2019 HockomockSports Football Awards

2019 HockomockSports Football Awards

2019 HockomockSports Football Awards

2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football Awards 2019 HockomockSports Football 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.
HockomockSports Your source for comprehensive coverage of the Hockomock League. We provide recaps, features, standings, schedules and much more.
HockomockSports Your source for comprehensive coverage of the Hockomock League. We provide recaps, features, standings, schedules and much more.
HockomockSports Your source for comprehensive coverage of the Hockomock League. We provide recaps, features, standings, schedules and much more. TheSunChronicle.com ESPNBoston.com

2019 HockomockSports Football Awards
 

Mansfield senior Vinnie Holmes has been selected as the 2019 HockomockSports.com Football Player of the Year. Holmes was a dominant linebacker and running back this season, leading the Hornets to a second straight Kelley-Rex division title and to the Div. 2 Super Bowl crown.

Holmes, who was selected as the Kelley-Rex division MVP, led the Hornets with 91 tackles this season. He had 33 solo stops and 40 assisted tackles. He also had a team-high 16 tackles for loss, two sacks, and eight quarterback pressures. A sideline-to-sideline force, Holmes also had three pass breakups and a forced fumble, showing off the full range of skills for a linebacker.

“Since day one of his sophomore year, he established himself as one of Mansfield’s best linebackers with his speed and instincts,” said Mansfield coach Mike Redding. “He had those special traits that you just can’t teach.  And on offense, we saw such improvement from a blocking back as a sophomore to a tough runner as a junior to an explosive back as a senior who ran more like our halfbacks with breakaway speed. This is all a result of a tremendous work ethic.”

As a running back, Holmes was second on the team with 895 yards and eight touchdowns, rushing for more than eight yards per carry. He also had eight catches and a touchdown in the passing game. He saved his best performance for last, finishing off his career with 145 yards on just nine carries and three touchdowns in the 41-0 win against Lincoln-Sudbury at Gillette Stadium.

“Vinnie is one of those players that is involved in every single snap,” said HockomockSports.com Managing Editor Josh Perry. “Whether it’s chasing a running back down, pressuring a quarterback, or running over an opponent on his way to the end zone, he is fun to watch. He’s had a remarkable career and this was a remarkable season to cap it off.”

Holmes is the second Mansfield football player to be named Player of the Year, joining 2013 Super Bowl-winning quarterback Kyle Wisnieski. He is also the 10th Mansfield player to be honored across all sports for which the award is given out. The list includes Rocky DeAndrade (2014), Michael Boen (2015), and Sam Goldberg (2017) for boys basketball, Caroline Maher (2015) for field hockey, Hannah Reiter (2016) for girls soccer, Jen Peel (2017) for girls basketball, and Tyler Dalton for baseball (2018).

Honorable Mentions: Kyle Fitzgerald (Canton), Jake Davis (Franklin), Robert Jarest (King Philip)


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.


HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Quarterbacks


Thomas GasbarroThomas Gasbarro – Franklin – Senior
Franklin senior quarterback Thomas Gasbarro stepped in this fall and had a record-breaking season for the Panthers, helping them improve upon last year’s finish by reaching the Div. 1 South final. Gasbarro set school records for completions (180) and yards (2,236) this season, while completing 65 percent of his throws. He also led the league with 23 touchdown passes, including 12 to classmate Jake Davis. He was selected as an all-star by Hockomock League coaches. Franklin coach Eian Bain said, “Thomas proved to be one of the toughest quarterbacks we have had the privilege to coach. His leadership and execution in the big moment helped lead our team to the D1 South Sectional Final.”


Johnny HaganJohnny Hagan – Canton – Senior
Canton senior Johnny Hagan continued to be one of the league’s most dynamic playmakers, as he helped the Bulldogs win back-to-back Davenport division titles and return to the Div. 5 South final. Hagan was tied for the league lead with 11 rushing touchdowns this season and added eight more through the air. He accounted for 1,583 yards of total offense (667 on the ground and 916 through the air). He also chipped in with 10 tackles and an interception on defense. Canton coach Dave Bohane said, “Johnny had an outstanding football career here at Canton. Combine his football feats with his hockey success and you probably have the best athlete to go through our school. He is a fierce competitor who fought through a number of nagging injuries this season.”


Robbie JarestRobbie Jarest – King Philip – Senior
King Philip senior quarterback Robbie Jarest put in his best numerical season for the Warriors, helping them return to the Div. 2 South semifinal. Jarest accounted for 20 total touchdowns this year, as he was given the chance to make plays with both his arms and his legs and to balance the typically run-heavy KP offense. He also stepped up when running back Ryan Halliday went down with an injury. Jarest was second in the league with 155 touchdown passes and ran for five more. King Philip coach Brian Lee said, “Rob did a great job this year. When Halliday went down he was our guy on ‘O’. He made huge plays with his legs on run plays and extending pass plays.”


Shayne KerriganShayne Kerrigan – Foxboro – Senior
Foxboro senior quarterback Shayne Kerrigan was a dynamic playmaker for the Warriors this season, improving over the course of the season after his move from receiver to quarterback and helping the Warriors reach the Div. 5 South semifinal. Kerrigan compiled 18 total touchdowns this season, including 10 rushing and eight passing, and amassed more than 1,400 yards of total offense. He was tied for fifth in the league in passing TDs and tied for third in rushing scores. Foxboro coach Jack Martinelli said, “Foxboro’s top athlete, Shayne was the focal point of every opponent’s defense but through his skill and toughness, extended many plays and kept Foxboro more than competitive every week by making something happen.”


Colby PiresColby Pires – Milford – Senior
Milford senior Colby Pires was instrumental in the Hawks jumping out to a fast start this season and clinching a return to the playoffs. Despite having an almost completely new receiving corps, the three-year starting quarterback completed 63 percent of his passes on the season for 1,308 yards. He threw nine touchdown passes to just one interception this season before suffering an injury in the regular season finale against Foxboro. Milford coach Anthony Vizakis said, “Colby was the leader of the offense all season, and his presence on the field was a big reason for our success early on. We are proud of his career as a three-year starter at quarterback for the Scarlet Hawks.-


HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Running Backs


Christopher AisChristopher Ais – Stoughton – Junior
Stoughton junior Christopher Ais was a force in all three phases and helped the Black Knights finish second in the Davenport division and make a run to the D3 South semifinal. In eight games this season, Ais gained 577 yards on an impressive 7.45 yards per carry. He also made five catches for 49 yards and averaged 37 yards a game as a punter. He scored nine touchdowns this season. Defensively, Ais averaged eight tackles per game and his big play ability on both sides of the ball made him someone that coaches had to game plan for every week. Stoughton coach Greg Burke said of Ais, “He’s a fantastic blocker…superb player and kid. His best days are ahead of him. He has many schools recruiting him now.”


Nathan CabralNathan Cabral – Oliver Ames – Senior
Oliver Ames senior running back Nathan Cabral was a two-way force for the Tiger this fall, leading both the offense and defense and stepping up big against some of OA’s toughest opponents. Cabral finished with 1,042 yards on the season and was among the league leaders with 13 touchdowns. He ran for more than 100 yards against state champion Mansfield, scored four times in a win against Braintree, and added two scores in a big win against Sharon on Thanksgiving. He also totaled 84 tackles at linebacker, including 11 for loss. Oliver Ames coach Ed DeWitt said, “He was our leader on offense and excelled as a leader in the weight room. He loves to practice and runs with an attitude.”


Kyle FitzgeraldKyle Fitzgerald – Canton – Senior
Canton senior Kyle Fitzgerald had a dominant season for the Davenport division champion Bulldogs, providing them with a big-play weapon in all three phases of the game and helping them make a return to the Div. 5 South final and finish 10-1 this season. Fitzgerald, who was selected as the Davenport MVP by the league’s coaches, scored 11 rushing touchdowns, which was tied for the best in the league, and also had a pair of touchdown receptions. He rushed for 1,050 yards this season, averaging nearly seven yards per carry, had 150 yards receiving (15 yards per catch), and had more than 100 yards in punt returns. Canton coach Dave Bohane said, “He is an outstanding student and is highly respected in our community. He is a tremendous leader and always stepped up to make the biggest plays in the biggest moments.”


Cincere GillCincere Gill – Mansfield – Junior
Mansfield junior Cincere Gill had a breakout season for the Kelley-Rex and Div. 2 champion Hornets, emerging as one of the top running backs in the league. He rushed for 979 yards on 102 carries and was among the league leaders with 10 rushing scores. Gill averaged 9.6 yards per carry this season. He was also second on the Hornets with 18 catches for 231 yards and five more touchdowns. Mansfield coach Mike Redding said, “One of the fastest and most explosive skill guys we have ever had, with elite speed (4.45 in 40), he has the ability to create positive yards out of nothing and his cutting ability in the open field separates him from other backs.”


Ryan HallidayRyan Halliday – King Philip – Senior
King Philip senior running back Ryan Halliday missed four games this season due to injury and still finished among the league leaders with 10 rushing scores. A powerhouse back, who seemed to get better the more carries he got in a game, Halliday was able to get the tough, physical yards or break the play to the outside for big gains. On Thanksgiving Day, only a couple of weeks after returning from injury, Halliday carried the ball 40 times to help the Warriors win a 10th straight game against Franklin. King Philip coach Brian Lee said, “No need for stats. He is our guy, on both sides of the ball. He rushed the ball 40 times on Thanksgiving and played on ‘D’ and special teams as well! Never fumbled this year..even with a cast!”


HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Wide Receivers/Tight Ends


Ethan CameronEthan Cameron – Attleboro – Senior
Attleboro senior Ethan Cameron had another strong season on the edge for the Bombardiers, providing the team with a consistent target down the field. He finished the season with five receiving touchdowns and six total. He had 27 catches for 527 yards, both of which were team highs, and he averaged 19 yards per grab. Cameron finished the season with more receiving yards than the rest of the team combined and added a fumble recovery for a score on the other side of the ball as well. Attleboro coach Mike Strachan said, “Ethan’s hard work in the offseason paid off for him on the gridiron this year, he added speed and gave us a deep threat as the season moved on.”


Jake DavisJake Davis – Franklin – Senior
Franklin senior Jake Davis had one of the top statistical seasons for any receiver in the league. The UMass-Lowell lacrosse commit led the Hockomock with 12 touchdown receptions, quickly becoming the favorite target for quarterback Thomas Gasbarro. Davis caught 53 passes this season, for 833 yards, and was a constant threat to go the distance on any completion. His talents extended to defense as well (see below), as he also became one of the top defensive backs in the league this year. He was selected as an all-star by the Hockomock League coaches. Franklin coach Eian Bain said, “At nearly 16 yards per receptions, Jake became an explosive playmaker for us and one of Tommy’s most trusted targets.”


Max MartinMax Martin – Milford – Junior
Milford junior Max Martin was one of several Hawks who stood out as big-play receivers this year and showed instant chemistry with quarterback Colby Pires. Martin is a tough possession receiver, who can take a hit and come back on the next play and break it for a score. He finished with 18 receptions on the season, totaling 245 yards and three touchdowns. He also carried the ball twice for 48 yards and scored on both his rushes. Milford coach Anthony Vizakis said, “Whether it was catching passes on offense or making big tackles on defense, Max brought intensity and passion to everything he did. The Scarlet Hawks are looking forward to having him back next season.”


Carter ScudoCarter Scudo – Milford – Junior
Milford junior receiver Carter Scudo took no time announcing his presence, putting together an impressive game in the season opener against a talented Franklin secondary. Scudo became one of Colby Pires’ favorite targets and one of the league’s top big-play receivers. He caught 29 passes this season for 401 yards and four touchdowns. He also carried the ball 45 times for 213 yards and four scores and jumped in at QB for the playoff game against Walpole. Milford coach Anthony Vizakis said, “Speed, athleticism, and leadership define Carter Scudo and his contributions in all phases of the game helped the Scarlet Hawks be competitive in every game. We are excited for what’s in store next season.”


Brian WassersugBrian Wassersug – King Philip – Senior
King Philip senior Brian Wassersug became an important piece on offense, defense, and on special teams for the Warriors this fall, proving an important threat on the edge. Wassersug caught 26 passes for around 500 yards and added another 250 yards on kick returns. He scored six total touchdowns, including five receiving scores that was tied for third-most in the league. Wassersug was a key reason that the KP offense showed improved numbers in the passing game and had a more balanced look this fall. He was also a strong player in the KP secondary, providing 35 tackles and a pair of interceptions. King Philip coach Brian Lee said, “Brian did a great job in all three phases for us.”






HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Offensive Line


Qualeem CharlesQualeem Charles – Attleboro – Senior
Attleboro senior Qualeem Charles closed out three years controlling the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball for the Bombardiers. A potential Div. I college recruit, Charles used his 6’5 frame to keep pass rushers at bay and open holes on the left side of the offensive line, while also providing a key piece to the Attleboro defense as both a defensive end or interior defensive lineman. After helping the Bombardiers rush for more than 1,200 yards as a team, Charles was selected as an all-star by the league’s coaches. Attleboro coach Mike Strachan said, “Q is a physical presence and let our team on both the offensive and defensive line. He has great feet and power and dominated for us on both sides of the line.”


Jason ComeauJason Comeau – Mansfield – Senior
Mansfield senior Jason Comeau played several positions on the offensive line during his three years on varsity and was a dominating presence that helped the Hornets rush for more than 3,000 yards as a team. With Comeau at tackle, holding down the edge of the line and protecting quarterback Jack Moussette, the Hornets won back-to-back league titles and the Div. 2 state championship. Mansfield coach Mike Redding said, “A cornerstone of our offensive line for three years, he moved from center to tackle as a junior and it gave us two dominant bookends on each side with TJ [Guy]. When you rush for over 3,000 yds in a season you know you have some guys up front that are getting it done.”


Jack ConnollyJack Connolly – Canton – Senior
Canton senior Jack Connolly was a massive presence on the left side of the Bulldogs line, opening up holes and protecting quarterback Johnny Hagan. With Connolly dominating his side of the line of scrimmage, the Bulldogs had one of the league’s top ground games, leading to an outright Davenport division title, a return to the Div. 5 South final, and a 10-win season. The Brown University-commit controlled both sides of the ball for Canton, also providing a presence at interior defensive line. Canton coach Dave Bohane said, “Jack will go down as one of the best linemen to attend Canton. College coaches consistently raved about his athleticism and toughness. Our backs rushed for over 5,000 yards the last two seasons behind a line led by Jack. He is an outstanding ambassador for our program.”


Ethan MottingerEthan Mottinger – North Attleboro – Senior
North Attleboro senior Ethan Mottinger was a mainstay at left tackle for the Rocketeers and a major factor in the team racking up more than 2,000 rushing yards, despite replacing the entire backfield coming into the fall. The UMass-commit checked in at 6’6 and 294 pounds and he used that size to impose himself on the opposition but he also moved well on the outside and was just as successful as a pass blocker as he was opening holes in the running game. North coach Don Johnson said, “Ethan was a force on the offensive line for us this year. He was one of the main reasons why we were able to rush for over 2,000 yards this season. He can drive people off the ball and has great feet for a big lineman.”


Sean PillerSean Piller – King Philip – Senior
King Philip senior Sean Piller was the anchor of the line as a two-year starter at center and he was a major factor in the continued success of the Warriors ground game and their ability to change up this fall and add more of a passing attack. The 6’3, 210-pound Piller provided leadership on the offensive line, particularly after an injury to classmate Nolan Gunning, and he contained some of the best pass rushes in not only the league but the state, which helped KP return to the D2 South semifinal. King Philip coach Brian Lee said, “He anchored our line and made sure we all got on the same page. He has an extremely high football IQ. He also really stepped up when Gunny went down.”


HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Athletes


Christian AisChristian Ais – Stoughton – Junior
Stoughton junior Christian Ais was hard to place into just one position because of his ability to make big plats in all facets of the game, including as a running back, receiver, returner, and defensive back. Ais recorded 586 yards on 73 carries, had 205 receiving yards on 14 catches, and totaled 135 yards in punt returns. He also snagged four interceptions on defense. Ais scored six touchdowns this season (four on the ground and two TD receptions) to help the Black Knights finish second in the Davenport and reach the Div. 3 South semifinal. Stoughton coach Greg Burke said, “He is a tremendous talent with great speed and strength. He is also a very nice kid.”


Nick MarcianoNick Marciano – Mansfield – Senior
Mansfield senior Nick Marciano came back from an injury and was one of the team’s most dynamic weapons in all three phases, helping the Hornets win a second straight Kelley-Rex division title and a Div. 2 Super Bowl. Marciano had 334 yards rushing this season and scored six touchdowns on only 38 carries, averaging nearly nine yards per touch. He also caught five passes and one touchdown, while also making 35 tackles from his linebacker position. Mansfield coach Mike Redding said, “One of the most versatile players we have ever had who started for three years and played safety, outside linebacker, running back and quarterback (as well as long snapping). Wherever he was on the field, good things happened for us.”


Danny MacDougallDanny MacDougall – Taunton – Junior
Taunton junior Danny MacDougall played multiple positions for the Tigers this fall and turned out to be a weapon wherever he lined up. Starting the season at quarterback, MacDougall was moved out to receiver and led Taunton in yards per catch, grabbing one touchdown pass this season. Was also a standout in the secondary, both as a cover guy and jumping up to help stop the run. He was selected as a Hockomock all-star by the league’s coaches. Taunton coach Brad Sidwell said, “Dan led the Tigers in receiving, averaging 16.4 yards per catch, while also playing snaps at quarterback. He started at corner on defense where he had 32 tackles and was also the team’s punter.”


Jack NallyJack Nally – Franklin – Senior
Franklin senior Jack Nally was a major contributor in all three phases for the Panthers this season, helping Franklin reach the Div. 1 South final. He accumulated more than 1,000 all-purpose yards this fall, including 97 on the ground (with two scores), 676 as a receiver (with eight touchdowns), and 312 as a returner. He was also a standout at corner, recording 55 tackles, eight pass break-ups, and an interception. He was one of five Panthers to be selected as an all-star by Hockomock League coaches. Franklin coach Eian Bain said, “Jack contributed as an all-purpose athlete. Always a focal point of an opposing defense, his football IQ allowed the team to move him around to create the best match-up for our offense.”


Luke RosaLuke Rosa – Milford – Senior
Milford senior running back and linebacker Luke Rosa flew under the radar some weeks because of the attention to the Hawks’ passing game, but he was a critical piece of the attack on both sides of the ball. A bruising running back, Rosa had 718 yards on 102 carries this season and scored nine touchdowns. He also caught 22 passes out of the backfield for 223 yards and another score. Rosa was also one of the top linebackers in the league. Milford coach Anthony Vizakis said, “Toughness, strength, and power are traits that make up Luke Rose and his style of play. His downhill running style was a force to be reckoned with, and his aggressive defensive play helped the Scarlet Hawks all season.”


HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Defensive Line


Anton GeorgeAnton George – Foxboro – Senior
Foxboro senior Anton George was a force on the edge of the defensive line, controlling things in the ground game and providing regular pressure on the quarterback. George had 94 tackles this season, including eight for a loss, recorded three sacks, forced three fumbles, and recovered four loose balls for a defense that allowed the fourth fewest points in the league. For the second straight season, he was selected as an all-star by the league coaches. Foxboro coach Jack Martinelli said, “Gifted with speed and range, his uncanny ability to make plays away from his right side defensive end position separated him from most and has caught the eye of collegiate recruiters.”


Christian GeorgesChristian Georges – Stoughton – Junior
Stoughton senior Christian George was an impact player on the defensive line this season, setting the edge, taking on blockers, and opening spaces for the back seven to get in the backfield to make plays. His combination of athleticism and strength and the versatility of being able to play as a down lineman or as a linebacker was a factor in the Black Knights holding seven opponents to 12 points or fewer this season and claiming second in the Davenport. Georges was a major factor in the pass rush with seven sacks and 15 tackles, while also racking up 337 yards rushing on an impressive 9.91 yards per carry. Stoughton coach Greg Burke said of Georges, “He has great speed and his best days are ahead of him. He has many schools recruiting him now.”


Chris GrahamChris Graham – Mansfield – Senior
Mansfield senior Chris Graham was a terror to opposing offensive lines this season, holding down the middle from his noseguard position and finishing the season with 34 tackles, including four for loss. He was especially dangerous on passing downs, regularly getting into the backfield and pressuring passers or breaking up screen plays. He had five sacks and seven quarterback pressures for the Kelley-Rex and Div. 2 Super Bowl champions. Mansfield coach Mike Redding said, “Another guy that was an anchor of our defensive for three years. As active and disruptive as a nose guard as we have ever had. Linemen couldn’t get their hands on him and he lived in the backfield.”


TJ GuyT.J. Guy – Mansfield – Junior
Mansfield junior TJ Guy made a leap from his breakout sophomore season to become a Div. 1 college recruit. The Boston College-recruit controlled both sides of the line of scrimmage for the Div. 2 state champion Hornets, recording 34 tackles, including four for loss. He was also a regular in the opposition backfield, finishing with four sacks. Guy was also dominant on the offensive side, helping the Hornets rush for more than 3,000 yards on their way to the Super Bowl. Mansfield coach Mike Redding said, “After a break out sophomore year, his junior year did not disappoint. He came back bigger and stronger and was a handful at defensive end chasing down backs and quarterbacks.”


Austin JordanAustin Jordan – Franklin – Senior
Franklin senior Austin Jordan emerged as one of the top pass rushers in the league this fall, pressuring opposing quarterbacks from his defensive end position and helping the Panthers make a run to the Div. 1 South final. Jordan led the team with an impressive 9-1/2 sacks and also had 14 tackles for loss, but he was also a solid player against the run, using his speed and athleticism to make plays across the line of scrimmage. He finished with 80 total tackles and was selected as an all-star by Hockomock League coaches for the first time. Franklin coach Eian Bain said, “Austin emerged as a disruptive influence on defense in 2019. Austin made his biggest impact on third down, pressuring opposing quarterbacks.”


HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Linebackers


Vinnie HolmesVinnie Holmes – Mansfield – Senior
Mansfield senior linebacker Vinnie Holmes concluded his three seasons on varsity with another dominant display for the Hornets, leading them to a second straight league title and to the Div. 2 state championship. Holmes led the team with 91 tackles and 16 tackles for loss. He also had two sacks, eight quarterback pressures, three pass breakups, and a forced fumble. He was named Kelley-Rex division MVP and HockomockSports.com Player of the Year (see above). Mansfield coach Mike Redding said, “Since day one of his sophomore year, he established himself as one of Mansfield’s best linebackers with his speed and instincts. He had those special traits that you just can’t teach.”


James MurphyJames Murphy – Canton – Senior
Canton senior James Murphy was one of the leaders on defense for the Davenport division champions and helped the Bulldogs win 10 games this fall and return to the Div. 5 South final. Murphy was a two-year captain for the Bulldogs and finished the season with 81 tackles (10 for a loss). He also had four pass breakups, a forced fumble, an interception, and a fumble recovery this year. Canton coach Dave Bohane said, “James was the captain of the captains. If there was one player who best represented the identity of our 2019 team it was James. Athletic, tough, and smart, James will go down as one of the best linebackers in the history of our program. I saw a lot of linebackers this fall and I would put James at the top of the list.”


Michael SheehanMichael Sheehan – Foxboro – Senior
Foxboro senior linebacker Michael Sheehan led the Warriors in tackles for the second consecutive season and helped them reach the Div. 5 South semifinal. Sheehan finished with 112 tackles, including 13 for a loss, and also recorded two sacks, two forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries for the defense that was allowed the fourth-fewest points in the league this season. He concluded his career with 189 tackles, which is among the best in program history. Foxboro coach Jack Martinelli said, “With an old-school propensity for finding the football and playing the game with a zeal that went beyond fun, Michael was Foxboro’s defensive team leader in thought, word and deed.”


Michael StrachanMichael Strachan – Attleboro – Junior
Attleboro junior Michael Strachan already has three years of varsity experience under his belt and for the second straight season he led the Bombardiers in tackles. He finished with 80.5 stops, including 66 solo tackles, and had two pass breakups. His interception in the end zone with 20 seconds left to play secured a dramatic Thanksgiving Day victory over North Attleboro. Strachan was also a force in the backfield, totaling 512 all-purpose yards and six rushing touchdowns. He was selected as an all-star by the coaches for the second straight season. Attleboro coach Mike Strachan said, “Michael brought size, strength, and speed to our linebacking crew and is currently being recruited by several DI programs.”


Evan WertzEvan Wertz – Franklin – Senior
Franklin senior Evan Wertz has been one of the program’s best ever linebackers, spending three years as one of the leading tacklers in the league and the leader of the Panthers defense. He made 129 tackles this fall, including 15 for loss, and was one of the reasons that the Panthers earned the No. 2 seed in Div. 1 and made a trip to the D1 South final this year. A quick, hard-hitting linebacker, who seemed to be in the middle of every play, Wertz was selected as an all-star by the Hockomock League coaches for the first time. Franklin coach Eian Bain said, “A three-year starter at Mike linebacker, Evan accumulated over 300 tackles as well as being our defensive leader on the gridiron.”






HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Defensive Backs


Makhi BaskinMakhi Baskin – Mansfield – Senior
Mansfield senior defensive back Makhi Baskin had a strong final season for the Hornets, both at safety and corner, finishing with 23 tackles and two interceptions for the Div. 2 state champions. Baskin was a three-year starter in the secondary and proved to be a ball-hawk from day one, establishing a new program record with 10 career interceptions, including one in this year’s Super Bowl victory over Lincoln-Sudbury at Gillette Stadium. Mansfield coach Mike Redding said, “He stepped in day one as a sophomore and gave us three great years in the secondary at safety and corner. He always seemed to come up with the big interception when we needed a big play.”


Crawford CantaveCrawford Cantave – King Philip – Sophomore
King Philip sophomore Crawford Cantave was one of several underclassmen to stand out for Hock secondaries this season and he also stepped into the Warriors backfield when Ryan Halliday went down injured. Cantave had a pair of interceptions and turned into a playmaker and ball-hawk for the KP defense. He also scored a pair of touchdowns on offense and looks to be the next in a long line of talented running backs that the Warriors will be able to build the offense around. King Philip coach Brian Lee said, “It was a great job by a sophomore stepping up in our secondary. He did a great job running the ally all year. High expectations for him in the years to come.”


Jake DavisJake Davis – Franklin – Senior
Franklin senior Jake Davis was more than just one of the top receivers in the league (see above), but also one of the toughest defensive backs to try and throw against. Davis was a key to the Panthers’ defensive effort, picking off three passes this season, helping them make a run to the Div. 1 South final to face Catholic Memorial. Davis also stepped up to protect against the run, making 37 tackles from his corner position, breaking up seven passes, and making one tackle for loss. His athleticism in the secondary allowed the Panthers to be aggressive in the pass rush and made it difficult for teams to exploit Franklin with deep passes or with passes to either sideline.


Kyle FitzgeraldKyle Fitzgerald – Canton – Senior
Canton senior Kyle Fitzgerald was a dominant running back (see above) for the Bulldogs, but he was just as capable of making big plays on defense as he was on offense, which was why he was selected as the Davenport division MVP by the league’s coaches. Fitzgerald made 43 tackles this season, including three for loss. He was a ball-hawk in the secondary, picking off three passes and breaking up five other passes, and was just as likely to jump up and help out against the running game. Canton coach Dave Bohane said, “Kyle will go down as the most decorated athlete to come through our program. Even with all the publicity he never stopped being the kid he was when he joined our program. He always puts the team first and supports and encourages his teammates.”


Anthony PizzanoAnthony Pizzano – Stoughton – Senior
Stoughton senior Anthony Pizzano held down the back end of a tenacious defensive unit, providing solid cover on the outside and enabled the Black Knights to load the box to stop the run or pressure the passer. Pizzano was selected as an all-star by the league coaches after recording 37 solo tackles and 36 assisted tackles, one interception, and one forced fumble. His speed and ability to read the game ensured that teams struggled to get behind the Stoughton secondary. He also had seven catches for 103 yards on offense and kicked an extra point. He was named the team MVP and Stoughton coach Greg Burke said, ” Anthony is our best player. He was a captain and never missed a day all year.”


HockomockSports.com Hock 5 Special Teams


CJ CerrellaCJ Cerrella – Milford – Senior
Milford senior CJ Cerrella may be more known as one of the league’s top linebackers, but he also emerged as one of the most consistent field goal kickers this season. He showed off his accuracy during extra points but also showed off his range with a pair of field goals, including a long of 37 yards, and regularly pinned teams back with his kick-offs. Cerrella was also a force in the middle, alongside Luke Rosa, and led the team with 78 tackles and added pair of sacks this season. Milford coach Anthony Vizakis said, “CJ led the Scarlet Hawks defense all season with his passion and intensity. He was the leading tackler and helped stop the run and defend the pass all season.”


Parker CheuvrontParker Cheuvront – Franklin – Junior
Franklin junior kicker Parker Cheuvront has been one of the most consistent kickers in the league for the past two seasons, helping add a different dimension to the Franklin offense and ensuring that the Panthers get seven points for almost all touchdowns. Cheuvront made 28-of-30 extra points this season and also kicked a pair of field goals, with his longest kick coming from 34 yards against Mansfield. The lefty has plenty of power to kick from distance and showed remarkable accuracy as well, meaning the Panthers had a strong likelihood of getting something out of any drive inside the opposition 30. Franklin coach Eian Bain said, “Parker has been as reliable of a kicker as there has been in the league.”


Michael DeBoltMichael DeBolt – Mansfield – Senior
Mansfield senior Michael DeBolt was the league’s most prolific kicker and proved to be one of the most accurate kickers that the league has seen. He kicked 38 extra points and made a league-high nine field goals, including a long of 41 yards. DeBolt’s impact extended beyond special teams, as he was also accumulated more than 600 yards of offense and scored eight touchdowns for the Div. 2 champs. Mansfield coach Mike Redding said, “Mike’s another all-purpose guy who could run, catch, cover, tackle, kick and while he’s out there playing, he’s raising money for pediatric cancer research. Just a great leader on and off the field, and one of the most accomplished kickers we’ve ever had.”


Cincere GillCincere Gill – Mansfield – Junior
Mansfield junior Cincere Gill was not only one of the league’s top running backs (see above) and turned into one of the league’s top cover corners, but he was also a menace in all aspects of special teams. Gill used his speed and elusiveness as a kick returner and also put his legs to use as a punter. He was a standout in all three phases for the Kelley-Rex division and Div. 2 Super Bowl champions. He has emerged as a potential Div. 1 college recruit. Mansfield coach Mike Redding said, “He also added some kick and punt returns, played some cover corner for us and this year established himself as a great receiver who is a very difficult match-up for opposing secondaries.”


Owen LehaneOwen Lehane – Canton – Senior
Canton senior Owen Lehane came through in the clutch time and again for the Bulldogs this season, helping them secure the outright Davenport division title and return to the D5 South final. One of the most accurate kickers in the league, Lehane was second with five made field goals, with a long of 32 yards. He came through in big moments and tight games, such as the regular season meeting with Stoughton and the playoff game against Foxboro. He also had 39 tackles, seven sacks, seven tackles for loss, and an interception as a linebacker. Canton coach Dave Bohane said, “One word to describe Owen is clutch. He has never shied away from the big moments. As a linebacker and as our kicker he always stepped up and came through.”


2019 HockomockSports Football Awards
 
North Attleboro sophomore Tyler DeMattio has been selected as the 2019 HockomockSports.com Football Underclassman of the Year, given to the top freshman or sophomore in the league. DeMattio stepped in at quarterback this season for the Rocketeers and led an inexperienced, and injury-plagued, offense with his toughness and playmaking ability.

DeMattio led North in rushing with 609 yards on 135 carries, despite suffering an injury that kept him out for more than three games this season. He rushed for six touchdowns and added three more through the air. He completed 41 passes for 613 yards.

“He never shied away from contact,” said HockomockSports.com Managing Editor Josh Perry. “Tyler was never afraid to stick his nose into the middle of the line and try to gain extra yards, even against some of the best defenses in the Hock. With a lineup filled with new faces, Tyler made the North offense tick and his athleticism led to some big plays for the Rocketeers.”

North Attleboro coach Don Johnson added, “Tyler had an outstanding sophomore year for us. He plays the game physically and is a tough, hard-nosed competitor.  He will fight for the extra inch on every play.”

DeMattio is the second North Attleboro quarterback to earn this honor, following Chad Peterson in 2015. He is also the first player from the Davenport division to be named Underclassman of the Year in football, following seven straight players, including Peterson, from the Kelley-Rex.

Honorable Mention: Crawford Cantave (King Philip), Adam Pearlstein (Attleboro), Grant Scudo (Milford)


Coach of the Year

Coach of the Year

Mike Redding
Mike Redding

Mansfield head coach Mike Redding has been selected as the 2019 HockomockSports.com Football Coach of the Year. Redding led the Hornets to back-to-back Kelley-Rex division titles and to the Div. 2 Super Bowl title, their first state championship since 2013.

The Hornets posted an 11-1 record this season, including a perfect 5-0 in the league. Mansfield’s only loss was to La Salle Academy of Ohio (which won the state championship in its division as well). Mansfield was the top-scoring team in the Hockomock League, by nearly 70 points, and also second in points allowed, although if the La Salle game is removed the Hornets allowed only seven points per contest.

In the playoffs, the Hornets were even better, dominating opponents on their way to the title. Mansfield allowed only 15 points in four playoff games, including a 41-0 rout of Lincoln-Sudbury in the Super Bowl at Gillette Stadium. It was the program’s 11th trip to the Super Bowl and the eighth championship under Redding.

“Mansfield seemed to raise its game against the top opponents, as evidenced by the dominating run through the playoffs, and that’s a credit to Mike’s preparation,” said HockomockSports.com Managing Editor Josh Perry. “He is as thorough a coach as there is in the state and arguably the most successful. Eight state titles is an incredible achievement and it’s a testament to how he’s built the program that people automatically assume the Hornets have a shot at a ninth next fall.”

This is the first time that Redding has been named the HockomockSports.com Coach of the Year in football, having won it in 2016-17 for girls basketball. Previous winners include King Philip’s Brian Lee (2014, 2016, 2017), North Attleboro’s Don Johnson (2015), Attleboro’s Mike Strachan (2013), and Canton’s Dave Bohane (2018).

Honorable Mentions: Dave Bohane (Canton), Brian Lee (King Philip), Eian Bain (Franklin)