Nominee: Matthew Geruso                                                                         School: Xavier High School

Position : Full Back / Punter                                                                  Opponent: St. Francis Prep.
Date of Game: 09/22/19   Ht. 5’10”   Wt . 195   Class: Sr.                  Hometown: Hoboken, NJ

Details of nominees performance:

Getting off to a slow start during the 2019 season, the Knights were in need of a win in their CHSFL AA Division I openner vs. St. Francis Prep. in order to right the ship.  Both sides of the ball rose to the challenge.  Although the Xavier defense gave up two explosion pass plays that led to two scores breathing life into the Terriers, in all of the other offensive plays combined, Xavier held St. Francis to 24 yards total.  Xavier's Amazing Grid Iron Way Back Machine also whirred to life as the Single Wing Offense amassed 48 plays vs. St. Francis Prep's 28 taking control of the game.

Returning senior starter, FB Matt Geruso played a big role in the offensive resurgence, rushing the ball for 120 yards on 17 carries including scoring two touchdowns.  His 54 yard touchdown run proved to be the game winner putting Xavier up two scores in the 3rd quarter.  He also was 2 for 2 passing helping to keep drives alive.  When Xavier didn't manage to keep drives alive, Matt's 4 punts changed field position none of which were returned.  His 42 yard punt in the 4th Quarter buried St. Francis on the 1 yard line helping to seal the win for the Knights.