Crack Drill

Formed in 1937, The Crack Drill Squad is one of the Academy’s longest standing traditions, dating back nearly a century. The Crack Drill Squad is a precision drill team that uses collective marching patterns and synchronized aerial gun maneuvers to embody the pride, dignity and excellence found throughout Saint Thomas Academy.

The Crack Drill Squad consists of ten seniors, five juniors, and two sophomores. These students exemplify the brotherhood of the Academy by striving for excellence, not as a team, but as a family. This special group of students represents Saint Thomas Academy at many elementary schools across the Twin Cities as well as military ceremonies, veteran memorials and even in funerals of past squad members. The Crack Drill Squad is one of the most exemplary manifestations of the values that Saint Thomas Academy instills in their students.

See the 1953 Saint Thomas Academy Crack Drill Squad perform on the Ed Sullivan Show in the video below!

meet the current crack drill team!

John Bachul

NAME: John Bachul

GRADE: Senior

RANK/POSITION: 2/LT Platoon Leader

YEARS ON CRACK DRILL: 1

FAMILY/LEGACY CONNECTION: None

I’M PROUD TO BE ON THE CRACK DRILL TEAM BECAUSE: It is the greatest and one of the oldest traditions at the academy and I am proud to carry it on.

MY FAVORITE PART OF CRACK DRILL IS: Throwing solo moves.

PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT (DOESN’T NEED TO RELATE TO CRACK DRILL): Making Crack Drill.

Liam Baird

NAME: Liam Baird

GRADE: Senior

RANK/POSITION: Mascot

YEARS ON CRACK DRILL: 1

FAMILY/LEGACY CONNECTION: None

I’M PROUD TO BE ON THE CRACK DRILL TEAM BECAUSE: The tradition and legacy that comes with the squad and how I get to start my own legacy.

MY FAVORITE PART OF CRACK DRILL IS: practicing, drilling and spending time with my best friends.

PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT WHILE AT STA: My proudest accomplishment so far is being chosen to be on Crack Drill.

Danny Eldredge

NAME: Danny Eldredge

GRADE: Junior

RANK/POSITION: Junior Driller

YEARS ON CRACK DRILL: 1

FAMILY/LEGACY CONNECTION: Father Tad Eldredge ’91 LTC, Uncle Ben Eldredge ’93 Commander, Cousin Jack Quinlan Senior Driller

I’M PROUD TO BE ON THE CRACK DRILL TEAM BECAUSE: I am carrying on a legacy here at STA and being on Crack Drill Squad has always been a goal of mine.

MY FAVORITE PART OF CRACK DRILL IS: Being able to spend time with guys I otherwise would never have been able to spend time with. Also, I love eating Uncle Rico’s pizza.

PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT WHILE AT STA: Making the Crack Drill Squad.

Oscar Hrabe

NAME: Oscar Hrabe

GRADE: Junior

RANK/POSITION: Junior Driller

YEARS ON CRACK DRILL: First Year

FAMILY/LEGACY CONNECTION: None

I’M PROUD TO BE ON THE CRACK DRILL TEAM BECAUSE: I am proud to be on the Crack Drill Squad because of the relationships, passion and sense of accomplishment that it entails. The relationships that are built within squad are unable to be achieved through any other sport or extracurricular at STA. These relationships cause the passion and drive to continue to improve and ultimately perfect the drill. After icing a drill all squad members experience a sense of accomplishment that will never get old. After hours of intense practice and many late nights in the court, it brings me, along with my fellow squad members, great pride when the outcome of a drill was as we anticipated it to be.

MY FAVORITE PART OF CRACK DRILL IS: My Favorite part of Crack Drill is the strong relationships that it builds between the people on squad. Whether it be walking down to the closet in the morning and being greeted by 16 of my friends or getting food before practice and eating on the court steps, I enjoy every minute of my time on squad and the friendships that will continue after my days at STA come to an end.

PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT (DOESN’T NEED TO RELATE TO CRACK DRILL): My proudest accomplishment is the way that I have balanced my time during my junior year. When I tried out for Crack Drill at the beginning of this year I knew that this would be a large time investment. Going from football to squad practice and arriving home around 9:30pm I knew that I would have to adjust to maintain the academic standard I hold myself to. This balance has challenged my time management skills and improved my work ethic and efficiency. Learning this skill now will better myself in not only my time at the Academy but also transfer into my college experience and ultimately my career.

Charles Killian

NAME: Charles Killian

GRADE: Senior

RANK/POSITION: Lieutenant Commander (LTC)

YEARS ON CRACK DRILL: 3

FAMILY/LEGACY CONNECTION: My father was a Junior driller and he graduated in 1990. My great uncle was also on the squad in 1953, when they were on the Ed Sullivan show, and then later on became the Lieutenant Commander.

I’M PROUD TO BE ON THE CRACK DRILL TEAM BECAUSE: I am proud to be apart of the Crack Drill Squad because of the long standing tradition that is prevalent throughout the Academy's history. When the squad goes out for drills at various public events and schools, the squad acts as ambassadors for STA. The Crack Drill squad is one of the most public student organizations and upholds the prestigious reputation that the academy has.

MY FAVORITE PART OF CRACK DRILL IS: One of my most favorite parts of the Crack Drill squad is the chance to learn how to lead my peers. This can be extremely fun but also difficult as these guys are also my best friends. Lastly, my favorite part of Crack Drill is developing strong friendships and bonds with the guys on squad regardless of what grade they are in. With this being my 3rd year on the squadI can only tell from experience that the Crack Drill offers an environment that each year I've walked away saddened by the loss of my best friends each year that have graduated, but also very content knowing I have formed friendships with the help of the Crack Drill squad that will no doubt last a lifetime.

PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT WHILE AT STA: My proudest accomplishment was making the varsity hockey team at STA and being selected as a sophomore on the crack drill squad last year.

Henry Killian

NAME: Henry Killian

GRADE: Sophomore

RANK/POSITION: Sophomore Rookie

YEARS ON CRACK DRILL: 1

FAMILY/LEGACY CONNECTION: Josh Killian as a junior in 1989, Mike Merrs as a sophomore in 1953 (LTC in 1955)

I’M PROUD TO BE ON THE CRACK DRILL TEAM BECAUSE: It is a legacy that I get to share with my father and brother, it has brought me and my brother closer together and it has been fun hearing my dad talk about his times on the CDS.

MY FAVORITE PART OF CRACK DRILL IS: I love having 16 best friends that I can always have on my side when life may not be going great or school is tough. This takes STA’s brotherhood a step further and shows me how a group of guys can be some of my closest friends.

PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT: Making the Crack Drill Squad as a sophomore has been my proudest accomplishment so far because of the responsibilities that come along with it.

Chip Knapp

NAME: Chip Knapp

GRADE: Junior

RANK/POSITION: C/CPL

YEARS ON CRACK DRILL: 1

FAMILY/LEGACY CONNECTION: None, I am the first person in my family to be on Crack Drill.

I’M PROUD TO BE ON THE CRACK DRILL TEAM BECAUSE: I am continuing a legacy at STA that is way bigger than just my personal goals.

MY FAVORITE PART OF CRACK DRILL IS: Being a part of the 17 boys, and building an individual bond with every one of them.

PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT WHILE AT STA: Passing testing on 1-5, and receiving my belt.

Miles Nissly

NAME: Miles Nissly

GRADE: Senior

RANK/POSITION: Senior Driller

YEARS ON CRACK DRILL: 1

FAMILY/LEGACY CONNECTION: None

I’M PROUD TO BE ON THE CRACK DRILL TEAM BECAUSE: It is one of the most elite groups to be apart of at STA. It is also the best representation of Saint Thomas and I am so proud and honored to be apart of such a tradition.

MY FAVORITE PART OF CRACK DRILL IS: Wearing my white belt to school everyday, the closet, squadders, going fishing with the boys, and eating at Uncle Rico’s Pizza.

PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT WHILE AT STA: Icing the parent drill on Oct. 8, learning how to fast spin.

Connor O’Brien

NAME: Connor O’Brien

GRADE: Senior

RANK/POSITION: Veteran Senior Driller

YEARS ON CRACK DRILL: 1

FAMILY/LEGACY CONNECTION:
Bert Mckasy
Mark Mckasy
Tom Dieveney
My brother Riley is also on the squad

I’M PROUD TO BE ON THE CRACK DRILL TEAM BECAUSE: It is an opportunity to make long lasting friendships with the people on the squad and I get to represent the school.

MY FAVORITE PART OF CRACK DRILL IS: Fishing and drilling with the boys.

PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT WHILE AT STA:
Drilling in front of my Grandfather who was the 1960 Commander in my 2nd drill and icing it.

Finn O’Brien

NAME: Finn O’Brien

GRADE: Sophomore

RANK/POSITION: Sophomore Cadet Private First Class

YEARS ON CRACK DRILL: 1

FAMILY/LEGACY CONNECTION: My grandfather and three uncles

I’M PROUD TO BE ON THE CRACK DRILL TEAM BECAUSE: It is a big part of the school and it is a huge deal to the alumni.

MY FAVORITE PART OF CRACK DRILL IS: Hanging with the boys (outside of school and in the closet), wearing the belts and shoes, and icing parts 1-5.

PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT WHILE AT STA: My proudest accomplishment is Crack Drill squad because it will last through high school and after and I am proud to be apart of it.

Mac O’Brien

NAME: Mac O’Brien

GRADE: Senior

RANK/POSITION: Senior Driller

YEARS ON CRACK DRILL: 1

FAMILY/LEGACY CONNECTION:
Bert Mckasy - Commander 1960
Mark Mckasy - Junior Driller 1986
Frank Deiveny - Junior Driller 1966
Tom Dieveny - Senior Driller 1960
Mike Mckasy - Junior Driller 1966
Connor O'Brien - Junior Driller 2020
Mac O'Brien - Senior Driller 2020
Finn O'Brien - Sophomore Driller 2022

I’M PROUD TO BE ON THE CRACK DRILL TEAM BECAUSE: I get to carry on my family’s legacy and create many memories with the boys that will last forever.

MY FAVORITE PART OF CRACK DRILL IS: Spending time with the boys and icing 1-5 at Mil.

PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT WHILE AT STA: Making Squad #SDB

Riley O’Brien

NAME: Riley O’Brien

GRADE: Senior

RANK/POSITION: Veteran Senior Driller

YEARS ON CRACK DRILL: 2

I’M PROUD TO BE ON THE CRACK DRILL TEAM BECAUSE:
This truly is the best thing about Saint Thomas Academy, the tradition and the brotherhood that goes with it is truly amazing. I am grateful to have been selected to be on Squad because the memories, friendships and skills I have gained from this is irreplaceable. The legacy I have is amazing and it just shows the brotherhood and tradition of Crack Drill squad.

Tommy O’Neill

NAME: Tommy O’Neill

GRADE: Senior

RANK/POSITION: Veteran Senior Driller

YEARS ON CRACK DRILL: This is my second year on crack drill.

FAMILY/LEGACY CONNECTION: My Uncle Kevin was also on the team.

I’M PROUD TO BE ON THE CRACK DRILL TEAM BECAUSE: It is one of the greatest representations of the school and I am proud to be apart of it.

MY FAVORITE PART OF CRACK DRILL IS: Being close with everyone on the squad and having a tight brotherhood aspect.

PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT WHILE AT STA: Being able to be apart of the Saint Thomas Academy hockey team.

Alex Roth

NAME: Alex Roth

GRADE: Senior

RANK/POSITION: Commander

YEARS ON CRACK DRILL: 3

FAMILY/LEGACY CONNECTION: None

I’M PROUD TO BE ON THE CRACK DRILL TEAM BECAUSE:
It is by far the best example of brotherhood in the entire school. I also am extremely proud that a student-run organization can improve so much over a year to create such an icy performance.

MY FAVORITE PART OF CRACK DRILL IS:
The time that I get to spend with my fellow members and how close we become by the end of the year.

PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT WHILE AT STA:
Being selected as Commander during my Junior year.

Max Stewart

NAME: Max Stewart

GRADE: Senior

RANK/POSITION: Senior Driller

YEARS ON CRACK DRILL: 1

FAMILY/LEGACY CONNECTION: My grandfather (George Stewart) was also a senior driller and my uncle (Brian Linnihan) was a Lieutenant commander.

I’M PROUD TO BE ON THE CRACK DRILL TEAM BECAUSE: It is the strongest brotherhood at Saint Thomas Academy. It is also an honor to be apart of a group with such pride and excellence. I am also very grateful to be a part of a tradition that has been around for nearly a century.

MY FAVORITE PART OF CRACK DRILL IS: Wearing my white belt and patten shoes to school everyday, fishing with the other squad members, and icing parts 1-5.

PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT WHILE AT STA: Making the Crack Drill Squad, and icing the parent drill.

Joseph Vascellaro

NAME: Joseph Vascellaro

GRADE: Junior

RANK/POSITION: Junior Veteran

YEARS ON CRACK DRILL: 2

FAMILY/LEGACY CONNECTION: My brother was a commander of the Crack Drill Squad.

I’M PROUD TO BE ON THE CRACK DRILL TEAM BECAUSE: Crack Drill is the longest standing tradition at the Academy and has a huge history.

MY FAVORITE PART OF CRACK DRILL IS: Hanging with my 16 best friends every day at the closet, flipping guns, and wearing my white belt.

PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT WHILE AT STA: My proudest accomplishment is making crack drill as a sophomore, and playing varsity football and basketball.

Colin Walsh

NAME: Colin Walsh

GRADE: Junior

RANK/POSITION: Veteran Junior Driller

YEARS ON CRACK DRILL: 2 years

FAMILY/LEGACY CONNECTION:
My uncle, Timothy Walsh (Speaker), father, Greg Walsh (Commander 1986), and my brother Patrick Walsh (Speaker 2019) have all participated.

I’M PROUD TO BE ON THE CRACK DRILL SQUAD BECAUSE: It gives a deeper meaning to the word "Brotherhood" being apart of the Crack Drill Squad means that you get to know more people a year older than you or even 2 yers older than you if you are a sophomore. You also see kids that have graduated from college and who have jobs and a life to live that come back because the Crack Drill Squad had such a big impact on their life.

MY FAVORITE PART OF CRACK DRILL IS:
The relationships are 10/10 the best thing about being apart of the CDS. I love the guys on it and have made so many connections that will last past graduation.

PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT WHILE AT STA:
My proudest accomplishment I would say would be being chosen to be apart of the CDS.

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Crack Drill

meet the current crack drill team!

John Bachul

Liam Baird

Danny Eldredge

Oscar Hrabe

Charles Killian

Henry Killian

Chip Knapp

Miles Nissly

Connor O’Brien

Finn O’Brien

Mac O’Brien

Riley O’Brien

Tommy O’Neill

Alex Roth

Max Stewart

Joseph Vascellaro

Colin Walsh