Dads' Club

A Letter from Dads' Club President, Erin Friel

On behalf of the Catholic Central Dads’ Club, welcome to the 2026–2027 school year! To our new families joining the Shamrock community, we look forward to meeting you. CC is more than an academic institution—it’s a family of caring people dedicated to providing our young men with an outstanding high school experience.

I graduated from CC in 1993.  My oldest son, James Theodore (JT), graduated in 2024, and I currently have a son, Brody, who is in the Class of 2028.  My youngest son, Liam, hopes to be here at CC in the class of 2032.  My best advice is simple: get involved. The CC experience isn’t just for your son—it’s for you, too. Whether you’re a dad, stepdad, grandfather, or guardian, you’re a valued member of the CCDC. Our mission is to foster community engagement and fellowship, and we encourage everyone to take part.  This year, we have a challenge for everyone: Answer the Call

We kick off the year with our first board meeting on Monday, August 24th, 7–9 PM at CC. Then, on Friday, September 4th, the defending Division 1 State Football Champions, along with their coach, Justin Cessante ’99, will have their first home game of the season against Davison. Keep an eye out for game day volunteer sign-ups for home games throughout the season.

• Upcoming CCDC events include:
• Father/Son Cornhole event
• Cigar & Bourbon Night
• Fr. Kaufman Golf Outing
• Father–Son Steak Dinner (a CC favorite!)

You can find the full calendar of events on the Catholic Central website under the Parents tab. Also, be sure to follow our Detroit Catholic Central Dads’ Club Facebook page.  

We also have plenty of volunteer opportunities, such as football parking, merchandise sales, and 50/50 raffles. It takes a village to make these events happen—please consider signing up for a shift or two. You’ll find volunteer links in the bi-weekly Parent Newsletter (sent on Thursdays), and I promise you’ll enjoy the experience.

Check out the CCDC Swag Shop for dads’ gear shipped right to your doorstep—get your Shamrock merch and wear it proudly at our events!

Finally, I want to highlight a volunteer opportunity: Christian Service at St. Aloysius. Throughout the year, we have 6–10 Saturday opportunities for our boys to help feed and clothe the community. It’s a humbling, rewarding experience—one that builds gratitude and perspective. Encourage your son to connect with others who volunteer; it’s an unforgettable way to serve.

If you’d like to get involved or have questions, email me at ccdadsclub1928@gmail.com.

Another great day to be a Shamrock Dad—God bless our Shamrocks!

Erin Friel ‘93

2026–2027 CCDC President

Proud Dad of JT (’24), Brody (’28), and Liam (’32