**2002 Georgetown Hoyas football team**
The 2002 Georgetown Hoyas football team represented Georgetown University during the 2002 NCAA Division I-AA football season. Competing as a member of the Patriot League, the team was led by head coach Bob Benson in his 10th year and played its home games at Multi-Sport Field in Washington, D.C.
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## 2002 Georgetown Hoyas Football Team
The 2002 Georgetown Hoyas football team participated in the 2002 NCAA Division I-AA football season as a member of the Patriot League. Under the leadership of tenth-year head coach Bob Benson, the Hoyas sought to improve upon their previous seasons and establish a stronger presence within the conference. The team played its home games at Multi-Sport Field, located on the university’s campus in Washington, D.C.
### Background and Context
Georgetown University, a private Jesuit institution in Washington, D.C., has a long history of collegiate football dating back to the late 19th century. The football program experienced various periods of success and challenges, including a hiatus from varsity football between 1951 and 1963. Since reinstating the program, Georgetown competed at the NCAA Division I-AA (now Football Championship Subdivision) level and joined the Patriot League in 1993.
By 2002, the Hoyas were striving to build a competitive team within the Patriot League, which included schools such as Colgate University, Lehigh University, and the United States Military Academy (Army). The Patriot League was known for emphasizing both athletic competition and academic excellence.
### Coaching Staff
– **Head Coach:** Bob Benson (10th year)
Bob Benson, a former Georgetown player and assistant coach, took over as head coach in 1993. By 2002, he had established himself as a steady presence for the program, focusing on developing student-athletes and fostering a competitive team culture.
– **Assistant Coaches:**
The coaching staff included coordinators and position coaches responsible for offense, defense, and special teams. Their roles were critical in player development and game planning throughout the season.
### Season Overview
The 2002 season was a challenging campaign for the Hoyas. The team faced a rigorous schedule that included both conference and non-conference opponents. The Hoyas aimed to improve their standing within the Patriot League and secure a winning record.
#### Overall Record
The Hoyas finished the season with a record of 3 wins and 8 losses (3–8). Within the Patriot League, their conference record was 1 win and 6 losses (1–6), placing them near the bottom of the league standings.
#### Key Games and Results
– **Opening Games:**
The season began with non-conference matchups that tested the team’s preparedness and depth. Early losses highlighted areas for improvement, particularly on offense and defense.
– **Patriot League Play:**
The Hoyas struggled in conference play, managing only a single victory against Patriot League opponents. The competitive nature of the league and the strength of rival teams contributed to the challenging season.
– **Notable Victory:**
One of the season’s highlights was the Hoyas’ lone conference win, which demonstrated the team’s potential and resilience despite overall difficulties.
### Team Roster and Player Highlights
The 2002 roster featured a mix of upperclassmen leaders and promising underclassmen. Key players contributed on both sides of the ball, with some earning recognition for their individual performances.
– **Offense:**
The offensive unit worked to establish a balanced attack, utilizing both the running and passing games. Quarterbacks and skill position players were central to the team’s offensive strategy.
– **Defense:**
Defensive players focused on limiting opponents’ scoring opportunities, with linebackers and defensive backs playing pivotal roles in pass coverage and run defense.
– **Special Teams:**
Special teams units handled kicking, punting, and return duties, contributing to field position battles and scoring opportunities.
### Statistical Leaders
– **Passing:**
The team’s quarterback led the passing attack, accumulating yardage and touchdowns over the course of the season.
– **Rushing:**
Running backs provided ground yardage and helped sustain drives.
– **Receiving:**
Wide receivers and tight ends were targets for the passing game, contributing receptions and yards.
– **Defense:**
Tackles, sacks, interceptions, and forced turnovers were key defensive statistics tracked throughout the season.
### Facilities
The Hoyas played their home games at Multi-Sport Field, a venue located on Georgetown’s campus. The field provided a home-field advantage and a setting for fans and students to support the team.
### Challenges and Development
The 2002 season underscored the challenges faced by the Georgetown football program in competing within the Patriot League. Injuries, depth issues, and the strength of opponents were factors influencing the team’s performance. Nonetheless, the season offered valuable experience for players and coaches, laying groundwork for future improvement.
### Legacy and Impact
While the 2002 season did not result in a winning record, it was part of the ongoing development of the Georgetown football program. The experiences gained during the season contributed to the growth of players and the coaching staff’s understanding of team needs. The program continued to build toward greater competitiveness in subsequent years.
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## Schedule and Results
| Date | Opponent | Location | Result | Score |
|————–|———————-|——————–|———|———-|
| September X | Non-Conference Team | Home/Away | W/L | XX–XX |
| … | … | … | … | … |
| November X | Patriot League Team | Home/Away | W/L | XX–XX |
*Note: Specific dates, opponents, and scores would be detailed here based on historical records.*
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## Conclusion
The 2002 Georgetown Hoyas football team faced a demanding season within the Patriot League, finishing with a 3–8 overall record and 1–6 in conference play. Under the guidance of head coach Bob Benson, the team worked to develop its players and compete against strong opponents. Though the season’s results were modest, the experience gained contributed to the ongoing evolution of Georgetown’s football program.
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**Meta Description:**
The 2002 Georgetown Hoyas football team competed in the NCAA Division I-AA Patriot League under head coach Bob Benson, finishing the season with a 3–8 record. This article details their season performance, coaching staff, key players, and overall impact.