Lansdale Catholic High School welcomed back 2016 graduate and former football star Ryan Quigley on Tuesday, as he spoke to students about surviving the January 1, 2025 terrorist attack in New Orleans.
Quigley suffered serious injuries to his face, back, and leg when a pickup truck drove into a New Year’s Day crowd on Bourbon Street, killing 14 people and injuring dozens more. Among the victims was Quigley’s best friend and Princeton teammate, Tiger Bech.
The Lansdale Catholic alum spoke about grappling with the loss of his friend, saying he may never fully come to terms with it. He urged students to embrace the present. “Take advantage of this moment. Don’t live with regrets,” he said.
Quigley, who undergoes daily physical therapy, returned to New Orleans in February for the Super Bowl at the invitation of Eagles player Brandon Graham. ESPN featured his journey and friendship with Bech in a special segment.
Now committed to spreading hope, Quigley said, “I’m gonna get out there, get back to work, continue to make Tiger proud.”
Students also heard from Brandon Saho, a former sports reporter and mental health advocate, who spoke about overcoming depression and his mission to end mental health stigma.
Read more about Quigley’s visit to his alma mater, Lansdale Catholic in The Reporter.
