Mike Julce of St. Clements wins the MVP Trophy in St. Clements Thanksgiving Day win over Trinity Catholic.

By Mike Rubin

Since the midway point of the season St. Clement junior running back Michael Julce has been a work horse for the surging Anchormen. This week, he was rewarded when he was named team MVP.

To start the season Julce had to play quarterback as other players were not ready or out with injuries.

“We wanted Mike to run the ball, but we also needed someone who could direct our offense,” said coach Colin Walsh.

By the time the mid-season bye week came alone Sophomore Ricky Brathwaite had developed into the quarterback the Anchormen were looking for which gave Julce the opportunity to shine in the backfield.

“Ricky did a phenomenal job for us at quarterback,” said Walsh.

Before the switch the Anchormen were 1-4. Since the bye week and the move to put Julce at running back the Anchormen won four of their last five games.

Julce led all rushers in the stretch run averaging 131 yards a game while adding five touchdowns and two two-point conversions. On Thanksgiving, Julce took center stage with 132 yards rushing on 11 carries, a touchdown, a two-point conversion run, 20 return yards, two pass deflections, and eight tackles on defense.

After the game Michael was awarded the 2010 William McGonagle Most Valuable Player award. Previous St. Clement recipients of the award were Robert Ofoedu in 2009, and Matthew McCarthy in 2008.