At 6’1’’ and 220 pounds, John MacAulay is one of the biggest members of the Rye football team. The six-year gridiron veteran proudly wears his No. 91 jersey, and plays wide receiver, offensive tackle, and defensive end for the Garnets. While he may not always get significant playing time, John is a constant at practice, working hard and supporting his team.

 

By Jeff Dempsey

 

At 6’1’’ and 220 pounds, John MacAulay is one of the biggest members of the Rye football team. The six-year gridiron veteran proudly wears his No. 91 jersey, and plays wide receiver, offensive tackle, and defensive end for the Garnets. While he may not always get significant playing time, John is a constant at practice, working hard and supporting his team.

 

Our teammate was diagnosed with autism when he was 2 years old, and although it has hampered some of his skills, he has not let it stop him from playing sports.

 

Against Roosevelt earlier this season, John proudly stepped on the field for the first time in his gridiron career, and successfully performed all his assignments as wide receiver. We could not have been happier for him on the sidelines – the support was tremendous.

 

“No one has more Garnet pride than Big John!” exclaimed assistant coach Jim Rinaldi.

 

Playing for the Giants in Rye Little League some years ago, John proved clutch in cranking some key hits for his team in the playoffs. His Little League coach, Andy Sackett, said, “Every time Johnny stepped into the batter’s box and swung his bat, he inspired everyone in that ballpark.”

 

After Little League, John continued to play in the Rye Babe Ruth League. He also played in the Rye Rec Basketball League and loved the thrilling March Madness Tournament that highlighted each season.

 

John will be graduating in June, as a proud member of the Rye High School Class of 2012.  While this will be his last year playing school football, as the team saying goes, “Once a Garnet, Always a Garnet”