In celebration of what local high school coaches bring to the development of the sport, the McMaster Football program is pleased to announce that Claudio Silvestri from Hamilton St. Thomas More Catholic Secondary School is the recipient of the 2018 High School Football Coaching Achievement Award, presented by T. Litzen Sports Ltd.  He becomes the first two-time recipient of the award, having previously been recognized in 2009. 

Coach Silvestri continues to make a huge impact on the high school scene with the St. Thomas More senior team, and since arriving at the school in 1999 has made 15 appearances in the HWCDSB championship game over 18 seasons.

An alumnus of McMaster, where he played for the Marauders under Coach Bernie Custis, Coach Silvestri guided the Knights to an undefeated season in 2017 (10-0), winning the Golden Horseshoe Bowl and ending the year as the consensus No. 1-ranked high school team in Canada.   This marks the second time he has guided STM to the nation's top ranking, having secured top spot in 2007.

The award will be presented at the 21st annual McMaster Football Gala Dinner on April 26, 2018.  The award also brings with it a $ 1,000 voucher from T. Litzen Sports Ltd. Of Dundas, to be used for the purchase of equipment for the St. Thomas More football program.

Candidates for the award are nominated from the regions of Hamilton, Halton, Niagara, and Haldimand, with selection based on long-term service to high school football, positive impact on players, and commitment to promoting excellence on and off the field.

Previous Recipients-
2017, Mike Harris, Loyola
2016, Tom Pain, Westmount
2015, Nick Mlekuz, Nelson
2014, Joe Babic, Assumption
2013, Ang Morreale, Orchard Park
2012, Marcello Campanaro, M-M Robinson
2011, Chad Wozney, Notre Dame
2010, Rocky DiPietro, Lakeshore Catholic
2009, Claudio Silvestri, St. Thomas More
2008, Steve Alfano, St. Jean de Brebeuf
2007, Bob Stacy Nelson
2006, Dave Walters, Westdale & Rick Oreskovich, St. Paul's (co-winners)
 
For information or to purchase tickets to the McMaster Football Gala, please use the LINK