Biography

Small in stature, big in heart, and quick like a jack rabbit are three descriptive phraises that aptly describe Mike Inglese. The 5'5" 130 lb defensive back was a key contributor to the Red Rocketeer defense during the seasons of 1985 and 1986.

As a junior Mike was credited with 26 tackles, 9 assists and 8, that's right, 8 pass interceptions. In a late season game against Mansfield, Inglese had 4 interceptions, one of which he returned 34 yards for a touchdown, leading the Red and White to a big 23-6 victory. Two weeks later he had 3 more interceptions against arch rival Attleboro, returning one for a 48 yard score in a 28-0 Turkey Day win. These two outstanding performances prompted this quote from Coach Ray Beaupre. "His size may be a disadvantage but a kid with a heart like that, we play him, I don't care if he's three feet tall."

Inglese returned for the 1986 season as one of North's Tri-Captains, a few pounds heavier and loaded with confidence Mike became a valuable two way performer. Defensively he was credited with 23 tackles, 5 assists, and 5 more pass interceptions. Offensively he carried the ball 44 times for 225 yards and 2 touchdowns. He caught 4 passes for another 80 yards and returned 14 kickoffs for 306 yards and a touchdown.

Mike's final game was probably his best. In a 6-6 tie on Turkey Day he had 3 interceptions. Two of them at North's 18 yard line stopping Attleboro drives. Offensively he caught a short pass on a fourth down and eleven, slipped a couple of would be tacklers and scampered 35 yards for North's only score.

During Mike Inglese's two years as a starter North won 14 lost 3 and tied 3. Inglese was recognized as a Hockomock and Sun Chronicle All Star. He was also recognized as the team's defensive player of the year for the 1986 season.