2023 HockomockSports Football Awards

 

Milford senior Nick Araujo has been selected as the 2023 HockomockSports.com Football Player of the Year. Araujo was a standout in all three phases to help the Hawks earn the top spot in Div. 3 and reach the state semifinal for the third straight season.

Araujo, who was selected as the Kelley-Rex division MVP by the league’s coaches, rushed for 1,151 yards and 15 touchdowns as the team’s go-to back. He also contributed six sacks and was the team’s leading tackler at more than nine per game as an outside linebacker. Araujo was also the team’s kicker and punter, booting a league-best seven field goals this fall, including one from 46 yards.

“Nick did everything for us and performed at a high level every week,” said Milford coach Dale Olson.

With Araujo giving the Hawks a boost in all aspects of the game, Milford had the league’s third-best offense, scoring nearly 30 points per night. The Hawks also allowed the third-fewest points in the league, tossing three shutouts and allowing 14 or fewer points in three other games. Araujo remained the team’s workhorse despite carrying a knock through the playoffs and he pushed Milford to get back to the state semifinal, his third appearance in that round.

“Nick truly did everything for Milford this season,” said HockomockSports.com Managing Editor Josh Perry. “He was a physical player on both sides of the ball, taking hits on one side and then delivering them almost every play on the other. He also had one of the strongest legs in the league, which meant Milford could come away with points anywhere inside the 30.”

Araujo is the first Milford football player to earn this recognition. He is the sixth player from the Kelley-Rex to be named Player of the Year in the nine seasons that it has been given out, joining Mansfield’s Kyle Wisnieski (2013) and Vinnie Holmes (2019) and King Philip’s Mark Glebus (2014), John DeLuca (2016), and Shane Frommer (2017).

Honorable Mentions: Lincoln Moore (Foxboro), Tommy McLeish (King Philip), Connor Curtis (Mansfield)

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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 by position.

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HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Quarterbacks

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Tommy McLeish – King Philip – Senior
King Philip senior quarterback Tommy McLeish capped off his career with another strong season, leading the undefeated Warriors to the outright Kelley-Rex division title and to the Div. 2 Super Bowl (the team’s third in the past seven seasons). McLeish threw 20 touchdowns this season with just three interceptions, amassing more than 1,300 yards through the air. He was 11-for-15 and tossed three TDs in the Super Bowl win over Marshfield. McLeish was elected as an all-star by the league’s coaches. KP coach Brian Lee said, “Tommy has done a great job again for us at QB, this year really keeping us more balanced offensively. He is our leader on O and all the boys have great confidence in him. He can throw the deep ball very well. He has also done a great job punting for us this year.”

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Jack Buckley – Milford – Junior
Milford junior quarterback Jack Buckley had a breakout season in his first year as the starting signal caller, helping the Hawks take second place in the Kelley-Rex division and make it to the Div. 3 state semifinal (their third straight semifinal appearance. Buckley threw for 1,530 yards and 17 touchdowns this fall, with only four interceptions. Capable of making plays with his feet, he also rushed for 408 yards and seven more scores, as Milford scored more than 350 points this year. Buckley was selected as an honorable mention for Hockomock League all-star. Milford coach Dale Olson said, “Jack had a terrific first year at QB and looking for him to build on that next year.”

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Chase Frisoli – North Attleboro – Junior
North Attleboro junior Chase Frisoli had another strong season under center for the Rocketeers, who battled their way to a spot in the state tournament and earned an upset in the opening round. Frisoli showed the ability to get it done both in the air and on the ground, tossing for 1,389 yards through the air with nine touchdowns while rushing for a team-high 526 yards on 105 carries, adding three more scores. “Chase has all the qualities to be a dominating quarterback,” said North Attleboro head coach Mike Strachan. “He is extremely smart and has a high football IQ. He can control a game with his arm and legs and can make explosive plays at any time.”

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Dylan Keenan – Taunton – Sophomore
Taunton sophomore quarterback Dylan Keenan impressed in his first varsity season, helping the Tigers to a winning record (including a win over Div. 3 champion Milton) and a spot in the Div. 1 tournament. Keenan completed 109-of-210 passes this season for 1,639 yards. He finished with 15 touchdowns to just six interceptions, while facing some of the best defensive teams in the state. Keenan also made plays with his feet, rushing for a pair of scores. Taunton coach Brad Sidwell said, “Dylan’s play was impressive for a sophomore with one play of varsity experience. He has the leadership intangibles and is very competitive. We are looking forward to his progression next season and throughout his career.”

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Connor Curtis – Mansfield – Senior
Mansfield senior quarterback Connor Curtis got his turn under center and, despite losing some of his top weapons to injury, helped the Hornets make a push for the Davenport division title and reach the Div. 3 quarterfinal. Known more as a running QB coming into the season, Curtis completed 92-of-165 passes for 1,507 yards and 13 touchdowns. He also rushed for 456 yards and eight scores, crossing the 1,000-yard mark for his career. He also stepped up and played safety, making 22 tackles. He was selected as a league all-star. Mansfield coach Mike Redding said, “He waited his turn behind Conner (Zukowski) and stepped in and had a great senior year. We knew he could run with his Wildcat experience, but throwing for over 1,500 yards made us so much more dangerous on offense.”

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HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Running Backs

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Drew Laplante – King Philip – Junior
King Philip junior running back Drew Laplante took over as the go-to threat on the ground for the Warriors and helped them clinch the outright Kelley-Rex division title, the top seed in Div. 2, and a third Super Bowl title in the past seven seasons. Laplante rushed for 1,351 yards and 12 touchdowns this season, showing off his ability to grind out yards and break big plays. He was selected as an all-star by the Hockomock League coaches. KP coach Brian Lee said, “As the season went along Drew really started to take on the bulk of the carries for us on O. Our leading rusher and scorer. He has a great burst and is stronger than he looks. We are glad he and all our other backs are returning next year.”

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Ben Angelini – Foxboro – Junior
Foxboro junior running back Ben Angelini had a breakout season as the league’s top rusher, spearheading the Warriors’ offense to a Davenport division title and to the program’s first Super Bowl appearance and win since 2006. Angelini finished the season with 24 touchdowns (23 rushing and one receiving), including one in the Super Bowl, and nearly 1,300 yards on the ground. He averaged 16 carries per game. Angelini also threw a touchdown pass in the game against King Philip. He was selected as an all-star by the league’s coaches. Foxboro coach Jack Martinelli said of Angelini, “While his outstanding numbers are visible, what is not seen is his off-season regimen that has made him a standout player.”

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Ethan Harris – Taunton – Senior
Taunton senior running back Ethan Harris capped off his career with an impressive senior season on both sides of the ball, helping the Tigers finish with a winning record and return to the Div. 1 state tournament. Harris rushed for 596 yards on 107 carries and six touchdowns this season, despite splitting the running back duties early in the year. Harris also made three catches out of the backfield and was the team’s second-leading tackler with 75 total tackles, three for loss, an interception, and two forced fumbles. Taunton coach Brad Sidwell said, “Ethan had a great senior season. A two-way player, he became the lead for our offense midway through the season and earned the tough yards in the run game. Key to our defense at the linebacker position, he was always near the football. A leader of our team, we are going to miss him.”

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Nick Araujo – Milford – Senior
Milford senior Nick Araujo made an impact in all three phases of the game, starting at running back, linebacker, kicker, and punter for the Hawks. He was a major reason that Milford took second place in the Kelley-Rex and reached the state semifinal for the third straight year. The HockomockSports.com Player of the Year (see above) had a heavy workload this season, as he rushed for 1,151 yards and 15 touchdowns, kicked seven field goals, totaled six sacks, and averaged more than nine tackles per game. He was selected as the Kelley-Rex division MVP by the league’s coaches. Milford coach Dale Olson said, “Nick did everything for us and performed at a high level every week.”

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Nolan Bordieri – Mansfield – Senior
Mansfield senior Nolan Bordieri got the opportunity to be one of the team’s primary running backs this season and put together the best year of his career, helping the Hornets challenge for the Davenport title and reach the Div. 3 quarterfinal. Bordieri rushed for 628 yards on 106 carries in 10 games this year. He averaged 5.9 yards per carry and scored seven touchdowns. He also caught seven passes for 53 yards, returned punts and kicks, and made 32 tackles (13 solo) on defense. He was selected as a league all-star. Mansfield coach Mike Redding said, “Nolan played like an old-school running back for us, gaining most of his team-leading yards between the tackles on powers and counters, just putting his foot in the ground and getting downhill.”

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HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Wide Receivers/Tight Ends

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Jose Touron – Taunton – Senior
Taunton senior wideout Jose Touron closed out his career by piling up the receiving stats and helping Taunton secure a winning record and a return to the Div. 1 state tournament. Touron had 51 catches for 820 yards and six touchdowns. He also got 14 carries for 152 yards and another three scores. Touron contributed in the secondary as well, compiling 30 tackles, one for loss, an interception, and a forced fumble. He was selected as an all-star by the league’s coaches. Taunton coach Brad Sidwell said, “Jose is the most productive receiver we’ve had since I’ve been here. His career receiving statistics are 140 receptions for 2,324 yards and 26 touchdowns. Add that to rushing and defensive production and he’s had a great high school career.”

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Derek Dubriske – Franklin – Senior
Franklin senior Derek Dubriske continued a strong tradition of talented Panthers receivers, putting together his best varsity season to help them get back into the Div. 1 state tournament. Working with a pair of first-year starting quarterbacks, Dubriske hauled in 94 passes this season for 763 yards and 10 touchdowns. He was one of the league’s top threats on the edge and finished among the league leaders in touchdowns in the regular season. He came up with several big games, including 10 catches and 118 yards against North Attleboro as the Panthers went 3-2 in league play. Franklin coach Eain Bain said, “Derek was a consistent and reliable target who used his knowledge of defenses to get open in the intermediate passing game.”

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Chris Hanewich – North Attleboro – Senior
North Attleboro senior Chris Hanewich was a playmaker on both sides of the ball for head coach Mike Strachan and the Rocketeers this year. A two-way starter and a two-time captain, Hanewich rarely came off the field despite being involved in almost every play. Offensively, he had the most carries of any skill position player with 96 and a total of 384 yards, scoring a team-high four touchdowns. He added 27 catches for 385 yards, adding five more scores that way. He was also a big-time player defensively with 59 total tackles. “Chris was an explosive and physical player for us both offensively and defensively,” Strachan said. “Chris ended the season over 1000 yards all-purpose yards, nine touchdowns.”

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Jacob McLoughlin – Sharon – Senior
Sharon senior Jacob McLoughlin had a big year on the gridiron as the Eagles competed in the Hockomock League again this year after a two-year hiatus. McLoughlin quickly emerged as a favorite target for quarterback Liam Conway and the combination of speed and size made him a tough matchup for each team. He finished the year with 46 catches for 806 yards and hauled in nine touchdown catches. He also tossed a touchdown this year, and also set or tied five program records. “Jacob is still scratching the surface of his football potential and got better each and every single day he stepped foot on the field,” said Sharon head coach Dave Morse. “There was no ball he could not catch and his deceptive speed made him a tough matchup for every DB he faced. Jacob can line up at all receiver positions and run any route necessary.”

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Danny Silveria – King Philip – Senior
King Philip senior tight end Danny Silveria completed a stellar final season for the Warriors, helping them win their first Kelley-Rex division title since 2017, go unbeaten through the season, and win the Div. 2 Super Bowl. Silveria was the team leader in receiving touchdowns this year with 10, including a pair in the Super Bowl win over Marshfield. He finished with more than 300 yards receiving on the season. Silveria also forced a fumble in that game, continuing a strong season on both sides of the ball. He was selected as an all-star by the league’s coaches. KP coach Brian Lee said, “What made him so good was his versatility. He was a great run blocker in line or off the ball, which also helped in the play action game. But he was also athletic enough to split out and use as a receiver.”

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HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Offensive Line

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Jason Riley – Mansfield – Senior
Mansfield senior Jason Riley completed his second year as a starting offensive tackle for the Hornets, helping them stay in the Davenport title hunt until the final game of the season and reach the Div. 3 quarterfinal. Over the past two seasons, Riley and the Mansfield offensive line have contributed to 7,368 yards (335 per game) and 615 points (28 per game). He also chipped in at defensive end and made 28 tackles this season. Mansfield coach Mike Redding said, “Jason was really an offensive guard we asked to play tackle, and despite being undersized, he battled with this toughness and athleticism and worked with his teammates to get the job done up front. A key factor in our offense’s success over the last two seasons.”

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Sean King – King Philip – Senior
King Philip senior lineman Sean King was a major part of the Warriors completing an undefeated season, winning the outright Kelley-Rex division title for the first time since 2017, and bringing home the Div. 2 Super Bowl (the program’s third in the past seven seasons). He controlled games on the left side of the offensive line, opening up holes for the Warriors to rush for more than 2,000 yards as a team, including nearly 300 yards on the ground in the Super Bowl win over Marshfield. King was selected as an all-star by the league’s coaches. KP coach Brian Lee said, “Sean is our best overall lineman. He started in his third Super Bowl. In addition to his great play, Sean is our strongest player in the weight room.”

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Nathan Urman – Foxboro – Senior
Foxboro senior Nathan Urman gave the Warriors versatility on the offensive line, playing as a center as a junior and as a senior, lining up as either a tackle or a guard to match the opponent’s strength. He was a big part of the team’s run to a Davenport division title and the Div. 5 Super Bowl. With Urman leading the way, Foxboro scored 418 points this season, including 40-plus points in three of four playoff games (the Warriors had 37 in the other), while accumulating nearly 2,000 yards on the ground. Urman was selected as an all-star by the league’s coaches. Foxboro coach Jack Martinelli said, “Responsible for our line calls at a moment’s notice, this senior class, National Honor Society, and Student Council president made us a very cohesive unit.”

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Bryan Joanis – Taunton – Senior
Taunton senior lineman Bryan Joanis had an impressive season to end his three years as a varsity starter. He was a force on both the offensive and defensive lines, helping the Tigers finish with a winning record (including a win over Div. 3 champ Milton) and book a place in the Div. 1 state tournament. As part of a relatively inexperienced line, Joanis provided the leadership to help Taunton record two shutouts and hold four other opponents to 14 points or less. He was selected as an all-star by the Hockomock League coaches. Taunton coach Brad Sidwell said, “A three-year starter for us, Bryan has been a mainstay on both our offensive and defensive lines. Very athletic and with good size, we are going to miss him.”

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Keith Lee – Milford – Senior
Milford senior Keith Lee was a force at the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball, helping the Hawks power to second place in the Kelley-Rex division, the top seed in Div. 3, and to a third straight state semifinal. A three-year starter, Lee contributed to Milford’s prolific offense racking up 353 points, which was nearly 30 points per game. He also recorded four sacks and made six tackles per game for a defense that allowed the third-fewest points in the league this season. Lee was selected as an all-star by the Hockomock League coaches. Milford coach Dale Olson said, “Keith has been one of the best players on the field for us for the past three years.”

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HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Athletes

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Owen Lane – Canton – Senior
Canton senior Owen Lane got it done on both sides of the ball all year long for the Bulldogs. Starting at quarterback and linebacker, Lane was a vital part of both Canton’s offense and defense this year. He did a lot of the work on the ground too, rushing for 660 yards on 123 carries and nine touchdowns, finishing his career with 1,600 rushing yards. He added 650 passing yards and eight touchdowns. Defensively, he had 46 tackles (123 career), including 23 for loss and one interception. He was also the punter (32-yard average) and a two-time captain. “His leadership is invaluable and his character is impeccable,” said Canton head coach Anthony Fallon. “A true DOG.”

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Jarred Daughtry – Stoughton – Senior
Stoughton senior Jarred Daughtry made plays on both sides of the ball for first-year head coach Chris Evans. A three-year starter at quarterback, Daughtry was a player every team had to focus on for their defensive game plan. His ability to make plays with his arm and his feet made him a threat on each snap. He became the school’s all-time leader in passing touchdowns after tossing 12 this season with 1,500 yards in the air. He added 400 yards on the ground along with four rushing scores. He was also an impact player in Stoughton’s secondary, coming up with five interceptions and he scored one defensive touchdown. “Jarred led the Stoughton Black Knights on and off the field,” Evans said. “Jarred became the Stoughton High School all-time leader in passing touchdowns this school year. Jarred plans to study sports management and continue his playing career in college.

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Adrian Rivera – Attleboro – Senior
Attleboro senior Adrian Rivera wrapped up his career with the Bombardiers with another impressive season. A three-year starter, Rivera has done it all during his time wearing the blue and white. Offensively, he was the go-to option for head coach Jim Winters. He carried the ball 120 times for 747 yards and scored seven touchdowns, adding 18 catches for 135 yards and another score. On the defensive side, he was all over the place with 103 tackles (seven for loss), four sacks, and forced a pair of fumbles. “Adrian was a difference maker on both sides of the ball for us,” Winters said. “Great instincts and vision helped him defeat blocks and avoid tacklers. Adrian also has a great ability to play bigger than his size and delivered big hits whether running the football or coming up with the big tackle.”

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Brandon Mazenkas-O’Grady – Foxboro – Senior
Foxboro senior Brandon Mazenkas-O’Grady was a force in all three phases of the game, helping the Warriors secure the Davenport division title and bring home the Div. 5 state championship, Foxboro’s first Super Bowl since 2006. A three-year starter, Mazenkas-O’Grady finished his career with 188 tackles, 48 for a loss, 26 sacks, five fumble recoveries, four block kicks, five pass deflections, and five defensive touchdowns. He scored on a blocked punt and a rushing touchdown on Thanksgiving and had a fumble return for a TD in the Super Bowl. He was selected as a league all-star. Foxboro coach Jack Martinelli said, “Brandon is an unassuming standout athlete that plays on a special mission every time he steps on the field.”

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Gabe Korn – Sharon – Senior
Sharon senior Gabe Korn was a player every team had to focus on, both offensively and defensively, and finished his career with a handful of program records. He followed up a terrific junior season with another strong year at running back this fall and was a three-year starter at linebacker for the Eagles. Offensively, he had 167 carries for 683 yards and seven touchdowns, adding 121 yards in the air. He holds the program record for total points (202), career rushing yards (2,663), and career rushing touchdowns (30). He was also an impact player at linebacker with 44 tackles (six for loss) and a sack, finishing his career with 103 total tackles. “Gabe is a dude,” said Sharon head coach Dave Morse. “He runs with an incredibly low pad level but also has the ability to make defenders miss. Gabe worked incredibly hard over the past four years to become one of the best backs in school history.”

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HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Defensive Line

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Jonathan Balde – Foxboro – Junior
Foxboro junior Jonathan Balde was an impact player on both sides of the ball, a major reason that the Warriors were able to secure the Davenport division title and bring home the program’s first Super Bowl appearance and win since 2006. Balde recorded 23 tackles, including six for a loss, and one sack, while playing both inside at tackle or at defensive end. His versatility allowed the Warriors to shift their looks and make it more difficult for the opposition. Offensively, the Warriors ran a lot to his side, using his big frame and his ability to read defenses to spring big plays. Foxboro coach Jack Martinelli said, “Jonathan is one of Foxboro’s most athletic linemen in its history as a two-year starter with a brilliant future ahead of him.”

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Effrem Gnepo – Canton – Junior
Canton junior Effrem Gneppo was not only one of the best stories of the season, but he was also one of the top breakout stars. Originally from France, Gneppo came to Canton after one year at Fitchburg and quickly established himself as an impact player on both sides of the ball. While he had a strong season playing guard, he really stood out on the defensive end. His ability to pursue the quarterback and track down the ball carries gave the Dogs a big advantage in the trenches. He had 40 tackles this year, including 16 for a loss. He led the Bulldogs with seven sacks and had 17 quarterback pressures. “Effrem is tough to block and has a pure love for catching quarterbacks,” said Canton head coach Anthony Fallon.

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Tony Dew – Milford – Senior
Milford senior Tony Dew was a force in the heart of the defense line this season, helping the Hawks control the line of scrimmage and battle their way to second place in the Kelley-Rex division. Dew also contributed to Milford earning the top seed in Div. 3 and reaching a third straight state semifinal. With Dew helping bottle up the middle, the Milford defense allowed only 167 points in 12 games this season, including three shutouts and three other games allowing 14 points or less. Dew was selected as an all-star by the Hockomock League coaches. Milford coach Dale Olson said, “Tony has worked hard the past couple of years and became a force for us on both sides of the ball.”

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Luke Danson – King Philip – Senior
King Philip senior Luke Danson completed an impressive three-year varsity run with his third Super Bowl appearance. As a defensive end and offensive lineman, Danson helped the Warriors complete an unbeaten season, secure the outright Kelley-Rex division title for the first time since 2017, and win the state championship. He was a constant menace on defense, always getting into the backfield to break up plays, and on offense, he was part of a line that allowed the Warriors to dominate on the ground. Danson was selected as an all-star by the league’s coaches. KP coach Brian Lee said, “Luke is our most vocal and passionate team leader, such a great lineman on both sides of the ball. Started in his third Super Bowl.”

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Julian Rampino – Franklin – Junior
Franklin junior defensive lineman Julian Rampino proved to be a force off the end for the Panthers this season, having a breakout year to help them finish with a winning record in league play and return to the Div. 1 state tournament. Rampino finished the season with 60 tackles, including 12 for loss, and three sacks, using his quickness and athleticism to cause problems for the opposing offense. With Rampino disrupting things at the line of scrimmage, the Franklin defense was able to hold five opponents to 20 points or fewer this season. Franklin coach Eain Bain said, “Julian was a disruptive presence on the Panther defense and created many explosive plays for the defense.”

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HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Linebackers

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Ryan Bannon – North Attleboro – Junior
North Attleboro junior Ryan Bannon was all over the place this season for the Rocketeers, helping on the offensive side of the ball while dominating defensively. Offensively, he had 68 rushes for 293 yards and was North’s go-to option near the goal line with a team-high five rushing scores, adding 20 catches for 209 yards. He really stood out on the defensive end and seemed to be involved in every tackle, no matter where it was on the field. He had a team-high 109 tackles, including six for a loss, and came up with two interceptions and a forced fumble. “Ryan is a physically dominant player,” said North Attleboro head coach Mike Strachan. He’s a leader on and off the field…he didn’t start the year running the ball but became a dominant runner towards the end of the season. Ryan was our team leader and captain.”

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Lincoln Moore – Foxboro – Senior
Foxboro senior Lincoln Moore completed his final season with the Warriors by winning the Davenport division title and bringing home the program’s first Super Bowl title since 2006. The three-year starter was selected as the Davenport division MVP and set a program record for tackles with 305, 31 for a loss. He added one sack, five interceptions, a blocked kick, and scored a defensive touchdown. He was also the team’s long-snapper and a short-yardage back and blocker on offense. Foxboro coach Jack Martinelli said, “Davenport Division MVP and highly recruited by several top-rated academic and football programs at the next level, Lincoln is one of the best at reading offenses and making defensive front adjustments.”

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Aiden Astorino – King Philip – Junior
King Philip junior linebacker Aiden Astorino took on a bigger role this season and excelled, leading the team in tackles. Astorino’s play on both sides of the ball helped the Warriors to an unbeaten season, an outright Kelley-Rex division title, and to the D2 state championship. He rushed for nearly 500 yards this season, despite focusing more on his defensive work as the season progressed, and 10 touchdowns while helping the Warriors hold opponents to only 86 points this season. Astorino was selected as an all-star by the Hockomock League coaches. KP coach Brian Lee said, “Aiden is our most productive defensive player on the productivity chart. Aiden leads the team in tackles but more importantly, he is responsible for all our ‘D’ checks, which is not an easy task. He is a great running back as well.”

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Owen Matthews – Milford – Senior
Milford senior linebacker Owen Matthews stepped into a much bigger role this season and put together a strong final campaign as one of the leaders on that side of the ball. Matthews helped Milford take second place in the Kelley-Rex division, earn the top seed in Div. 3, and reach the state semifinal for the third straight year. A tough tackler and run-stopper, Matthews finished second on the team with more than seven tackles per game. With Matthews in the middle, Milford’s defense allowed only 167 points this season, which was the third-fewest in the league. Milford coach Dale Olson said, “Owen was a leader for us on and off the field and was a coach on the field for us on defense.”

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Ruairi Ritson – Canton – Senior
Canton senior Ruairi Ritson had a breakout season on both sides of the ball for the Bulldogs, who qualified for the state tournament. His improvement from last year was a huge part in helping Canton have another good year, going 7-4 including a win on Thanksgiving over rival Stoughton. Offensively, he rushed 24 times for 210 yards and four touchdowns and caught 18 passes for 300 yards and four more scores. He was a standout on the defensive side, constantly making plays. He finished the year with 45 tackles (19 for loss) and two fumble recoveries. “Ruairi has a third and drive to be the best he can be that is unparalleled,” said Canton head coach Anthony Fallon.

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HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Defensive Backs

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Brandon Nicastro – King Philip – Junior
King Philip junior cornerback Brandon Nicastro had a breakout season in the secondary for the Kelley-Rex division and Div. 2 state champions. Nicastro finished the season with a team-high six interceptions and broke up numerous other passes, showing off good reading of the game and good closing speed to make plays. He had a critical pick-six in the win over Milford, which helped the Warriors clinch their first league title since 2017. Nicastro was selected as an all-star by the Hockomock League coaches. KP coach Brian Lee said, “Brandon has put himself in the right spot this year multiple times to be our number one takeaway leader. Has that great resilience that you need to play corner.”

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Brandon Jackman – Mansfield – Senior
Mansfield senior Brandon Jackman was an impact player on both sides of the ball this season, helping the Hornets make a push for the Davenport division title and reach the Div. 3 quarterfinal. Named the team’s MVP, a Hockomock League all-star, and to the Div. 3 All-State team, Jackman had 41 catches for 742 yards and eight touchdowns, as well as a rushing touchdown and kickoff return TD. He also had 41 tackles (16 solo), an interception, and seven pass breakups for the Mansfield secondary. Mansfield coach Mike Redding said, “Brandon became so valuable for us this season. He really stepped up for us and was our big-play guy all year, as well as being such a great leader. For someone with limited varsity experience, he played like a veteran this season and never came off the field.”

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Shane Henri – Foxboro – Senior
Foxboro senior Shane Henri was a two-year starter in the secondary for the Warriors and he played a major role in the team’s Davenport division title and first Super Bowl appearance and win since 2006. Henri finished with eight career interceptions, including ones in the state semifinal and the Super Bowl. He also contributed 108 total tackles, willing to help out in run defense as well as on special teams. He finished with two tackles for loss, two sacks, and a fumble recovery. He was selected as a league all-star by the coaches. Foxboro coach Jack Martinelli said, “The Henri name has been prominent in the Foxboro football program since the 90s, personifying all the intangibles the game has to offer.”

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Andrew Rivera – Milford – Junior
Milford junior Andrew Rivera excelled at multiple positions for the Hawks this season, becoming a major contributor to the team’s second-place finish in the Kelley-Rex division and run to the top seed in Div. 3 and a third straight state semifinal appearance. Rivera caught six touchdowns lining up as a tight end and receiver for the offense, while picking off three passes (and returning one for the only touchdown in the win over Natick) for the Milford defense. He also recorded 13 sacks playing at linebacker or safety. River was selected as an all-star by the Hockomock League coaches. Milford coach Dale Olson said, “Andrew is a talented athlete we used in different spots on offense and defense.”

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Bryce Kiser – North Attleboro – Junior
North Attleboro junior Bryce Kiser was one of the toughest one-on-one players in the Hockomock League this year. Whether it was as a receiver offensively or lined up as a corner defensively, Kiser was a tough draw. Whenever the Rocketeers needed a big play, it seemed like Kiser was the one to come up with it, coming down with a bunch of tough catches throughout the season. He had a team-high 38 catches for 606 yards, scoring four touchdowns. As a corner, he made life difficult for opposing receivers and finished the season with 32 tackles and a pair of interceptions. “Bryce is a sure-handed explosive receiver who is a great route runner,” said North Attleboro head coach Bryce Kiser. “He can have an immediate impact on a game offensively.”

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HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Special Teams

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Nick Araujo – Milford – Senior
Milford senior Nick Araujo capped off a terrific career with the Scarlet Hawks with another great season in all three phases of the game. He impacted the game offensively, defensively, and special teams and was named HockomockSports.com Player of the Year (above). Araujo burst onto the scene as a sophomore with his kicking ability, emerged as a great defensive player last year, and took over as the lead running back for the Scarlet Hawks this year. He rushed for 1,151 yards and 15 touchdowns, led the Hawks in tackles including six sacks, and was one of the most dangerous kickers in the Hock (hitting from 46 yards this year). “Nick did everything for us and performed at a high level every week,” said Milford coach Dale Olson.

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Owen Hayes – Foxboro – Senior
Foxboro senior Owen Hayes took over the kicking duties this season and put together a remarkably consistent fall, helping the Warriors win the Davenport division title and bring home the program’s first Super Bowl win since 2006. Hayes contributed 70 points this year, making 64 extra points and a pair of field goals (with a long of 25). Hayes had plenty of chances to show off his leg, going 6-of-6 on extra points in both the state semifinal and the Super Bowl. He was also a strong punter, including a booming punt against Shawsheen Tech that led directly to the opening score of the night. Foxboro coach Jack Martinelli said, ” “Stepping into the shoes of three-year starter and DI collegiate kicker, Sam Carpenter, is no easy assignment but Owen took it in stride and has made his own mark.”

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Trinley Dudley – Taunton – Junior
Taunton junior Trinley Dudley stepped into the kicking role this season and impressed, helping the Tigers finish with a winning record and a place in the Div. 1 state tournament. In addition to giving Taunton a boost in field position, Dudley was 25-of-27 on extra points and 2-for-2 on onside kicks. He dropped five punts inside the opponents’ 10-yard-line and made a pair of field goals, including one from 26 yards. Taunton coach Brad Sidwell said, “Trinley is a huge addition to our program and will only get better. In all phases of the kicking game, he has helped us. Kickoffs, extra points/field goals, and Punts he helped gain the hidden yardage in field position.”

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Sean Woods – King Philip – Junior
King Philip junior Sean Woods earned the starting kicker position early in the season and became an integral piece for the Warriors, helping them secure their first Kelley-Rex division title since 2017, go undefeated, and bring home the program’s third Super Bowl title in the past seven seasons. Woods was 4-of-5 on field goals this season, with a long of 34 yards, and he was 53-of-58 on extra points, including a perfect 6-for-6 at Gillette Stadium in the win over Marshfield. KP coach Brain Lee said of Woods, “We had some big shoes to fill when we lost Kells (Matthew Kelley). Sean stepped up and basically came out of nowhere for us to do a great job. He has been super consistent all year.”

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Noah Wright – Sharon – Senior
Sharon senior Noah Wright expanded his role with the Eagles during his final season, adding place kicking, linebacker, and fullback duties on top of punting. A three-year starter at punter, Wright stepped in and added kicking to his special team responsibilities. He had 24 punts this year with an average of 42.84 yards per kick. Of those, 11 of them landed inside the 20-yard line to help the Eagles in the field position battle and booted a season-best 77-yarder. For extra points, he was very reliable as he missed just one all year, connecting on a school record of 92.3%. “He was an absolute weapon when in the lineup and our team was drastically different during the weeks he missed due to injury,” said Sharon head coach Dave Morse.

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Taunton sophomore Dylan Keenan has been selected as the 2023 HockomockSports.com Football Underclassman of the Year, given to the top freshman or sophomore in the league. Keenan took over under center for the Tigers this season and guided them to a spot in the state tournament.

Keenan continued to improve as the season went on, making plays with both his arm and his feet. He showed a lot of confidence to stand in the pocket against some of the top defenses in the league, helping the Tigers to the third-best offense in the Kelley-Rex division. The season featured league wins over North Attleboro and Attleboro sandwiched around an impressive win over eventual Division 3 state champion Milton.

“The Tigers had a lot of good veteran pieces in their offense this year and Dylan stepped right in and delivered some big performances,” said HockomockSports.com Editor Ryan Lanigan. “He only improved as the season went on and had some big performances. He showed off really good arm strength and made things happen with his legs when needed to. The experience he gained this year will be key going forward.”

For the season, Keenan completed 109 passes with an over 50% completion rate for 1,639 yards. He tossed a total of 15 touchdowns to just six interceptions, adding two rushing touchdowns for the Tigers.

“Dylan’s play was impressive for a sophomore with one play of varsity experience,” said Taunton head coach Brad Sidwell. “He has the leadership intangibles and is very competitive. We are looking forward to his progression next season and throughout his career.”

Keenan is the second Taunton player to earn this honor, joining Noah Leonard in 2016. He’s the fourth quarterback along with Leonard and North Attleboro’s Chad Peterson and Tyler DeMattio.

Honorable Mention: Tallan King (King Philip), Jason Stokes (Milford), Xavier Vicente (Stoughton)

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Foxboro head coach Jack Martinelli has been selected as the the 2023 HockomockSports.com Football Coach of the Year. Martinelli guided the Warriors to an undefeated division record for the Davenport division title as well as the MIAA Division 5 state championship, the program’s first all-state title.

The Warriors went 12-1 on the season, going a perfect 5-0 against Davenport foes to win the division. In those five games, Foxboro outscored opponents 186-30. The Warriors also posted non-league wins over Holliston and North Attleboro, and Foxboro’s lone loss was to undefeated D2 state champion King Philip, holding those Warriors to their lowest-scoring output of the season.

In the playoffs, Foxboro dominated its first two opponents Wilmington and Newburyport by a total of 79-0 and then dominated previous undefeated Shawsheen Tech, 42-12. In the Division 3 title game, Martinelli led the Warriors to a convincing 48-21 win over a good Hanover team.

“While the Warriors entered the season with high expectations, Coach Martinelli kept them level-headed throughout the year and his players focused on one game at a time,” said HockomockSports.com Editor Ryan Lanigan. “Foxboro really shined on the defensive side of the ball under Martinelli’s leadership. Every single game, they came prepared and made big plays on that side of the ball.”

This is the first time that Martinelli has been named the HockomockSports.com Coach of the Year. Previous winners include Franklin’s Eian Bain (2021), 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: Dale Olson (Milford), Mike Redding (Mansfield), Brian Lee (King Philip)