Durland a semifinalist for lineman award

RUMFORD -- The fall was a banner season for the Mountain Valley football team and since then some individuals have been recognized for their performances.

Christian Durland literally stood above the rest when it counted. The Falcon senior is a semifinalist for the Annual Frank J. Gaziano Memorial Offensive and Defensive Lineman Awards, which will be presented to one offensive and one defensive lineman in the state. This award will "epitomize the character, leadership and perseverance of Gaziano," the founder of National Distributors and a former college All-American and pro football player. The Gaziano will be presented on January 23 at the Augusta Civic Center. In addition to football skills, the selection includes academics, community involvement, and character. The 11 semi-finalists will be interviewed by the selection committee and one offensive and one defensive lineman receive a trophy and a $2,500 scholarship.

“I can't begin to tell you how appreciative I feel about what everyone has helped me with and done for me throughout my career,” said Durland, who won the Bruce Campbell award, as the most valuable player in the Class B division of the Campbell Conference.

Durland’s durability proved to be one of his strongest assets, who except for minor injuries such as broken fingers, never missed a game. He noted, “I did work very hard at the sport of football, but so much credit has to be given to the coaches and teammates I've had. I feel very fortunate to have been able to play for Mountain Valley and the coaching core. It has to be the best all around football program in the state. I just can't imagine how it could've been any better.”

Durland recorded a team-high 13 sacks, this season and was also named all-state Defensive End this season. "Christian was a nightmare for opposing defenses,” said MV coach Jim Aylward. “He was too quick for most opponents, and teams needed to account for him before the snap of the ball.” Durland was a starter on the 2008 and 2010 state championship teams.

“This year was the best group of teammates anyone could ask for," said Durland, who believes success doesn't come to teams without everyone involved.

“As coach Aylward would say 'You aren't given gold balls, you go and get them.' Meaning no one is giving you the prize at the end of the season, you have to work your tail off and get it yourself. The gold ball this season wasn't owned by anyone during the season. In states, we went out and got it."