Biography

At 5'10",220 pounds, Rodney O'Brien was a prototypical high school tackle. A stalwart two way player on an immensely talented Feehan team, O'Brien was tough, aggressive and explosive. In his junior year, O'Brien's gritty contributions helped Feehan fashion a commendable 6-3 record which included back to back victories over Attleboro (22-12) and North (22-8) in a tough Bristol County League.

As a senior, O'Brien and his Hall of Fame lineman Doyle, Grundy, and LaRocque along with their Hall of Fame backfield of Souza, Ezyk, Kiley, and Thorpe was an immensely talented team. The powerful Shamrocks ripped off five straight victories which included shutouts over Seekonk and Durfee, a come-from-behind last second 20-14 victory over Taunton and a thrilling 100th anniversary 26-8 victory of arch rival Attleboro.

Ironically, one of O'Brien's best games may have come in Feehan's only loss (7-0 to Coyle High School) where his defensive presence helped contain Coyle's star runner Rich. In addition, his sure-footed punting in a driving rain storm managed to minimize Coyle's offensive opportunities.

Following, the loss, Feehan bounced back with three straight victories including a 28-0 victory over North Attleboro, which one local scribe attributed to "the superb play of the Feehan line," of which O'Brien was a keystone. Allowing a average of but 5 points per game, this Feehan defense was one of the best. Feehan's 1969 record of 8-1 made them Bristol County League Co-champions, and ranked them among the top three teams in the final Boston Globe rankings.

His coach Paul O'Boy noted that some of O'Brien's greatest contributions might have come on the practice field where his leadership was the source of both inspiration and laughter.