Archive

Poll	NC Placed	To see full results
New Haven Register	4^th	New Haven Register Poll
Hartford Courant	5^th	2009 Elite 8
ESPN Radio 1300	4^th	ESPN Radio 1300 Top 10
New London Day	9^th	HS football coaches' poll

Marinelli Inducted into the CT Hall of Fame

Nov. 19, 2009 - NC Rams head coach, Lou Marinelli, was among eight coaches and one sports writer who were inducted into the CT High School Coaches Association Hall of Fame on Nov. 19^th at the Aqua Turf Club in Southington, CT. Lou’s family, friends and football alumni were all in attendance. Additionally, he was very moved when 40 of his current players walked into the banquet room dressed in their red game jerseys. The team traveled an hour and a half by bus to show their respect and support for Coach Marinelli. It was a great evening.

(photos)

Running to Help Our Soldiers

Oct. 8, 2009 - Darlene Fox, who’s stepson, David Wente (NCHS ’09) played on our 2007 and 2008 championship teams, is taking on a great challenge for a very deserving cause. On Oct. 25^th, she’s running in the Marine Corp. Marathon to raise money for the Fisher House Foundation who build temporary housing close to military rehab facilities and VA hospitals so that families of ill and recovering vets and active duty servicemen and women can be close to their loved ones.

To support Darlene’s efforts, click (here).

Rams Walk to Beat Diabetes

Oct. 4, 2009 - Thirty eight varsity football players came out for the Step Out for Diabetes Walk at NCHS led by Coaches Marinelli and Shepard. Thanks to all of our players who got up early and took the time to take part.

Who Dominates The FCIAC

Sept. 28, 2009 - There is a poll out by Dave Ruden asking: Which FCIAC Team Has The Most Dominant Program? The choices are:

*New Canaan High School Football

*Darien High School Volleyball

*Greenwich High School Girls Swimming

*Wilton High School Girls Soccer

*Greenwich High School Football

Freshman Football Captains Chosen

Sept. 13, 2009 - Coach Arcamone announced the Freshman team’s 2009 season captains. They are: *Thomas Costigan *Andrew Read

*Nick Palladino *Duke Repko

*Casey Ouellette

New Canaan’s Sport Person of the Year

Aug. 31, 2009 - Coach Lou Marinelli has been chosen as New Canaan’s Sports Person of the year by the Fairfield County Sports Commission. He will be honored along with 14 other recipients on October 19^th at the 5^th Annual Sports Night awards dinner. For more information and/or to buy tickets to the award dinner, contact Tom Chiappetta at 203-251-8481 or at tomchip21@aol.com. (Read Article)

Ram Football Records Page Updated

Individual and team stats have finally been updated through December 2008 and can be found on the "Records" page. Information from past seasons have also been revamped.

Sports Writers to Honor Coach Marinelli

April 26, 2009 - The CT Sports Writers Alliance presented Coach Marinelli with the 2009 “Connecticut High School Coach of the Year” award at the Aqua Turf Club in Southington.

The loss of Coach Arcamone’s father

Feb. 3, 2009 - We’re sad to report that Coach Frank Arcamone's father passed away on Sunday at Norwalk Hospital. He was 68 years old. The Ram Football Family sends its condolences to the entire Arcamone family. Coach Arcamone is the Freshman Football Coach at New Canaan High School and is Ram Football's conditioning coach.

Frank Arcamone Sr.'s Obituary

Marinelli is name the #1 Coach in CT

Jan. 28, 2009 - The Connecticut Sports Writers have chosen Lou Marinelli as the High School Coach of the Year in a male sport. The McInerney Award will be presented to Marinelli and the female sports Coach of the Year, Matt Hurlock, at the CSWA’s 68^th annual Gold Key Dinner on April 26^th at the Aqua Turf Club in Southington.

Read the entire Stamford Advocate article.

Ram Football Receives Kelly Award

Jan. 17, 2009 - The Walter Camp Football Foundation honored New Canaan High School Football on Saturday night at their annual National Awards Banquet. Coach Marinelli and the Rams were given the prestigious Kelly Award, presented annually to the top ranked high school football program in Connecticut.

Photos and more information on this event

List of all Kelly Award Winners

More about the Walter Camp Foundation

Marinelli is CT’s Coach of the Year

Jan. 17, 2009 - The 2^nd annual Walter Camp Football Foundation’s “Breakfast of Champions” was held on Saturday morning at New Haven’s Anthony’s Ocean View restaurant. This event honors CT’s 6 state championship high school football teams, and presents the “CT Player of the Year” and “CT Coach of the Year” awards.

The team presentations went to:

-the New Canaan Rams (13-0) Class MM

-the Glastonbury Tomahawks (13-0) Class LL

-the Brookfield Bobcats (12-1) Class M

-the Cromwell Panthers (12-1) Class S

-the Masuk Panthers (12-1) Class L

-the New London Whalers (12-1) Class SS

The “CT High School Coach of the Year” award went to New Canaan’s Lou Marinelli after his first undefeated season that included an FCIAC and a State Championship. The other finalists for the award were Coach Scott Benoit from Hamden & Coach Sal Morello from Cromwell.

Photos and more information on this event.

NCHS Football honored by Gov. Rell

Jan. 9, 2009 - At half-time at NCHS’ home basketball game against Greenwich on Friday night, Lt. Gov. Michael Fedele presented the Ram Football squad with a proclamation from Gov. Jodi Rell congratulating them on an incredible season and declaring Jan. 9, 2009 as “New Canaan Rams Football Day” in the State of Connecticut.

CT Rep. John Hetherington also presented the Rams with an official citation from the Connecticut General Assembly congratulating them “on an extraordinary 2008 season.”

Photos from this event

Coach Marinelli recognized by NFL

Dec. 23, 2008 - In recognition of Coach Marinelli’s success and commitment, he has received the Lou Rettino High School Football Coach of the Week Award and was recognized by the NFL Commissioner, Roger Goodell, NFL Director of Football Operations, Gene Washington, and the Giants Head Coach, Tom Coughlin. He will receive $2,000 for the NCHS Football program, his name was announced at the Giants’ home game on December 21^st when they hosted the Carolina Panthers, and his tribute has been posted on the Giants’ website www.giants.com. Congratulations Coach!

CT Post announces Coach of the Year

Dec. 23, 2008 - Sean Bowley of the Connecticut Post announced that Lou Marinelli was chosen Connecticut Post’s Coach of the Year for 2008. He also announced that Kurt Ondash and Nick DiRubio were selected to their all-area team for 2008/2009. Kurt Ondash was also chosed as their regional MPV. Congratulations Rams!

New Haven Register All-State Team

Dec. 2008 - Kurt Ondash & Nate Quinn have been chosen for the New Haven Register All-State Team.

http://allstate.nhregister.com/

New Canaan Sweeps BlueStreak Sports Training Awards

Dec. 13, 2008 - (FCIAC Football Blog)

New Canaan voted #1 in the State of CT

Dec. 7, 2008 - The New Haven Register poll voted the New Canaan Rams as the #1 football team in all of Connecticut… Congratulations boys!

New Haven Register Top 10 Football Poll Results

No. 1 New Canaan wins third straight Class MM state title

Nate Quinn gets MVP honor

Dec. 6, 2008 - New Canaan’s quarterback, senior Nate Quinn (#18) received the MVP honor for the State Finals game in Trumbull on Saturday.

Class MM State Semi-Finals are set

#1 New Canaan (11-0) vs. #4 Weaver (8-3)

at New Canaan High School

#2 Hillhouse (11-0) vs. #3 Darien (10-1)

at West Haven High School

This is NC’s 9th appearance in the State Semi-Finals since the current format started in 1995.

-They’ve won 6 and lost 2.

-The only teams that have more appearances in the State Semis than NC are Ansoinia (13 times), Bloomfield (10 times) and Masuk (10 times).

-In 2007 - NC beat Middletown 28-0 at New Canaan in the Semi-Finals. They went on to beat Hand 34-30 to win the State Championship.

-In 2006 - NC beat Coventry-Windham 49-14 at Coventry. They went on to beat Maloney 53-21 to win the State Championship.

-In 2005 - NC lost to East Lyme 12-20 at New Canaan. East Lyme then lost to Branford 7-14 in the State Finals.

NC last played Weaver at New Canaan in 2002 in the State Semi-Finals and won 35-0.

-They went on to beat Ledyard 21-0 to win the State Championship.

This is Weaver’s 8^th appearance in the State Semi-Finals.

-They’ve won 3 and lost 4.

-In 2007, Weaver lost to Ledyard 28-0 in the Division M Playoffs. Ledyard went on to beat Berlin 21-14 to win the State Championship.

(Our thanks to our Statistician - Jay Salvador - for his terrific record-keeping.

CIAC Playoff Rankings

Nov. 28, 2008 - The Hartford Courant

New Canaan FCIAC Champion

Nov. 28, 2008 (ConnPost.com - by Emery Filmer)

MSG MVP

Nov. 28, 2008 - The MSG Plus/New Balance High School Weekly Game MVP - Darien vs. New Canaan - Thanksgiving Day 2008 winner was Nate Quinn. After Nate was received his award and was interviewed, he handed the trophy to his grandfather who was sitting near him in a wheelchair.

Awards given at Turkey Bowl

The 2008 Jim Girard Award recipients were:

New Canaan - Will Rice #60

Darien - Rocco Colandro #71

The ‘08 Jack Dempsey/MVP Award recipients were:

New Canaan - Kurt Ondash #12

Darien - Brian Kosnik #17

Darien-New Canaan the highlight of holiday schedule

Nov. 21, 2008 (The Advocate - by Emery Filmer)

Turkey Bowl is also FCIAC Championship

Nov. 8, 2008 - On Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, November 27^th, New Canaan will host Darien in their traditional “Turkey Bowl” game. This year, the game will be especially exciting because it will also be the FCIAC Championship game. Darien, currently 9-0-0, is having a great season, and the “Turkey Bowl” match-up is destined to be an incredible game.

Memorial service planned for Mazzella

Nov. 12, 2008 - There will be a memorial service in New Canaan, CT on Saturday, November 22^nd at 11:00am at St. Aloysius Church. There will be a small gathering afterwards for family, and there may also be an opportunity for friends to gather as well. Those details are still being worked out.

To view Ram Football’s tribute page to Tommy, click the link below.

Tom Mazzella

Greywacz plays last college game

Nov. 12, 2008 - Ram Football alum, Ernie Greywacz (’05) will play his last college football game this weekend. A defensive end for the Central Connecticut State Blue Devils and wearing #44, Ernie was named second team Mid-Major All-American by The Sports Network, First team All-NEC selection, third on his team with 73 tackles, and he led the team with 5.5 sacks and two interceptions in 2007. As a captain at NCHS, Ernie wore #43 and was a powerful fullback and linebacker.

Ernie’s last game: Saturday, Nov. 14^th at 1:00pm, at Sacred Heart University, in Fairfield, CT

College Football Bio

Gabe Kavookjian - A Special Ram

Nov. 12, 2008 - Gabe Kavookjian is a sophomore football player at NCHS. He is a dedicated and passionate young man who lives with challenges that most of our boys do not. Yet, he’s out there every day for practices and games - rain or shine, hot or cold, early or late. He’s the definition of someone who simply wants to play football.

When I asked his coach to tell me about Gabe, Daron Shepard gave me a quote that he said applies perfectly. “Success is not measured by what we achieve but by what we overcome to achieve.”

Visit Gabe’s page: Gabe Kavookjian

Coach Marinelli honored by the Frank McGuire Foundation

Nov. 6, 2008 - Ram Football is proud to announce that Coach Lou Marinelli was awarded the 2008 Frank McGuire Foundation Award. “This award is not for the coach with the highest winning percentage or the best known program, though such coaches may well find themselves on the podium. In a time when even scholastic sports seem to have abandoned their best purpose, the Frank McGuire Award honors the coach who perseveres and succeeds in making the job a higher calling, one that inspires young people to improve themselves in all aspects of life. It honors the type of coach an athlete can reflect upon in 10 or 20 years, or even 50 years and say, ‘I’m glad to have played for that person. It was an inspirational experience that made a difference in my life.’”

The award dinner was held on Wed. Nov. 5^th at 6:00pm at the New York Athletics Club. Lou was surprised and touched by the number of players, parents, NCHS staff, Ram Football alumni, friends and his family members who helped him celebrate receiving such an honor.

Frank McGuire Foundation 2008 Honorees

Frank McGuire Foundation Established

(1999 New York Times article)

A Ram Lost

Lt. Col. Thomas (Tommy) F. Mazzella

NCHS Class of 1987, #20

died on Thursday, October 23, 2008

Oct. 29, 2008 - Marine and former Ram Football quarterback and captain, Tommy Mazzella has died after a long battle with cancer. As a friend put it, “We know that Tom is in a better place now and not suffering any longer.” Tom is survived by his wife, Teresa and two young sons, Tyler and Logan. We send our thought and prayers to his family.

A celebration of life will be held at 10:00am (originally scheduled for 11:00am) on Saturday, November 1^st at the New Song Community Church, 3985 Mission Avenue, in Oceanside, California 92058.

On Sat., October 25^th, the New Canaan Rams dedicated their game against Staples to Tommy. We won 21-20 at Staples. It was a very exciting game and, as Tim Parry said afterwards, “Tommy was here and he loved it!”

Tommy holds 9 NCHS all-time records:

*4^th place for TD passes in a career (17)

*5^th place for passing yards gained in a career (2,037)

*2^nd place for passing yds gained in a game (1986 - 317)

*4^th place for pass completions in a season (1986 - 100)

*1^st & 2^nd place for pass completions in a game

1986 - vs. Fairfield - 18 passes

1986 - vs. Wilton - 17 passes

*2^nd place for pass attempts in a career (352)

*4^th place for pass attempts in a season (1986 - 194)

*2^nd place for pass attempts in a game

1986 - vs. Darien - for 88 yards

Rams Walk for Diabetes in Fairfield

Oct. 19, 2008 - Led by their event captain and Ram Football senior, Alex (Buddha) Tharp, more than two dozen members of this year’s varsity football squad took part in the 2008 Step Out for Diabetes walk at Penfield Beach in Fairfield. The goal of the walk was to raise funds to help find a cure for and to bring a greater awareness to this devastating disease. As reported by FCIAC Football Blog editor, Tim Parry, our boys didn’t just walk, “they sprinted… some with the aid of Rollerblades and Razor scooters… and they brought some excitement and energy to the event.” For more information and/or to donate to this effort, click (here).

Last season for the FCIAC Football Blog

Oct. 16, 2008 - Tim Parry, editor of the popular FCIAC Football Blog, announced on Facebook today that this will be the blog’s final season. Doing most of the work on his own, Parry sited the economy, work demands and family commitments as contributors to his decision. Tim, who is also a Ram Football alum, grew his website from a small message board into a key source of news and information for FCIAC football as well as a variety of other sports and newsworthy causes and events, and it will be greatly missed.

FCIAC Football Blog: The Final Season

Zach Renner Blocks 2 Punts for Georgia

Oct. 5, 2008 - Ram Football alum, Zach Renner (#21, RB/DB, class of 2007) is making a name for himself at the University of Georgia. Now #10 on Special Teams for the Bulldogs, Zach has managed to get his hand on the ball two games in a row. The first was on Sept. 20^th when he blocked a punt attempt by Arizona State in the second quarter. Georgia went on to win that game 27-10. Then he got his hand on the ball again on Sept. 27^th blocking a punt attempt by Alabama. This put the Bulldogs in good field position leading to their first touchdown of that game. Alabama went on to beat the Bulldogs 30-41. Georgia head coach, Mark Richt, said that Zach has “proved to (his) staff that he’s an outstanding special teams player.” (Online Athens)

Zach Renner's Georgia Player Profile

"Block still amazes freshman walk-on"

Photos of Zach Renner

JV Game vs Warde Cancelled

Oct. 4, 2008 - The JV game schedule for Mon. Oct. 6^th vs. Fairfield Warde has been cancelled. For automatic scheduling updates register at:

www.casciac.org/scheduleupdates.shtml

New Technology Gives Access to Game Video

Oct. 3, 2008 - Coach Bouffard (Ram Football’s technology guru) set upoaded all Ram Football games to Digital Sports Video Anywhere. DSV-A is cutting edge video editing technology allowing players and their families to view games, clip and make recurring profiles, and allows college recruiters to easily view players’ highlight films from anywhere in the country. Parents and players can get more details by visiting the "Team Only" page. Anyone else interested in learning more about this technology can contact Coach Bouffard.

New High School Sports Blog Announced

Sept. 29, 2008 - Stamford Advocate staff writer, Dave Ruden, has started Overtime, the Advocate’s new high school sports blog. Ruden’s goal with Overtime is to supplement the Advocate’s sports coverage. In it, he’ll have commentary, profiles and supplemental information that may not always find its way into the newspapers. We wish Dave the best of luck with his new venture. (Dave Ruden has covered high school, college and professional sports for 26 years - the last 16 at the Advocate. He previously worked for CBS Sports, ESPN and The NYT.)

Article by Tim Parry (FCIAC Football blog)

Chris Silvestri runs to fight Breast Cancer

Sept. 6, 2008 - NC Rams’ Varsity Secondary Coach, Chris Silvestri, will take part in a the Komen New York City Race for the Cure on Sunday, September 14^th. This annual 5K run/walk raises money to fund breast cancer education, screening, treatment and research. Donations are tax deductible, and anyone who would like to support Chris is this effort can click (here).

Freshman Captains Announced

Sept. 6, 2008 - The New Canaan Freshman Football team voted for their 2008 season team captains.

Bobby Distler Rami Hamdan

Connor Humphrey Kevin McDonough

Matt Milano Thomas Rochlin

Congratulations gentlemen!

Dave Stewart Introduces New Website

Sept. 4, 2008 - Dave Stewart, Sports Editor for the New Canaan Advertiser, has started a new website of photographs for youth and NCHS sports, including varsity, junior varsity, and freshman teams. Check it out at www.newcanaansports.ifp3.com.

NC Ram Football Golf Outing Great Success

Aug. 8, 2008 - The 9^th annual NC Ram Football Alumni Golf Outing was held on Thursday, August 7^th, 2008 at the NC Country Club. The 80 players who took part were Ram Football alumni, family and friends. The dinner that followed was filled with good food and exciting auctions. Tommy Keegan was a terrific auctioneer and while the bidding was interrupted for a short while because of the incredible hail storm that came through, the evening was a great success.

The NC Ram Football Association awarded its first scholarships to Brendan Fitzpatrick and Patrick Ready, both NCHS 2008 graduates. Brendan and Patrick were chosen because of their tremendous contribution to their team during their 4 years as members of Ram Football. The $1,000 scholarships will go towards each player’s college education.

We’d like to thank Lynda Silvestro and Bobby Thompson for Co-Chairing this year’s event and for their support of our program and its alumni.

We’d also like to thank the three directors of the NC Ram Football Association, Matt Kelley ’86, Chris Passaro ’91, and Jerry Reen ’85.

FCIAC All-Stars Beat New Haven’s

July 11, 2008 - Fairfield County’s All-Star team met the All-Stars of New Haven County on July 11^th for the 12^th annual Hall of Fame Football Classic at Ken Strong Stadium. Led by New Canaan’s head coach, Lou Marinelli, Fairfield tied the game in the last minute of the 4^th quarter and, after an exciting double overtime, won with a final score of 31-30.

Kyle Duncan to start in CT/RI Governor’s Cup

June 26, 2008 - In Saturday’s 10^th annual Governor’s Cup all-star game between Connecticut and Rhode Island. Connecticut, New Canaan’s Kyle Duncan, 2007 co-captain, is in the starting line-up. Connecticut has a 7-2 lead in the series which began in 1999.

To read all about this event: http://www.cthssports.com/pdf/gc08/GovCupInfo.pdf

2008 Team Captains Announced

Congratulations to:

Kurt Ondash

Nate Quinn

Chris Sciarretta

Ram Football Welcomes New Family Member

March 8, 2008 - James Joseph DellaVolpe was born today to proud parents, Duncan & Liz. It won’t be long until James is on the sidelines coaching with his father.

Football Alum Loses Young Son

March 7, 2008 - Football alum, Andrew Peake, #20 & NCHS class of ‘99, and his wife Miley lost their 19-month-old son, James D. Peake, on March 7^th. The cause of death is unknown. James was born on June 30, 2006 and was known for his laughter and smile. Funeral services were held on March 11^th and memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the Epilepsy Foundation or the New Canaan Library.

Bruno Dorismond’s Story of Success

Jan. 6, 2008 -The Portland Press Herald’s Jenn Menendez has written a wonderful article about Bruno Dorismond, NCHS Football alumnus and current senior defensive lineman at the University of Maine, telling the story of his overcoming great odds to earn his college degree. Click here to read the article.

Remarkable Rally for Rams

Dec. 2, 2007, TradingMarkets.com - New Canaan wins state finals with 21 unanswered points in the 4^th quarter beating Hand 34-30. To read article, click (here).

Rams Reject Hand’s Hopes for State Title

Dec. 2, 2007, WFSB.com - To read article, click (here).

New Canaan’s All-FCIAC Players are Announced

2007 ALL-FCIAC EAST – 1^st Team

Player	#	Yr.	Pos.	Ht.	Wt.
Charlie Westfal	11	Sr	QB	5-11	170
Kyle Duncan	55	Sr	OG	6-1	280
Ted Finan	42	Sr	RB	5-9	175
Mike Milano	9	Sr	LB	6-1	195
Charley Donnelly	78	Sr	OT	6-3	310
Chris Guynn	19	Sr	OLB	6-1	185
Kurt Ondash	12	Jr	K	6-0	175

2007 ALL-FCIAC EAST – 2^nd Team

Player	#	Yr.	Pos.	Ht.	Wt.
Evan Rosenstein	44	Sr	DB	5-11	175
Brendan Fitzpatrick	15	Sr	WR	6-0	180
George Bodenheimer	76	Sr	OC	6-1	225
Chris Sciarretta	39	Jr	RB	5-10	185
Austin Read	20	Sr	DB	5-11	180

2007 ALL-FCIAC EAST – Honorable Mention

Player	#	Yr.	Pos.	Ht.	Wt.
Steve Johnson	66	Sr	OT	6-3	220
Chris Lemoine	65	Sr	DL	6-0	205
Mike Glass	79	Sr	OT	6-2	285
Cleveland Donald	43	Sr	LB	5-11	185

Charlie Westfall Doubly Honored

Dec. 3, 2007 - Charlie Westfal has been named MSG Tri-State Player of the Week and Player of the Year by the FCIAC Football Blog/BlueStreak Sports Training.

Alums in the News

Dec. 2007 - Ernie Greywacz was named to the All-Northeast Conference football team. The junior had 73 tackles, two interceptions and three fumble recoveries.

Dec. 2007 - Bruno Dorismond was a third team all Colonial Athletic Association selection after he recorded 37 tackles, two sacks and two fumbles recoveries for Maine U.

Charlie Westfal - State Finals M.V.P.

Dec. 1, 2007 - An tremendous team effort by the New Canaan Rams earned them their second consecutive State Championship title. The game M.V.P. for New Canaan was Charlie Westfal… Senior and Quarterback… who led his team out of a 13-30 deficit at halftime to an incredible 34-30 victory over the undefeated Hand Tigers. Coach Fred Word summed it up best… “Wow!!!”

Turkey Bowl Award Winners

Nov. 22, 2007 - There are two awards presented at the Turkey Bowl each year.

- The Jim Girard Memorial Sportsmanship Award is given to a player from each team in honor of the former A.D. at Darien High School who died of leukemia in 2002.

- The Jack Dempsey/M.V.P. Award is presented to a player from each team who are chosen by the newspaper writers. The M.V.P. Award was renamed in honor of Jack Dempsey, a former NCHS football player and wrestler who was killed in action while serving in Iraq in 2004. Dempsey won the M.V.P. Award himself in 1998.

CONGRATS TO NC’S 2007 WINNERS

Sportsmanship Award - George Bodenheimer (’08)

M.V.P. Award - Charlie Westfal (’08)

Wishing FCIAC Blog-master a speedy recovery

Nov. 21, 2007 - Tim Parry (NCHS ’87) and the force behind the FCIAC Football Blog, had anterior cervical fusion surgery a few days ago. This is major surgery and we wish Tim an easy and speedy recovery.

FCIAC Football Blog

Our team thanks the Dattco Bus Co.

Nov. 17, 2007 - The Ram Football Team would like to extend its heartfelt gratitude to the Dattco Bus Company. They generously donated a bus to carry our players to Coach Marinelli’s mother’s funeral last week. The boys felt very strongly about attending and, when our school couldn’t provide transportation, Dattco didn’t hesitate. They came through for our team and helped our boys show their coach the deep respect they feel for him. It’s a tribute to Coach Marinelli that over 80 current team members attended his mother’s funeral service.

Our thanks to Rich Stabile, manager at the NCHS facility, and Phil Johnson, VP of School Buses for Dattco. They responded to a need in our community, and we appreciate their support.

Two Keys to Ram Football’s Success

Nov. 13, 2007 - Diane Murphy and Bill Brown don’t get their names mentioned by the announcer during games… they’re not written about in the local papers… and they’re not listed on our roster… but they are two of the most important people involved with the everyday functioning and overall success of NCHS Football.

Diane Murphy begins her 26^th year as NCHS’ Athletic Trainer and “training room chief.” You can find her in the training room every afternoon taping up players, icing aching muscles and caring for any injuries incurred by all of New Canaan High School’s student-athletes. During our football games, you’ll see her calmly walking up and down our sidelines carefully watching every player on the field. If anyone is slow to get up after a play or shows signs of injury, she’s right there with her pack of supplies ready to take care of them. Diane is incredibly professional - always calm, caring, and in control as she tends to our players. Parents and coaches alike are comforted by her presence and the knowledge that she’s watching out for our boys as they play this tough sport.

Bill Brown is our team’s equipment manager which is a challenging job with an average football team but, when you’re dealing with our roster of 145 players strong (Freshmen through Seniors), it’s a daunting task on the best of days. In the afternoons, Bill is busy getting supplies and gear ready for our teams’ practices and games. Tool boxes, med kits, water, footballs, etc… there’s a lot involved with the daily functioning of our Varsity, J.V., Sophomore and Freshman teams. Whether distributing uniforms, replacing a lost hip pad, or handling the game balls on the sidelines, Bill does it with ease and a sense of humor. You can’t be in a bad mood around him… he’s always ready with a joke or cheerful greeting for coaches and players alike. A member of the class of ’78, a skilled golfer, and a special education aide at NCHS - our team wouldn’t run as well as it does without Bill.

In sports as in most aspects of life, the people behind the scenes are as important to a team’s success as a talented player or an experienced coach. It takes an amazing amount of time and dedication from our support staff to run a successful season, and Ram Football is lucky and grateful to have Diane and Bill on our side of the field.

Charlie Westfal Named Player of the Week

Oct. 23, 2007 - New Canaan quarterback Charlie Westfal was named Player of the Week by the FCIAC Football Blog and BlueStreak Sports Training, the two organizations announced today.

Westfal, a senior starting at quarterback for the first time this season, completed 18 of 25 passes for 301 yards, four touchdowns, and one interception in the Rams 49-34 win over Danbury on Saturday. Westfal also ran the ball seven times for 82 yards and a pair of touchdowns.

The Player of the Week is chosen from a pool of players nominated by the FCIAC's football coaches.

-Tim Parry, FCIAC Football Blog

-Matthew Cole, BlueStreak Sports Training

Updated Individual Records have been posted

August 30, 2007 - Out individual player records has now been updated (through the 2006 season). To view these updated records, click on the “Team Records” link in the menu on the left of this page. Then click on “Individual Records”.

Many thanks to Jay Salvador - our incredible statistician!

“Molly’s Miracle” and A.L.S.

August 29, 2007 - Former Darien H.S. football coach Mike Masiuk’s wife, Molly, is fighting ALS, also known as “Lou Gehrig’s Disease”. On Saturday, September 29^th there will be a “Walk to Defeat ALS” at Sherwood Island in Westport. Joan Lauten, wife of our own assistant football coach Steve Lauten, has organized a team, called “Molly’s Miracle” to do the walk in honor of her friend.

Every 90 minutes a person in the U.S. is diagnosed

with ALS, and every 90 minutes another

person loses their battle against it.

In football, our main goal is to work as hard as we can to beat our opponents. In life, however, our goal must be to do all that we can to help our friends and neighbors when they need us. To help sponsor “Molly’s Miracle”, click (here).

Annual Red & White Game - Sat. June 16^th

June 17, 2007 - Thanks to our coaches, players, parents and especially to our 4 terrific team reps for making this year’s Red & White Game such a wonderful success. We also thank our chain gang, referees, Team Managers (Stephanie Miller and Kelsey Pulkownik), Ralph Antonacci (our trainer for the day) and Bill Brown (equipment manager & announcer) for all their help in preparing for and during the game. (And huge thanks to whoever arranged for the glorious weather.)

1^st Annual “Has-Beens” vs. “Will-Bees” Game is a great success!

June 16, 2007 - 57 players ranging from Tom Towers (Class of 1983) through next season’s seniors (Class of 2008) came out on Friday night, June 15^th, to take part in the 1^st Annual “Has-Beens” vs. “Will-Bees” vs. Alums 7-on-7 scrimmage. Played at Dunning Stadium under perfect blue skies, devoted fans cheered the boys and men on. The “elders” held their own and showed the younger generations that they still had some of their old moves. A great tailgating party was held after the games, and we give a huge thanks to Matt Ready and Bill Eydt who were our very talented grill-masters. Thank you to everyone who came, helped and contributed. We look forward to seeing you all again next year.

Peter Demmerle, Ram Football alum, dies at 53

May 30, 2007 - Pete Demmerle of Greenwich, a former star athlete at New Canaan High School and All-America football player at the University of Notre Dame, died Thursday, May 24. Mr. Demmerle, an attorney in Greenwich, was 53 years old and died from complications of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

To read his Notre Dame obituary, click (here).

Dorismond named a Univ. of Maine Captain

May 2007 - Bruno Dorismond, NCHS Class of 2003, proudly wore the #66 for Ram Football while at New Canaan High School. Upon graduating, he went on to the University of Maine where he plays football and is majoring in Child Development and Sociology. Dorismond was honored as one of the U. Maine’s scholar-athletes in Feb. 2007 where, to qualify, he achieved a 3.0 or better GPA for the 2006 year and/or has a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better.

On Saturday, May 5^th, 2007 the Black Bears concluded their spring season with their Third Annual Jeff Cole Memorial Scrimmage at Alfond Stadium. Prior to the scrimmage, with Coach Marinelli in attendance, Bruno was honored again by being named one of the team’s senior tri-captains for their 2007 football season.

A Tragedy at Virginia Tech

April 17, 2007 - Our Ram Football team would like to extend its sympathy and heartfelt prayers for those killed and injured in the shooting today at Virginia Tech on April 16^th. It is an unbelievable tragedy. We are, however, very grateful that Ram Football alum, Jon Aspinwall (NCHS ’06), currently a Freshman at Virginia Tech, is safe and unharmed.

Marinelli & Garrity win awards from National Football Foundation & Hall of Fame

April 12, 2007 - The National Football Foundation and Hall of Fame honored Coach Marinelli and senior Jon Garrity at their annual awards dinner. Coach Marinelli won “Coach of the Year” honors and Garrity was honored as a Scholar-Athlete. The Marinelli and Garrity families were in attendance, as were several members of the Ram Football staff.

Coach Marinelli is a finalist for “National Coach of the Year”

Jan. 2007 - Ram Football is proud to announce that Coach Lou Marinelli has been named one of 8 finalists for "National Coach of the Year". The winner will be announced at the National High School Coaches Convention on June 28th in Milwaukee.

Coach Ditolla is “Assistant Coach of the Year”!

Jan. 2007 - Joe Ditolla, an NCHS special education teacher and assistant football coach for 28 years, has been named the 2006 CHSCA - Connecticut High School Coaches Association’s Assistant Coach of the Year! He was honored at an awards ceremony on January 21^st in Southington.

Coach Marinelli is “Legendary”

Dec. 2006 - Lou Marinelli was honored by MSG as their “2006 Legendary Coach of the Year”. Just completing his 29^th year as a football coach, the New York Military Academy alumnus began his coaching career in Westchester County, NY with the Mamaroneck Tigers. Following stops at Boston College and Yorktown High School (NY), he took over as head coach of the New Canaan Rams in 1981. His career totals stand at an amazing 218-86-7 with 199-76-6 being in the FCIAC. Coach Marinelli has led the Rams to three league titles and five Connecticut state championships.

Rams win Class MM State Championship

(article by wfsb.com - 12/3/06)

NEW BRITAIN, Conn. -- Saturday night belonged to New Canaan in the Class MM championship.

The New Canaan Rams met the Maloney Spartans under the lights at Central Connecticut State University.But it was the Rams who jumped out to a 27-0 halftime lead. New Canaan's second touchdown came from a 14-yard connection from Curtis Casali to Zach Renner.

The offensive star for New Canaan was senior running back Dan Neeleman, who rushed 30 times for 206 yards and three touchdowns. Neeleman also caught two passes for 70 yards en route to team MVP honors.

Maloney saved some face in the second half when Rashamell Vereen returned a kickoff for an 81-yard touchdown, cutting the New Canaan lead to 33-6.

But the rams weren't done scoring: A 26-yard Neeleman run set up another one of his touchdowns.

"You only had one chance to do it, you'll remember this for the rest of your life," Neeleman said. "We have guys coaching our team that never forget their state championships, and we wanted that we wanted a part of that. We wanted a part of the New Canaan legacy that everybody talks about, and now, we have something to take with us."

"We came up an hour-and-a-half, two hours to play. These guys came over like (from) 15 minutes away; they weren't ready for us. It was awesome," New Canaan senior Curtis Casali said.

New Canaan head coach Lou Marinelli left the game wet from a Gatorade shower as his Rams defeated the Spartans 53-21.

NC Ram Football Association Inc. Head Coach: Lou Marinelli (203) 594-4637 - NCHS, 11 Farm Road, New Canaan, CT 06840
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