players, this is a special group of young men. Go 'Cats!

2014 Linfield College Football Team Awards

Best Defensive Scout Player: Mat Merrick, Linebacker, Sophomore - Wilsonville, Or.

Best Offensive Scout Player: Derek Van Leeuwen, Wide Receiver, Freshman - Ontario, Ca.

Rookie of the Year: Jacob Reimer, Linebacker, Freshman - Sherwood, Or.

Most Improved: Kyle Belcher, Corner, Junior - El Dorado Hills, Ca.

Best Special Teams Player: Kevin McClean, Punter, Sophomore - Beaverton, Or.

Best Offensive Lineman: Eric Pitassi, Guard, Junior - West Linn, Or.

Best Defensive Lineman: Jeremy Girod, Tackle, Senior - Vancouver, Wa.

Best Offensive Player: Charlie Poppen, Wide Receiver, Senior - Oregon City, Or.

Best Defensive Player: Alex Hoff, Def. End, Junior - Lebanon, Or.

Offensive Captain: Sam Riddle, QB, Sophomore - Hillsboro, Or.

Offensive Captain: Jeremy Patrick, Center, Senior - Portland, Or.

Defensive Captain: Jordan Giza, Safety, Senior - Salem, Or.

Co-Most Inspirational: Kyle Jones, Guard, Senior - Everett, Wa.

Co-Most Inspirational: Trey Farber, Def. Tackle, Senior - Wasilla, Ak.

John LaRosa "Commitment To Excellence Award":

Mike Nardoni, Linebacker, Senior - Palos Verdes, Ca.

Willis Baker Team Most Valuable Player:

Parker Moore, Linebacker, Sophomore - Woodinville, Wa.