Biography

Fred DeMarco anchored North's defensive line during the 1956 and 1957 seasons. His tough, aggressive attacking style was consistently responsible for disrupting the opponents offense. In an era when most offenses featured double tight 'T' formation sets with limited passing ability, DeMarco was the perfect blue collar defensive lineman. His low submarining style combined with his strength and quickness made it very difficult for opposing offensive linemen to stop him one on one. It was not an uncommon sight to see DeMarco in the offensive backfield before the play had a chance to develop.

At 6', 170 lbs. junior Fred DeMarco earned a starting position at defensive tackle to open the 1956 season for the Red Rocketeers. In North's second game of the season DeMarco was outstanding as he led the team in tackles shutting out Tolman 7-0. Fred had a solid season which culminated with a strong defensive game in a 20-0 shut out of Attleboro. A local scribe referred to DeMarco as the "stalwart" of North's defensive line on Thanksgiving Day.

The season of 1957 saw an experienced and confident DeMarco lead North's defense against an experienced New Bedford team. With the score tied 7-7 and New Bedford in control of the ball late in the game, Fred broke through the offensive line and chased down a scrambling New Bedford running back, throwing him for a 16 yd. loss to preserve the tie. Latter that season Fred played his final game for the red & white. He spearheaded a defense which held Attleboro to just 18 yards rushing as he and his mates earned a hard fought 12-7 victory.