Michigan-bound Ben Mason had already proven himself to be among the best football players around, racking up stellar defensive statistics, along with some glossy numbers on offense, along with Gatorade Player of the Year accolades. Now, Mason has the distinction of being the top high school football player in the state, named the Walter Camp Foundation's Player of the Year. He was recognized at a banquet at the Omni New Haven Hotel, on January 14.

"I would say that's one of the most prestigious awards in the state. For him to get that, it's a credit to his hard work," said Steve George, who coached Mason throughout his Newtown High career.

Seth Willis joins Mason on the Walter Camp First Team. Nighthawk teammates Hunter Cobb and Tom Long, along with Mason and Smith, earned All-State accolades.

Mason, a linebacker, compiled 63 tackles, or more than six per game. On offense, he carried the ball 80 times for 719 yards and 11 touchdowns, and caught 15 passes for 188 yards and a trio of scores this fall. He is already at the University of Michigan, taking classes, and gearing up for his first collegiate football campaign.

Willis, an offensive lineman headed to Brigham Young University, was a big part of the Nighthawks going unbeaten in ten regular-season games, and the Hawks piling up 420 points.

Cobb rushed the ball 154 times for 1,562 yards and 27 touchdowns and also had a pair of TD receptions. Long led NHS with 79 tackles.