The wide receiver position is blandly defined as “an offensive player in American football whose primary role is to catch passes thrown by the quarterback and gain yardage for the offense.” Then there is another description of the role that includes talent, skill, and a flair for the dramatic.
North Reading senior wide receiver Gavin Brady possesses those attributes and much more. He is loyal to his team and dedicated to the sport of football, so much so that he and several teammates frequently conduct additional practices on their own, sometimes beyond encroaching darkness.
“We have a great group of guys this year and have a strong bond,” said Brady, days after leading North Reading to its fifth win in as many tries. “Whether it is a practice or game day, my teammates always bring energy and one hundred percent effort.”
Brady, 17, freely admitted that while he competes in baseball and indoor track, his number one athletic pursuit is football. As a three-season competitor, Brady has been fortunate to be part of highly successful programs during his high school years. North Reading winter track, in which he competes in the 300-meter dash, the 600, and both the 4×2 and 4×4 relays, has been top tier for some time. Brady has also been a member of several championship programs.
“Winning our eighth-grade Super Bowl stands out,” said Brady. “Being part of the 2022 Division 5 Super Bowl at Gillette Stadium as a freshman was memorable along with our baseball championship win.
In last spring’s MIAA Division 3 Baseball Championship, staged at Polar Park in Worcester, centerfielder Brady had the honor of catching the final fly ball to close out a 10-3 victory over Arlington Catholic.
Brady, who moved from New Hampshire to North Reading as a young child, continues to master his craft. In five games thus far this season, the senior captain has hauled in 24 receptions, 7 for TDs. Brady has also returned a pair of punts for scores. His quarterback and longtime friend Jason Berry often describes Brady as “the best athlete on the field.” Hornet Coach Ed Blum would likely agree.
“It has been a lot of fun to part of Gavin’s journey on and off the field,” said Blum. “His impact on the field speaks for itself. He brings maturity, consistent energy, and a work ethic that has led to his growth as a leader and a role model. I’m proud of the person he has become.”
“Coach Blum and Coach Arch (Eric Archambault) have both guided me to be a better player on the field and a better person off the field,” Brady said.
Brady’s most noteworthy supporters include father Sean and mother Julie, twin sister Kaila and younger brother Colin, and family dog Ruby. Colin, a sophomore teammate, has rapidly become one of QB Berry’s favorite receivers.
Gavin Brady, who works as a lifeguard during the summer, as well as a catering assistant for Big Pig Catering out of Peabody, enjoys annual July 4th trips to Falmouth and spends his limited free time attending church services, working out at the gym, and of course, playing video games.
While he remains undecided on which college he’ll attend next fall, he does have a potential career path in mind.
“My favorite subject in high school is marketing and economics,” he said. “I’d like to pursue something in the business field.”
For now, the business at hand is an all-important clash with undefeated Amesbury on Friday night. Both clubs are 5-0 and the results of this game may have playoff implications.
“There’s nothing much to be said about that game,” said Brady. “We’re focusing on having a great week of practice. Come Friday night, we’re going on a mission.”