Biography

If there were a list of North Attleboro running backs who you would want to have the ball with the game on the line, Brendan McHugh would certainly be towards the top of that list. As a dynamic two-year starter at running back, the 5’11 175 lb. McHugh was the cornerstone of the Rocketeer offense and his vision, cutting ability, and quickness left many defenders grasping at air. That same quickness enabled Brendan to be the top cover corner in the Big Red secondary as well.

Coach Paul Sullivan sums up Brendan’s rare ability as a ball carrier: “I recall him coming in speed motion across the formation to run a sweep. The defense stunted off the playside edge appearing to blow up the play. Brendan, coming laterally at full speed, instinctively sensed the danger and cut at 90 degrees through “A Gap” creating a large gain from what was most assuredly going to be a significant loss. Only special players can make such a move, but for Brendan it became commonplace.”

This rare ability enabled many, many memorable moments. As a junior, Brendan came through in the state semifinal game vs.Tewksbury with not one, but two jaw-dropping plays. There was the 56 yard TD run to secure the win and send the Rocketeers to the Super Bowl. But before that there was the improbable tunnel screen on 3rd and 24 that he converted for a first down that left a lasting impression on players, coaches, and fans alike.

His senior year would be no different. In the opening game, and first game on the new turf at Beaupre Field, Brendan would provide the game winning down that ended King Philip’s 25 game winning streak. Brendan ran to the left, and it appeared the KP defense had him surrounded only to have him somehow break free and streak down the left sideline for the score. Later in the season, Brendan would help to insure a 4th consecutive Hockomock League title by scoring the winning touchdown against Canton. He was a player that played his best on the big stage.

When thinking back, Brendan fondly remembers big wins against Duxbury (freezing temperatures) and Foxboro (a walk-off blocked kick), post game celebrations with his teammates, being introduced as a team at Gillette Stadium, and long Thursday walk-throughs with Coach Sullivan leading the offense.

Brendan’s two year production ranks him amongst the greats in Big Red history. He rushed for over 1500 yards and 30 touchdowns with an average of 6.4 yards per carry. He had another 32 receptions for over 400 yards and an additional 3 touchdowns. He was a dynamic threat in the kicking game as well. He had a kick return average of nearly 20 yards per return and his senior year he averaged 35 yards per kick as the team’s punter.

For his efforts, Brendan was selected as a Sun Chronicle All Star, Hockomock League All Star, Hockomock Sports All Star, and as the team’s Offensive MVP in his senior season. He was also selected to play in the prestigious Shriner’s Classic. Brendan went on to the University of Massachusetts - Amherst where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science. He’s currently employed by the state of Massachusetts as a Commission Against Discrimination Investigator.