On Thanksgiving Day, 2021, Classical quarterback Brian Vaughan suffered a knee injury that tore his ACL, PCL, and MCL. The injury required two surgeries over the past year, and Vaughan heard the potential of some bad news.
“There was a point where we were never sure if he was going to run again,” his father and Classical Head Coach Brian Vaughan said.
That said, the odds were defied.
On Thanksgiving Day, 2022, Vaughan returned to action in the 109th rivalry game against English, recording 141 yards and two passing touchdowns in his team’s 18-0 win.
One was a perfect lob to the endzone, from right to left, and the other was a quick, timely dart to John Nasky who broke free for a 79-yard touchdown. Vaughan talked about his return after the game.
“It’s been a real struggle this past year. I’ve been going through a lot,” Vaughan said. “I had a lot of support from my family and my friends, and the people around me.”
One of those family members was, of course, his father on the sideline. The two embraced in an emotional hug once the final buzzer sounded.
“And my Dad, he was a big help,” Vaughan said. “Growing up, he just taught me to keep going, and keep going, and keep going.”
Vaughan certainly did. Against the Bulldogs, he was energetic, passionate, and taking advantage of the opportunity.
“It’s just really emotional to be out here with my friends one last time,” Vaughan said.
Coach Vaughan said there were some dark periods throughout the past year, both mentally and physically, for his son.
“You’re told you’re not going to be able to play next year – there’s a possibility you’re not going to be able to play sports again,” Coach Vaughan said. “I couldn’t be more proud of what he’s accomplished.”
