Press Release
The Fairhaven High School Blue Devils Football Team, winners of the MIAA Division 6 Super Bowl Championship, were honored on Wednesday, 1/7/26, with a special visit to the Massachusetts State House as guests of State Representative Mark Sylvia (D–Fairhaven) and Senator Mark Montigny (D-New Bedford).
The championship team earned the title with a victory over Norwell and was welcomed to Beacon Hill for a day of recognition and celebration. Senator Montigny greeted the team, coaches, and school leaders at Fairhaven High School in the morning for an official sendoff to Beacon Hill. Representative Sylvia then hosted the group for a guided tour of the State House, followed by a pizza lunch in honor of their outstanding season and championship achievement.
During the visit, the team got to see both the House and Senate Chambers in action, received a special look inside Governor Maura Healey’s formal office, and had the opportunity to meet Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll prior to her presiding over a meeting of the Governor’s Council.
Representative Sylvia and Senator Montigny also presented official citations to the players, coaches, and Fairhaven High School, recognizing the team’s championship success and the dedication behind the program. Superintendent Tara Kohler and Principal Andy Kolak accepted the award on behalf of Fairhaven High School for their football program.
Special acknowledgment was given to Head Coach Derek Almeida, who was recently named Coach of the Year by the New England Patriots, an honor highlighting his leadership and commitment to student-athletes. This season marked the third year in a row that the Blue Devils played in Division 6 Super Bowl Championship, winning twice.
“This team represents the very best of Fairhaven and Acushnet —hard work, discipline, teamwork, and community pride,” said Representative Sylvia. “As their State Representative and a proud fellow Blue Devil, it was an honor to welcome them to the State House and celebrate a truly historic accomplishment.”
“The exemplary sportsmanship, teamwork, and hard work displayed by these young athletes and their coaches has instilled tremendous pride in Fairhaven and they deserve the highest of accolades,” said Senator Montigny. “We are beyond proud of each and every student athlete on this championship team.”
Fairhaven High School serves students from both Fairhaven and Acushnet. In addition to representing the Fairhaven students on the team, Reps. Sylvia and Steven Ouelette both represent portions of Acushnet and members on the team.
“Having the team in the House Chamber to witness the opening of the legislative session was a meaningful way to begin the New Year,” said Rep. Steven Ouellette. “It was a pleasure to share in their excitement and to congratulate them on their outstanding achievement.”
The visit provided players with a memorable experience at the seat of state government and a well-earned celebration of their remarkable season. A great time was had by all.
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- Fairhaven High School 2025 Division VI Super Bowl Champions pose for a group photo at the State House with Superintendent Tara Kohler, FHS principal Andy Kulak, coaches, and state representatives Mark Sylvia and Steve Ouellette on Wednesday, 1/7/26, when they were honored for their accomplishment with a day of activities on Beacon Hill. Photo courtesy of Rep. Mark Sylvia.
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- Mass. Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll tosses the football to a Blue Devil team member in the governor’s office on Wednesday, 1/7/26, when they were honored for their accomplishment with a day of activities on Beacon Hill. Photo courtesy of Rep. Mark Sylvia.
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- State Sen. Mark Montigny poses with the Fairhaven High School 2025 Division VI Super Bowl Champions and their coaches before the team heads out for a day of activities at the state house on 1/7/26. Submitted photo.
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