LYNN — When you think Vaughan, you think Nasky; when you think Nasky, you think Vaughan.
You could say the Lynn Classical teammates will be forever linked as one of the city’s greatest combinations ever on a football field.
For three years – injuries prevented a fourth – quarterback Brian Vaughan and wideout John Nasky took care of business at Manning Field.
Wednesday night, in the 62nd Agganis All-Star Football Game, it was no different.
But first, some context from last fall.
Vaughan completed 161 of 238 passes for 2,204 yards and 24 touchdowns as the Greater Boston League’s Most Valuable Player. Nasky, his go-to target, hauled in 94 receptions (state leader) for 1,223 yards and 14 TDs.
So, when the two paired up one last time, it was only fitting they lead South to a 27-16 win.
Nasky (7 catches, 162 yards) was named South MVP, and the two connected for a 79-yard touchdown to, just about, put the game away in the fourth quarter.
After some postgame hugs and photos, Nasky agreed that it was the “perfect storybook ending.”
“Absolutely,” said Nasky, who’s suiting up at Pace University in New York this fall. “We’re going off to college, too, so the last night with my boy will forever be memorable.”
Vaughan (Western Connecticut State) couldn’t have agreed more with his partner-in-crime.
“Me and him, it’s like a different connection,” he said. “I’ve had the best chemistry with him, timing-wise. And off the field, we’re best friends.”
From the duo’s patented screen pass, to the long ball, and to the hard slant that Vaughan loves to throw, Wednesday night came with it all.
But the 79-yarder to seal it – that was the one.
Vaughan found Nasky quickly, and from there, the receiver escaped a few layers and was off to the races.
When asked what was on his mind once he got through the secondary, Nasky kept it honest.
“I need it, more than anyone,” he said. “I have high hopes for myself every time. … We go through trials and tribulations every day. Playing on a hot one, it doesn’t matter.”
And standing next to each other one last time on the Manning Field turf, Nasky said Vaughan is “the strongest person I know.”
“He tore everything in his leg, but decided to play one last season with all of his brothers. I forever thank you for that,” Nasky said. “I always feel comfortable when he’s throwing me the ball, and I know he always feels comfortable when I’m catching them.”
When asked what his biggest takeaway from Lynn Classical will be, it only took a split second for Vaughan to answer.
“Family,” he said. “For sure.”
