A Soaring Tribute

On Saturday, October 25, Gonzaga proudly dedicated its stadium Joe Reyda ’85 Stadium, honoring the lasting legacy of the school’s longtime Athletic Director. Gonzaga's choir sang the National Anthem before the game, setting the tone for the special events to follow. The dedication ceremony took place at halftime of the football game against Good Counsel and brought together Joe’s family, classmates, friends, and members of the Gonzaga community for a day filled with gratitude, remembrance, and celebration.

During the dedication ceremony, Joe’s family – Tricia, Caroline, and Molly Reyda —took their place at midfield, where they were joined by the 1975 football team, the first to win a home game on Buchanan Field, and Joe’s classmates from the Class of 1985. Father Joe Lingan ’75, Gonzaga’s President, spoke about Joe’s extraordinary contributions to the school, highlighting how his leadership, dedication, and spirit continue to inspire the community.

​​A soaring tribute capped the ceremony: “Clark,” a bald eagle from the World Bird Sanctuary in St. Louis, became the first eagle to fly over Reyda Stadium. Launching from the North Capitol Street end zone, he glided across the field to a handler waiting by the scoreboard. As he turned for his return flight, students and alumni raised their fists and sang the Alma Mater. Press the play button below to watch a beautiful recap of the ceremony, including Father Lingan’s remarks as well as breathtaking video of the eagle’s flight. 

The dedication also highlighted the generosity of Gonzaga’s many benefactors and the establishment of the Joseph Reyda ’85 Endowed Fund, created to provide tuition assistance for deserving families and support future athletic initiatives on Eye Street. Gifts to the fund ensure that Joe’s legacy will continue to benefit students and the Gonzaga community for generations to come. If you’d like to make a donation to the fund, please click here.

After the ceremony, the Eagles held on to defeat WCAC foe Good Counsel 13-7 (read more about the game here). Alumni from the Classes of ‘80, ‘85, 90, ‘95, ‘00, ‘05, 10, ‘15, and ‘20 then gathered in the Collins Courtyard for their fall reunions. You can see some nice photos of the reunions here. Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate such a special occasion on Eye Street.