Jake and Conor Fleming Shine for Marist in Victory Over Simeon

Junior quarterback Jake Fleming feels right at home as the leader for Marist. From a young age, he knew he was destined to play quarterback. “I’ve always felt that being the quarterback was my calling,” Jake explained. “Now, I’m putting in the effort every day to secure my spot as the starter. My past experience has been a great help.”

On a bright Saturday in Chicago, Jake demonstrated his potential, passing for 259 yards and three touchdowns. His performance led the RedHawks to a 44-28 win against Simeon in a nonconference game. Senior Tommy Hosty contributed with two rushing touchdowns from the Wildcat formation and set up another touchdown with an interception for Marist in their season opener.

Another standout was senior running back Conor Hunt, who rushed for 136 yards on 28 carries and caught a 33-yard touchdown pass. Jake’s connection with his younger brother Conor Fleming, a sophomore, was key to the team’s success. Conor recorded five receptions totaling 74 yards and scored two touchdowns. In their first career start, the brothers showcased their synergy with a 30-yard touchdown pass in the second quarter and a 22-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter.

“It was incredible,” Conor remarked. “We’ve been practicing together since we were little, and it paid off when it mattered most. Our journey started when I was in fourth grade, and Jake was in fifth. We’ve nurtured that connection ever since.”

The Flemings have deep ties to the Marist program through their father, Pat, the school’s athletic director and former assistant football coach. Marist coach Mike Fitzgerald, who met Jake when he was an assistant for the RedHawks over a decade ago, praised Jake’s understanding of the game. Fitzgerald returned to head the program in 2024 during Jake’s freshman year. “Jake has spent his life around football. He’s a smart player and adapts quickly. He embodies the traits we look for in a quarterback and excels under pressure,” said Fitzgerald.

In the game against Simeon, Jake completed 12 of 17 passes, totaling 259 yards, with an interception. He added 41 rushing yards, showing poise against Simeon’s swift defense. Despite this being his first varsity pass attempt, Jake expressed his dedication to the program. Jake credited his success to the offensive line. “Our offensive line did a fantastic job in protecting me,” he said.

Jake and Conor’s familial connection hasn’t given them any special treatment in the team. “Nothing came easy for me,” Jake stated. “My dad’s position didn’t add pressure. I had to prove myself. Leadership is my strength; I know our offense inside out.”

The brothers also support each other in tough moments. Conor was the first to console Jake after he threw an interception in the second quarter. “We push each other to improve,” Jake shared. “We’ve always been competitive, and I’m glad to have him as a teammate. I trust him to make effective plays.”