FRAMINGHAM — For the first time ever, Framingham State will play host to Georgia’s LaGrange College in the opening round of the 2025 NCAA Division 3 tournament, a matchup of a New England playoff hopeful colliding with a Southern power.
Best of all, there is a huge Haverhill flavor to this big game.
Three former Haverhill High Hillies—wide receivers Adrian Sarrette and Sebastien Guillaume, and special teams standout Gabe Grabowsky—have emerged as core playmakers for the Rams this season. Their journey from local Friday night lights to college football’s national stage is a testament to what can happen when hometown kids refuse to be counted out.
Sarrette, a 2023 grad, was the most decorated of the trio, known around the Valley for his blistering speed and knack for explosive plays as an All-MVC, Eagle-Tribune All-Star and captain at Haverhill. He was the focus of The Eagle-Tribune’s 2022 “A day at camp with the Hillies” profile, drawing praise for both his leadership and on-field intensity.
After a postgraduate year at Milford Academy, he’s caught 31 passes for 312 yards.
Guillaume, a 5-foot-10 wideout, has three receptions for 27 yards.
Grabowsky rounds out the trio, as a special teams regular.
The challenge ahead is real for the hosts as LaGrange rolls in with a 9–1 record, armed with the USA South championship and a punishing defense that’s among the stingiest in Div. 3.
Kickoff is Sat., Nov. 22, at Bowditch Field in Framingham. The game can be seen on ESPN+.