Continuing A Proud Athletic Tradition: Ferrara Nets the Game-Winner vs. Rockport

By Cary Shuman

Paul Ferrara humbly spoke about his clutch, game-winning goal versus Rockport in overtime during an interview after practice Monday at Larsen Rink at the Mike Eruzione.

“I was just in the right place at the right time to bury one,” explained Ferrara.

Ferrara said the center-seeded Rockport’s effort reminded him of Apponoquet’s near-upset of the Vikings in last year’s State Tournament.

“Teams like that have nothing to lose and just go all out,” said Ferrara. “It’s a little scary playing teams like that, you can’t overlook them.”

A 6-foot-2-inch junior defenseman and captain, Ferrara brings a mountain of athletic greatness with him as the son of Paul Ferrara and Elizabeth Lally Ferrara. That’s two historic traditions merging into one family.

“I’m aware of the tradition and the successes,” said Paul. “I know my grandmother had a bunch of brothers that were great athletes and my dad was a great athlete. My grandfather, Edward “Pudgie” Lally was also a great athlete. And I know the Lally [sisters] were all excellent in multiple sports. It feels good to be a part of all that, but I just have to keep on going and try my best, that’s all I can do. I am appreciative of the ton of support that I get from the family at our games.”

Ferrara credited the other captains for their leadership including seniors Nicky Romano, Bert Kline, and Tomas Babine, and junior Joe Pumphret. “It’s an amazing group, the seniors and juniors, everyone has a positive input.”

Ferrara said the team has tremendous confidence in head coach Dale Dunbar and the staff, “who prepare us well and put us in the best position to succeed.”

“Coach Dunbar is awesome. He’s always making sure that everyone’s mind sets right, and no one is getting off track,” offered Ferrara.

Expect a large contingent of Ferraras and Lallys to be on hand as the Vikings continue their pursuit of a state title.