From playing defensive end and outside linebacker for Irish football to continuing his football career with the Falcons, senior Aiden Monigold has commited to United States Air Force Academy.

Monigold decided to continue his football career with the Air Force at the end of July after talking to coaches and realizing what they could offer him.

“I chose this school because it’s going to set me up for my life through a guaranteed paid job and a good education,” Monigold said.

Monigold continues to love the sport even after 11 years of playing. With two seasons with the Irish under his belt, he has learned many valuable lessons and desires to continue the sport in his future.

“This game is a huge life lesson where I get to gain friendships that I will have for the rest of my life,” Monigold said. “I decided to go to Air Force to continue my career and get a chance to play in the NFL, which is a dream of mine.”

Monigold has had much support in his time playing football including coaches, parents, mentors and teachers who have guided him towards this next step in his life. In particular, Defensive Line Coach Brynden Walker, a 2020 graduate who played football at the University of Oklahoma, has been a major influence.

“He has been a mentor and coach to me who has helped me get to where I am,” Monigold said.

Monigold plans to attend graduate school after his time on the football team at the Air Force Academy.