LYNN — For Lynn English quarterback Shane Knowlton-Simard, there were lots of things in his way throughout high school, including a torn meniscus and head coaching change.
“There have been ups and downs,” he said. “Obviously, freshman and sophomore year, I didn’t do a lot, but I was around. Coach Mac (Tyllor McDonald) came in my junior year and just completely changed my life.”
The Greater Boston League’s Most Valuable Player finished his senior season with more than 2,700 yards of offense alongside 38 touchdowns.
His career wrapped in style as English defeated traditional archrival Lynn Classical 36-12 Thursday. Knowlton-Simard compiled 212 yards rushing, 131 yards passing, and five total touchdowns.
“I just wanted to ball out for these guys and show them they didn’t make the wrong decision,” he said. “This team has really grown into a family. I’m really proud of this team, battling adversity all year . . . no one believed in us.”
But McDonald — a former star quarterback at English himself — believed in Knowlton-Simard.
“I can say he’s better than me. That’s one thing I can say.” McDonald said.
Among Lynn football greats, McDonald doubled down on Knowlton-Simard’s place in history.
“He’s No. 1 for sure. There have been a lot of great players in Lynn who I’ve seen and heard about in the past, but there has been nobody like him,” he said. “His numbers this year speak for themselves.”
Beyond individual numbers, Knowlton-Simard was part of a nine-win team that captured the GBL title. With the dual-threat quarterback under center, it was English’s best season in a decade.
“I love the Bulldogs,” Knowlton-Simard said. “It means a lot for me to wear this jersey.”
