Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School alumnus Michael McCarthy, class of 2009, last week became the first former Vineyard football player to sign a contract to play professional football. Mike, a star quarterback in his high school days, will join the Geneva Seahawks of Switzerland.
Vineyard varsity football coach Donald Herman coached Michael from elementary school through high school. “He was a smart, dedicated student, always looking for ways to improve his game,” Mr. Herman said.
After taking over the starting position of quarterback in his sophomore year, Michael remained the team’s quarterback for the rest of his high school career. He broke numerous school records and lead the team to the Super Bowl in 2008.
After graduation, Michael attended Bridgewater State University (BSU). Michael quickly adapted to the fast pace of collegiate football and thrived. “Michael was a tremendous player,” BSU coach Chuck Denune said. “He practically rewrote the record book at BSU. A player like Michael, you only have the chance to coach athletes like that every four or five years.”
Michael’s outstanding senior year performance qualified him to play in the All-American Bowl and provided an opportunity for him to be seen by many professional coaches. Impressed by his athleticism at the All-American Bowl, representatives of numerous European football teams called him with offers. Michael decided to finish his studies and earned a bachelor’s degree and became a certified physical education teacher before signing with a team.
Michael weighed his options. “I chose Geneva because I really liked the city,” he said. “It was one of the better money offers and had the best benefits.”
Michael now has the opportunity to play football professionally and travel throughout Europe. “The timing of this deal worked out perfectly,” he said.