2004 Flashback: Connecting with champion Justin Rascati

James Madison football is celebrating the 10-year anniversary of its 2004 NCAA Division I-AA (now FCS) national championship. As part of the celebration, we recently caught up with members of the title squad to reflect on the season and their lives over the last decade. In our final installment today, we hear from Justin Rascati, who played as a sophomore quarterback on the title team. JMU formally celebrated the anniversary as part of Champions Weekend at the Nov. 22 Elon game.

Previous Flashbacks: Brandon Beach, Rodney McCarter, Leon Steinfeld, Clint Kent, Trey Townsend

What specific memories do you have from the 2004 season, both in the regular season and the postseason?

The Villanova win, playing in the hurricane and finding a way to win is still extremely memorable. The defense played lights out! At the time, I think Villanova was ranked in the top 25.
A few other memories from the 2004 season are:

DD Boxley's touchdown catch with seconds remaining vs Maine.
THE Punt Return versus Delaware! What a great game by the defense.
The game-winning touchdown run by Hines versus Furman on fourth and goal. The offensive line did a great job. I still remember the conversation the coaches were having on the sideline during the timeout. "Do we run Power or Stretch?" Obviously they made the great call…we went with 28 (Stretch to the right)
The William & Mary win! The atmosphere was unreal! Boxley's finger tip catch, and Clint Kent returning the interception for a touchdown.

At what point of the season did you get the feeling that this could build into something special?

After the Villanova road win I had a good feeling.

What were your thoughts and emotions entering the championship game?

Entering the game, I was extremely confident and prepared. We knew that our "best" was good enough to beat Montana.

Describe the atmosphere of the stadium in Chattanooga as the team took the field.

We have the best fans in the country. We appreciated all the support we had in Chattanooga. I remember running out before the game seeing all the purple and gold!

How did the weather conditions and field conditions factor into the physical and mental game?

Coach Mathews did a great job of keeping us focused and not making the turf issue a distraction.

Going into the half, what was your confidence level about the outcome of the game?

We felt like we were right where we wanted to be. We knew the coaches would make the right adjustments at halftime. There was never any doubt in our minds that we were going to win.
When during the game did you realize that this team would be the champions?

After Clint Kent's interception late in the fourth quarter, it really started to sink in for me.

Describe your thoughts and emotions as the offense ran out the final moments on the clock?

It honestly felt like a dream come true. To line up in "Victory" formation knowing you are going to win the National Championship is one of the most memorable moments of my life.

What does it mean that your team is still the only team to win a championship without playing a home game? Did the constant road travel impact your performance?

I think it shows the toughness and togetherness of our team. I feel our tough road schedule and the adversity we faced throughout the season prepared us for playing away from home.

Was the national championship your favorite game from the 2004 season or does another stand out?

The William & Mary playoff game is definitely one of the stand-out games.

Aside from just the 2004 season, what are some of your overall favorite JMU Football memories?

Playing in my senior night, my last game in Bridgeforth Stadium when we beat Delaware is still one of my favorite memories.

Did the championship team have any pregame rituals/traditions? If yes, what were they?

I remember we used to travel with a stereo system for the lockeroom. I think Akeem Jordan was responsible for the pregame hype music. Before we ran out for kickoff, we were always pumped up!

How much do you follow the current JMU Football team either by attending games or via JMUSports.com or social media?

I frequently follow the team on social media. The Dukes are always the first score I check on.

How much contact have you maintained with the other championship team players?

I have remained in contact with many of my teammates. Some of them were even in my wedding. Social Media has helped keep us all connected.
What do you think of the newly-expanded 25,000-seat Bridgeforth Stadium?

I believe this is one of the top facilities in the country! It's exciting to see the growth of the football program over the last 10 years. I know the stadium has made a tremendous impact on recruiting.

Does football still play a role is your life? If so, how?

It has remained a large role in my life. I am currently the wide receivers coach at University of Tennessee, Martin

What did you first do after graduating from JMU? (personally and/or professionally)

After graduation, I played Arena Football for two years and then I began coaching high school football

How much did your experiences with JMU Football shape the last 10 years of your life?

The life lessons I learned from football and my time at JMU have helped me grow as a man. JMU instilled discipline, accountability, work ethic, and commitment that I use each and every day.

What do you like to do with your time outside of work/obligations?

Spend time with family and friends