Two-year program effective this fall

Millis High School and Norfolk County Agricultural High School (Norfolk Aggie) are recently announced the official approval of a new two-year football co-operative program, effective for the upcoming fall season. Under the agreement, Millis High School will serve as the host school, welcoming student-athletes from Norfolk Aggie to join the proud Mohawks football tradition.

The co-op, which has been formally approved by both schools’ respective leagues and the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA), arrives at a critical time for the Millis program. Like many small schools, Millis has faced declining roster numbers over the last few years. This partnership provides much-needed roster stability, ensuring the program can safely and competitively field teams.

Crucially, the influx of student-athletes will allow the program to move away from the varsity-only limitations of the past two seasons. By boosting roster depth, the co-op will enable the school to reintroduce sub-varsity levels. This expansion is vital for player development, ensures safer play by keeping younger athletes from being rushed into varsity action prematurely, and preserves the long-term health of the sport in the community.

For Norfolk Aggie, the partnership fills a major void, providing a high-quality football opportunity for student-athletes whose home school does not offer the sport.

“We are incredibly excited about this partnership and what it means for the future of football in Millis,” said Millis Athletic Director Derek Phinney. “Keeping our football tradition alive while prioritizing player safety is our top priority. By bringing in Norfolk Aggie student-athletes, we aren’t just saving our varsity program; we are rebuilding the foundation by offering sub-varsity levels again. I want to extend a massive thank you to the Norfolk Aggie administration, specifically their Principal, Robin VanRotz, and Athletic Director, Matt Keating, for their tireless work behind the scenes to get this approved by the leagues and the MIAA. This is a win-win for both communities.”

Preparation for the upcoming season is already underway. The newly unified squad will officially kick off their season on the road on Sat., Sept. 12, at Blackstone-Millville Regional High School.

Information regarding preseason workouts, tryout schedules, and player/parent meetings will be released by the schools in the near future.  

Submitted by Millis Public Schools