Perry starting on ESPN
Former Andover High record-setter E.J Perry IV has been named the starting quarterback for the Memphis Showboats of the professional United Football League (UFL).
And Sunday’s season-opener — which will air on ESPN with a noon start — will be a revenge game for Perry.
The Showboats will kick off their season against none other than Perry’s former team, the Michigan Panthers. Perry became a breakout star for the Panthers in 2023, leading them to the playoffs, and started 2024 as the starter before his season was derailed by injury.
The recently-named Andover High Hall of Famer signed with Memphis in February.
Burt to triple-A
North Andover’s Max Burt is opening the 2025 season with the New York Yankees’ triple-A affiliate, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders.
The 28-year-old infielder has played in the Yankees organization since 2018, earning stints in triple-A in 2021 and 2023, totaling 43 games. He re-signed with the organization earlier this month.
Known for his versatility — he has played all four infield positions and the outfield in the pros — and stellar glove, Burt has appeared in 515 minor league games, recording 43 homers and 246 runs scored. He is the son of Eagle-Tribune sports editor Bill Burt.
NH gridders honored
Four New Hampshire football standouts have been honored with Joe Yukica Scholar/Athlete Awards for the 2024 season, it was announced this week.
A pair of Salem High stars were honored, linebacker Daniel Hughes — who played the season with a torn ACL — and offensive lineman Ivan Colon. Both were Division I Central All-Stars this past fall.
Also picked were a duo from Division I champion Pinkerton — Eagle-Tribune defensive Player of the Year Matt Morrison and fellow running back/defensive back Jamison Isaac. Both were All-Division I Central first team.
The four will be honored at the 38th Scholar-Athlete Banquet on May 28.
Hufft to coach Alvirne
Pelham athletic director and interim head football coach Justin Hufft has been name the head football at Alvirne High School, it was announced this week. He has previously been announced as the Broncos’ athletic director in February.
Pressed into coaching the Pythons on the eve of the 2024 season, Pelham advanced to the Division II championship game.
One Final Thought
As Michael Muldoon used to say, “If you can bring a smile to someone’s face today, just do it!