Politics & Government

Selectmen Recognize Westwood Athletes, Golf Coach

The Wolverines' golfers and swimmers were honored for their accomplishments Monday night.

At its meeting Monday night, the Westwood Board of Selectmen gave a nod of thanks and approval to a handful of athletes from .

Specifically, the Selectmen congratulated two Westwood swimmers and the Westwood Golf Team for a strong season last fall.

The golf team, , finished the Fall 2011 season by taking home the Div. 3 South Sectional title and finishing third in the Tri-Valley League.

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Moreover, Matt Gillis, head coach of the Westwood High School varsity golf team, was recently named Coach of the Year by the Boston Globe. Gillis is a 1990 graduate of Bridgewater State University and has coached golf for nine years, according to Boston.com.

"Congratulations," Selectmen Chair Pat Ahearn told Gillis and the team Monday night. "It's a tremendous accomplishment."

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Added Selectmen Chair Nancy Hyde, "It doesn't happen a lot, so consider yourselves quite special."

Said Gillis, "It truly is an honor to be recognized by the Board of Selectmen. It's been an incredible season; it's been a lot of fun."

Town Administrator Mike Jaillet handed the golf team special tee shirts, and handed the swimmers specially-designed tote bags.

Selectmen also congraulated Westwood swimmers , a junior, and senior Kate Vanesse for holding strong seasons in the water. Both were named All-Scholastics by the Boston Globe in 2011.

Vanesse was noted for being named the MIAA State Champion in the 100-yard freestyle, but she also finished second in the 500 free and holds school records in the 100 back, 200 medley relay, and 400 free relay, according to Boston.com.

Chiulli, a skilled diver, was noted for winning the South sectional diving championship, as well as the state title. She also broke a meet record last season, and was the Wolverines' Most Valuable Player and a Southern Conference All-Star.

After Jaillet handed the swimmers special tote bags, the Selectmen congratulated them for their efforts and success.

"I'm in aw of what you've done," said Selectmen Third Member Phil Shapiro. "We're very proud of you."


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