By Ryan Massad, Contributing Writer
Team: Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School Football
Coach: Rob McCann
Position: Offensive Tackle/Inside Linebacker
What are your earliest football memories?
“My earliest memories are playing for my dad in Shrewsbury's Pop Warner league. I played for him from age 8 to 13.”
What was it like having your father as a coach?
“It was very fun. My dad knew how to work with me, and communicate with me, and I learned a lot about the game.”
What was the single most memorable game you had while playing for Shrewsbury Pop Warner?
“Playing against the Worcester Vikings a couple years ago, I took a handoff, and ran for a 50-yard touchdown. The Vikings were always one of the better teams around, so it felt good to break out for a big run against them.”
You have three older brothers who all played football at Shrewsbury High, what made you choose Assabet?
“Coach McCann is the reason I chose to play for the Aztecs. I met him in 2008 when I's go to family friend Alan Alvarez's games at Assabet. Right away, he seemed like a guy I's want to play for.”
How does Coach McCann encourage you to succeed?
“He always knows the right thing to say. One thing he said that stuck with me is “Nothing will be handed to you.” It's the truth, you'se got to go out and work for it.”
Which of your former football player brothers has helped you out the most along the way?
“My brother Dom [Shrewsbury High Class of 2011]. He's extremely knowledgeable, and encouraging, and he taught me everything I know about the linebacker position.”
Who is your favorite NFL team and player?
“My favorite team is the Baltimore Ravens, and favorite player is their veteran linebacker Ray Lewis. He's the definition of a professional linebacker. He's the reason I wear #52”
What is your favorite class in school and why?
“My favorite class in school is phys-ed. I don's like sitting around in a classroom. In phys-ed, I get to be active.”
What are your expectations for your next two years at Assabet?
“My expectation is that our football team will be Super Bowl champs. Everyone wants that big moment, and that's be mine.”