2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards

2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards

2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards

2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2017 Hockomock. HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards 2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards HockomockSports Attleboro Canton Foxboro Franklin King Philip Mansfield Milford North Attleboro Oliver Ames Sharon Stoughton Taunton HockomockSports HockomockSports HockomockSports HockomockSports HockomockSports HockomockSports HockomockSports HockomockSports HockomockSports HockomockSports HockomockSports HockomockSports HockomockSports HockomockSports HockomockSports HockomockSports HockomockSports HockomockSports HockomockSports HockomockSports Your source for comprehensive coverage of the Hockomock League. We provide recaps, features, standings, schedules and much more.
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2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards
 
Milford junior Leo Coelho has been selected as the 2019 HockomockSports.com Boys Soccer Player of the Year. One of the most versatile players in the league, Coelho played almost every position on the field for the Scarlet Hawks which gave Milford head coach Brian Edwards a lot of flexibility with his game plan. Not only could Coelho play anywhere on the field, but he was also good at each position and was a big reason that the Scarlet Hawks earned their second straight Davenport division championship.

If the Hawks were in need of a goal, Coelho could play up top and immediately change the game. After playing left back for a half against North Attleboro, Coelho switched to striker and helped generate the lone goal of the game within minutes. The same happened in the playoffs when Milford went to overtime with Feehan as Coelho started up top for the extra period and scored the game-winner just minutes in. He was also voted Hockomock League MVP by the coaches.

“Leo Coelho was the heart and soul of this team,” Edwards said. “His ability to excel at any position on the field was invaluable.”

After playing mainly outside back as a sophomore, Coelho saw extended time as a striker to start the year, played outside back in certain situations to try and neutralize top players, and then settled in nicely to a center defensive midfield spot for the second half of the season. He scored seven goals on the season and added 11 assists for Milford, who reached the D2 State Final.

“Leo is one of the most versatile players that I’ve seen in this league,” said HockomockSports.com Editor-in-Chief Ryan Lanigan. “Having a lot of talented players around him afforded the Hawks the flexibility to move Coelho wherever they needed to depending on the game plan. It was impressive to see him go from a shut down outside back to a strike that created or scored important goals.”

Coelho is the second straight Milford player to earn HockomockSports.com Player of the Year honors for Boys Soccer, following last year’s winner Walisson de Oliveira. He’s the fourth player from a Davenport division team since 2013.

Honorable Mentions: Pedro Araujo (Milford), Kyle Briere (North Attleboro), Colin Milliken (Oliver Ames)


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 by position.

2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards
2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

F – Dylan Barreira, Foxboro
 
F – Pedro Araujo, Milford
 
M – Leo Coelho, Milford
 
M – Kevin Louhis, Oliver Ames
 
M – Michael Russo, Attleboro
 
M – James Sales, North Attleboro
 
M – Colin Milliken, Oliver Ames
 
D – Sam Stowell, Franklin
 
D – Dan Stantos, Milford
 
D – Brady deVos, Oliver Ames
 
GK – Kyle Briere, North Attleboro
 

 
 
 
 





HockomockSports.com Best XI


Pedro AraujoPedro Araujo – Milford – Forward
Milford senior forward Pedro Araujo set new records for the Scarlet Hawks this season, dominating teams with his combination of pace and control. Araujo led the league with 25 goals in the regular season, finishing with 28 goals and 13 assists overall. He added a brace in the state championship game and proved to be a constant threat from the right wing against even the best defenses in the state. His record-setting season was one of the reasons that the Hawks won back-to-back league titles and got to the final for the first time in two decades. Milford coach Brian Edwards said, “Pedro was a dynamic player for us that gave us a really dangerous outlet. His ability to beat players one on one and tremendous speed were incredible.”


Dylan BarreiraDylan Barreira – Foxboro – Forward
Foxboro senior Dylan Barreira capped a memorable career with the Warriors with a strong final season. Barreira has been one of the most dangerous players in the attacking third the past two seasons, and the 2019 season was no different. For the second straight year, the striker was among the league’s leading scorers. He found the back of the net 15 times in 18 games, which was second-most among Hock players. He also had four assists to finish with 19 points, which was third overall. Over the past two seasons, Barreira showed the ability to finish in a variety of ways. He was named a Hockomock League All Star in both 2018 and 2019.


Leo CoelhoLeo Coelho – Milford – Midfield
Milford junior Leo Coelho played all over the pitch for the Kelley-Rex division champions and he was instrumental in the team reaching its first state championship game in 20 years. Coelho, the league MVP and the HockomockSports.com Player of the Year (see above), was among the league’s leading scorers with six goals and eight assists in the regular season, but his impact was much greater. He could drop into a holding midfield role, play at outside back, or jump up top to boost the attack, whatever the Hawks needed in a particular game. Milford coach Brian Edwards said, “Leo Coelho was the heart and soul of this team. His ability to excel at any position on the field was invaluable.”


Kevin LouhisKevin Louhis – Oliver Ames – Midfield
Oliver Ames junior Kevin Louhis had an impressive 2019 season, playing a big part in helping the Tigers clinch the Kelley-Rex division title. An outside midfielder, Louhis’ combination of speed and skill made him a handful for opponents to defend. He showed a vast improvement from a strong sophomore season, emerging as one the most dangerous players in the final third. He had four goals and added nine assists in the regular season for Oliver Ames (15-4). “Kevin has continued to impress with his individual creativity and is developing all other facets of his game,” said OA head coach John Barata. “We look forward to Kevin returning for his senior year…we believe he will unlock his full potential.”


Colin MillikenColin Milliken – Oliver Ames – Midfield
Oliver Ames junior Colin Milliken had another terrific year for the Tigers, his second year in the starting lineup and third at the varsity level. Patrolling the middle of the pitch for the Tigers, Milliken played a key role both offensively and defensively. He was the team’s leading scorer in the regular season with 10 goals and 14 assists, the latter leading the Hockomock League. His 24 total points were second overall and most for Kelley-Rex player. “Colin was an MVP candidate and had a terrific season as one of the top scoring leaders in the Hock,” said OA coach John Barata. “Colin earned all-state honors but will look to build on the team’s success going forward.”


Michael RussoMichael Russo – Attleboro – Midfield
Attleboro senior Michael Russo was the top attacking threat for the Bombardiers this season and was part of a midfield that was capable of unlocking even the top defenses in the league. The Franklin Pierce-commit scored 10 goals and assisted on five for Attleboro to keep the Bombardiers in the running for a playoff spot right up until the final weeks of the season, despite playing the last few games with an injury. Attleboro coach Peter Pereira said, “Mike was fantastic for us this season. A great team leader. He set the tone when he was on the field. He made his team better and that is what a great player does. When he was out with broken ribs, we lost the heart of the team and could not win a game. He has not peaked yet. I think he will do great things at Franklin Pierce.”


James SalesJames Sales – North Attleboro – Midfield
North Attleboro senior James Sales led the Rocketeers in scoring this season and helped North take second in the Davenport division and reach the Div. 2 South quarterfinal. Sales scored 11 goals and assisted on two others for the Rocketeers. He was the team’s primary playmaker and the fulcrum in the midfield who transitioned North into the attack. North Attleboro coach Geoff Burgess said, “James was the engine that made our team go on the attacking end of the field. He was also our main target on set pieces. He made great runs to get on the end crosses and through balls, which were our primary ways in which we scored goals. He is a box-to-box midfielder with a gas tank to match.”


Brady deVosBrady deVos – Oliver Ames – Defense
Oliver Ames junior Brady deVos made the most of his position change, emerging as one of the best defenders in the Hockomock League this year. After seeing time in the midfield last year, OA coach turned to deVos to help anchor the backline. Throughout the season he came away with key tackles at important moments, was very strong in the air, and his skill allowed the Kelley-Rex champion Tigers to build out of the back. “Brady has grown tremendously over the year and secured his spot as a top player in the league,” said Oliver Ames head coach John Barata. “We are excited for him to reach his full potential.”


Dan SantosDan Santos – Milford – Defense
Milford senior center back Dan Santos was the leader of the Scarlet Hawks backline that helped win a league title and helped reach the program’s first state title game in 20 years. Santos was a physical presence in the heart of the defense, but also was a vocal and emotional leader of the team during Milford’s run to the final. He was also a potent weapon on set pieces, delivering several key goals over the course of the season. He scored six times and recorded two assists this season. Santos was selected as a Hockomock all-star by the league’s coaches. Milford coach Brian Edwards said, “Dan is a natural leader. He was a calming presence on the backline. He was also a serious threat on set pieces.”


Sam StowellSam Stowell – Franklin – Defense
Franklin senior Sam Stowell concluded his four-year varsity career with another strong season in the heart of the Panthers defense and helped them finish second in the Kelley-Rex and reach the Div. 1 South quarterfinal. A physical and dominating presence in central defense, Stowell was part of a unit that held opponents to the fourth-fewest goals allowed in the league (20) and he was selected as an all-star by Hockomock League coaches for the first time. He also scored once and assisted on two goals. Franklin coach Fran Bositis said, “Sam had a great career at Franklin High. He was a four-year varsity player and was the unquestioned leader of our defense for the last two seasons.”


Kyle BriereKyle Briere – North Attleboro – Goalie
North Attleboro senior goalie Kyle Briere concluded his career with another strong season between the pipes, helping the Rocketeers put together the best defensive record in the league. Briere made 108 saves and allowed only 14 goals in 20 games while recording nine shutouts. He made a series of saves to send the quarterfinal against OA into penalties. North coach Geoff Burgess said, “Kyle is one of the best goalkeepers I have ever coached. He controls the 18 and handles crosses better than most goalie. His best attribute is the way he comes off his line to handle breakaways and his reaction saves are top drawer. Over the last two seasons he has 20 shutouts in 39 games.”





HockomockSports.com Second XI


Brian HigginsBrian Higgins – Sharon – Forward
Sharon senior Brian Higgins wrapped up a lengthy career with the Eagles with his best season yet. Higgins showed improvement each of the past two seasons and that trend continued again this year for the striker. Higgins is a crafty player that can beat defenders one-on-one while also seeing the field well to get teammates involved. He has a knack for finding the ball in the right spots and defenses must be aware where he is on set pieces at all times. For the second straight season, Higgins was Sharon’s leading scorer. After recording nine points (five goals, four assists) as a junior, he nearly doubled his goal scoring output wiht nine goals to go along with four assists, his 13 points good enough for top 10 in the Hockomock League.


Donny TappinDonny Tappin – Franklin – Forward
Franklin senior forward Donny Tappin was involved in half of the goals that the Panthers scored this season, emerging as one of the league’s top playmakers and helping the team reach the Div. 1 South quarterfinal. Tappin scored three times and assisted on 14 goals this fall, finishing the regular season with the second-most assists in the league. He was selected as an all-star by the Hockomock League coaches for the first time. Franklin coach Fran Bositis said, “Donnie had an outstanding senior season. He was the individual who created many opportunities for us offensively. His ability to take the defenders on in one-v-one situations was key. He’s a very unselfish player.”


Michael BaurMichael Baur – Sharon – Midfield
Sharon senior Michael Baur concluded a memorable career with the Eagles with yet another strong season. Patrolling the middle of the pitch, Baur was capable of turning defense into offense for Sharon. When the Eagles pushed forward, Baur was a vital piece and could finish from anywhere in the attacking third. He could also drop back and be an important part of the Eagles’ defense. He was one of the league’s best shooters as seen by his golazo on the road at Oliver Ames. For the 2019 season, Baur had seven goals and four assists, ranking second on Sharon in points with 11.


Jordan BorgesJordan Borges – Milford – Midfield
Milford senior midfielder Jordan Borges was one of the key players for the Kelley-Rex and Div. 2 South champion Scarlet Hawks, providing a physical presence in the center of the pitch when needed, a silky touch on the ball, and one of the league’s top shots from distance. He scored four times but also provided 11 assists during the regular season and never backed down as the Hawks got through the likes of Dartmouth, Feehan, and Nauset to win the sectional title. He was chosen as an all-star by the Hockomock League coaches. Milford coach Brian Edwards said, “Jordan was our unsung hero. He got us out of a lot of jams with his physicality, ability to distribute, and cannon of a shot.”


Joe CusackJoe Cusack – Foxboro – Midfield
Foxboro senior Joe Cusack finished up a solid career with the Warriors with another strong season. A key cog in the midfield for Foxboro for the past couple of seasons, Cusack was a very reliable option for head coach Joe Franchino. Playing as a center midfielder, he provided the Warriors with stability and showed off his skills when he went forward, netting four goals. What was even more impressive was his ability to get teammates involved. Whether it was a simple pass to keep possession or a final through ball to set up a striker, Cusack was one of the best decision-makers in the league, registering seven assists.


Matthew NikiciukMatthew Nikiciuk – Oliver Ames – Midfield
Oliver Ames junior Matthew Nikiciuk was a rock in the midfield this season and played a big role in helping the Tigers claim the Kelley-Rex division title. Playing as a defensive center midfielder, Nikiciuk did a lot of dirty work that didn’t show up on the stat sheet or in game recaps. He was key in the air, winning a lot of balls to help the Tigers either win or keep possession. He wasn’t shy going forward either, displaying a rocket of a shot that led to some of the most lethal free kicks in the league. “Matt was the most improved player from last season,” said OA head coach John Barata. “Matt inserted himself into the starting line up and immediately took his place among the leadership group for OA, but more importantly catapulted to one to the top players in the league.”


Joao Pedro Da SilvaJoao Pedro Da Silva – Milford – Midfield
Milford junior midfielder Joao Pedro Da Silva came through with clutch goals throughout the season for the Scarlet Hawks and was a major factor in the team’s unbeaten run through league play and all the way to the state championship game. Da Silva had a knack for popping up at the right time, and in big games, with important goals. He scored six times and assisted on three others during the regular season, adding a team-high five goals in the playoffs. He scored in both the South final and with a cheeky toe poke against Winchester in the title game. Milford coach Brian Edwards said, “JP got the nickname ‘Iceman’ for a reason. He scored huge goals for us all season. He was the most clutch player on the squad.”


Matt ClarkeMatt Clarke – King Philip – Defense
King Philip senior defender Matt Clarke was part of a Warriors defense that allowed the third-fewest goals in the league this season and tie for second in the Kelley-Rex division. Clarke was able to play in multiple positions, on the outside and in the center of the defense, showing off the touch and passing ability to make plays wherever he lined up. King Philip coach Mike O’Neil said, “In addition to being one of the best defenders in the Hockomock League, Matt is able to impact the game with his passing, his creativity, and his playmaking. It takes a special kind of player to impact the game on both ends of the field and Matt is one of those players.”


Joshua SmithJoshua Smith – Attleboro – Defense
Attleboro senior defender Josh Smith was just as capable in the heart of the backline as he was racing up the touchline at outside back and his versatility was a key for the Bombardiers this fall. He was voted as the team MVP along with classmate Michael Russo. His attitude and work rate set him apart from his peers. Attleboro coach Peter Pereira said, “Josh is one of the greatest kid you will ever meet yet he was the toughest player to go against. I could not take him off the field ever. He played every minute of the season. His hard work is amazing, his skills are great and his passion is unbeatable. If I have two more like him, we would never lose a game.”


Colin LevisIsaiah Stessman – Sharon – Defense
Sharon senior Isaiah Stessman was a vital piece of the Eagles and one of the most dynamic players in the Hockomock League for the second straight year. Despite battling injuries, Stessman was one of the top players in the Hock, earning all-league honors. His strongest attribute is his versatility as head coach Bryan Kelly could rely on Stessman to play at any position at any time. The Eagles used Stessman as a center back for the majority of the season, and his speed made it very difficult for opposing offenses to get in behind. There weren’t many players that could win a foot race or one-on-one battle with Stessman.


Anthony SalisburyAnthony Salisbury – Mansfield – Goalie
Mansfield senior Anthony Salisbury was named to the Second XI for the second straight season after another strong performance in goal for the Hornets. Salisbury played 14-1/2 games in goal this season and allowed 17 goals against, recording five shutouts. With Salisbury in goal, the Hornets overcame a tough start to the season and finished unbeaten in the final eight games and just one point short of a tournament spot. Over his career with Mansfield, he allowed 27 goals in 29-1/2 games and recorded 15 shutouts, allowing only 0.92 goals per game. Mansfield coach Steve Sheridan said, “Tony is arguably the most athletic keeper I’ve had here. He’s big, strong and is excellent in cutting down the angles.”


2019 HockomockSports Boys Soccer Awards
 
Franklin sophomore Terry O’Neill has been selected as the 2019 HockomockSports.com Boys Soccer Underclassman of the Year. In his second year with the Panthers, O’Neill was a reliable and steady option in the center midfield for the Panthers.

A center defensive midfielder for head coach Fran Bositis, O’Neill’s consistency made him of the top players in the league. While O’Neill isn’t a flashy player, his work ethic is among the best in the league and his decision making and high soccer IQ separate from others in the league.

“Terry played as our holding center midfielder and very rarely came off the field,” said Franklin head coach Fran Bositis. “He is a very talented and knowledgeable player and I believe his best days are ahead of him.”

It’s not going to fill up the stat sheet, but his simple passes and ability to thwart opposing offenses made him the top underclassman in the league. He also ventured into the attacking third, netting four goals this season for the Panthers.

“Even though he’s just a sophomore, Terry really stood out because of his high soccer IQ,” said HockomockSports.com Editor-in-Chief Ryan Lanigan. “Even under pressure, he seemed to always make the smart decision. He would find space to either keep the ball himself or quickly move it to find a teammate and keep possession. Holding mids don’t get a ton of love but a lot of work goes into that position.

O’Neill is the first Franklin boys soccer player to win the HockomockSports.com Underclassman of the Year award and the 15th time that a Panther has been earned this honor across all sports. Matt Lazzaro is the most recent to do so, winning the award this past spring for boys lacrosse.

Honorable Mention: Stephen Griffin (King Philip), Esvin Morales (Attleboro), Chris Tocci (Milford), Matias Taylor (Oliver Ames)


Coach of the Year

Coach of the Year

Brian Edwards
Brian Edwards

Milford head coach Brian Edwards has been selected as the 2019 HockomockSports.com Boys Soccer Coach of the Year. Edwards helped the Hawks win a second straight Davenport division title, a D2 South Sectional crown, and a trip the D2 State Final.

It’s the second straight season that Edwards has earned the honor, helping the Hawks win their first Hock division title last season. This year, Milford posted a 14-0-2 record in both league action and overall. The only blemishes included a tie to Foxboro as the Hawks scored late to earn a point and a draw against North Attleboro.

“It’s not easy to come into a season with high expectations and not only fulfill them, but exceed them and that’s what Coach Edwards did with the Hawks this year,” said HockomockSports.com Editor-in-Chief Ryan Lanigan. “The Hawks found a successful game plan against each opponent, and Coach Edwards had a lot of success moving players around the pitch depending on the game.”

“We knew Milford had a chance to be pretty good this year but Coach Edwards did a terrific job putting all of the pieces of the puzzle together,” said HockomockSports.com Editor-in-Chief Ryan Lanigan. “From start to finish, Milford was consistently good and Edwards put his players in the right positions to be successful.”

The Hawks were the #2 seed in the D2 South tournament. After falling to Walpole a year prior, Edwards made it a priority that his side could play against different styles. In the tournament, Milford knocked off Catholic Memorial, Dartmouth, Bishop Feehan, and took down nationally-ranked Nauset in penalties in the final.

Honorable Mention: John Barata (Oliver Ames), Fran Bositis (Franklin), Mike O’Neill (King Philip)