A Summer Session of Mentorship
On a bright August morning, Bedford High School’s gym echoed with the cadence of drills and the chatter of eager teenagers. Around thirty athletes from across New Hampshire gathered for a clinic that combined the expertise of two New England Patriots legends with the raw talent of local high school standouts.
Matt Light, the Patriots’ longtime left tackle, took the field to share the discipline that defined his 11‑year career. He spoke candidly about the relentless preparation that preceded each game, noting that while he is now retired from playing, the memory of that work ethic remains vivid.
Joining him was Danny Amendola, whose own journey from Texas youth leagues to the NFL was shaped by a father who coached high school football. Amendola emphasized the importance of footwork, detail, and catching technique, urging the youngsters to absorb every nuance and apply it on the field.
Concord High’s senior running back, Colin Savard, was among the participants who received personalized guidance on route‑running and foot placement. Jax Diachenko and Ethan Dunbar, also in attendance, practiced the same drills, focusing on hand positioning and body alignment that will serve them on both offense and special teams.
Coaching Philosophy and Player Development
Mike Leonard, Concord’s newly appointed head coach, watched the clinic with a keen eye. He praised the players’ engagement and highlighted the broader context of the program, noting the Patriots’ five Super Bowl championships as a benchmark for excellence. Leonard’s observations underscored a desire to instill a culture of preparation that mirrors the professional standard.
The event was organized by the New Hampshire Lottery, which has made community outreach a central part of its mission. By partnering with former Patriots players, the lottery aims to give back to the state’s youth while promoting healthy, team‑oriented activities ahead of the fall football season.
Amendola took the opportunity to comment on the Patriots’ evolving roster, expressing optimism about the new wide receiver core and the impact of recent acquisitions such as A.J. Brown. He suggested that the same principles of detail and teamwork he teaches at the clinic will translate directly to the professional game.
As the clinic drew to a close, the young athletes left with more than just drills in their playbooks; they carried a renewed sense of purpose, a deeper appreciation for disciplined preparation, and the confidence that comes from learning directly from those who have achieved the sport’s highest honors.