Ayden Pereira, one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in Eagle-Tribune area history, is in search of a new college football home.
The former Central Catholic superstar has announced that he has entered the NCAA Transfer Portal, after two seasons with Division 1 FCS University of Maine.
“After a lot of thought, and talking about it with my family, it felt like the best move for me to make right now,” said Pereira, a resident of Auburn, N.H. “I have a lot of love for Maine, and am forever grateful for the opportunity. But the timing wasn’t right. I think the best decision for me is to explore other opportunities. I want to get on the field.”
As a redshirt freshman this fall, Pereira appeared in just one game, completing his only pass for 13 yards against Stony Brook.
“I want to get onto the field and play, and I feel like I’m ready to do that,” said Pereira, a two-time Eagle-Tribune offensive Player of the Year and 2021 Mass. Gatorade Player of the Year. “I’m very confident in my abilities. I just want to find the right school that will fit me as a person and football player. I’m not expecting any guarantees. I’m looking for a chance to compete. I feel like I can play anywhere in the country. I believe that’s how every quarterback should think.”
A three-year starter at Central Catholic (class of 2022), Pereira is fourth in Eagle-Tribune area history in passing yards (5,551 yards), threw 68 touchdowns and ran for 1,614 yards and 31 TDs.
“Right now, it’s just like being a recruit again,” he said. “I haven’t done this in two years. It’s exciting, and a little nerve-wracking. A lot of it is just a waiting game. I want to make sure my decision is the right one.”
Central Catholic head football coach John Sexton, who was the offensive coordinator during Pereira’s time with the Raiders — is confident whatever program Pereira chooses will be a fortunate one.
“Ayden’s a dynamic guy, a natural playmaker and is very tough,” said Sexton. “I know people might say he isn’t the biggest kid (6-foot, 200 pounds) and he played high school ball in Massachusetts. But I’ve see him up-close-and-personal, and I’ve seen him make the throws and pull the ball down and run threw people and around people. and he’s a winner. If he gets the reps in practice and the chances on game day, that college will get a great quarterback.”
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