Isriz Balase

Jeff Thorne was my mentor and friend. He was a leader on the field, a builder of character, and a source of inspiration for everyone who wore the Cardinal uniform and the coaches who worked by his side. His passion for the game and his commitment to developing All-American teammates, husbands, and fathers will endure as part of his remarkable legacy at North Central. I am thankful for the precious time I and our entire team had with him this fall for his Hall of Fame induction, our “Refuse to Lose: Cardinals for a Cure” game dedicated in his honor, and his Friday night pregame message to our team. He lived his life as a faithful servant and devoted man of Christ. I am comforted knowing that he is now resting in the presence of our Savior. My deepest condolences to Jeff’s wife, Joanna, and their beautiful family, his siblings, and his parents, all of whom are forever part of the Cardinal football family. The Cardinals will carry Jeff’s relentless “Refuse to Lose” spirit into every snap, every game, and every season. #WeAreNC