Whalers Footballers Honored, Recognized

The annual New London High School Football banquet Sunday brought out some of the best in school spirit. Head coach Jeff Larson gave a big thanks to his coaching staff, community and parents for their support.

“I thank you for your support and getting your kids here at 6 a.m.,” said Larson. “It’s not easy doing that, especially when you have to work and take care of other family members.”

Several former Whalers had their names attached to awards as tradition continued. Kyle McKinnon won the Jim Buonocore Back of the Year Award. The honor is named after the former head coach.

Senior Josh Zurito displayed the most spirit throughout the season thus landing him the Tito Barbado Award.

All-Stater Stephan Dance had some of the most “bone crushing, head jerking hits” throughout the season. That gave him the Tommie Major Award named after the current Whaler assistant coach and city recreation director.

Junior Javon Elmore received a letter and drew praise from assistant coach Juan Roman.

“Next year he will be one of the most exciting players in the state,” Roman said.

“We came from nothing to make it all the way to the state  championship,” said senior Tywan Jenkins, who is on his way to Southern Connecticut to continue his football career. “My biggest thrill was playing at UConn’s field.”

There were two freshmen that received varsity letters. Nico Ramos and Shaquan Seales were part of a freshmen team that went 8-1, scoring 30 points while giving up just 7 on the defensive side of the ball.

The event was a community effort as Mary Anne Tadisco and Donna Smith headed a group of volunteers that prepped for and made it an awesome evening for those in Whalerville. Even Rita Long would have been proud.

Coach Roman summed things up best: “Championships are won now, not in December.”