A year ago, Central Catholic’s Matthew Crocker was an elite defender, selected as one of the best players in the Merrimack Valley Conference and earning Eagle-Tribune All-Star honors.
This year was a very different story.
The senior was shifted up front to the forward spot and erupted for 23 goals and added four assists in 20 games. He recorded four hat tricks against Dennis-Yarmouth, Peabody, Rhode Island powerhouse Bishop Hendricken and then Westboro in the Division 1 state tournament. He provided game-winning goals against Dracut, Tewksbury and Methuen. He had two goals each against North Andover and St. John’s of Shrewsbury.
The honor roll student played a huge role in Central’s 14-6-0 record.
Crocker is now a two-time MVC All-Conference and Eastern Mass All-Star.
“Matt was a big reason for Central’s success this season. The program had more shots and goals than in any previous season in the last 20 years,” said head coach John Sears. “The move of Matt from central defender to striker was integral in how the season went. A truly amazing athlete. He is by far one of the most talented players I have had the pleasure of coaching, and I believe he can take his skills and drive to the collegiate level.