Orono, Maine -- On Tuesday, Nov. 20, the Gridiron Club of Greater Boston announced that it has named University of Maine defensive coordinator Corey Hetherman as its FBS/FCS assistant coach of the year.

Hetherman, currently in his second year serving as defensive coordinator and fourth overall on staff with the Black Bears, had guided Maine's defense to the top of the ranks in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA). At the conclusion of the regular season, the Black Bears ranked first in the CAA in total defense (278.8), rush yards allowed (73.4) and total sacks (40). Nationally, Maine's defense checked in second among the FCS leaders in rush defense, 18th in scoring defense (21.1), fourth in total defense, second in team sacks (3.64) and 11th in 3rd down conversion percentage defense (29.8%).

Throughout the year, Maine's 'Black Hole' defense was able to hold nine of its 11 opponents under 100-yard rushing while forcing a total of 23 turnovers.

Individually in 2018, Hetherman mentored three Black Bears who rank second, third and fifth in the CAA in sacks and two of the top four individuals in terms of tackles for loss, along with Manny Patterson who leads the CAA in pass breakups.

Under his guidance, five Black Bears received CAA all-conference honors. Kayon Whitaker, Sterling Sheffield and Patterson were each named to the all-conference first team while Charles Mitchell and Deshawn Stevens earned all-conference second team recognition.

Dating back to 1999, Hetherman becomes the third Black Bear coach to earn the Gridiron Club of Greater Boston assistant coach of the year award. Joe Rossi earned the honor in 2011 after Bobby Wilder was recognized with the award in 2004.

The Gridiron Club of Greater Boston will hold its annual banquet on Wednesday, Dec. 19 at Burlington Marriott Hotel located in Burlington, Mass. The reception will begin with a social hour at 6 p.m. followed by dinner and the awards program at 7 p.m. Tickets for the event are $75 each or $750 for a table of ten and can be order online at GridClubofGreaterBoston.com or by calling Dick Lawrence at 781.929.3650.

Founded in 1932, the Gridiron Club of Greater Boston  promotes the game of football at all levels and nurtures the ideals of citizenship, sportsmanship, leadership, and athletic and academic achievement. A registered 501 (c) 3 non-profit corporation, the Gridiron Club is supported by membership dues, philanthropic contributions, and proceeds from its annual dinners. The Club honors exemplary players, coaches and officials at all levels of the sport and supports worthy charitable causes, especially those that assist children.

-UMaine-