The Marblehead High School football program’s 7‑on‑7 squad traveled to Marshwood High School in Berwick, Maine, for a July showcase that would test the Magicians against some of New England’s top prep talent. The team entered the event with a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, all eager to build on last year’s championship.
Tournament Highlights
The Magicians opened pool play with a narrow 20‑18 victory over Londonderry High School from New Hampshire, then rolled through Noble, Bonny Eagle and York with decisive wins of 20‑6, 20‑6 and 24‑12 respectively. A 19‑6 semifinal triumph over Chelmsford secured a spot in the championship match, where they faced off against Buckingham Browne & Nichols.
Senior Pete Rhodes, who has voiced the team’s ambition to repeat as champions, praised the collective effort, while coach Jim Rudloff’s staff highlighted quarterback Marcus Waitekus and standouts Madden Lyons, Trent Brown and James Machado. Tim Wales, a longtime observer of the program, noted the impact of players such as Owen Coyne, Armany Villar and Vidal Clark both on the field and in the locker room.
Morning workouts have become a staple, with the squad meeting Monday through Thursday at 6 a.m. for conditioning and weight‑lifting sessions. After returning home, the Magicians will resume daily drills and schedule additional 7‑on‑7 contests against North Shore opponents, preparing for their first official practice with head coach Jim Rudloff slated for August 24.