Annual Thanksgiving message….
Many people claim Thanksgiving is their favorite holiday. Some prefer this holiday because it brings family together, it is not as commercialized as other holidays, and there is always plenty of great food. Another reason that gridiron fans in Massachusetts love Thanksgiving Day is high school football. The tradition of playing a rival team in the morning before heading home for turkey dinner has many families looking forward to this Thursday.
After a year off due to the pandemic, the tradition returns on November 25, 2021. Haverhill will face its Thanksgiving Day rival Lowell on the road. Kickoff is slated for 10:00 AM at Cawley Stadium. The Hillies won the last Thanksgiving Day matchup in 2019 by a score of 28-7. Tickets will be $10 for adults and $5 for students/seniors.
Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks. At Haverhill High School, we are obviously thankful for the success of our teams as well as all of the individual athletic accomplishments of our student-athletes. But more importantly, as Director of Athletics I am grateful for:
- The conduct of our student-athletes both on and off the playing fields. They constantly represent the Haverhill Public Schools in a positive manner.
- The effort and countless hours put in by our coaches. They truly care about our student-athletes.
- The Haverhill School Committee, Mayor James Fiorentini, Superintendent Margaret Marotta and Principal Jason Meland for making the commitment to continue with no user fees, improve facilities and provide the athletic program the resources needed to succeed.
- The game day workers. Athletic events would not take place without ball boys and girls, ticket takers, PA announcers, game supervisors, officials, clock operators and concession stand workers.
- The booster clubs, for their tremendous hard work and dedication.
- Ernie DiBurro...His endless contributions have resulted in renovations, new facilities, scholarships and so much more.
- The support of our fans and the community. They attend our events and consistently cheer on our Hillies. Especially fans like Dave Butler and Jean Ray. Rain or shine, home or away, win or lose Dave and Jean are always there. It is great to have them back!
- The parents of our student-athletes. The athletic endeavors of their children would not be possible without their encouragement, cooperation, sacrifices and car pools.
- UNIFIED SPORTS - the absolute best addition to high school sports. If you have not been to a game, please go. I guarantee it will bring a smile to your face.
- The athletic department staff of Amy-Jo Gallagher, Andy Berube and David Warwick. They go above and beyond and truly care for each and every student-athlete.
- Marilyn Caradonna, the official photographer of HHS Athletics, for her dedication to capturing special moments that our student-athletes will never forget.
- The HHS security staff, led by Officer Bill Mears and Sylvia Scott. They provide tremendous assistance at sporting events and ensure a safe environment both inside and outside the schools.
Happy Thanksgiving!