Biography

An undersized running back and defensive back, Adam Watkins didn’t let his stature dictate his play. His passion for Big Red football was instilled at a young age, learning from his cousin and fellow Hall of Famer, John Sawyer.

Adam was a versatile two player for the rocketeers as a running back and corner back. His toughness and instincts out-weighed his size on the defense as he was in on 69 tackles, intercepted three passes and recorded a fumble recovery. Offensively, he was a threat to run the ball up the middle or outside, as well as catch the ball in the flats and pick up extra yards. Watkins carried the ball 83 times as a Red Rocketeer, many of those carriers for critical first downs. He rushed for 548 yards and nine touchdowns. In a run-heavy offense, he turned his four receptions into 71 yards and two more touchdowns.

Amongst his most memorable games, Adam recalls a showdown at Mansfield with a share of the Hockomock league title on the line. Big Red had been a threat with speed on the edge all year from the likes of Hall of Famers Rob Dargis and Garrett Vandette. In a 24-20 victory, Watkins scored all three touchdowns for Big Red.

For his efforts on the gridiron, Watkins was a Hockomock League Honorable Mention, Sun Chronicle All-Star and Balfour Trophy recipient for his offensive performance on Thanksgiving Day. He was selected for the LTD Award from his coaches, recognizing the player who best exemplifies the characteristics of Loyalty.