November Boys’ Athlete of the Month: Jake Virbitsky

Grace Van der Waag ’26

Max Godshall ’26

Tackling his way through the season with great strength, senior football captain and phenom, Jake Virbitsky, takes center stage as our Boys Athlete of the Month. Renowned for his remarkable character along with his talents on the field, Virbitsky has been a standout linebacker and tight end who has stats to prove such. More importantly, Virbitsky lives the Stripes, empowering his teammates and the entire EA community. Since entering EA in 5th grade, Virbitsky has touched the hearts of his classmates, teammates, coaches, and many more. Linebacker Coach Michael O’Rourke goes on to say, “Jake is just a loose guy and loves to keep the guys going.” This creates an open environment that helps the younger players develop which Coach O’Rourke admires.

Virbitsky was around the football field from a very young age. His two older brothers, Brian and Kyle both played football here at Episcopal. The coaching staff all recall Jake falling in love with the sport and being around the team at all times. There is no surprise that Jake would be standing on the field his senior year captaining the team he grew up around.

Apart from his impact as a player, Virbitsky’s legacy as an Episcopal athlete will be rooted in his considerate and caring personality. He carries himself in such a way that he puts the team before himself, granting him the status of a selfless teammate. Head Coach and Athletic Director Todd Fairlie states, “He’s very respectful, and is always even-keeled.” Virbitsky’s ability to stay composed in a highly competitive environment, while remaining courteous, is why he is a great model for his younger teammates as well as his peers. Virbitsky inspires the Episcopal community in all he does and has been a valiant member of this year’s football team.

After playing on the defensive line his first three years of high school, Virbitsky was asked to make a big change and play tight end. Tight end is not the easiest position on the field, but Virbitsky approached this challenge with determination and success. Senior teammate Anik Vosschulte ‘25 remarks, “I am impressed by Jake because he is the best person I have seen first season at a new position.” Virbitsky’s impact on the field has been undeniable this season, with a record that shows him leading the team in tackles. His ability to consistently read the game, make decisive plays, and execute crucial tackles has turned him into a defensive powerhouse. 

Virbitsky’s willingness to try new things is one of the many reasons why he is so highly regarded by his teammates and coaches. Fairlie reflects, “Some things can be really intimidating on the football field. Most kids are hesitant to do something uncomfortable. And he’s always jumping into anything he is asked to do.” Virbitsky’s commitment to the entire team is reflected in his flexibility, showing that he’s a leader in action, not just words.

What truly sets Jake apart from his teammates is his unique way of leading by example. Whether in practice, during games, or off the field, he is a player who believes in putting in hard work and letting his actions speak louder than words. This dedication doesn’t go unnoticed, as teammates often describe him as someone who uplifts everyone around him simply by giving his best every day. Teammate Jackson Orcutt ’26 reflects, “He is a role model and is always putting others before himself.” Leading a team with such a great number of players requires concrete leadership, and Virbitsky fulfills this need with his actions, which speak even louder than his words. 

Virbitsky credits his leadership skills to past captains, especially Reece Bufala ’23. Virbitsky recalls, “He would bring everyone up when the spirits weren’t high.” It is evident through the comments of his coaches and teammates alike that Virbitsky’s ability to see the good in every situation and remain positive contributes to his own personal and the entire team’s success. Similar to how he learned from past captains, future leaders and players of the football team will be able to look to Virbitsky for the groundwork of how to be a prominent role model.

  Looking back on his time playing football with EA, Virbitsky recalls that his favorite memory was beating Haverford last year. Spirit Week and EA/Haverford/AIS weekend are some of the most important weekends for EA athletes and fans. Despite a challenging game, Virbitsky’s performance on Haverford day and the rest of the season did not go unnoticed. 

In the world of sports, it is easy to be dazzled by talent, but the true measure of greatness lies beyond contributions on the field. Virbitsky is a token model of this idea. His leadership by example, willingness to take on new roles on the team, and caring personality shape him into a well-rounded athlete and person. There is no doubt that his legacy as an Episcopal athlete will carry on for many years to come.