Noah McGough (center) with Men of Nehemiah. Photo by David Alvey.
The regular high school football season is over, but senior Noah McGough says he’s not finished kicking field goals and points after touchdowns. Jesuit Dallas has earned a spot in the playoffs, and that gives McGough a chance to continue putting points on the scoreboard for his team — and dollars in the coffer for his favorite nonprofit.
Before the season began, Noah solicited pledges for every point he scored to benefit Men of Nehemiah, a faith-based residential addiction recovery program. So far, he has scored 58 total points and raised more than $40,000.
“Before coming to Men of Nehemiah, I put a lot of emphasis on me,” McGough admits. “But learning about what these men have been through and hearing their testimonies, I was compelled to do something to help them. Now, it’s less about me and more about what I can do to use the talents God has given me to help others.”
Jesuit finished the regular season with a 6-4 record and will face Arlington Bowie, undefeated district champion of 8-6A, at Arlington’s Sam Houston High School at 7 p.m. this Friday. McGough knows his team faces tough odds, but he says earning the chance to continue into the playoffs is an opportunity he’ll put to good use.
“At Jesuit, we live by the motto Be Men for Others,” says McGough. “I am reminded every week to be God’s light to my community.”
McGough was recognized as one of the best kickers in the nation last year. He was the Texas Sports Writers Association’s Class 6A All-State First Team Kicker and Player of the Year for All District 7-6A Special Teams.
“Two years ago, I went to a Men of Nehemiah worship service,” McGough continues. “I really didn’t know how to praise God. I was timid. It’s cool how these men praise Jesus so freely. Now I want to go every Tuesday night and Sunday morning. I love getting to worship with them. Watching God move in their lives is life changing.”
Men of Nehemiah has helped more than 1,500 local men find paths to recovery. If you’d like to support McGough’s efforts, you may pledge to “Kick or a Cause” here.
