ESPN

Maybe they don’t have the glamour or publicity enjoyed by perennial boys’ state basketball powers like Hendricken, La Salle and St. Raphael. But the Prout Crusaders have written one of the most heart-warming stories of the 2011-12 season.

Prout reeled off 15 consecutive wins (21 overall going back to last season) in Division III before it was upset, 46-42, by Exeter/West Greenwich. Then the Crusaders regrouped and won their last two games, 66-57 over Middletown and 73-34 over Mount Hope with Jordan Dumford, Justin Bristol and Eric Ramieka playing a key role in each game.

As a result, the Crusaders captured their division title with a 17-1 record and earned the 12th seed (based on power-point standings) in the upcoming state tournament.

Last year, Prout was seeded 16th and was ousted in the first round by Division I champion Cranston West.

Prout, under coach Eric Simonelli, has blown out opponents and won other games by the slimmest of margins.

Ramieka, a junior captain, has been one of the team leaders as well as its leading scorer –- averaging nearly 22 points per game.

Simonelli feels Ramieka isn’t Prout’s most athletic, player but he is the player with the most grit and determination.

What Ramieka means to Prout’s backcourt so does Bristol mean to the frontcourt.

A 6-foot-6 junior, Bristol is averaging 13 points per game and has shown a tendency to dominate the glass at both ends of the court.

In Prout’s regular-season finale against Mount Hope, Ramieka and Bristol combined to score 33 points.

A year ago a Division II team, Tiverton, came out of nowhere and reached the state finals before losing to St. Raphael.

The question is might Prout emulate Tiverton this season and inject an amazing level of excitement into the 2012 tournament?

(Read full post)

In its 27th year of honoring the nation’s best high school athletes, The Gatorade Company, in collaboration with ESPNHS, today announced Oliver White of Noble & Greenough School as its 2011-12 Gatorade Massachusetts Boys Soccer Player of the Year. White is the second Gatorade Massachusetts Boys Soccer Player of the Year to be chosen from Noble & Greenough School.

The 5-foot-11, 165-pound senior forward scored 15 goals and passed for six assists this past season, leading the Bulldogs (13-3-1) to the New England Prep School Athletic Council Class A tournament quarterfinals. A two-time Boston Globe All-Scholastic selection, White is a two-time Independent School League Offensive Player of the Year. He concluded his prep soccer career with 41 goals and 16 assists.

White has maintained a B average in the classroom. He has volunteered locally as a mentor to minority students at Nobles, a youth soccer coach and with sled hockey, a sit-down hockey game for people with disabilities.

“Oliver White has been the primary reason that Nobles has won the league over the past two years,” said Paul Sugg, head coach of Roxbury Latin School. “Without him, they don’t come close to scoring as many goals over the course of both seasons. He is not a selfish scorer who doesn’t contribute in other areas. He works hard, he’s physical and athletic, and he’s a presence at all times.”

White will attend Harvard University this fall, where he will play soccer.

White joins recent Gatorade Massachusetts Boys Soccer Players of the Year Cole DeNormandie (2010–11, Lincoln-Sudbury, Leon Brown, (2009-10, Roxbury Latin), Charlie Rugg (2008–09, Rivers), Jan Trnka-Amrhein (2007-08, Noble & Greenough), and Ben Slingerland (2006-2007, St. John's Prep) among the state’s list of former award winners.

Below are the Gatorade boys soccer Player of the Year recipients from the five other New England states:

CONNECTICUT: ZACH ZURITA, BUNNELL
The 5-foot-9, 155-pound senior forward led the Bulldogs to a 20-2-2 record and the Class L state championship this past season. Zurita scored 43 goals and passed for 14 assists, including 11 goals and three assists in the state tournament. The 2011 Connecticut Soccer Coaches Association Player of the Year and an All-American selection by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America, Zurita had a goal and two assists in Bunnell’s 3-0 win over Avon High for the state title. He concluded his prep soccer career with 96 goals and 42 assists.

Zurita has maintained a B-plus average in the classroom. He has volunteered locally as a youth soccer coach and has worked at Soccer & Rugby Imports in Southport.

“Zach Zurita has got real savvy,” said Brian Quinn, Zurita’s club coach with South Central Premier. “He’s very, very skillful, he’s got great instincts in front of the goal and his work rate is very good. He’s one of the best players the state has produced in a long time.”

Zurita has signed a National Letter of Intent to play soccer on an athletic scholarship at Monmouth University in New Jersey this fall.

Zurita joins recent Gatorade Connecticut Boys Soccer Players of the Year Kevin Michalak (2010 – 11, Farmington), Kofi Agyapong, (2009-10, St. Luke's), Colin Bradley (2008–09 Avon Old Farms), Pat Boucher (2007-08, Cromwell), and Ryan Kinne (2006-2007, Naugatuck) among the state’s list of former award winners.

RHODE ISLAND: COLIN PATCH, LA SALLE ACADEMY
The 6-foot-2 senior defensive midfielder led the Rams to a 15-1-5 record and the Division 1 state championship this past season. Patch scored seven goals and passed for 12 assists while helping the defense record 10 shutouts. An All-American selection by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America, Patch is a two-time Providence Journal First Team All-State honoree. He concluded his prep soccer career with 19 goals and 30 assists.

Patch has maintained a weighted A-minus average in the classroom. He has volunteered locally as a landscaper/painter, on behalf of a homeless shelter and food bank and he has completed a service-mission trip to Costa Rica.

“Colin Patch was the best player in Rhode Island,” said Tony Vieira, head coach of East Providence High. “He’s a good ball-winner with a great range of passing and field awareness. If I had to pick one guy I could steal and put on my team it would have been Colin.”

Patch will attend Connecticut College this fall, where he will play soccer.

Patch joins recent Gatorade Rhode Island Boys Soccer Players of the Year Marcos Ugarte (2010–11, Providence Country Day), Nick Dubee (2009-10, 2008–09, Chariho), and Brett Uttley (2007-08, 2006-2007, North Kingstown) among the state’s list of former award winners.

NEW HAMPSHIRE: BRIAN HART, PHILIPS EXETER
The 6-foot-2 senior forward scored 35 goals and passed for 13 assists this past season to lead the Big Red (18-2) to the New England Prep School Athletic Council semifinals. A Boston Globe All-Scholastic and the NEPSAC Class A MVP, Hart broke the school’s single-season and career records for goals scored.

Hart has maintained a B average in the classroom. Also a hockey standout, he has volunteered locally on behalf of the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life and a youth skating program.

“Brian Hart is an absolute monster, a beast,” said Bill Scott, head coach of rival Phillips Academy Andover. “He’s as good a prep player as I’ve seen in a long time, and I’ve been coaching for 31 years. He’s quick and strong and runs through people, but his skill level is stunningly good.”

Hart will attend Harvard University this fall, where he will play hockey.

Hart joins recent Gatorade New Hampshire Boys Soccer Players of the Year Eric Jayne (2010–11, Hanover), Josh Vlasich, (2009-10, Exeter), Kenny Kolbeck (2008–09 Pinkerton Academy), Brad Hilton (2007-08, Merrimack) and Robbie McLarney (2006-2007, Londonderry) among the state’s list of former award winners.

MAINE: ROBBY LENTINE, WINDHAM
The 5-foot-8 senior midfielder scored 21 goals and passed for 10 assists this past season, leading the Eagles (16-2) to the Class A state championship. An All-New England selection by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America, Lentine was also named First Team All-State and the Maine Telegram Player of the Year.

Lentine has maintained an A average in the classroom. A Spanish tutor in his school, he has volunteered locally on behalf of youth soccer programs and a summer camp for children with life-threatening illnesses.

“Lentine seems to be able to take care of anything at any time,” said Rocco Frenzilli, head coach of rival Portland High. “Last year he was instrumental for them defensively, then this year he stepped up and took over more of an offensive role. He’s the kind of kid who will make you pay if you don’t watch him at all times.”

Lentine will attend Virginia’s Roanoke College this fall, where he will play soccer.

Lentine joins recent Gatorade Maine Boys Soccer Players of the Year Fazal Nabi (2010 – 11, Portland High School), Gabe Hoffman-Johnson (2009-10, 2008–09 Falmouth), Oliver Blum (2007-08, Greely), and Jordan Hale (2006-2007, Falmouth) among the state’s list of former award winners.

VERMONT: JACK SHEA, U-32
The 6-foot-2 senior midfielder scored 13 goals and passed for nine assists this past season, leading the Raiders to the Division 2 state championship game. An All-American selection by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America, Shea was also the Times Argus Player of the Year and a First Team All-State honoree.

Shea has maintained an A-minus average in the classroom. He has volunteered locally as a mentor for elementary school students in the community.

“You can’t usually find a kid who plays as hard as Shea does for as long as he does,” said Jason Miles, head coach of rival Montpelier High. “He’s really relentless, with a great motor. He’s also very skilled, he plays both ends and he’s great in transition.”

Shea has signed a National Letter of Intent to play soccer on scholarship at the University of Vermont this fall.

Shea joins recent Gatorade Vermont Boys Soccer Players of the Year Paul Bianchi (2010–11, Essex), Andrew Mercier, (2009-10, South Burlington), Rob Cole (2008–09 South Burlington), Tyler Macnee (2007-08, Champlain Valley Union) and Andy Borah (2006-2007, Champlain Valley Union) among the state’s list of former award winners.

ESPN's Football Recruiting Section has an update today on La Salle Academy (R.I.) running back Josh Morris, the Ocean State's reigning Gatorade Player of the Year, who recently received his first scholarship offer.

Morris received an offer from hometown Bryant University last Saturday. Morris told ESPN he could play running back, slot receiver or cornerback in college.

More from ESPN's East Recruiting Blog:

“Always good to get the first one out of the way,” Morris said. “Bryant offered me as a running back. Right now I'm being recruited as an athlete. I prefer offense though.”

Morris is 5-foot-10 and weighs 175 pounds, about 10 pounds heavier than he played at last season. He led LaSalle Academy to an undefeated regular season, but the Rams were upset by Bishop Hendricken in last year's Division I championship game.

Morris rushed for 1,278 yards and 16 touchdowns on 134 carries last season. He also caught nine passes for 175 yards. However, he may have been at his best returning kickoffs, averaging 39.8 yards per return with one touchdown.

Morris said he's also attracted interest from several other Division I schools in the Northeast.

“I think BC, UMass, Temple or UConn might be the next to offer,” Morris said. “Right now I'm focused on those schools, then maybe I can get some offers from bigger schools. I've also heard from Penn State, NC State and Northwestern.”

Morris attended a junior day at Boston College, and said he he's hoping to attend junior days at UConn, Rutgers and Temple as well.

“I haven't planned my summer [camp] schedule yet,” he said. “I'd have interest in any school that offers right now.”

In its 27th year of honoring the nation’s best high school athletes, The Gatorade Company, in collaboration with ESPNHS, today announced Hayley Dowd of Peabody High School as its 2011-12 Gatorade Massachusetts Girls Soccer Player of the Year. Dowd is the first Gatorade Massachusetts Girls Soccer Player of the Year to be chosen from Peabody High School.

The award, which recognizes not only outstanding athletic excellence, but also high standards of academic achievement and exemplary character demonstrated on and off the field, distinguishes Dowd as Massachusetts’s best high school girls soccer player. Now a finalist for the prestigious Gatorade National Girls Soccer Player of the Year award to be announced in May, Dowd joins an elite alumni association of past state award-winners in 12 sports, including Abby Wambach (1997-98, Our Lady of Mercy, N.Y.), Derek Jeter (1991-92, Kalamazoo HS, Mich.), Candace Parker (2001-02, Naperville Central HS, Ill.), Alexi Lalas (1987-88, Cranbrook HS, Mich.), Heather O’Reilly (2001-02, East Brunswick HS, N.J.) and Mark Sanchez (2004-05, Mission Viejo HS, Calif.).

The 5-foot-5 junior forward led the Tanners to a 22-0-2 record and the Division 1 state championship this past season. Dowd scored 41 goals and passed for 19 assists, recording seven goals and three assists in six postseason matches. An All-American selection by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America, Dowd is a two-time Northeastern Conference MVP. She has 121 goals and 43 assists through three varsity seasons.

Dowd has maintained an A average in the classroom. A member of the Peabody High Captain’s Council, she has volunteered locally as a youth soccer coach.

“Hayley Dowd can score working with her team, she can go 1-on-1 and if she is double-teamed she finds her teammates with passes for easy goals” said Fred Day, Salem High's head coach. “She never stops working off the ball. I would pay to watch her play.”

Dowd has verbally committed to play soccer on an athletic scholarship at Boston College beginning in the fall of 2013.

Dowd joins recent Gatorade Massachusetts Girls Soccer Players of the Year Sam Mewis (2010–11, 2009-10, Whitman-Hanson), Danielle Dakin (2008–09, Minnechaug), Hayley Brock (2007-08, Acton-Boxborough), and Amy Caldwell (2006-07, Braintree) among the state’s list of former award winners.

Here are the winners from the other five New England states:

CONNECTICUT: PAULA HAGOPIAN, KINGSWOOD-OXFORD

The 5-foot-4 senior forward scored 13 goals and passed for 10 assists this past season, leading the Wyverns to a 5-7-2 record. Also the 2011 Connecticut Soccer Coaches Association Player of the Year and a two-time All-American selection by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America, Hagopian led Kingswood Oxford to the 2010 New England Prep School Athletic Council Class B championship. She concluded her prep soccer career with 56 goals and 35 assists.

Hagopian has maintained a 3.73 GPA in the classroom. The first chair clarinet player in the Kingswood Oxford school band, she has volunteered locally as a peer tutor and at an area homeless shelter and food bank.

“Paula is so strong that defenders bounce off her,” said Matt Micros, a club coach with Connecticut FC. “She can hold the ball up well and also spin defenders with ease. What she lacks in technique she more than make up for with power and pace.”

Hagopian will attend Yale University where she will play soccer beginning this fall.

Hagopian joins recent Gatorade Connecticut Girls Soccer Players of the Year Riley Houle (2010–11, Windham), Kate McCarthy, (2009-10, Loomis Chaffee), Jessica Schloth (2008–09, St. Joseph), Alex Uscilla (2007-08, St. Joseph), and Bianca D’Agostino (2006-07, Loomis Chaffee) among the state’s list of former award winners.

RHODE ISLAND: McKENZIE MEEHAN, LA SALLE

The 5-foot-5 senior forward led the Rams to a 20-0-2 record and the Division 1 state championship this past season. Meehan scored 80 goals and passed for 14 assists, including two goals and two assists in a 6-2 win over Smithfield High in the state final. The returning Gatorade Rhode Island Girls Soccer Player of the Year, Meehan is a two-time All-American selection by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America. She recorded 16 hat tricks in 22 games with six four-goal games, four five-goal games and three six-goal games, concluding her prep soccer career with 181 goals and 41 assists.

Meehan has maintained an A average in the classroom. A member of La Salle’s Pegasus Gifted Student Program, she has volunteered locally as a peer Spanish tutor and a youth soccer coach.

“McKenzie Meehan should be on the national team,” said Keith Caldwell, Meehan’s coach with the Scorpions SC club team. “She’s the best goal-scorer I’ve ever seen. She is strong, athletic, tough and she holds the ball well. She’s not flashy. She just scores goals.”

Meehan has signed a National Letter of Intent to play soccer on an athletic scholarship at Boston College beginning this fall.

Meehan joins recent Gatorade Rhode Island Girls Soccer Players of the Year Allison Kelley, (2009-10, 2008-09, La Salle), Katie Reilly (2007-08, St. Mary Academy-Bay View), and Erica Florenz (2006-2007, Scituate) among the state’s list of former award winners.

NEW HAMPSHIRE: MORGAN ANDREWS, MILFORD

The 5-foot-9 junior forward scored 31 goals and passed for six assists this past season, leading the Spartans (11-6-1) to the Division II state quarterfinals. The returning Gatorade New Hampshire Girls Soccer Player of the Year, Andrews is captain of the U.S. Soccer Under-17 Women’s National Team and is a member of the Under-23 National Team. The 2011 National Soccer Coaches Association of America National Girls Youth Player of the Year for club play and a two-time NSCAA All-American selection, she has 83 goals and 35 assists in three varsity campaigns.

Andrews has maintained a 3.03 GPA in the classroom. She has volunteered locally as a youth soccer coach and mentor, and she founded a local “Kicks for Cans” charity program that involves coaches and players donating their time in exchange for canned goods that are brought to area food banks.

“Morgan Andrews, the kid’s a phenom,” said Jason Dewhurst, the director of coaching for the Stars of Massachusetts club team. “She plays way above her years. She always shows up to play, whether it’s training or games, it doesn’t matter. She’s a fierce competitor and wants to win. She deserves all the accolades she gets.”

Andrews has verbally committed to play soccer on an athletic scholarship at Boston College beginning in the fall of 2013.

Andrews joins recent Gatorade New Hampshire Girls Soccer Players of the Year Kailey Blain (2009-10, 2008-09, Merrimack), Kristy Zurmuhlen (2007-08, Fall Mountain Regional, and Lindsey Miller (2006-07, Bishop Guertin) among the state’s list of former award winners.

MAINE: CAITLIN BUCKSBAUM, FALMOUTH

The 5-foot-5 junior midfielder led the Yachtsmen to a 13-4-1 record and the Class B state championship this past season. Bucksbaum scored 10 goals and passed for 11 assists. In her first year at Falmouth High, Bucksbaum was a Maine Sunday Telegram First Team All-State selection and earned First Team All-Western Maine Conference recognition. As a sophomore in 2010, she started for Ardrey Kell High in Charlotte, N.C., which reached the Class 4A state final.

Bucksbaum has maintained an A average in the classroom. A member of Falmouth High’s Environmental Action Committee, she has volunteered locally as a peer math tutor, a youth soccer coach and with the Ronald McDonald House.

“Caitlin Bucksbaum is a good player. Her appetite to get better is amazing,” said Jason Dewhurst, the director of coaching for the Stars of Massachusetts club team. “She’s quick, athletic, has good feet and can strike a ball from distance.”

Bucksbaum joins recent Gatorade Maine Girls Soccer Players of the Year Allison Walton (2010–11, 2009-10, Brunswick, Elise Amioka (2008–09, Marshwood), Rachele Burns (2007-08, Gorham), and Kelsey Wilson (2006-07, Gorham) among the state’s list of former award winners.

VERMONT: LAUREN BERNARD, COLCHESTER

The 5-foot-3 senior forward/midfielder scored 24 goals and passed for five assists this past season, leading the Lakers (7-6-2) to the Div. I state quarterfinals. The state’s returning Gatorade Girls Soccer Player of the Year, Bernard is a two-time All-American selection by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America and was chosen as Burlington Free Press Player of the Year. She is a former member of the U.S. Soccer Federation Under-15 Women’s National Team, and a current member of the Under-18 National Team player pool.

Bernard has maintained a 3.93 GPA in the classroom. She has volunteered locally with youth soccer programs and camps.

“She’s very strong technically and her left foot is deadly,” said Dwight Irish, head coach of rival Vergennes High. “If she has a little bit of room and she’s anywhere near the goal, she’s going to change the game.”

Bernard has signed a National Letter of Intent to play soccer on scholarship at Boston College this fall.

Bernard joins recent Gatorade Vermont Girls Soccer Players of the Year Brittany Pfaff, (2009-10, Rice Memorial), Natalie LeClair (2008–09, 2007-08, Essex), and Emily Milbank (2006-07, Champlain Valley Union) among the state’s list of former award winners.

BASKETBALL

2nd annual Thomas "Skip" Karam Holiday Classic
at Durfee High School

Thursday
Fitchburg vs. La Salle Academy (R.I.), 5:30
Barnstable vs. Durfee, 7:15

Friday
Consolation Game, 5:30
Championship Game, 7:15

2011 Stripes Holiday Basketball Tournament
presented by Cape Cod Basketball Officials Association

Tuesday

Girls: Sandwich at Harwich, 4:30
Barnstable vs Falmouth, at Cape Cod Academy, 5

Boys: Chatham at Harwich, 6:30
Sandwich at Cape Cod Academy, 7

Thursday
at Sandwich High
Girls Consolation, 1
Boys Consolation, 3
Girls Championship, 5
Boys Championship, 7

BOYS HOCKEY

Cape Cod Cup
at Falmouth Ice Arena

Tuesday
Barnstable vs Chelmsford, 5:10
Falmouth vs Westford, 7

Thursday
Barnstable vs Westford Academy
Falmouth vs Chelmsford
Note: Falmouth and Barnstable had a previously scheduled game on new years eve, so this is just a two game tournament. No Championhip or Consolation

Judy Kostas Holiday Tournament
at Charles Moore Arena, Orleans

Monday

Div 2: Nauset vs Sandwich, 4
Dennis-Yarmouth vs. Boston Latin, 6

Div 3: Wareham vs Mashpee/Upper Cape, 2
Cape Tech vs Harwich/Chatham, 8

Wednesday

Div 2: Consolation, 2
Championship, 4

Div 3: Consolation, 6
Championship, 8

In its 27th year of honoring the nation’s best high school athletes,, The Gatorade Company, in collaboration with ESPNHS, today announced Casey Cochran of Masuk High School as its 2011-12 Gatorade Connecticut Football Player of the Year. Cochran is the first Gatorade Connecticut Football Player of the Year to be chosen from Masuk High School.

The award, which recognizes not only outstanding athletic excellence, but also high standards of academic achievement and exemplary character demonstrated on and off the field, distinguishes Cochran as Connecticut’s best high school football player. Now a finalist for the prestigious Gatorade National Football Player of the Year award announced in December, Cochran joins an elite alumni association of past state award-winners in 12 sports, including Mark Sanchez (2004-05, Mission Viejo HS, Calif.), Wes Welker (1999-00, Heritage Hall HS, Okla.), Terrell Suggs (1999-00, Hamilton HS, Ariz.), Anquan Boldin (1998-99, Pahokee HS, Fla.) and Jerome Bettis (1989-90, Mackenzie HS, Mich.).

The state’s returning Gatorade Football Player of the Year, the 6-foot-2, 205-pound senior quarterback led the Panthers to an 11-0 record and a berth in the Class L state semifinals against Hand High, scheduled for Dec. 3. Cochran passed for 2,801 yards and 36 touchdowns through 11 games, completing 119-of-167 attempts while throwing just four interceptions. He also rushed for four touchdowns. Cochran won a Class SS state title with New London High as a freshman in 2008 and with Masuk in 2010. He is the state’s career leader in two categories with 10,501 yards passing and 108 touchdowns.

Cochran has maintained a 3.92 GPA in the classroom. The winner of the Masuk High Book Award for Introduction to Engineering and Algebra I and Geometry, he has volunteered locally at area food banks for the needy, as a youth football coach and as a peer tutor.

“It’s scary how someone can be that accurate,” said Joe Lato, head coach of rival Weston High. “It’s unbelievable what Casey Cochran can do. I haven’t seen a high school quarterback like him. He makes everybody look silly.”

Cochran has verbally committed to play football on an athletic scholarship at the University of Connecticut beginning in the fall of 2012.

Cochran joins recent Gatorade Connecticut Football Players of the Year Kevin Pierre-Louis (2009, King Low Heywood Thomas), Mike Osiecki (2008, Seymour) and Alex Thomas (2007, Ansonia) among the state’s list of former award winners.

In Massachusetts, Jonathan DiBiaso of Everett High took home Gatorade Player of the Year honors. Here are the four other winners from New England:

RHODE ISLAND: JOSH MORRIS, LA SALLE

The 5-foot-9, 170-pound junior running back and cornerback led the Rams to a 10-1 record and a berth in the Division I state championship against Bishop Hendricken High, scheduled for Dec. 3. Morris rushed for 1,278 yards and 16 touchdowns on 134 carries through 11 games and caught nine passes for 175 yards and a score. A 2010 First Team All-Division I selection, he is averaging 39.8 yards per kickoff return, with one touchdown, and has recorded two interceptions on defense.

Morris has maintained a B average in the classroom. He has volunteered locally as a youth mentor and football coach and as part of multiple community service initiatives in association with his church community.

“Every game, he’s getting better,” said Geoff Marcone, La Salle Academy’s head coach. “The kid wants to be great in everything that he does. A lot of high school kids say they want to be the best, but very few work to be the best. He’s doing everything he can to make himself better.”

Morris will begin his senior year of high school next fall.

Morris joins recent Gatorade Rhode Island Football Players of the Year Ben Willett (2010, Portsmouth) Mike Read (2009, Barrington), Dave D'Errico (2008, North Kingstown) and Bobby Bentsen (2007, Warwick Veterans) among the state’s list of former award winners.

NEW HAMPSHIRE: JAKE KILEY, NEW HAMPTON

The 6-foot-2, 180-pound senior quarterback, running back and defensive back rushed for 358 yards and 11 touchdowns on 62 carries this past season, leading the Huskies (7-2) to the New England Prep School Athletic Council’s Jack Etter Bowl. A two-time Evergreen League Player of the Year, Kiley also passed for 235 yards and three touchdowns, caught 15 passes for 328 yards and five touchdowns and returned a kickoff for a score. On defense, he recorded 46 tackles and four interceptions, and he averaged 40.3 yards on 16 punt attempts.

Kiley has maintained a B average in the classroom. He has volunteered locally as a New Hampton School campus tour guide, a youth basketball referee and as part of multiple community service initiatives in association with the New Hampton School Service Learning Program.

“I have coached against Jake Kiley for three years and have marveled at his athletic talent each time he steps on the field,” said Ben Rulli, head coach at rival Proctor Academy. “He has progressed throughout the years as one of the most athletic players I have seen. Jake is fast, agile and always a threat to make a big play.”

Kiley has verbally committed to play football on an athletic scholarship at Penn State University beginning in the fall of 2012.

Kiley joins recent Gatorade New Hampshire Football Players of the Year Max Jacques (2009-10, Salem), David Zocco (2008, Nashua South) and Billy Ferriter (2007, Nashua South) among the state’s list of former award winners.

MAINE: LOUIS DiTOMASSO, WELLS

The 6-foot, 180-pound senior linebacker and fullback led the Warriors to a 12-0 record and the Class B state championship this past season. DiTomasso rushed for 1,559 yards and 18 touchdowns on 203 carries. The 2011 Campbell Conference Player of the Year, DiTomasso recorded 133 tackles, forced a fumble, recovered a fumble and blocked a field goal. He ran for 134 yards and a touchdown in the state final win over Leavitt High.

DiTomasso has maintained a B-plus average in the classroom. An avid photographer and artist, he has volunteered locally as a youth football coach.

“Louis DiTomasso has great instincts at linebacker and flies to the play,” said Jeff Guerrette, head coach of rival Westbrook High. “At the point of attack he is extremely physical and consistently delivers the blow.”

DiTomasso remains undecided upon a collegiate destination.

DiTomasso joins recent Gatorade Maine Football Players of the Year Peter Gwilym (2010, Cheverus) Jack Mallis (2009, Windham), Jack Heary (2008, Deering) and Justin Villacci (2007, Gorham) among the state’s list of former award winners.

VERMONT: JAKE STALCUP, BURR & BURTON

The 6-foot-4, 185-pound junior quarterback passed for 2,448 yards and 31 touchdowns this past season, completing 163-of-286 passes while throwing 10 interceptions, leading the Bulldogs (7-4) to the Division 2 state final. A 2011 ESPNHS preseason All-State selection, Stalcup passed for 202 yards and a pair of touchdowns in the Division 2 semifinal win over North Country Union.

Stalcup has maintained a 3.54 GPA in the classroom. He has volunteered locally as a youth football and baseball coach and has assisted in relief efforts for Hurricane Irene flood victims.

“Jake Stalcup has become a first rate quarterback in every sense,” said Burr and Burton Academy head coach Jason Thompson. “Every single week he gave us a chance to win and he will only keep getting better.”

Stalcup will begin his senior year of high school next fall.

Stalcup joins recent Gatorade Vermont Football Players of the Year Christian McCormick (2010, Rice Memorial) Max Librizzi (2009, Essex), Mick Wong (2008, Hartford) and James Durham (2007-08, Spaulding) among the state’s list of former award winners.

The Gatorade Company, in collaboration with ESPN RISE, today announced Sam Mewis of Whitman-Hanson Regional High School as its 2010-11 Gatorade Massachusetts Girls Soccer Player of the Year. This is the second straight honor for Mewis, who is the first Gatorade Massachusetts Girls Soccer Player of the Year to be chosen from Whitman-Hanson.

The 5-foot-11 senior midfielder recorded 28 goals and eight assists this past season, leading the Panthers (17-1-1) to the Division I South Sectional Tournament. Also the 2009-10 Gatorade Massachusetts Girls Soccer Player of the Year, Mewis was a member of the U.S. Soccer Under-20 Women’s National Team that participated in the Under-20 World Cup last summer in Germany. The 2010 National Soccer Coaches Association of America High School Player of the Year, Mewis concluded her high school soccer career with 77 goals and 34 assists.

Mewis has maintained a 3.89 weighted GPA in the classroom. She has volunteered locally as a youth soccer instructor, served in her school’s student government and assisted in relief efforts for Hurricane Katrina.

“Sam Mewis has really matured as a player over the last year,” said Keith Caldwell, Mewis’ club coach with Scorpions Soccer Club. “The time she has spent with the older national teams has made her a better player. It has exposed her to the highest level of women’s soccer in the world at the youth level, and she’s kept raising her game and raising her game.”

Mewis has signed a National Letter of Intent to play soccer on scholarship at UCLA this fall.

Two-time winner Mewis joins recent Gatorade Massachusetts Girls Soccer Players of the Year Danielle Dakin (2008-09, Minnechaug Regional High School), and Hayley Brock (2007-08, Acton-Boxborough Regional High School) among the state’s list of former award winners.

Here are the releases for the other five New England states honoring Gatorade Players of the Year this morning:

CONNECTICUT: RILEY HOULE, WINDHAM

The 5-foot-2 senior midfielder recorded 18 goals and seven assists this past season, leading the Whippets (11-7) to the second round of the Class M state tournament. A member of the U.S. Soccer Under-18 Women’s National Team Player Pool, Houle was a 2010 ESPN RISE Second Team All-American selection and a 2010 National Soccer Coaches Association of America Youth All-American selection. Houle concluded her prep soccer career with 79 goals and 38 assists.

Houle has maintained a 3.70 GPA in the classroom. A volunteer youth soccer instructor, she has also created a fundraiser, JB24 Believe, to support a friend and teammate afflicted with leukemia, and she has donated her time locally as part of fundraising campaigns to benefit breast cancer research and an area homeless shelter.

“Riley Houle is the complete package in terms of a soccer player,” said Rick Derella, Houle’s club coach with Oakwood Soccer Club. “She’s a very skillful and instinctive player. She’s not a manufactured player. She can beat people on the run, she can shoot, she can pass. She can do it all.”

Houle has signed a National Letter of Intent to play soccer on scholarship at the University of Connecticut this fall and recently graduated Windham High early to begin attending spring semester collegiate classes.

Houle joins recent Gatorade Connecticut Girls Soccer Players of the Year Kate McCarthy (2009-10, The Loomis Chaffee School), Jessica Schloth (2008-09, St. Joseph High School), and Alex Uscilla (2007-08, St. Joseph High School) among the state’s list of former award winners.

RHODE ISLAND: MCKENZIE MEEHAN, LA SALLE ACADEMY

The 5-foot-5 junior forward led the Rams to a 19-0-2 record and their third straight Division I state title this past season. Meehan scored 49 goals and passed for 10 assists, including the game-winning strike with two minutes to play in La Salle’s 1-0 win over East Greenwich in the state title game. A 2010 All-American selection by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America, Meehan is a two-time Providence Journal First Team All-State pick and a U.S. Youth Soccer 1994 Region I Olympic Development Program team member. Through her junior year, Meehan has recorded 101 goals and 28 assists in her prep soccer career.

Meehan has maintained an A average in the classroom. A member of La Salle’s Pegasus Gifted Student Program, she has volunteered locally as a peer Spanish tutor, youth soccer coach and at an area homeless shelter.

“I think McKenzie Meehan is at a different level than any other player,” said Drea Harms, head coach of rival Bay View Academy. “She’s way beyond anyone else. She finds ways to score that I’m astounded by. I just see McKenzie as someone who looks like she’s always had a ball at her feet. She’s just very impressive to me.”

Meehan has verbally committed to play soccer on scholarship at Boston College beginning in the fall of 2012.

Meehan joins recent Gatorade Rhode Island Girls Soccer Players of the Year two-time winner Allison Kelley (2009-10 & 2008-09, La Salle Academy), and Katie Reilly (2007-08, St. Mary Academy-Bay View) among the state’s list of former award winners.

NEW HAMPSHIRE: MORGAN ANDREWS, MILFORD

The 5-foot-9 sophomore forward recorded 28 goals and 13 assists this past season, leading the Spartans (10-7) to the Division II state tournament. A former captain of the U.S. Soccer Under-15 Girls National Team, Andrews is a member of the Under-17 Women’s National Team. A 2010 National Soccer Coaches Association of America Youth All-American, Andrews was the leading scorer in Division II this past season. Through her sophomore year, Andrews has scored 52 goals and passed for 29 assists in her prep soccer career.

Andrews has maintained a B average in the classroom. She has volunteered locally on behalf of a community-outreach program, and she launched her own charity program that allowed coaches and players to donate their time and field-use privileges in exchange for canned goods that were brought to area food banks.

“Morgan Andrews, she’s just an unbelievable player,” said Jason Dewhurst, Andrews’ club coach with the Stars of Massachusetts. “She’s a perfectionist, always has been. Andrews is the type of player you build a team around, she’s that good. She is just a talent like I’ve never coached before. She’s just a different breed.”

Andrews has verbally committed to play soccer on scholarship at Boston College beginning in the fall of 2013.

Andrews joins recent Gatorade New Hampshire Girls Soccer Players of the Year two-time winner Kailey Blain (2009-10 & 2008-09, Merrimack), and Kristy Zurmuhlen (2007-08, Fall Mountain Regional High School) among the state’s list of former award winners.

MAINE: ALLISON WALTON, BRUNSWICK

The 5-foot-6 senior forward recorded 31 goals and 14 assists this past season, leading the Dragons (17-1) to the Class A state semifinals. Also the 2009-10 Gatorade Maine Girls Soccer Player of the Year, Walton was a 2010 All-American selection by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America and a three-time Class A First Team honoree. A natural defender, Walton was the 2010 Kennebec Valley Athletic Conference Player of the Year. She concluded her prep soccer career with 84 goals and 40 assists.

Walton has maintained an A average in the classroom. A member of the National Honor Society, Walton co-produced a documentary about her experience of being homeless for three days to bring attention to the plight of area homeless. She has volunteered locally as a peer tutor and as a youth soccer coach and referee.

“I think she’s one of the best center backs in the whole region,” said Keith Caldwell, Walton’s club coach with the Scorpions Soccer Club in Massachusetts. “She can play anywhere. She gets better and better with every game and every practice. She’s as good as anyone in the Northeast right now.”

Walton has signed a National Letter of Intent to play soccer on scholarship at Providence College this fall.

Two-time winner Walton joins recent Gatorade Maine Girls Soccer Players of the Year Elise Amioka (2008-09, Marshwood High School), and Rachele Burns (2007-08, Gorham High School) among the state’s list of former award winners.

VERMONT: LAUREN BERNARD, COLCHESTER

The 5-foot-3 junior recorded 18 goals and 11 assists this past season, leading the Lakers (10-5-3) to the Div. I state final. Bernard was an All-American selection by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America and earned First Team All-State honors from the Burlington Free Press following each of the last two seasons. She is a former member of the U.S. Soccer Federation Under-15 Women’s National Team, and a current member of the Under-17 National Team Player Pool.

Bernard has maintained a 3.99 GPA in the classroom. She has volunteered locally with youth soccer programs and camps.

“She’s one of the most determined and committed soccer players I’ve seen in a number of years,” said Tom Schaefer, head coach of rival South Burlington High. “She has amazing pace, she’s very quick and she’s very smart. She also has a tremendous, tremendous left foot.”

Bernard has verbally committed to play soccer on scholarship at Boston College and will begin her senior year of high school this fall.

Bernard joins recent Gatorade Vermont Girls Soccer Players of the Year Brittany Pfaff (2009-10, Rice Memorial), and two-time winner Natalie LeClair (2009-10 & 2007-08, Essex High School) among the state’s list of former award winners.

When East Providence routed Cranston West, 35-14, on September 24 in a Division I game, the victory underscored what most fans of Rhode Island high school football thought: the Townies had a legitimate chance to return to the Super Bowl for the first time since 2006 – when they beat Hendricken for the state title.

Among other things, the Townies were benefitting from the return of junior running back Jalin Braxton, who missed most of last season due to injuries.

Braxton was at his best against the Falcons when he ran for a quartet of touchdowns, including one that covered 51 yards.

Now, flash forward to last weekend when the Townies visited Portsmouth – a one-time Division I power that’s fallen on hard times in recent years.

All the Patriots did was pull off one of the season’s more impressive upsets by beating the Townies, 24-14 as quarterback Ben Willett scored one touchdown and passed for three more.

Moreover, the Townies’ final score was irrelevant since it came in the final seconds of the fourth quarter. What was relevant were the 14 points Portsmouth’s defense held East Providence to – since the Townies had outscored their opponents 135-26 in four overall games.

Since Hendricken beat Cranston East, 16-8, and Barrington played a non-league game, the Hawks (3-0) and Eagles (2-0) emerged from the weekend as the only undefeated teams in the state’s top division.

Even though all coaches regardless of sport recite the “We take them one game at a time” mantra without any provocation, two upcoming games are worth noting on your calendar:

* October 22, when Hendricken visits East Providence.
* November 5, when the Townies travel to Barrington.

Both games could go a long way toward determining the division champion, who would earn the number-one seed in the Division I Tournament.

CROWNING A KNIGHT

Because Exeter/West Greenwich plays in Division IV, the Scarlet Knights frequently are dwarfed by the likes of perennial state powers like Hendricken, La Salle, East Providence, Barrington, etc.

Senior running back Al Georgio is doing his best to draw attention to his team, which leads the division with a 3-0 record. In a word, Georgio is shredding opposing defenses.

Through the Scarlet Knights’ four overall games, Georgio has rushed for 975 yards and scored 17 touchdowns. Since Exeter/West Greenwich has seven regular-season games remaining – plus, quite likely, at least one in the Division IV Tournament –the stats Georgio could rack up are mind-boggling.

EXTRA POINTS

In other games of note:

* La Salle barely staved off defeat against Division I newcomer South Kingstown on October 1 by edging the Rebels, 7-3, thanks to Josh Morris’ 20-yard touchdown run in the third quarter.

* For the first time since 2005, Tolman is undefeated in league play (Division II-B) after three games.

The Tigers reached that mark by blanking Pilgrim, 35-0, as Ousame Samb scored on a 21-yard run and Shayne Taylor returned an interception 50 yards for a score – all in a span of 43 seconds in the third quarter.

In their three league victories, the Tigers have allowed a total of only 304 yards in total offense.

* Barrington played one of the more intriguing non-league games this season against long-time Massachusetts Division III power Bishop Feehan – and coasted to a 43-22 victory.

Alexander Spiess paced the Eagles by scoring three touchdowns, including one on an 85-yard return of a fumble recovery.

* Tiverton shed that proverbial two-ton gorilla by posting its first Division III victory of the season, 12-6 over Classical when John DeCosta threw a 25-yard touchdown pass to Robert Kisor with three minutes left in the fourth quarter.

EP ANNOUNCES CLASS OF 2010

Four men will be inducted into the East Providence High School Hall of Fame at the 27th annual ceremony on October 24:

* Ed Cronan, a retired guidance counselor, coached cross country plus track and field.
His honors include being named Rhode Island Cross Country Coach of the Year and Outstanding Educator by the East Bay Women’s Club.

* Colonel Robert Germani ’79, who was a varsity hockey captain.
He received numerous awards while serving in the Rhode Island Air National Guard as Chief of Security Police, Security Forces Commander and the Detachment Commander for the 201st Mission Support Directorate.

* Robert Silva ’57, who was a standout wrestler for the Townies.
Silva was one of two students selected as the “Most Likely to Succeed.”
He was appointed as legal counsel for the Rhode Island State Resources Board, the State Lottery Commission and the East Providence School Committee.

* James Viara ’62, who also excelled at wrestling for East Providence.
A self-made businessman, Viara during his retirement served as a mentor for young men from dysfunctional families.

Mike Scandura has been covering high school sports, college basketball and hockey and minor league baseball in Rhode Island since the early 1970s. A native of Oswego, N.Y., he’s a member of the Words Unlimited Hall of Fame, which is the statewide organization of sportswriters, sportscasters and sports publicists.