MHSFCA Awards Recap: Celebrating Excellence in High School Football as MHSFCA Honors Coaches, Players, and Contributors at 2025 Banquet

The Massachusetts High School Football Coaches Association (MHSFCA) held its annual awards banquet on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at the DoubleTree in Westborough—bringing together some of the most impactful figures in Massachusetts high school football. From legendary coaches to courageous players, the evening celebrated the individuals whose contributions continue to shape the sport across the state.

One of the evening’s standout moments was the presentation of the Distinguished Service Award to Steve Ash and Matt Ross of Gold Athletics (formerly Varsity Gold). With decades of dedication to empowering student-athletes and high school teams through fundraising and program support, Ash and Ross were recognized for their long-standing commitment to the football community. Their work has helped programs across Massachusetts thrive on and off the field.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Distinguished Service Award to Steve Ash and Matt Ross, longtime leaders and key members of the Gold Athletics team. With decades of experience supporting high school athletic programs, Steve and Matt have quietly made a lasting impact on communities across the state through their thoughtful, strategic approach to fundraising.

Their recognition speaks to the integrity and consistency they bring to this work—always focused on helping teams succeed behind the scenes. At Gold Athletics, we’re proud to work alongside them and grateful for the steady leadership they’ve brought to programs for so many years.

The night also honored six legendary coaches, each inducted into the MHSFCA Hall of Fame:

• Jeff Cormier, Auburn

• Steve Dembowski, Milton/Swampscott

• Shawn Maguire, Burlington

• Dave Palazzi, Leominster

• Bruce Rich, Chelmsford

• David Woods, Bishop Fenwick

Steve Dembowski shared his gratitude, saying, “I am truly grateful to the game of football for the opportunities and relationships it has given me... I am honored to have my name listed along with so many Massachusetts legends in the MHSFCA Hall of Fame.” (Quote courtesy of John Sarianides, New England Football Journal)

The Silvio Cella Lifetime Achievement Award went to longtime coach Sandy Ruggles, further honoring his legacy of mentorship and leadership across generations of athletes.

The Courageous Player Award was presented to:

• Shane Gilmore, Uxbridge

• Madux Iovinelli, Lynnfield

• Manual Rivera, Barnstable

These players were celebrated for exemplifying resilience and perseverance through adversity—qualities that define the spirit of high school football.

In all, the 2025 MHSFCA Banquet was a night of heartfelt recognition, proud reflection, and community celebration. As John Sarianides concluded, “It was a great night all around for the coaches association and the recipients.”

Gold Athletics and the broader football community salute all 2025 honorees for their outstanding dedication to the game and the lives it impacts.

Steve Ash, Dave Driscoll and Matt Ross