A Viking Makes History at the Liberty Bowl 

While many in the FPD community were enjoying a quiet winter break, one Viking was making history on a national stage. 

Congratulations to First Presbyterian Day School alum Coleman Cauley ’22, whose standout performance in the AutoZone Liberty Bowl on January 2, 2026, helped secure a decisive 35–13 victory for the United States Naval Academy over the Cincinnati Bearcats. 

Coleman, now a junior linebacker for Navy, delivered a moment that will live on in Midshipmen history and had Vikings everywhere cheering. 

A Historic Touchdown 

Late in the fourth quarter, with Cincinnati backed deep in its own territory, Coleman intercepted a pass and returned it five yards for a touchdown. The play sealed Navy’s win and marked a milestone. Coleman became the first Midshipman in Naval Academy history to return an interception for a touchdown in a bowl game. 

His performance earned him Defensive MVP honors, along with a team high 10 tackles, putting an exclamation point on Navy’s 11 win season. 

From FPD to the National Stage 

Coleman’s success did not happen overnight. It is the result of years of discipline, preparation, and perseverance developed during his time at FPD. 

As a Viking, Coleman was a two sport standout in football and baseball, earning All State honors and amassing an incredible 499 career tackles. In 2021, he was named Georgia’s Class A Private Defensive Player of the Year, a recognition that reflected not only his athletic talent but his relentless work ethic. 

Those same traits have carried him forward at Navy, where his commitment to effort, attitude, and toughness has translated seamlessly to the collegiate level. Earlier this season, he earned American Conference Defensive Player of the Week honors. 

Viking Pride and the Profile of a Graduate 

Coleman’s journey exemplifies the heart of FPD’s Profile of a Graduate. He leads with character, serves with integrity, pursues excellence, and is prepared to impact the world beyond our campus. 

Whether in the classroom, on the field, or on a national stage, Coleman reflects the discipline, leadership, and resilience we strive to cultivate in every Viking. He is proof that an FPD foundation equips students not just for success, but for service and significance. 

Once a Viking, always a Viking. 
Go Vikings  

Watch Coleman’s historic interception return on ESPN or through Navy Athletics’ official channels and join us in celebrating a Viking who continues to lead, serve, and compete with excellence.