Branford Football Program Awards
John E. Knecht, Jr. Award
Sportsmanship
Mr. Knecht coached every sport at Branford High School, but is best remembered as an outstanding football mentor. He coached some legendary players and teams that are part of Branford's football legacy. He is the coach that all others are judged by.
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Joseph Trapasso Award
Leadership
The leadership award is named for Joe Trapasso, Branford's longtime Recreation Director. A much-honored professional in the field of parks and recreation, he is credited in spearheading the building of the Community House and developing one of the nations' finest recreation programs.
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James MacVeigh Award
Special Teams Player
James MacVeigh was the epitome of a friend and supporter to Branford High's Student Athletes. He was a well-respected teacher and coach that brought out the best in people in the Branford High community. As a sportswriter, his emphasis on Branford's programs and the individual players was always appreciated.
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George Barone Award
George Barone was an Assistant Football Coach at Branford High when he passed away from brain cancer in 1989. His fight against the disease was an inspiration to the team and all who knew him. (Awarded at the BHS FB Banquet and designated at the Annual BHS Award's Night.)
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Mark Kenney Scholarship Award
An All-SCC player in 2001, Mark showed a skill and love for the game of football. He also played at the University of New Hampshire. He was an enthusiastic participant in a multitude of activities. Mark passed away suddenly in 2006.
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Class of 2002 Mark Kenney Scholarship Award
This award is given to the player(s) who epitomizes the spirit of the class of 2002 and specifically Mark's tenacity for football and family.
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Joseph Welch Award
Most Improved Player
Joseph Welch, was a dedicated Branford fan in the 70's and 80's as well as an artist. He hand painted logos on all the players' helmets. His donation of time and talent was much appreciated. The team truly respected Joe's involvement and dedication.
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Stu Clancy Award
Team and School Spirit
Stu Clancy is one of Branford's all-time football greats. Stu played quarterback, halfback and fullback at Branford, went on to star at Holy Crossed and then played for the NFL's NY Giants and other professional teams.
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Palaia Award
Offensive Lineman of the Year
Award is named for members of the Palaia family who played for Branford High School football. The Palaia's were local business people who always supported the program.
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Pepe Award
Best Player in the Thanksgiving, East Haven Game
The Pepe family were local business owners whose family members played for Branford High School. The family always gave more than their share of support to Branford sports and to the community of Branford.
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Hatfield Award
Fortitude and Dedication
Ernest Hatfield was the Principal of Branford High School from the 1950's in to the 1970's. He was an ardent supporter of the football program and all Branford athletics. Mr. Hatfield was a well-respected, dedicated school administrator.
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Joseph Farina Award
Defensive Lineman of the Year
Named for a long-time Branford Coach and Athletic Director, Joe Farina. Joe is always identified with Branford Football. He was an outstanding football Assistant Coach in the 1950's and early 1960's. He was Head Coach from the 60's into the 1970's and Branford Athletic Director until his retirement in 1992. Joe was involved with Branford's football program for more than fifty years.
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Raymond Orsene Award
Heart and Hustle
Ray was a true fan and supporter of the football program for many years. He was a founding member of the branford Gridiron Club in the 1950's and maintained his interest in Branford's program until his passing in 2015. Ray always had encouraging words for Branford's players and coaches.
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Criscuolo Family Award
Scholar Athlete
Named for the Criscuolo family, whose family members played for Branford High School and continued to be involved in many capacities with the football program and other programs at BHS. This is awarded to a player that has exceled in both the Classroom and the Gridiron.
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Scott Jenkin Award
This award is named for longtime Branford Football Coach Scott Jenkin. Scott coached teams from the youth level through high school and instilled a love of the game in all his players. At BHS, Scott was a resource officer who was known for his ability to provide connection and understanding to his students. To know Scott was to love him. His giving spirit and dedication to his friends and family made him the ultimate teammate and friend.
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Utility Player of the Year
This award is given to the player who puts program above all else on the field. They are ready and willing to step into any role or task while supporting and leading their teammates by example.
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Elk's Club Defensive Player of the Year
Elk's Club Offensive Player of the Year
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Coaches' Award: Most Valuable Player of the Year
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