Marauder Football Recap

The Marauder football season began on Saturday, September 9th against the well-respected Wellesley Raiders, a D2 team. Despite Wellesley's strength, Dedham powered through and won 20-13. The Marauders trained all summer for games like this, and the win exemplified just how hard they worked. Senior Gianni Gasbarro had a tremendous game on both defense and offense. 

The Marauders were away again the next week, heading to Medfield. Their 16-0 win definitely opened the eyes of Dedham fans to the 2023 Marauders, as they now stood with a 2-0 record.

On a rainy Friday on the 29th of September, the Marauders faced the Dover Sherborn Raiders. Dover, a team that has been highly competitive the past couple of years, seemed to lose their confidence when playing against Dedham. Dedham put up 44 points against Dover, which would be their second highest score of the season. Defense held the Raiders offense to only 16 points all game.

After losing to Bellingham, Dedham bounced back and won their next three games. They won against Norton 49-28, put up 43 to Medway and only gave up seven, and slayed Millis 43-14. Junior AJ Pinet was reported on in the Boston Globe for his outstanding athletic achievements. Pinet had 315 yards along with six touchdowns. 

Dedham was placed as the fourth seed heading into playoffs. They hosted Apponequet Regional, who ranked at #13, in the first round. With unstoppable defensive players, such as Jasiah Walton, Derrick Enoma, and Edem Kplorfia the Marauders dominated Apponequet, allowing them only 6 points. However, the offense stepped up to plate and dropped thirty points on Apponequet's defense. It was a great way to start the playoffs. They fell short in the second round, losing 10-0.

The boys finished the season 7-4 overall and 4-1 in their league, scoring a total of 297 points and giving up 151. They lost to Bellingham and Canton by only 1 point. 

The Thanksgiving game against Norwood was a nailbiter, but Dedham ended up losing at the very end. 

At the fall banquet, Coach Cloutier announced the letter winners along and awards. Senior Gianni Gasbarro and Junior Aj Pinet won co-MVP’s. Both of these players had astonishing seasons as they led the team in touchdowns.  Leadership award went to senior Thomas Quinn who led his team to two playoff games and was a leader to the younger play. The Coaches Award went to Senior Will Fitzgerald, a natural born leader who would do anything for his team.

“This season was definitely one to remember," said senior captain Will Fitzgerald. "We could’ve had a few more wins, but not every game can go your way. I made a lot of good memories and friendships along the way. I’ll sure miss the sport.”