Haverhill’s Matt Duchemin wanted one more season on the football field.
But, after a stellar career, first at Holy Cross, then at Bentley University, the NCAA ruled he had exhausted his college eligibility following the 2024 season, ending his playing career.
Despite the disappointment, however, his fire for the sport he loves still burned brightly, and he found the perfect outlet for his gridiron passion.
Duchemin is set to return to Bentley football this fall — as a graduate assistant coach and team manager for the Falcons under head coach and former Andover High star QB C.J. Scarpa.
“I could not be more excited heading into the football season,” said Duchemin, a graduate student who plans to graduate with his MBA after a semester. “I feel as though I can add a lot of value to the team as a graduate assistant and manager. I’m definitely still passionate about the game, and this was a perfect way for me to stay involved. I would have loved to play another season, but I am grateful for this opportunity.”
An All-Scholastic and state champion at St. John’s Prep, Duchemin began his college playing career at Holy Cross. In 28 games over four seasons (2020-23), the defensive back turned in 24 tackles and one interception — which he returned for a 68-yard touchdown.
Then, last fall, he transferred to Bentley and delivered a breakout campaign. In 10 games, he made 33 tackles, intercepted two passes, returned kicks and punts and was named All-Northeast 10 Second Team.
“After a great year (in 2024) I was planning to play one last season at Bentley, but was denied by the NCAA,” he said. “But it’s been fine. My focus has been on the upcoming season. I could not be more thankful for the career I had, for four years at Holy Cross and one at Bentley. I’m excited to have a new perspective for the game.
Once Duchemin reports on Aug. 12, he said his main responsibility for the Falcons will be to work with defensive backs, the same position he starred at.
“I can’t wait to help these defensive backs develop as players and as individuals because I was in their shoes just a few years ago,” he said. “I was coached by one of the best coaches in the country in (current James Madison head coach) Bob Chesney for four years at Holy Cross. And the Bentley coaches have been amazing, too.”
While Duchemin has his sights set on a career in business, he feels like his experience coaching football will prove very valuable.
“I’m pursuing private equity opportunities after graduation,” he said. “Coaching and working as a manager will help develop my leadership and managerial skills. It will also give me the opportunity to make others around me better, which I’m excited for.”
First and foremost, though, the goal remains the same on the football field — win ballgames.
“I can’t wait to help my former teammates win a lot of football games,” he said. “I’m most looking forward to winning a Northeast 10 champion ring with the Bentley football team this season.”
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