McCarthy Named Gridiron Club of Greater Boston Division I Coach of the Year
Blue Devils are 11-1 and play in the first round of the NCAA Playoffs on Saturday
Central Connecticut head football coach Ryan McCarthy was named the Gridiron Club of Greater Boston Division I Coach of the Year on Tuesday. The Gridiron Club presents the award to one Division I (FBS/FCS) and one Division II/III head coach each season. McCarthy is in his first season as the head coach of the Blue Devils.
The Blue Devils are one of just three FCS teams in the nation to remain undefeated vs. FCS teams this season.
The 11 wins is a school-record and the Blue Devils are making their second appearance in the FCS Playoffs in the last three years. They are one of just three teams in the country with 11 or more wins this season.
The Blue Devils have won eight straight games heading into Saturday's playoff game at the University at Albany. The Blue Devils and Great Danes will play in Albany on Saturday at 1 p.m. on ESPN3.
McCarthy was named head coach on Oct. 16, 2019 after serving as the interim head coach for the first six games of the season. The Blue Devils are ranked #17 in the country in the latest STATS FCS Poll, their highest-ranking in school history. They have also won six road games this season, more than any other team in the country. Their lone loss came vs. FBS opponent Eastern Michigan on Sept. 21.
Central finished a perfect 7-0 in Northeast Conference play this season and outscored its opponents 265-99 in league action. They boast the #2 defense in the country heading into the playoffs and lead the country in interceptions (20), turnover margin, defensive touchdowns (6).
About the Gridiron Club, "Keepers of the Flame"
Founded in 1932, the Gridiron Club of Greater Boston promotes the game of football at all levels and nurtures the ideals of citizenship, sportsmanship, leadership, and athletic and academic achievement. A registered 501 (c) 3 non-profit corporation, the Gridiron Club is supported by membership dues, philanthropic contributions, and proceeds from its annual dinners. The Club honors exemplary players, coaches and officials at all levels of the sport and supports worthy charitable causes, especially those that assist children.
