my experience winning the walter camp award

By Will Bergin, 2020

Published 4/23/20

Every year the Walter Camp Committee for high school football hosts an annual breakfast for their chosen all-star team, the state championship teams, and the player/coach of the year. Every state has their own Walter Camp team and it is one of the most prestigious all state awards to receive as more than 30 hours of film are watched by the committee to pick the team.

When I heard from my coach that I had the opportunity to attend this breakfast and accept this award for being one of the state’s top football players, I felt extremely honored. I was in my Peer Health class at about 10:45 when I was told to go down to athletics; I immediately began wondering what this could be about. My walk down there consisted of thoughts and questions like, “What did I do to get in trouble?” and, “Does it have something to do with college?” as well as, “Am I being praised for something?” Once I entered the door I saw our Superintendent Jeff Solan, football coach Don Drust, and Athletic Director Steve Trifone talking in a group. After seeing this I immediately wondered, “Yikes, what happened?” As they saw me approaching, Coach said, “I am honored to tell you that you have been selected to the All-State Walter Camp team. I am extremely proud of you.” I was blown away by what he said. The Superintendent was excited to tell me and share the news as well, complimenting my character and respectfulness. This meant a lot, especially coming from the leader of our team, school district, and sports community.

The day of the breakfast was like no other, as I was overwhelmed with excitement. No one has won this award from Cheshire since 2009, over a decade ago. All of the state’s best athletes had arrived and breakfast was about to start. We entered the ballroom of one of the nicest hotels in Connecticut. The layout was unbelievable, with food being served buffet-style. The morning was just about to begin, and my head was overflowing with nerves and excitement. As for the ceremony itself, even though there was excitement in the room and the breakfast was phenomenal, it was long. All I was waiting for was the moment to walk across the stage and be honored by everyone in the ballroom. I even got the chance to meet and personally talk to Kyle Mcintosh, a Walter Camp committee member who graduated from Cheshire in the 90’s. As the first team was lining up to receive their certificate for the all state team I couldn’t stop smiling. Looking back at my parents from the front of the room and seeing their phones up and cameras ready, with big smiles and proud looks on their faces, made me feel amazing. After receiving the certificate and applause, excitement and satisfaction rushed over me seeing everyone happy for the rest of the team and I. I knew this was a moment that I would never forget.