Bulldogs mourn the loss of legendary hockey coach Don Smith

Sad news came on the last day of 2016 as legendary former CHS Boys Hockey coach, Don Smith passed away.

Smith held the reigns of the Bulldog Hockey program from 1974-1989.  It was a period of complete domination for the program as his career coaching mark was an amazing- 266 wins, 19 ties and only 48 losses.  He coached his team to 9 league championships, 3 EMASS Finals, and a 1987 Sectional Championship.  The team qualified for the State Tournament each of the 16 seasons that Smith was in charge. His success was consistent throughout his career.  He retired after the 1989 season while riding a 4 year unbeaten streak in all Hockomock League contests.

But coach Smith was far more than just a winning and championship coach- he was a dignified, class-act who was an amazing role-model for our Bulldog boys in the 70s and 80s. Hundreds of his players look at their years playing under coach Smith as a crucial part of their education and growth as

human beings.

I graduated CHS in 1989- coach Smith's final season.  Although I was not a hockey player, I saw the major impact he had on so many of my friends and classmates. His impact can best be seen by the number of CHS Hockey alumnus who have given back so much to today's Canton youth through coaching our next generations of hockey players over the years and even today.  When each of those former coach Smith players take the ice for practice or hit the bench for a game, they bring with them so much of what coach Donny Smith instilled in them.

Coach Smith was also a member of the CHS faculty- as an English teacher for many years before moving on to a career in the private sector.

The CHS Athletic Department would like to extend our condolences to the Smith Family and to all those who look at coach Smith as a major influence on their lives- and that's many, many people.

Mike Smith captivates, challenges CHS

Mike posing with some of his
new CHS friends

Canton High School's entire population of students and teachers were treated to an inspiring visit from Mike Smith today. Smith, who has a Youtube station called The HarborTV and is the CEO of several successful companies and non-profits including Skate for Change, shared his story of growing up poor, the challenges of high school, set-backs and thinking beyond himself. It was a message of giving and empathy.  He had CHS thinking and talking about how we can build on our school culture and work to recognize the value in each of us. It was awesome.

Mike met with scores of students
after his talk

In coming months, CHS will stay in touch with Mike.  We will be utilizing his HarborTV curriculum on so many important issues including bullying, social media, culture, race and giving back. He will also stay in touch with our student body through FaceTime and other communication media starting next week.

Nearly two-hundred CHS students supported his Beanies4Life initiative by buying an awesome beanie (winter hat to us old guys) which, in-turn leads to two-hundred homeless heads having warm-hats this winter. Good job CHS. Can't wait to see all those beanies walking into school tomorrow morning. 

I hope that Bulldog student athletes heard the messages about being humble, recognizing those around you, waking up at 6:00am to work to be your best, and doing good- not just wishing it or talking about it, but DOING it.  Let's get to work doing our part to improve our school culture!

Mike Smith speaking to a silent and entranced CHS audience. 

Robillard set to take Softball reigns

The CHS Athletic Department is thrilled to announce the hiring of Jennifer Robillard as our new Head Varsity Softball Coach.

Coach Jen Robillard during her playing days at Sacred Heart Univ.

Robillard, a mathematics teacher at CHS, fills the role previously held by Tracy Andrews- GMS teacher and former CHS Softball star.  Robillard looks to lead a coaching staff with all of the elements needed to put together a successful program.

Robillard was a shortstop for King Philip High School from 2008-20011 where she played a key role on one of the most successful teams in the state. She then moved on to play D1 Softball at Sacred Heart University in Connecticut, where she posted an impressive .969 fielding percentage (5 errors in 4 years with 160 put outs). Most recently she was the assistant varsity coach at Masuk High School in Connecticut.

"I could not be happier with being appointed the CHS Softball coach," shared Robillard.  "It's going to be an exciting challenge to bring the program to a higher level of play. It's also going to be a lot of fun!"

Thank you!

1st Tee at Blue Hills Country Club

It's a great time of year to recognize some of the groups out there who quietly have helped our Bulldogs in 2016.  Whenever you publicly thank folks it is a certainty that many others will be missed. The CHS athletic community is held together with the support of so many- it is impossible to thank them all.  But here are a few who help out behind the scenes in no particular order. Be sure to thank them next time you see them!

Blue Hills Country Club- BHCC has been the home of our Varsity Golf team for many years. This year, despite new ownership, was no exception. Blue Hills management and membership welcomed the Bulldog Golf squad with open arms and were amazing hosts. Our team is so lucky to be able to practice and play at one of the premier Golf Clubs in New England.  We are fortunate to have such generous supporters of high school golf at Blue Hills Country Club.

Reebok/Adidas- Despite many changes in their mission and market over the years Reebok/Adidas has been an amazing partner to CHS Athletics.  Each year since their arrival this amazing company has provided $30,000 annually in free  product for our athletes. This has been primarily in the form of uniforms and equipment.It has made an amazing impact on how we outfit and provide equipment to our student athletes. This generous company has done all of this without ever asking for recognition or attention.  Our community should know of this great commitment shown to us by Reebok/Adidas.

Conservation Commission- Eighteen months ago the CHS Athletic Department approached the Con Com looking to utilize Pequitside Farm as a home Cross Country course. The Con Com opened the door to what has been a great two seasons of Cross-Country at Pequitside Farm.  Prior to the move, the teams hosted meets at our home "course" on our campus.  The course had many safety concerns including athletes having to run in the street through traffic. The course at Pequitside is now considered among the best high school courses around. It features all of the elements/surfaces a great Cross Country course should feature including grass, gravel, dirt and limited pavement. It has also been a great opportunity for many visiting families from other communities to see the beautiful property. Thank you to our Conservation Commission for making this happen.

Pequitside Farm

Recreation Department- It is not an easy task keeping our playing fields in top notch shape and that is precisely what our Recreation Department does.  In what is a pretty unique system, the Recreation Department maintains all of the school system's playing fields- and if you have seen the condition of our grass fields, you would be impressed. Thanks to the Rec. Crew for all of your hard work and expertise!

CHS Athletic Booster Club- This group works tirelessly to support our Bulldog Athletic programs. They raise money though memberships, corporate sponsorship and team fundrasiers. Although the club is supported by many, the work in the trenches on behalf of our student athletes is done be a few who do not look to be recognized. On behalf of a grateful Bulldog community, thank you to our active booster club parents. You know who you are!

Canton Ice House- In this our first season in the recently opened Canton Ice House, the red carpet has been rolled out for the Bulldogs. Both our Girls and Boys Hockey programs now call this beautiful facility "home."  We have been provided locker rooms, coaches' offices and most importantly, an amazing feeling of community. Thank you to the owners and management of the Canton Ice House for coming to town!

The "Red Rink" at The Canton Ice House

CPS Maintenance Staff- Another committed group of professionals who are in the trenches and rarely get a pat on the back are the members of the CPS maintenance staff. They are hard workers who show amazing pride in our facilities through their work to maintain them. From our McCloud Field House to WWII Veteran's Memorial Field to our gyms, locker rooms and other grounds, this group does all the things to keep them up, running and looking great.

Mr. Ed McDonough and the CHS TV Production Classes-  CHS students athletes may not know how lucky they are to have our TV Production classes cover so many of our games for local cable. Under the tireless leadership (he actually gets tired a lot from all of this work!) of Mr. Ed McDonough, the TV Production classes bring our games to the small screen for all to see. They capture moments and memories and do it very well. A shout out to the crew at Canton Cable 8 as well! Their professional productions of CHS Athletics feel more like an ESPN production than a local cable company!

Masciarelli Gymnasium Floor Refinished

The Girls Varsity Basketball team hosted Dover-Sherborn tonight in the first-ever game played on the newly resurfaced CHS Masciarelli Gymnasium floor.

The wood floor was installed 13 years ago and was in need of a facelift.  This month's complete sanding and resurfacing gave a completely new look to the playing surface.  The new floor includes the Canton High School logo as well as word-mark.  The basketball court is surrounded by a beautiful green border while the Volleyball court is stained to make it clear.

Thanks go out to the Basketball programs for doing without a main court for tryouts. Thanks for the Town of Canton for supporting the resurfacing project!  The community is invited down to come check it out and check out some Bulldog basketball or wrestling action in the "Mush" Gym this season! Click Here for Bulldog Schedules. Go Dogs!

Mike Smith from The Harbor TV is coming to CHS Wednesday

Mike Smith- coming to CHS 12/14/16

Canton High School is happy to announce that Mike Smith from The Harbor TV will be speaking to the entire student body on Wednesday afternoon.  We are very lucky to have him here speaking to our students and faculty.

Check out this short video for an idea of who he is and what his message is. He is an AMAZING speaker with a hard-hitting message.

Please share this blog post through your social media to spread the word about his visit. Take the time to watch the video below!

Go 'dogs!

Video of Mike Smith

91st Thanksgiving Day Football Clash

One of the longest standing Thanksgiving Day rivalries in the state continues Thursday morning when the Bulldogs travel to Stoughton to face the Black Knights in the 91st annual Thanksgiving Day Football game. Kickoff is 10:00am.  The Black Knights head into the game with a 6-3 record while the upset-minded Bulldogs head in with a 3-7 mark.

The two teams played earlier this season with the Black Knights coming out on top so the Bulldogs are looking to exact some revenge with a road upset.  With Stoughton's new high school construction starting up within the next year, this will be the last game played on the existing Anthony L. Sarno Jr. Football Field- the home venue of the Black Knights for more than 60 years and home for scores of memorable Turkey Day games over the years. 

The history and tradition is a rich one that has been part of Thanksgiving memories for tens of thousands of Cantonintes over the years.  

This year's honorary Captain of the Bulldogs will be Dexter Green- Class of 2013. The image of Green's outstretched arm getting the football over the goal line in 2012 at Stoughton as the Bulldogs upset the Black Knights will forever be considered one of the biggest moments for Canton fans in the storied history of the rivalry. 

Tickets are available at the gate- $8 for adults and $5 for students/senior citizens.  No passes accepted.  Dress for the weather. It is expected to be cold and wet! Happy Thanksgiving to All!

Winter Season Tryout/Practice Information

Our winter athletic season kicks off on Monday, November 28th. Details for each sport at listed below.

Anyone interested in trying out for a winter athletic program MUST have a parent/guardian register you prior to doing so. The easiest way to register is to visit the CHS Athletics website and complete the online registration available there.

Registration DEADLINE to be able to participate on the first day of practices/tryouts is Sunday, November 20th. 

Click here to register today!

Sport Specific Information:

GIRLS BASKETBALL- Practices/Tryouts begin on Monday, November 28th. All players please report to Galvin MS Gym at 4:30pm for check-in. Tryouts begin promptly at 5:00pm.  Player meetings/rosters will be announced after Wednesday's practice is complete for all teams and players. Plan rides home accordingly.

BOYS & GIRLS SWIMMING- All interested swimmers should attend a meeting in the CHS Library on Friday, November 18th at 2:30 to review important season information.

BOYS BASKETBALL- Practices/Tryouts begin on Monday,November 28th.
All prospective players- Monday 11/28 2:30-3:00 meeting in room 123 for paperwork/attendance, 3:00 bus to Mass Premier Courts. Tryouts 4:00-6:00, return to CHS by 7:00.
Tuesday Freshman 3:30-5:00 tryouts at Galvin Middle School. Sophomores Juniors and Seniors 5:00-7:00 Tryouts at Galvin Middle School.
Wednesday All prospective players 3:00 bus to Mass Premier Courts. Tryouts 4:00-6:00, return to CHS by 7:00.
Player meeting/rosters announced after Wednesday's practice for all teams and players. You should plan ahead and inform your ride home that you could be held until up to an hour after we arrive back to CHS on Wednesday.

BOYS & GIRLS INDOOR TRACK- Practice for boys and girls interested in indoor track will start on Monday, November 28th. We will meet in the Rodman Gym at 3:15. We will be outside as long as weather permits so please dress appropriately. Detailed schedules will be handed out on the first day of practice. We are looking forward to the start of a great season!

CHEERLEADING- Rodman Gym- Monday December 5th 4:30-6:30, Tuesday December 6th 6:30-8, and Thursday December 8th 4:30-6.

GYMNASTICS- There will be an informational meeting on Tuesday, November 22nd at 2:30 in room 256 for all interested candidates.  First day of practices will be November 28th from 2:45 to 4:15 at Metro-South Gymnastics Academy on Revere St.

BOYS ICE HOCKEY- All boys who plan on trying out for ice hockey should attend a meeting on Tuesday, November 22nd at 6:30 PM at the Canton Ice House. On Monday, November 28th at the Canton Ice House, all 11th graders and returning varsity players will tryout at 3:00 PM. All 9th and 10th graders will tryout at 4:00 PM. After Monday's tryouts, players will be informed whether they will be participating in the JV or Varsity tryout going forward. More details can be found by clicking here. 

GIRLS ICE HOCKEY- 
- First practice/tryout sessions are on Monday, November 28th at 5:50 AM (Seniors/Juniors) and 3:30 PM (Sophomores/Freshmen) at The Canton Ice House, 65 North Street.
- Make sure to register with the athletic department by 11/20/16 and have an up to date physical on record with the Athletic Department.
- All candidates are to be on the ice and ready to go for their scheduled start time.
- Bring your intensity and be prepared to skate!
- Sharpen your skates and check your equipment bag twice the night before.
- Ice times can be found on  http://www.chsgirlshockey.teamopolis.com/ 

WRESTLING- The first practice of the season will be held in the Rodman Gym from 4:30-6:30pm on Monday, November 28th. Everyone is asked to bring athletic attire (shorts, sweatpants, t-shirt, etc.) along with running shoes and wrestling shoes (if you have them.) The practice schedule for the week is as early from 4:30-6:30pm. After the first week we will switch to our normal practice times of the following
Monday, Wednesday and Thursday- 6:30-8:30pm
Tuesday and Friday- 4:30-6:30pm
These are NOT tryouts...we have room for anyone who wants to work hard and be on the team!

Athletic Department Vacancies

The Canton High School Athletic Department is currently accepting application for the coaching positions listed below. Interested applicants should apply at www.schoolspring.com.  The job ID # associated with each posting on schoolspring.com is listed next to the coaching position below.

JV Boys Lacrosse Coach- Job ID #- 2729581- deadline- 12/2/16
Head Varsity Baseball Coach- Job ID #-2729578- deadline- 12/2/16
Head Varsity Softball Coach- Job ID #- 2717165- deadline- 11/18/16

Next Booster Meeting- Nov. 16th at 7:00pm in CHS Teacher-Caf

Attention Bulldog families, fans and other supporters. We need your help.  The CHS Athletic Booster Club is in the midst of our annual membership drive. November is one of the most popular months to become a member.

WHY you should join:

• The Boosters help to support our athletic programs and athletes by providing funding for things like:

1. transportation
2. championship recognition
3. athletic equipment
4. field projects
5. scrimmages
6. banquets
7. video analysis software
8. coaching workshops
9. guest speakers
10. bulldog gear
11. and much more!

• The Boosters rely on membership fees as their single largest fund raiser of the entire year. We need your support. 
• Without a healthy membership we cannot support our programs effectively. 

HOW to join:

Click Here and you'll be a member in no time!

Know a business/organization that you think may want to become a corporate sponsor? Email CHS Athletics today and we will work out the details! ericksond@cantonma.org

Our next meeting is Nov. 16th at 7:00pm in the CHS Teacher's Caf Room. Come join us!

Thank you so much and spread the word! 

Go Bulldogs!

Winter and Spring Captains- Important Information

Winter and Spring Varsity Captains will be headed to Oliver Ames Wednesday for the Hockomock League Captains Conference. This important day features speakers, workshops and training in leadership. We are excited to be participating.

Captains- please note that we will be meeting at 7:30 in the cafeteria on Wednesday morning and hopping on the bus by 7:40. This timing information was not made clear until now. Please spread the word to fellow captains.

Turf Field Replacement Construction to start on Wednesday, Nov. 9th

The turf replacement project at WWII Veterans Memorial Field will begin on Wednesday, November 9th and run through early December.  The turf field and George King Track will be CLOSED for ALL USE during construction.  No CPS use or use by citizens will be allowed during this time.

We are thrilled to get this project rolling next week.  Our existing turf is more than 11 years old and has done a tremendous job in meeting the playing surface needs of tens of thousands of athletes and residents over the years.  This new state-of-the-art turf surface will provide a grass-like playing surface with amazing durability and usage potential.

Thank you to the Town of Canton for providing such a valuable resource to our students and citizens!

2016-17 Winter Sports Registration Now Open

Anyone interested in trying out for a winter athletic program MUST have a parent/guardian register you prior to doing so. The easiest way to register is to visit the CHS Athletics website and complete the online registration available there.

Registration DEADLINE to be able to participate on the first day of practices/tryouts is Sunday, November 20th. 

The following sports programs are offered at CHS in the winter:

Boys-
Basketball (V, JV, F)
Ice Hockey (V, JV)
Indoor Track (V)
Swimming (V)
Wrestling (V)

Girls-
Cheerleading (Varsity)
Basketball (V, JV, F)
Ice Hockey (V, JV)
Indoor Track (V)
Gymnastics (V)
Swimming (V)

User Fees are due on December 12, 2016.
The Fee is $195.
There is an additional facility fee for Ice Hockey ($250), Gymnastics ($150), Swimming ($50).

The season begins on November 28th 

Click here to register today!

State Tournament Info- Updated 11-12-16 at 10:40am

STILL ALIVE:

VOLLEYBALL- #2 seeded Bulldogs defeated #10 seeded Ashland, 3-0 on Monday and defeated #6 seeded Milford in the Sectional Semi and will face the winner of Hopkinton and Westboro on Saturday, November 12th at 4:00pm at Wellesley High School.
Ticket prices- $7 for Adults and $5 for students/senior citizens
D2 Central Volleyball Bracket

ELIMINATED:

FIELD HOCKEY-  #12 Bulldogs defeated #22 seeded Stoughton in a preliminary round match before falling in double-OT to #5 seeded King Philip, 2-1.
D1 South Field Hockey Bracket

BOYS SOCCER- #17 seeded Bulldogs defeated #16 seeded Bristol-Plymouth in a preliminary round game before falling to #1 seeded Nauset, 5-0.
D2 South Boys Soccer Bracket

GIRLS SOCCER- #15 seeded Bulldogs defeated #2 seeded Greater New Bedford, 5-1, and #10 seeded Milton High School, 2-1 before falling to #6 Medfield in the Sectional Semi-Final, 7-3.
D2 South Girls Soccer Bracket

Important Information for Winter-Spring Capatins

Two things to get on the calendars of our Varsity Winter and Spring Captains:

Tuesday, November 1st-  We will hold a brief meeting before school in the library. We will meet at 7:30 and wrap up by 7:50. We will have two things on our agenda
1. Distribute information about Hock Captains Conference coming up.
2. Discuss ways to get more student body attendance and involvement in the stands this winter. Come with ideas!

Wednesday, November 9th- Hockomock League Winter-Spring Captains Conference- You will miss most of the school day for this. Be prepared.

See you Tuesday morning at 7:30 in the Library! Spread the word.

Weather Related Schedule Changes- Thursday, Oct. 27th

All Soccer games with Stoughton have been moved to Monday afternoon at 3:30pm.

Weather Related Changes to Schedule

Due to impending weather- the following adjustments have been made to the Athletic Schedule this weekend:

• Friday Night's Varsity Football vs. Sharon at CHS has moved from a 7:00pm start time to 5:30pm. 
• Friday's Varsity Field Hockey game at Sharon will begin at 3:30 rather than 3:45. 
• JV Boys and Girls Soccer games scheduled at Sharon on Saturday have been postponed. 
• Saturday's Varsity Boys and Girls Soccer games with Sharon have swapped sites and had minor time changes. New schedule has both games at CHS TURF...Girls kickoff at 11:30am and Boys kickoff at 1:30pm 

Qualified! Volleyball, Field Hockey and Golf are in!

It has been a very good first 3/4 of the fall season so far!  The past couple of weeks have seen several CHS teams qualify for State Tournament play.  Here are some tournament qualification highlights:

Volleyball- You can basically set your clock by the volleyball team qualifying for the state tournament about as fast as you possibly can each fall. This year has been no exception as the squad is sporting a 10-2 record and has qualified for a spot in the D2 Central Division Tournament.

Golf- After storming out of the gates with 7 straight victories to start the season, the Golf team has come down to earth a bit but is still riding an impressive 9-3 record- good enough to qualify them for Tournament play. They also compete in the Hock Championships at Blue Hills CC this Thursday.

Field Hockey- Some huge late-game wins over powerful Kelley-Rex teams OA and Franklin have highlighted the great run of play the Field Hockey team has had of late. That run of 5 wins in a row has propelled the team right into the D1 South Section of the State Tournament- with plenty of time to spare to work on earning a high seed!

The Boys and Girls Soccer teams are both in the hunt for post-season berths but have yet to punch their tickets. The Boys team is riding a 7-game unbeaten streak right into a huge 3-game road trip this week. The team currently sits at 6-3-3.  The Girls team is 6-5 and needs 5 points in their last 6 games to qualify. Two big home games this week will determine a lot for this hard working team.

Mid-Season Update on our Bulldogs

The Fall Season is roughly at its half-way point and it's been an eventful September and early October for the Bulldogs.  Volleyball, Field Hockey, Girls Soccer, Boys Soccer and Golf have a combined record of 35-13-1 and all 5 are fighting hard for Davenport supremacy.  Football has been fighting hard, playing with pride and heart each week and feel to be on the verge of mid-season success.  Cross-Country continues to grown and compete as a program and have settled into their new home at Pequitside Farm.  Cheer has been working hard all fall, representing very well on the sidelines while preparing for competition season which is set to start soon.

One thing is for sure- the rest of October should provide plenty of drama, challenges and excitement for our Bulldogs!

Fall Dogs- Keep working hard. Keep finding ways to get better in the coming weeks. And continue to play honorably when wearing the C!

Fall Fans- Keep coming to our contests and supporting our student athletes as they put themselves out there in front of their classmates, coaches, parents and community.

Go Dogs!

Boys and Girls Soccer Teams set to play at Gillette- NEW DATE announced

For the second straight season, the Boys and Girls Soccer teams will be facing Mansfield High School at Gillette Stadium!  This year's games will be played on Friday, October 28th with Boys kicking off at 6:00pm and the Girls kicking off at 8:00pm. Both JV teams will play a mini-game at halftime of the games.

CHS Varsity Girls at Gillette last fall

Admission to the game is secured with the purchase of a $25 ticket through the CHS Athletic Department.  The ticket/wristband is good for admission to the New England Revolution game vs. Montreal on Sunday, October 23rd at 4:00pm as well as the high school double header on Friday, October 28th.  Tickets/wristbands are available for purchase through the CHS soccer teams and the CHS Athletic Office. Email today to secure your tickets. ericksond@cantonma.org.  There will also be FREE concessions for the double-header! This is a great value!

CHANGE OF ORIGINAL DATE---This year's games were originally scheduled for Monday, October 24th, but due to a change in the Gillette Stadium schedule, the games have been moved to Friday, October 28th. The wristbands that have already been distributed to ticket purchasers will be honored at the 10/28 date. If you have purchased and received your tickets/wristbands already and are unable to attend the 10/28 game, please contact the CHS Athletic Office to work out a refund.

2015 Varsity Boys Team at Gillette

The change should be a good one!  Hoping that much of the town will head over to Patriot Place after school on Friday and come to the games that evening to support the Bulldogs!  Both teams are off to a good start this year and these games at the end of the season should have a great buzz! Be a part of the action and support your Bulldog Soccer Teams!

Click here for a flyer/order form!

Any questions- contact the CHS Athletics office- ericksond@cantonma.org.

Unified Sports expanding to include Basketball

The Canton High School Athletic Department and the CHS Student Services Department are happy to announce the formation of a Unified Basketball team for the 2016 Fall/Winter Season.  Basketball joins Track and Field as our 2nd Unified Sports team.

Special Olympics Project Unify is an education-based project, funded by the US Dept. of Education, that uses the sports and education programs of Special Olympics to activate young people across the US. In order to promote school communities where all young people are agents of change- fostering respect, dignity and advocacy for people with disabilities.  Canton High School and Special Olympics believe that through sports young people can make a difference in friendships, schools and communities.

The Unified Basketball program is scheduled to begin on Friday, October 7th.  There will be roughly 1-2 practices each week with approximately 4-6 games. The team will ultimately be made up of both student with and without disabilities.  Our hope is to continue to strengthen our inclusive community and help develop new friendships and meaningful learning experiences for all students.

Any student interested in joining the Unified Basketball team should have his/her parent register them online by visiting the CHS Athletics Website. 

Questions about the program may be directed to:

Danny Erickson- Athletic Director- ericksond@cantonma.org    781-821-5050- x6
Shanna Belenky- CHS Student Services Coordinator- belenkys@cantonma.org    781-821-5050x 2138

Cross Country meet with Sharon Postponed

Due to wet conditions at Pequitside Farm, today's Cross-Country meet with Sharon High School has been postponed until tomorrow. Same time.

Golf team undefeated after 6 matches

The Bulldog golf team has been on the precipice of great success over the past several years but have been unable to get over the final hump.  Things are starting to look a little different this fall as the 'dogs have jumped out to a 6-0 record including some great scores in those first half-dozen matches.

The squad has been led by Matt Minichiello who was honored as HockomockSports.com's player on the week last week. 

The team travels to Spring Valley Country Club to face the Sharon Eagles today.

From our Athletic Trainer- Pickle Juice!

By Kristen Sasonoff-

So there you are in the middle of a huge game against Stoughton, and in the middle of the play your calf tightens up and you go down.  It is just a cramp, stretch and drink more water and hopefully it goes away. But what if it doesn’t? Have you ever looked into other ways to help prevent dehydration beyond your usual water and Gatorade?

Dr. Kevin C. Miller, PhD, AT, ATC of Central Michigan University and Harvard University may have the solution for you. Pickle Juice. Yes, that green liquid in which pickles come.  Muscle cramps occur due to an imbalance of electrolytes and water in an athlete’s muscles. The particular nutrients that are lost due to sweat are Sodium and Potassium. This is why when you are dehydrated Gatorade and PowerAde taste better-they have high levels of these 2 plus sugar to help jolt your system back to normalcy.  Eating a banana pre-practice or pre-game can also help by having extra levels of Potassium ready for use.  But what if it that does not seem to help you out?

As a collegiate athlete and student Athletic Trainer at Springfield College was the first time I had heard of pickle juice (and even drank it daily with my teammates during 3-a-days). Since that time there have been many studies done, but the one of significance was published in the June 2014 edition of the Journal of Athletic Training. Dr. Kevin Miller and his colleagues induced muscle cramps with an E-Stim machine, and then had the subjects drink either pickle juice or plain water. Those subjects who drank the 2-3 ounces pickle juice experienced less severe and shorter duration of cramping.

There are many theories as to why this is the case.  This particular study states the high level of Sodium (400mg/2ounces) and Vinegar are the ingredients that help promote less cramping.  The vinegar (Acetic Acid) is vital to metabolize carbs and fat to produce energy for our cells. The Sodium helps the balance of nutrients at the cellular level so that the muscles contract and release the way they normally do.

So if you are prone to cramps during the season, maybe this is the solution for you. All you need is 2-3 ounces of Pickle Juice pre-practice or competition or during the game if cramps start to occur. Hate pickles? A more recent study has shown the sodium and vinegar in mustard may be a substitute.  Always make sure to drink lots of water as well.

www.mindbodygreen.com/0-15529/if-you-get-leg-cramps-try-this-strange-harvard-approved-cure.html

www.active.com/nutrition/articles/why-every-athlete-should-have-pickle-juice

www.natajournals.org (June, 2014)

Current Vacancies in CHS Coaching Staff- updated 10-13-16

CHS is accepting applications for the coaching positions listed below. Interested applicants should visit www.schoolspring.com and search for the job by the Job ID # listed below.

Winter Season-
Varsity Girls Gymnastics Coach- Job ID#2671337

Spring Season-
Varsity Softball Coach- Job ID#2717165
Assistant Boys and Girls Spring Track & Field Coach- Job ID#2714673

Thank you!

Weather related schedule changes- 9/19/16

Today's Boys Varsity Soccer game against Marshfield has been postponed. The game will be played on Columbus Day- October 10th at 6:00pm.

Today's Varsity and JV Field Hockey games with Milford have been postponed until Thursday, September 22nd at 4:00(Varsity) and 5:30(JV).

All grass fields are closed today for practices.

Athletic User Fee now due

The Fall Athletic season is underway and the Bulldogs are off to a great start!

An important reminder to all fall athletes and their parents/guardians:

The Fall Season Athletic User Fee of $195 is now past due.  Please submit payment by Friday, September 16th. Athletic eligibility will be impacted beginning Monday, September 19th.

Two methods of payment:

• Submit a check made out to the Town of Canton with the form found at this link.
• Pay with your myschoolbucks account or set one up. 

Thank you!

Bulldogs Treated to great visit by Duke University's Dr. Greg Dale

It's been a very exciting couple of days here at CHS as we have been treated to three great presentations by Dr. Greg Dale- Duke University's Director of Sport Psychology and Leadership.  Dr. Dale ran a workshop for Bulldog coaches on Monday night, a workshop for CHS Athletic Captains on Tuesday morning, and capped it off with a speech to our athletes and parents on Tuesday night. All were incredibly well received.

CHS Athletic Director- Danny Erickson
with Dr. Dale and Adam Goodrich of Marathon PT

Dr. Dale's messages of effective leadership through strong relationship building, reflective practices, hard work combined with strategies and keeping the high school sports experience in proper perspective, really resonated with all three groups.

Let's hope Bulldog nation all took a little nugget of something from Dr. Dale- something that will make this year a great one!

Check out some of Dr. Dale's great resources here. Buy one (or three!) for your Bulldog today!

Captains' Workshop- Tuesday, September 13th

The CHS Athletic Department is excited to announce that our Varsity Captains (all 3 seasons) will be participating in an important workshop on Tuesday, September 13th from 7:30-9:45am in the CHS Library. Things will start promptly at 7:30am and will run through the end of the 2nd block of the day so these students should be prepared to miss their first two classes.

The workshop will feature Dr. Greg Dale, Duke University's director of Sport Psychology and Leadership.  It will focus on being a great leader.

Juice, fruit and bagels will be served.

Come ready to contribute, learn and lead!

Captains MUST be prompt. Anyone arriving late will not be allowed to participate in this amazing opportunity.


Click Here to check out this clip from one of Dr. Dale's workshops. Be ready!

Bulldogs in search of New Gymnastics Coach

The Canton High School Athletic Department is currently accepting applications for the position of Head Varsity Girls Gymnastics Coach. The program has a long, prideful history and we are looking for a passionate, knowledgeable, responsible, inspirational coach to help us continue to build it up. The team trains at Metro-South Gymnastics Academy on Revere Street in Canton- a state-of-the-art facility. 

All interested candidates should apply through the website- www.schoolspring.com. Job ID #2671337.

Captains Meeting- Thursday, September 8th at 7:30am

The first meeting of the school year for the 2016-17 Varsity Captains will take place on Thursday morning, September 8th from 7:30-7:50am in the CHS Library.  The meeting will be brief but important. We will organize for the year and prepare for next week's visit from Dr. Greg Dale of Duke University.  Attendance is required of ALL Varsity Captains (all 3 seasons.)

See you there and spread the word!

Sasonoff off and running as new Athletic Trainer

The CHS Athletic Department is happy to welcome Kristen Sasonoff to the Bulldog Family.  As our new Athletic Trainer, she will be responsible for keeping our over 500 student athletes healthy and safe on the fields, courts and other playing surfaces this year.

Sasonoff has been on the job here at CHS since mid-August and is already making her impact felt with our fall athletes. She comes to Canton after a successful 12 years as the Athletic Trainer at Bellingham High School. She is a graduate of Springfield College where she played on the women's soccer team. She is a fully certified Athletic Trainer through the NATA and state of Massachusetts. She brings a wealth of of experience, knowledge and care for athletes to her position here at CHS.

You can find her on the Bulldog sidelines keeping our athletes on the field the best she can this fall. Be sure to say hello!

Student Athlete and Parent Presentation set for Tuesday, September 13th

The CHS Athletic Department will be kicking off the school year with an important meeting for student athletes and parents on Tuesday evening, September 13th at 7:00pm in the CHS Morse Auditorium. 

We are thrilled to announce the return of Dr. Greg Dale to Canton High School that week.  He will act as our featured speaker on the 13th.  Dr. Dale is the Director of Sports Psychology and Leadership Programs at Duke University. He also speaks and runs workshops throughout the country through his company- Excellence in Performance. Dr. Dale will be speaking with our student athletes and parents that night on to topic of excellence in performance. The evening before, he will run a workshop for the entire CHS coaching staff.  During the morning of Sept. 13th, he will be running a leadership workshop for our varsity captains.  This is an amazing opportunity for our student athletes, coaches and parents to all hear from an amazing expert in the field of athletic and overall performance.

Dr. Dale's visit is made possible by the work of our CHS Athletic Booster Club. The Boosters have been working hard for almost a decade, making opportunities like this possible. We hope that you will become a booster member today to help support programs like this and others in the future.

Attendance at the meeting is required of all CHS athletes (for all three seasons) and it is asked that each athlete is accompanied by a parent/guardian.  Parents will NOT be disappointed in taking the time to listen to Dr. Dale's message. The meeting will run no more than 75-90 minutes. Please arrive early so we can get started and finish on time.

Thank you and Go Bulldogs!

Sports Specific Information for Fall 2016 Season

Anyone interested in trying out for a fall athletic program MUST have a parent register you prior to the following deadlines:
Football- Wednesday, August 17th at 11:00am
All other sports- Monday, August 22nd at 11:00am
 The easiest way to register is to visit the CHS Athletics website and complete the online registration available there.

Click here to Register today!

Sport Specific First Day Information:

Football-

Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors- Friday, August 19th...Anyone needing equipment or who has issues with equipment should report to Weight room at 3:00pm. TEAM Meeting at 4:00pm in coach Bohane's room....Practice begins at 5:45 at the turf-Helmets only. 

Freshmen- TBA

Golf- Mandatory meeting on Wednesday, August 24th at 2:00pm at the Galvin Middle School to discuss the tryout process/schedule. Times and locations for tryouts on Thursday, August 25th will be distributed at this meeting. Need more info? contact coach Mike Barucci- baruccim@cantonma.org

Girls Volleyball- GREAT NEWS!!! We have added a freshman team this year!! We welcome anyone interested in playing volleyball (no experience necessary) to join us for tryouts at the CHS gym at the following times- Thursday, August 25th from 5:00-9:00pm......Friday, August 26th from 9:00am – 1:00 pm......Sunday, August 28th from 5:00pm-9:00pm.  Please arrive 15 minutes prior to start time. Bring plenty of water and some snacks for break time. Need more info? contact coach Pat Cawley- Pbc412@aol.com

Boys Soccer- All boys interested in playing soccer should report to the turf/track on Thursday morning, August 25th at 8:00am for a fitness test including a 2-mile run. No cleats needed for this session. Goalkeepers will NOT be running the 2-mile but will train in goal at the conclusion of the fitness training. Our first field session will take place later that day at the grass field on lower campus (Gibson) from 4:00-6:00pm (goalkeepers start at 3:00pm). Need more info? contact coach Danny Erickson- ericksond@cantonma.org

Boys and Girls Cross Country- All interested candidates should report to the Field House at the Turf on Thursday, August 25th at 8:00am for the first practice of the year. Need more info? contact coach David Hiltz- bulldogcrosscountry@gmail.com

Field Hockey- All players interested in trying out for field hockey should report to Gibson Field (lower grass high school field) at 8am Thursday, August 25^th.

Tryouts: Thursday, August 25^th 8-10am(Gibson) and 12:15-2:15(turf) and Friday, August 26^th 8-10am(Gibson) and 12:45-2:45(turf).  

Shinguards, mouthguard, goggles and field hockey sticks are required for all practices.

Girls Soccer- All girls interested in playing soccer should report to JFK on Thursday morning, August 25th 8:00am for a fitness test and technical skill session. Our second session will take place later that day at the CHS turf at 5:30.

Cheerleading- Tryouts took place earlier this month.  Practice begins August 22nd from 4:30-6 and parent meeting to follow at 6:00 (all in the Rodman Gym).

Locker rooms closing for year

The CHS Athletic Locker Rooms will be closing for the summer on Thursday, June 16th- THIS Thursday. All personal property must be removed from all lockers prior to Friday, June 17th. Any items left in there from that point on may be discarded or donated.  We will take locks off of lockers starting Friday.

Spread the word!

Hockomock Announces Spring All-Stars

Congratulations to the Bulldog spring athletes recently recognized by the Hockomock League as All-Stars:

Boys Lacrosse- Ben O'Neil, Mike Pigeon, Honorable Mention- Jake Ragusa
Girls Lacrosse- May Nee, Honorable Mention- Casey Bradley
Boys Tennis- Jeevith Chandrasekar, Jacob Wolicki, Honorable Mention- Nathan Maltz
Girls Tennis- Honorable Mention- Tiffany Ha and Sarah MacQuarrie
Boys Spring Track & Field- Mark Clancy, Honorable Mention- Patrick Hession
Girls Spring Track & Field- Catherine Song, Hannah Link, Honorable Mention- Selena Cho
Baseball- Honorable Mention- Joe Pecia
Softball- Honorable Mention- Sarah Reissfelder

Several Coaching Positions Posted for 16-17 school year

There are currently many CHS coaching positions posted for the 2016-17 school year. We are looking for a great pool of candidates for these positions. If you know one, let them know!

All interested candidates must apply through www.schoolspring.com
The number next to each position is the ID# on that website.

Assistant Football Coach- 2239604
Freshmen Volleyball Coach- 2671323
JV Girls Soccer Coach- 2671328
JV Boys Soccer Coach- 2671330
Assistant Boys Varsity Soccer Coach- 2671333
Head Varsity Gymnastics Coach- 2671337
Assistant Wrestling Coach- 2671341

Varying deadlines over the summer months! Apply today!

Baseball and Boys Tennis with Big Tourney Upsets!

After both the girls and boys Lacrosse teams bowed out of the state tournament with hard-fought defeats, earlier this week, the Baseball and Boys Tennis teams headed into today as the final two Bulldog teams alive in the 2016 spring season.   They are both still alive tonight!

The #13 seeded Boys Tennis team earned its first tourney win in more than a decade with a 3-2 win over #4 seeded Dighton-Rehoboth. Winning matches for the Bulldogs were Jake Wolicki at 2nd singles (6-1, 4-6, 6-3), Nate Maltz at 3rd singles (4-6, 6-3, 6-4) and Dan Biggers/Sean Meenan at 2nd doubles (6-0, 6-4).

The #14 seeded Baseball team extended their streak of dramatic 1st round tourney games to two years in-a-row as the squad took nine innings to upset #3 seeded Middleboro, 1-0 and advance to the Sectional Quarters. Kevin Powers pitched the complete game shutout. Jim Jenkins was 2-4 including a double in the top of the 9th before scoring the game-winning run. Joe Peccia made three putouts and nine assists. The TEAM made ZERO errors in the nine innings.

NEXT UP:

Boys Tennis at Westwood on Monday, June 6th at 4:00pm. Click Here for D2 South Tennis Bracket

Baseball at Sandwich on Monday, June 6th at 4:00pm. Click Here for D2 South Baseball Bracket

Members of Class of 2016 Honored at Senior Banquet

121 members of the graduating class of 2016 were honored with official receipt of their varsity letters tonight at the annual Senior Banquet.  The Bulldog Head Varsity coaching staff was there in force to honor the class on their four great years here at CHS.

We also officially bid farewell to coach Fior Griffin after an amazing nine-year run as our Varsity Field Hockey coach, as well as Christina Butler- our Athletic Trainer for the past four years.  Both of these amazing individuals will be missed but always remembered for their time here.  Bulldog Nation thanks you both!

Individual Award Recipients

Hall of Fame Spirit Cup- Dan Nadeau

Hockomock League Scholar-Athlete- Female- Catherine Song

Hockomock League Scholar-Athlete- Male- Mark Clancy 

John Horack Award- Male- Robert Mullaney

"Voice of the Bulldogs" Award- Kevin Praik

Hall of Fame Sportsmanship Cup- Mary Nee

Captain's Award- Male- Mike McMahon 

John Horack Award- Female- Shannon Foley 

Captain's Award- Female- Tiffany Ha

Paul Callahan Award- Waonyen Mahn

Bulldog MIAA Tournament Info- Updated June 2nd at 12:31pm

Four Spring CHS teams have qualified for the MIAA tournament this season- Boys LAX, Girls LAX, Baseball and Boys Tennis. This marks the most teams to qualify in many years. It's a very busy time of year, but do your best to get out and support these teams as they embark on their State Tourney Journey.

Boys Tennis- #13 seeded Bulldogs travel to #4 seeded Deighton-Rehoboth (2700 Regional Rd., North Dighton, MA) on Thursday, June 2nd at 3:00pm for a first round match.
Click Here for D2 South Boys Tennis Bracket

Baseball- #14 seeded Bulldogs travel to #3 seeded Middleboro (Peirce Playground- 21 Jackson St., Middleboro) on Thursday, June 2nd at 3:00 for a first round game.
Click Here for D2 South Baseball Bracket

Girls LAX fell to Hingham 14-8 on Tuesday.
Boys LAX fell to Sandwich 10-9 on Wednesday.

Who Knew....

... that so many of our finest athletes are also among the finest artists in the school!  It was great to see so many Bulldog Athletes exhibiting their amazing artistic talents at this week's annual Canton Public Schools Spring Art Show at the CHS gym.  Here are just a few examples:

Unified Track Team Excels at State Championship Meet

It was a great day final day of action for the first ever CHS Unified Track season as the Bulldogs traveled to Fitchburg State College to participate in the State Championship Meet. Tons of amazing performances would put in by our kids today. Congrats to coach Belenky and the entire team. Well done!

Kyle Toy finishing 6th in Javelin

William Rosen finishing 2nd in the Shot Put

All of the Bulldog Medal Winners!

Canton's Champion- Naomi Handy finishing 1st in the Shot Put

The Heat is On.....starting tomorrow

Lot's of Bulldog action the rest of the week and the temps are going WAY up! Looks like it could be 90 Wednesday and in the 80s the rest of the week. Start hydrating today! Be sure to drink plenty of water on Tuesday evening and keep up with it during the day on Wednesday and throughout the week.

Fall Cheer Team Tryout Information

Fall Cheerleading Tryouts will be held in the Rodman Gymnasium on:

Wednesday, June 1st from 4:30-6:30
Thursday, June 2nd from 4:30-6:00
AND
Sunday, June 5th from 5:00-6:30

Interested candidates must attend all three dates.

You will need:

• Athletic Clothing
• Sneakers (cheer sneakers if you have them)
• Water

Candidates MUST register online at the CHS Athletics Website and provide a physical to the Athletic Office PRIOR to trying out.

www.cantonhighcheerleading.com
Twitter- @cantonhighceer
email- coaches@cantonhighcheerleading.com

2016 Fall Sports Registration Now Open

Anyone interested in trying out for a fall athletic program MUST have a parent register you prior to doing so. The easiest way to register is to visit the CHS Athletics website and complete the online registration available there.

PLEASE register before the end of the school year!

The following sports programs are offered at CHS in the fall:

Boys-
Cross Country (Varsity)
Football (Varsity, JV, and Freshmen)
Golf (Varsity)
Soccer (Varsity, JV)

Girls-
Cheerleading (Varsity)
Cross Country (Varsity)
Field Hockey (Varsity, JV)
Soccer (Varsity, JV)
Volleyball (Varsity, JV and a newly added Freshmen team)

User Fees are not due until September 12, 2016.

Football starts on Friday, August 19th
All other sports start on Thursday, August 25th

First Day Information for each sport will be updated at this blog as it becomes available.

Click here to Register today!

Get Seriously Fit this summer!

Canton High School is happy to announce that our partner in all things training and fitness- Marathon PT, will be running a morning fitness program at CHS this summer.  It is a very affordable program which includes a Functional Movement Screening. It's local. It's affordable. It's a great way for Bulldogs to start their mornings this summer and get ready for their upcoming seasons! Let's do this!
Click here for info.

2016 Fall Season Captains Meeting

The Athletic Department will be holding a very brief but MANDATORY meeting of all Fall 2016 Captains on TUESDAY, MAY 24th at 7:40am in the DLL.  This is for the Varsity Captains of:
Fall Cheer, Boys and Girls XC, Field Hockey, Football, Golf, Boys and Girls Soccer, and Volleyball.

College Fair coming up...know your options

The Boston National College Fair is being held this upcoming Sunday and Monday at the Boston Convention Center on Summer Street in Boston. 

Sunday- 2-5 and Monday, 8:30-12:30

Spring student athletes should be aware that attending this event on Monday is not an excused absence from school in determining eligibility for Monday afternoon athletic events.  If you are a spring athlete and would like to attend this particular College Fair, please plan on attending on Sunday rather than Monday. The CHS Guidance office also has information about many other college information options for all of our students. Visit your guidance counselor for info!

Wednesday Game Time Changes

For various reasons, the following changes are in effect for Wednesday's games:

All Baseball, Softball and Tennis contests with Oliver Ames are 4:00pm starts.

Girls LAX games with Milford- JV now at 4:00....Varsity at 5:30.