It's always football season.
Four players from Wilbraham & Monson Academy earned postseason awards for their performances on the field in 2017.
Zion Setal '18 was honored at the 56th annual Western Massachusetts Chapter of the High School Football Coaches Association National Football Foundation Banquet at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst April 8 for making the All-New England and NEPSAC Class B Independent First Team.
Other WMA players to receive football honors were: John Wright '19, All-New England Honorable Mention and NEPSAC Class B Independent First Team; Anthony Tivnan '18, NEPSAC Class B Independent Second Team; and Dante Leo '20, NEPSAC Class B Independent Second Team.
Below are quotes from Coach Jeff Vartabedian regarding each player:
Zion: WR/DB – "Zion was our top skill player this year and had an excellent post-graduate season at wide receiver and defensive back. He was our go-to guy in the passing game and was a physical player and strong cover guy in the defensive backfield. On top of that, Zion was a great team player and excellent competitor."
John Wright: RB/OLB – "John had a very good junior season and was one of our most consistent players all year long. He did a very good job defending both the run and pass at outside linebacker, and his pursuit to the ball was relentless. On offense, John was a hard-nosed running and blocking back, who was happy to fill any role for the team that he could. He is no doubt one of our top returning players for next year."
Anthony Tivnan: C/DT – "Anthony was our most consistent big guy up front this year, as he anchored both our offensive and defensive lines. As a center, Anthony was consistent with his shotgun snaps and physical blocking in both the run and pass game. Defensively, Anthony used his quickness and agility to control his gap and make a number of tackles. Additionally, Anthony was great helping coach-up the younger guys and helping them to get better."
Dante Leo: G/DE – "Dante had a strong sophomore season as a two-way starter on the offensive and defensive line. His strong work ethic and commitment to his off-season training helped him become one of our top linemen and most versatile players. Dante stood out most as a defensive end, where he used his strength and athleticism to become a strong edge rusher and excellent run defender."