2021 HockomockSports Football Awards

 

Foxboro senior Dylan Gordon has been selected as the 2021 HockomockSports.com Football Player of the Year. Gordon was the lynchpin of the league’s most dynamic offense, leading the Warriors to their first outright Davenport title since 2010 and to the Div. 4 state semifinal.

Gordon, who was selected as the Davenport division MVP by the league’s coaches, scored a remarkable 37 touchdowns this season. He rushed for 28 scores, caught six, and as a strong safety also returned three interceptions for a touchdown. Gordon was a big-play threat on every down, rushing for more than 2,400 yards and adding another 276 yards receiving. He also chipped in with 29 tackles. All of that was accomplished while regularly sitting out the fourth quarter after Foxboro had pulled away.

“I know I am biased but in some 40 years of coaching in this league, where there have been great players, I’ve never witnessed what this young man has consistently done on a weekly basis,” said Foxboro coach Jack Martinelli.

With Gordon leading the way, Foxboro averaged more than 37 points per game and finished with nearly 70 more points the second-highest scoring team. He also came up big in the biggest games. In the playoffs, he scored three first quarter touchdowns against Newburyport, four touchdowns against Wilmington, and two touchdowns against Duxbury. In the title decider against North Attleboro, Gordon’s 72-yard touchdown run tied the game in the fourth quarter before the Warriors went on to win.

“Thirty-seven touchdowns speaks for itself, Dylan had an amazing season,” said HockomockSports.com Managing Editor Josh Perry. “There was always a sense that the next carry could be a touchdown. No matter where on the field he was, Dylan had a chance of taking it the distance, but he could also grind out the tough yards and seemed to get an extra couple of yards after contact on each carry. He was just a lot of fun to watch.”

Gordon is the first Foxboro player to be named Football Player of the Year and the third player from the Davenport division to earn this honor in the eight years that it has been handed out. He joins Canton’s Jake Ragusa (2015) and Brendan Albert (2018) as winners from the Davenport.

Honorable Mentions: Tyler DeMattio (North Attleboro), Mack Gulla (Franklin), Rudy Gately (King Philip)

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Editor’s Note: The HockomockSports.com Awards are selected strictly by our staff and have no affiliation to the official Hockomock League all stars. Please note players are listed alphabetically by position.

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HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Quarterbacks

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Jared Arone – Franklin – Senior
Franklin senior Jared Arone had a standout season at quarterback for the Kelley-Rex division champion Panthers, guiding the team to one of their best seasons in program history. Arone was very confident in the pocket and spread the ball around to a talented group of receivers. He rarely made mistakes (only two interceptions) and put a lot of pressure on defenses with his ability to read the coverage and find open receivers — and deliver on the mark. “The leader of the Kelley-Rex’s leading offense, Jared threw for over 2,000 yards while completing 68% of his passes,” said Franklin head coach Eian Bain. “His 28 touchdown throws compared to only two interceptions had Jared as one of the most efficient quarterbacks in the state.”

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Evan Cornelius – Milford – Junior
Milford junior Evan Cornelius was a dynamic dual-threat quarterback that helped the Hawks have one of the league’s top offensive units this season. Cornelius made an immediate impact in his first season under center, throwing for 1,876 yards and tossing 17 touchdowns. At 6-foot-3 and 235 pounds, Cornelius was also tough to handle when keeping the ball. He rushed for 453 yards and scored seven touchdowns on the ground. Milford’s offense scored 315 points in 12 games this year, which was the fourth-best in the league. The Hawks earned a first win over Mansfield and reached the Div. 2 state semifinal. Cornelius was an Honorable Mention selection from the league’s coaches.

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Charlie Grant – King Philip – Senior
King Philip senior quarterback Charlie Grant wasn’t as prolific a passer as some of the other signal callers on this list, but he made big plays when needed and came through in some of the biggest moments of the season. Grant’s ability to make plays with his legs and his arm helped the Warriors reach a fourth Super Bowl in the past six years. He finished the regular season with six passing touchdowns, four rushing scores, and even a pair of receiving touchdowns. King Philip coach Brian Lee said of Grant, “He runs our offense, changing the play at the line, making sure we are lined up correctly, and keeping drives going. No secret we like to run but Charlie made some huge plays to extend drive with his arm and his legs.”

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Tom Marcucella – Foxboro – Senior
Foxboro senior quarterback Tom Marcucella stepped into the position this fall and was one of the league’s most accurate passers and led the league’s highest-scoring offense. With Marcucella at the helm, the Warriors had a dynamic attack that led to a Davenport division title and a spot in the Div. 4 state semifinal. Marcucella completed 74.4 percent of his passes this year. He threw 26 touchdown passes and threw for 2,335 yards both of which are program records. He was selected as a Davenport division all-star. Foxboro coach Jack Martinelli said, “Tom threw to five different targets for scores throughout the season and allowed us to present a balanced attack. Tom was the epitome of being a student of the game, team leader, and an intense competitor.”

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Conner Zukowski – Mansfield – Junior
Mansfield junior Conner Zukowski looked like a seasoned veteran in his first year starting under center for the Hornets. Zukowski was very confident in the pocket and wasn’t afraid to make the big throw, and he made a couple of big ones this year. He went 115-for-225 for 1,778 yards, tossing 17 touchdowns, which was in the top five in the Hock this season. He also added 72 rushing yards and a pair of touchdowns on the ground. “Conner’s emergence was a big factor in our success this season,” said For a first-year starter, he played with poise, has a live arm, and had a great completion rate (56%) and TD/INT ratio (2:1). We entered the year with a good collection of receivers and he delivered by getting them the ball and keeping the offense balanced.”

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HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Running Backs

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Rudy Gately – King Philip – Junior
King Philip junior running back Rudy Gately stepped into the backfield this season to be the go-to back for the Warriors and had a breakout season. Gately never shied away from contact, whether at tailback or on defense, leading the KP offense with seven rushing touchdowns and a pair of touchdown receptions. He helped the Warriors reach a fourth Super Bowl in the past six seasons and added a touchdown at Gillette Stadium against Catholic Memorial. Gately was selected as a Kelley-Rex division all-star by the coaches. KP coach Brian Lee said, “Rudy is our dude, all 5-foot-8, 160 pounds of him. He was the bulk of our offense, has such great vision in tight quarters, and on ‘D’ he is one of our top players as well.”

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Dylan Gordon – Foxboro – Senior
Foxboro senior Dylan Gordon put together an amazing final year for the Warriors, accounting for 37 total touchdowns and leading them to the Davenport division title and the Div. 4 state semifinal. Despite only playing in the fourth quarter of five games this year, Gordon scored 28 times on the ground, six times as a receiver, and three times on interception returns. He rushed for more than 2,400 yards and added another 276 on receptions. He was named the Davenport division MVP and selected as the HockomockSports.com Player of the Year (see above). Foxboro coach Jack Martinelli said, “I know I am biased but in some 40 years of coaching in this league, where there has been great players, I’ve never witnessed what this young man has consistently done on a weekly basis.”

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Mack Gulla – Franklin – Senior
Franklin senior Mack Gulla was a workhorse for the Panthers this season, not only adding a key element in the running game to balance the offense but emerging as one of the most dangerous backs in the Hockomock League. The Panthers have had a strong passing game for a bit but Gulla really made the offense as good as it was with his strong running, often overpowering his way through the defense. “The focal point of the Franklin attack, Mack ran for 1,700 yards on 250 carries,” said Franklin head coach Eian Bain. “Mack’s 17 touchdowns were among the leaders in the league. Also a threat out of the backfield, Mack had over 200 yards receiving and while being a workhorse on the ground.”

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Tyler Lane – Milford – Senior
Milford senior Tyler Lane was a major factor on both sides of the ball, helping the Hawks earn their first win over Mansfield and reach the Div. 2 state semifinal. As the team’s primary running back, Lane rushed for 1,086 yards and 10 touchdowns, as part of the league’s fourth-highest scoring offense. He was also the team’s leading tacker from his linebacker position and had a key punt block for a touchdown in the semifinal loss to King Philip. Capable of grinding out first downs, as he did against Natick in the playoffs, or break long touchdown runs, as he did on Thanksgiving against Taunton, Lane was chosen as a Kelley-Rex division all-star by the Hockomock League coaches.

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Collin Williamson – Oliver Ames – Senior
Oliver Ames senior running back Collin Williamson had a breakout season for the Tigers. With his explosive speed and elusiveness, Williamson was a constant big-play threat, rushing for 1,403 yards on just 150 carries (9.4 yards per carry) and scoring 17 touchdowns. He was also 1-of-2 passing for 29 yards and another score. Williamson was selected as a Davenport division all-star by the Hockomock League coaches. Oliver Ames coach Ed DeWitt said, “Colin was our home run hitter, throughout the year he had eight runs of 40-plus yards, including longs of 82 and 74. He has gifted vision with exceptional speed who really had a big-play capability every time the ball was in his hands.”

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HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Wide Receivers/Tight Ends

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Trevor Foley – Mansfield – Sophomore
Mansfield sophomore Trevor Foley made an immediate impact for the Hornets this season and emerged as one of the most dangerous receivers in the Hockomock League. His combination of size (6’4″) and athleticism made him one of the toughest covers in the league, and he hauled in a team-high 41 receptions for 602 yards and a team-best 10 touchdowns. “Trevor played great for us on both sides and I don’t remember the last time a sophomore led us in receiving and interceptions,” said Mansfield head coach Mike Redding. “Just has a great feel for the game running routes, catching the ball, and defending the pass game…glad he’s back for a couple more years.”

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Shane Kindred – Franklin – Senior
Franklin senior Shane Kindred was one of the toughest covers around, not only in the Hockomock League but in the surrounding region and in all of Division 1. After developing some chemistry during the Fall 2 season, Kindred and quarterback Jared Arone were in sync throughout the entire year, leading to a Kelley-Rex division title and the top seed in the D1 State tournament. It seemed like Kindred was a threat to take it to the house almost every time he got his hands on the ball. “Settings school records for receptions (59) and yards (1,020), Shane found the end zone 12 times on the year,” said Franklin head coach Eian Bain. “Shane had a knack for making big plays in the passing game, while also playing special teams for the Panthers.”

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Isaiah Pantalone – Milford – Junior
Milford junior wide receiver Isaiah Pantalone scored three touchdowns on his varsity debut in the season opener against Foxboro and never looked back, putting together one of the league’s top receiving seasons and becoming one of its top big-play threats. Pantalone had more than 1,000 yards of offense this season and was the team leader with 13 touchdowns while becoming a favorite target in the passing game. As both a deep threat on the edge or with the speed to beat the coverage through the middle, Pantalone was a tough matchup for any defense and developed into an impact player on defense as well. He was selected as a Kelley-Rex division all-star by the Hockomock League coaches.

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Will Tracey – Franklin – Senior
Franklin senior Will Tracey had a breakout season at receiver for the Panthers, who won their first-ever Kelley-Rex division title and first Hockomock crown since 2009. Tracey joined fellow weapons Shane Kindred and Mack Gulla to make the Panthers one of the most well-balanced and dangerous offenses in the league and Division 1. If defenses tried to focus on the other options, Tracey continually made defenses pay. He also came up with some of his biggest performances in some of the biggest moments of the year. “Will seemed to come up big and in the biggest moments,” said Franklin head coach Eian Bain.”Tracey hulled in 41 receptions for 551 yards and 10 touchdowns. In the playoffs, and in big league games, he shined the most.”

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Rashaad Way – Foxboro – Senior
Foxboro senior wideout Rashaad Way impacted the game in all three phases this season, making big plays to lead the Warriors to a Davenport division title and to the Div. 4 state semifinal. Capable of breaking every play for a touchdown, Way turned 14 of his 34 catches into scores this season. He finished with 1,033 yards of total offense. Way also made plays at corner, finishing his career with four interceptions, and as a punt and kickoff returner. He was selected as a Davenport division all-star by the coaches. Foxboro coach Jack Martinelli said, “Rashaad was a talented, fluid athlete in all phases of the game. An outstanding student and gentleman, Rashaad is an outstanding ambassador to the METCO program who leaves his home at 5:15 a.m. each day over the past four years.”

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HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Offensive Line

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Mark DeGirolamo – Mansfield – Senior
Mansfield senior Mark DeGirolamo capped a memorable career with another standout season for the Hornets. One of the most experienced players in the entire league as a three-year player, DeGirolamo played both on the offensive line and defensive line. He anchored an offensive line that paved the way for a rushing attack that racked up nearly 1,500 yards and had a standout season defensively with a team-high 82 tackles, including four sacks and an interception. “Mark was the heart and soul of our line playing tough on both sides of the ball,” said Mansfield head coach Mike Redding. “Such a great combination of size, strength, and athleticism that we could play him anywhere on the defensive line. Most importantly, he was a great leader for a young team.”

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Hunter Hastings – King Philip – Senior
King Philip senior lineman Hunter Hastings was instrumental in the Warriors reaching the Super Bowl for the fourth time in six seasons. With an offense predicated on running the ball, Hastings and the offensive line set the tone, opening holes and pushing the opposition backward. In the Div. 2 state semifinal against Milford, Hastings and the offensive line allowed the Warriors to put together a nine-minute drive coming out of halftime that gave them the lead for good. He was selected as a Kelley-Rex division all-star by the coaches. KP coach Brian Lee said, “Such a high motor, Hunter loves football even at practice. Our best lineman on both sides of the ball, mostly due to his athleticism and toughness.”

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Aidan Hughes – Foxboro – Senior
Foxboro senior Aidan Hughes closed out his four-year varsity career with this third season as a starter on both sides of the lines for the Warriors, helping them clinch a Davenport division title and reach the Div. 4 state semifinal. Hughes used his size and strength as a blocker to be part of one of the league’s most dynamic offenses. On defense, Hughes had 23 tackles, including three for loss, four sacks and pressures, two forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries. He was selected as a Davenport division all-star. Foxboro coach Jack Martinelli said of Hughes, “While never really getting the credit, his quick hands and feet became highly responsible for our program record-setting offensive output.”

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Chris Leonardo – Attleboro – Senior
Attleboro senior lineman Chris Leonardo was an impact player on both sides of the ball for the Bombardiers this season, opening up holes for the running game on one side and controlling the line of scrimmage on the other. He led Attleboro’s defense this season with 72 tackles, three sacks, and two fumble recoveries to draw the eye of several college programs. he was also the anchor and the leader of the Attleboro offensive line and a key part of the team’s improvements on offense this season. Leonardo was selected as an all-star by the Hockomock League coaches. Attleboro coach Mike Strachan said, “Chris was our best overall and physical lineman this season. Chris was a dominating two-way starter for us this season.”

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Marco Monteiro – Milford – Senior
Milford senior Marco Monteiro stood out on the Hawks offensive line this season, not only because of his 6-foot-5, 300-pound frame. Dominant when lead blocking for the Milford ground game or protecting the quarterback in passing situations, Monteiro was also a vocal leader for the line. He helped the Hawks earn a first win against Mansfield and reach the Div. 2 state semifinal this fall. The Brown University-commit was a big reason for Milford scoring 315 points in 12 games this year, which was the fourth-most in the league, and on Thanksgiving Day he received the program’s top lineman award. Monteiro was selected as a Kelley-Rex division all-star by the Hockomock League coaches.

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HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Athletes

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Tyler DeMattio – North Attleboro – Senior
North Attleboro senior Tyler DeMattio put together a fantastic final season for the Rocketeers and helped them reach the Div. 3 Super Bowl. DeMattio was the team’s leading rusher with 1,138 yards on 162 carries (more than seven yards per carry) and 24 rushing touchdowns. He also caught a touchdown pass and recovered a fumble for a score. He also made 37-of-38 extra points and was 2-of-4 on field goal attempts. As a linebacker, DeMattio made 21 tackles, including seven for loss, and had four sacks. He scored 15 touchdowns in four playoff games, scoring at least three times in each round. North coach Don Johnson said, “He epitomized toughness. One of the all-time best football players at North. There isn’t a football coach in America that wouldn’t like him on his team.”

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Jonah Ly – Stoughton – Senior
Stoughton senior Jonah Ly was a factor in all phases of the game for the Black Knights this season. He accounted for 10 touchdowns on offense, rushing for 470 yards on 70 carries and eight scores and making 29 catches for 305 yards and a pair of touchdowns. He also contributed eight tackles per game as the strong safety and kicked the extra points. He finished with 80 tackles, three interceptions, and two forced fumbles on the defensive side of the ball. Stoughton coach Greg Burke said of Ly, “An incredibly tough kid who has played hurt both years. We will not be able to replace Jonah, because he is so consistent and tough. He knows everyone’s position and helps all the younger kids; a super role model.”

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Anthony Salviati – Attleboro – Junior
Attleboro junior Anthony Salviati completed his second varsity season as a two-way starter for the Bombardiers, making an impact in all three phases of the game. He finished the season with more than 800 all-purpose yards in just eight games. After battling injuries early in the fall, Salviati emerged as a big-play weapon for the Attleboro offense, with four touchdowns this fall, a consistent presence in the Attleboro secondary, and a solid kicker. His athleticism will be a key to the Bombardiers next fall. Attleboro coach Mike Strachan said, “Anthony is a two-year and two-way starter for us at AHS. Anthony was our most dynamic athlete and gave us the ability for the big play every time he touched the ball.”

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Trent Santos – Taunton – Senior
Taunton senior Trent Santos capped an impressive career with the Tigers with another strong season. A two-way player for head coach Brad Sidwell, Santos was once again one of the best deep threats in the Hockomock League. After starting at quarterback as a sophomore, Santos moved to receiver and has tormented opposing secondaries since. He hauled in 49 receptions for 734 yards (15 yards per catch) and scored eight touchdowns. He also had an interception on the defensive side of the ball. “Trent has been a three-year starter and an explosive player,” Sidwell said. “He is a truly dedicated player and enjoys the game. Looking forward to see where he ends up playing in college.”

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Rocco Scarpellini – Mansfield – Senior
Mansfield junior Rocco Scarpellini became a go-to option in the backfield and at linebacker for the Hornets this season. Mansfield had some voids to fill from graduation and Scarpellini stepped up to fill two of them. He recorded a team-high 130 carries, going for 734 yards (5.6 yards per carry), and found the end zone six times on the ground. He had 12 catches for 140 yards and a touchdown as well. Defensively, he was one of the team’s tackle leaders with 55, including four tackles for loss and a pass breakup. “Rocco stepped up from being a sophomore linebacker to a great two-way guy for us and led our team in rushing and certainly was one of those guys who gained many ‘yards after contact,'” said Mansfield head coach Mike Redding. “Pound for pound one of our strongest players and showed a lot of guts playing against Foxboro with a very sore shoulder.”

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HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Defensive Line

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Ryan Addeche – Foxboro – Senior
Foxboro senior Ryan Addeche wasn’t the biggest lineman in the league, but he brought quickness, athleticism, and a nose for the ball to the Warriors’ defensive line. He accumulated 71 tackles, including 14 for loss, had six quarterback sacks, and recovered a pair of fumbles, all while occupying the opposition offensive line and creating gaps for the Foxboro linebackers. He helped Foxboro win the Davenport division title and reach the Div. 4 state semifinal. He was selected as an Honorable Mention for all-star by the Hockomock League coaches. Foxboro coach Jack Martinelli said, “His old school toughness and disturbing speed allowed our linebackers to penetrate and make plays.”

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Jephte Jean – Mansfield – Junior
Mansfield junior Jephte Jean had a terrific season as a two-way lineman for the Hornets, really shining with his strength and athleticism on the defensive line. Perhaps the “Breakout Player of the Year,” Jean was one of Mansfield’s top tackles with 55 total, but he was the team’s leader with 35 solo tackles, had five tackles for loss, three sacks, and nine total QB pressures. “Jeph showed signs of greatness as a sophomore lineman when he had his opportunity last year and stepped it up even another level with great two-way play for us at guard and defensive tackle,” said Mansfield head coach Mike Redding. “Just has a great first step and explodes off the ball and has size, strength, and toughness to add to his speed.”

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Alex McColl – Milford – Senior
Milford senior Alex McColl was an impact player on both the offensive and defensive lines for the Hawks this season, helping Milford earn its first win over league rival Mansfield and reach the Div. 2 state semifinal. Quick, with good hands, McColl was frequently around the ball on the defensive side, chasing running backs down and engaging blockers to create gaps for the Milford blockers. On offense, his ability to get a good push off the ball opened holes for the Milford running game and his athleticism allowed him to be an effective blocker on passing situations or in the screen game, which helped the Hawks create one of the league’s most dynamic offenses this season.

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Christopher Sesay – King Philip – Junior
King Philip junior Christopher Sesay was tough to move on the defensive line this season, one of the reasons that the KP defense went to Gillette having allowed a little more than 15 points per game, including six teams to 16 points or fewer. A factor on both sides of the ball, Sesay helped the Warriors reach the Super Bowl for the fourth time in the past six years and go into the Thanksgiving Day game with a shot at a league title. King Philip coach Brian Lee said of Sesay, “One of the few kids not undersized at King Philip, Chris just kept improving each week on both sides of the ball. He was always big and strong but when his feet got better he become one of the better linemen in the Hock.”

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Jared Vacher – North Attleboro – Senior
North Attleboro senior Jared Vacher had a dominant season on both the offensive and defensive lines for the Rocketeers, helping them reach the Div. 3 Super Bowl for the first time since 2017. Vacher’s blocking on offense was instrumental in North rushing for more than 2,800 yards as a team. On the other side of the ball, the Tufts University-commit made 25 tackles, seven tackles for loss, and had a pair of sacks. Vacher was selected as a Davenport division all-star by the Hockomock League coaches. North Attleboro coach Don Johnson said of Vacher, “The leader on both the offensive and defensive lines, he is tough with a great motor. Rarely made a mental mistake. Great block-finisher on offense and a tenacious end on defense.”

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HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Linebackers

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Tyler Bannon – North Attleboro – Senior
North Attleboro senior linebacker Tyler Bannon was a playmaker in all three phases for the Rocketeers this season and a big piece of their run to the Div. 3 Super Bowl. Bannon made 52 solo tackles this year, including 18 for loss. He also had three sacks and three interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown. Bannon also blocked four kicks, one of which he recovered for a score. On offense, he rushed for 940 yards and nine touchdowns. He was selected as a Davenport division all-star by the coaches. North coach Don Johnson said of Bannon, “A great all-around football player, he was a force on defense making plays all over the field. Great instincts and phenomenal blitzer off the edge.”

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Dylan Kerrigan – Foxboro – Senior
Foxboro senior linebacker Dylan Kerrigan was a three-year starter for the Warriors on the offensive line and at inside linebacker. He was able to control the game with his quickness and athleticism, seeming to be in on every tackle this season as the Warriors won the Davenport division title and reached the Div. 4 state semifinal. He led the Warriors with 94 tackles, including 24 for loss. The team’s defensive signal caller, he also had two sacks, three forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries, a blocked kick, and two interceptions. Kerrigan, who Foxboro coach Jack Martinelli called a “devastating tackler,” was selected as a Davenport division all-star by the Hockomock League coaches.

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Ryan MacDougall – Taunton – Junior
Taunton junior Ryan MacDougall was a force at middle linebacker for the Tigers this year. He played on both sides of the ball, anchoring a young offensive line. On the defensive side of the ball, he always seemed to be in on the play and came up with some big tackles and big plays at opportune times. He recorded 77 tackles this year, including eight tackles for a loss, and had one sack and one fumble recovery. “Ryan MacDougall is a strong athletic blocker who was an anchor of our offensive line and he was also very productive defensively,” said Taunton head coach Brad Sidwell. “He is a tough, hard-nosed teammate that we are excited to have for another year.”

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Jack Marino – Franklin – Senior
Franklin senior Jack Marino was one of the unsung heroes of the Kelley-Rex division champion Panthers this season, emerging as a reliable and depending option at linebacker for head coach Eian Bain. He was a key piece of a much improved Franklin defense, starring at middle linebacker. He will be remembered in program history for his fourth down stop against KP on Thanksgiving, clinching the Panthers’ first win over the Warriors in a decade on the holiday. “Jack Marino always came through in the biggest moments for the league-leading defense,” said Franklin head coach Eian Bain. “Eighty-seven tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and six passes defended made Jack a stalwart on a dominant defense.”

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Chad Silva – Oliver Ames – Junior
Oliver Ames junior Chad Silva was a key for the Tigers on both sides of the ball, excelling at linebacker and running back this fall. Silva finished the year with 79 tackles, including 10 for loss, and had three sacks. He forced two fumbles, recovered one, and had a pass breakup. On offense, Silva was an every down back, racking up 794 yards on 111 carries (7.2 yards per carry) and scored 11 rushing touchdowns. He was chosen as an Honorable Mention for league all-star. OA coach Ed DeWitt said, “Chad was the guy that really made our run game operate. He is a strong blocker who adds a toughness to Colin’s speed in the run game. He plays exceptionally hard on both sides of the ball and is someone opponents have to account for at all times.”

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HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Defensive Backs

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Crawford Cantave – King Philip – Senior
King Philip senior Crawford Cantave moved to cornerback this season and became one of the league’s top cover guys. He was regularly lined up against the opposition’s No. 1 target and consistently came through, including a big second half interception against Milford in the state semifinal. He also added three rushing touchdowns and was a standout on special teams this season. Cantave helped the Warriors reach a fourth Super Bowl in the past six years. King Philip coach Brian Lee said of Cantave, “His job was simple, cover the other team’s best guy all game, and he did. On offense Craw really came on later in the year with a physical style of running to complement Rudy (Gately). Also, he has the best smile in the Hock.”

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Grant Scudo – Mansfield – Senior
Milford senior Grant Scudo closed out his career with another strong season in the secondary, making big plays in both the passing and running game to help the Hawks earn a first win over league rival Mansfield and reach the Div. 2 state semifinal. Scudo is quick and reads the game well, allowing him to get to the ball carrier or close quickly on a receiver. A good tackler in space, Scudo was tough to beat on the edge, which helped the Hawks shut down quick passing attacks or opponent’s screen games. Scudo also stepped in at running back and was able to grind out yards through contact and with the burst to turn a tough inside run into a big play at any time.

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Tommy Sharkey – Foxboro – Senior
Foxboro senior Tommy Sharkey was a playmaker at wide receiver and in the secondary for the Warriors this season. His work on both sides of the ball helped the Warriors win the outright Davenport division title and reach the Div. 4 state semifinal. Sharkey lined up at both corner and safety this fall, depending on the coverage scheme, and finished with 28 tackles, 12 pass breakups, and two interceptions, one of which he returned 80 yards for a touchdown. He also caught 24 passes for 438 yards and six touchdowns and was named a league all-star. Foxboro coach Jack Martinell said, “An accomplished three-way player in all the phases of football over the past 2 seasons, Tommy combined amazing speed and quickness, making him difficult to cover on all pass routes.”

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Joe Tirrell – Franklin – Senior
Franklin senior Joe Tirrell was very dependable for the Kelley-Rex division champion Panthers, shining on the defensive end of the ball for head coach Eian Bain. Tirrell was like a coach on the field for the Panthers, organizing a defense that allowed a league-low 167 points against (under 16 per game). Not only could he drop back in coverage and make plays, but his speed was also utilized in blitz packages to pressure opposing defenses. “One of the most versatile defenders in the Hock, Joe Tirrell amassed 78 tackles to go with 10 QB pressures, two forced fumbles, five passes defended, and four tackles for loss,” said Franklin head coach Eian Bain.

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Gavin Wells – North Attleboro – Senior
North Attleboro senior Gavin Wells was a playmaker for North’s secondary and also a top deep threat for the Rocketeers’ offense. He finished the season with 17 tackles, including one for loss, and a team-high three interceptions. Wells also led the team with 20 catches for 432 yards, which is an average of more than 21 yards per grab, and six touchdowns. He helped the Rocketeers reach the Div. 3 Super Bowl for the first time since 2017. He was selected as a Davenport division all-star by the league’s coaches. North coach Don Johnson said of Wells, “An impactful two-way skill player for us, he has great hands to go along with a long body and good speed. He made a lot of big plays on both sides of the ball.”

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HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Special Teams

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Nicholas Araujo – Milford – Sophomore
Milford sophomore Nicholas Araujo stepped in and became one of the league’s top kickers this season, showing off a strong, accurate leg. Araujo made 11-of-13 field goal attempts for the league’s fourth-highest scoring offense. Five of his kicks were good from more than 40 yards and he was also extremely accurate on extra points and regularly pinned teams deep with his long kickoffs. His kick of 45 yards was the longest in the league this season. In addition to his work as a kicker, Araujo was a regular starter at linebacker and developed into a consistent performer on that side of the ball. He was also selected as an honorable mention for HockomockSports.com Underclassman of the Year (see below).

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Sam Carpenter – Foxboro – Junior
Foxboro junior Sam Carpenter took advantage of the extra season in 2020-21 to try kicking field goals for the football team and he is now one of the most consistent kickers in the league. Carpenter made 54-of-57 extra points and 6-of-8 field goals, including a long of 43 yards. He was a key part of the league’s top-scoring offense and helped the Warriors to a Davenport division title and to a Div. 4 state semifinal appearance. He also saw 41-of-65 kickoffs end in touchbacks and he regularly pinned teams back with his directional punting. Foxboro coach Jack Martinelli said, “Self-made with an uncanny work ethic to ply his trade best describes kicker Sam Carpenter, already invited as a junior prospect at Boston College.”

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James Gilleran – Mansfield – Senior
Mansfield senior James Gilleran was a talented and reliable piece for the Hornets this season, not only as a valuable member of the offensive line but as a giant piece of special teams. Gilleran started at tackle and helped protect a passing game that went for just under 1,800 yards and a rushing game that recorded nearly 1,500 yards. He was also the team’s field goal kicker (three made), PAT kicker (32 made), and punter, often helping the Hornets win the field position game with his kicks. “Jimmy was so valuable for us as a returning offensive lineman at tackle, but also emerged as one of the top special
teams players in the league,” said Mansfield head coach Mike Redding. “A great leg kicking and so consistent on PATs and FGs, but really improved in the punt game and flipped the field very often with his great punts. He’s a first-class young man who had a great career here.”

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Matthew Kelley – King Philip – Junior
King Philip junior Matthew Kelley continues to be one of the league’s most consistent kickers and punters, giving the Warriors an asset both for scoring points and for playing the field position game. Kelley had the second-most field goals made in the league during the regular season with seven, including a long of 41 yards. He also rarely missed extra points and even helped out in the secondary. He helped the Warriors reach the Super Bowl for the fourth time in the past six years. KP coach Brian Lee said of Kelley, “What a comfort it is to have a kicker! Knowing we have the ability to grab points once inside the 25 is a game-changer. In addition, just what he gives us in terms of field position can’t be overlooked.”

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Garrett Portesi – Franklin – Junior
Franklin junior Garrett Portesi made the most of his opportunities in his first year as the starting kicker for the Panthers. Franklin had a very reliable kicking game the past couple of seasons and Portesi continued that trend this season. He was very consistent in the kicking game, getting a lot of work after Franklin scored 340 points this season. His kickoffs also helped the Panthers often win the field position battle. “His first year on the varsity roster, and the second year overall playing football, Garrett was as clutch as could be in the kicking game,” said Franklin head coach Eian Bain. “With key field goals against Milford and Methuen, he helped secure big wins along the way to a 10-1 record.”

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Mansfield sophomore Trevor Foley has been selected as the 2021 HockomockSports.com Football Underclassman of the Year, given to the top freshman or sophomore in the league. Foley burst onto the scene as one of the top two-way players in the league, regardless of grade, shining at receiver and defensive back for the Hornets.

Foley was one of the most dangerous offensive weapons in the entire league, emerging as a go-to option for first-year starting quarterback Conner Zukowski. The sophomore became a favorite target for Zukowski and was a handful for opposing secondaries, often requiring a double team and punishing defenses when they didn’t. He led the Hornets with 41 receptions for 602 yards, which totaled 14.7 yards per catch. He was one of the top-scoring receivers in the league as well with 10 touchdowns.

“Right from the get-go, Trevor really stood out on both ends of the ball,” said HockomockSports.com Editor-in-Chief. “There were times he made it look easy when it certainly wasn’t. This speed and athleticism combined with his size really made him one of the most difficult players to cover. And then he went right back out and made plays on the defensive side of the ball too. It’s not often you see a player that young make so many plays consistently throughout a season.”

On the defensive side of the ball, he had 31 tackles (21 solo) and had a team-best five interceptions. He also tied for a team-high four pass breakups and forced one fumble.

Mansfield coach Mike Redding added, “Trevor played great for us on both sides and I don’t remember the last time a sophomore led us in receiving and interceptions. Just has a great feel for the game running routes, catching the ball, and defending the pass game…glad he’s back for a couple more years.”

Foley is the fourth Mansfield player to earn this honor, joining Brian Lynch (2014), Vinnie Holmes (2017), and TJ Guy (2018). He is the first wide receiver or defensive back to win the award following two linemen, two running backs, and three quarterbacks.

Honorable Mention: Chase Frisoli (North Attleboro), Nicholas Araujo (Milford), Sean King (King Philip)

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Franklin head coach Eian Bain has been selected as the 2021 HockomockSports.com Football Coach of the Year. Bain led the Panthers to their first ever Kelley-Rex title and first Hock title since 2009 as well as the top seed in the Division 1 state tournament.

The Panthers went 10-1 on the season, going a perfect 5-0 against division opponents to win the Kelley-Rex. Franklin’s lone loss came in the D1 State Semifinal in a shootout with Springfield Central, who went on to win the D1 State Final. Franklin was the top defense in the league with under 16 points per game allowed and the top offense in the Kelley-Rex with over 30 points per game.

In the playoffs, Franklin dominated both Braintree and Metheun to reach the semifinals. Franklin went toe-to-toe with the Golden Eagles, Bain helping the Panthers respond almost every time before falling 60-49.

“You have to admire what Coach Bain has done with the program over the past couple of seasons,” said HockomockSports.com Editor-in-Chief. “He’s really had the kids buying in and improving each season. They’ve been known as an offensive team since he took over but the defense really completed this group. They were well-balanced, well-prepared, and came away with some big wins in one of the toughest divisions in the state.”

This is the first time that Bain has been named the HockomockSports.com Coach of the Year. Previous winners include Mansfield’s Mike Redding (2019), Brian Lee (2014, 2016, 2017), North Attleboro’s Don Johnson (2015), Attleboro’s Mike Strachan (2013), and Canton’s Dave Bohane (2018).

Honorable Mentions: Jack Martinelli (Foxboro), Brian Lee (King Philip), Don Johnson (North Attleboro), Dale Olson (Milford)