By MNFB.com
January 23, 2011
Members of the Marple Newtown Football community enjoyed an afternoon at Paxon Hollow Country Club to close out the 2010 season.
The voice of the Tigers, Jim Allsman, served as the emcee for the annual event. The banquet is hosted by the MNFB Boosters Club, with each player receiving a team picture and a copy of the highlight film. Varsity letters are given out, seniors are given posters, coaches received gifts from the senior class and the highlight film was debuted.
The seniors were spotlighted for their efforts in helping sustain the long-term success of the football program. The current success of the program is unprecedented in the long history of the school. In the past eight years, the program has notched 50 victories, as opposed to 27 in the eight previous seasons. The 50 victories is the highest in any eight year span in program history, which dates back to 1929.
Delaware Valley College’s Jim Clements, Head Football Coach and Broomall resident, was the keynote speaker. Jim’s message to the seniors and returning players was clear as he encouraged the students to take advantage of the opportunities provided to them. Citing preparating and hard work as cornerstones for his program’s success at Del Val, Clements words were motivational and had a few Tigers stirring in their seats, ready for the 2011 season.
Coach Clements played at Widener and was a roomate & friend of the late Brian “Woody” Peoples. The Peoples scholarship is given in Brian’s honor to a senior who demonstrates the qualities of teammwork, work ethic and sportsmanship that Woody brought to the gridiron. Senior T.J. Fite was the receipient of the 2010 scholarship award, following a career hallmarked by dilligent work in the offseason, marked improvement during his four years and a thirst to learn the intracacies of the game.
Christian Whiteside earned team Most Valuable Player honors. Whiteside was a three-year starter on offense and defense, the first Tiger to do so since current Penn Stater Pete Massaro. Christian was named All-Central on both sides of the ball and All-Delco on offense. The Tigers ran the ball behind Whiteside in key situations throughout his career, even at times the opponents knew what was coming. Whiteside, regarded as the finest lineman in the Central League in 2010, plans to continue his playing career in college.
The Chris Gicking Offensive MVP was Ryan Duffy. Duffy was described as a workhorse by presenter Mike Doyle, which was apparent in Duffy’s signature performance against Harriton. Duffy’s 42 carries and 235 yards are among the top single-game rushing feats in program history.
Brian Kelly was named the George Schmitt Defensive MVP. Kelly patroled the middle of the Tigers defense, leading the team in tackles and earning All-Central recognition.
Senior Ryan White was named the Steve Coyne Special Teams MVP. White’s electrifying kick and punt returns had the Tiger faithful holding their collective breath every time he touched the football.
The Most Improved Player was Cimirrow Moat. Moat had the ball in his hands rushing, catching passes and in the return game.
Pete Finegan earned the Bill Maas Lineman of the Year award. Finegan helped control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball, serving as the Tigers center.
Sean Ridinger was given the Jim Smith Most Dedicated Award for his tireless efforts in the weight room, studying film and on the practice field. Ridinger is a staple in the Tigers weight room throughout the spring and summer, rarely missing a workout.
The Bob Kening Coaches Award was given to Billy Weaverling. Weaverling, the finest punter in the Central League, played defensive line and stepped in at quarterback when the Tigers needed him down the stretch.
The Tiger football family would like to thank all players, coaches, parents, and school administration for their help during the 2010 season.