A Big Week for Xaverian Football

Last week’s Game of the Week between Xaverian and Catholic Memorial ended in dramatic fashion, with the Hawks earning a thrilling 25-22 victory over CM. Special guest Drake Maye of the New England Patriots and his wife, Ann, cheered from the sidelines as Xaverian fought to end CM's perfect season. In the final minute, the Hawks forced a turnover deep in CM territory, setting up junior Zander Govostes for a 23-yard, game-winning field goal as time expired.

But the celebration didn’t stop there. Xaverian head coach Al Fornaro ’78 was named the seventh New England Patriots High School Coach of the Week for 2025. On Tuesday, NFL Hall of Fame linebacker Andre Tippett, P ’16 presented Coach Fornaro and Xaverian’s varsity football seniors with a $1,000 donation to the football program on behalf of the Kraft family and the New England Patriots Charitable Foundation. The recognition honors Coach Fornaro’s dedication to developing the next generation of athletes.

"Great coaches don't just build winning teams, they build character, discipline and belief," said Tippett. "Coach Fornaro does all of that and more. Coach Fornaro's leadership, dedication and passion for the game continue to inspire not just his players, but the entire community."

The visit and donation presentation will be featured on the Patriots' weekly television program, Patriots All Access. The episode will air on October 24 at 7:00 p.m. on WBZ-TV in Boston, and it will also be available for immediate viewing on Patriots.com.

In addition to being named the New England Patriots Coach of the week, Coach Fornaro was recently induction to the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame.