Inducted | 2000 |
---|---|
High School Attended | Attleboro |
Graduated | 1976 |
Joining a long line of outstanding Hall of Fame centers, Attleboro's Tom Dion proved to be a durable, rock solid offensive and defensive lineman for two seasons in 1974 and 1975. The 5' 10" 190 Ib Dion led a powerful AHS running game with his near perfect line blocking and his outstanding ability to throw key blocks down field. As a defensive tackle, Tom combined great football instincts with strength and speed to lead a solid defense that kept Attleboro in every game.
In a big 22-0 win over Barnstable, co-captain Dion's blocking skills keyed a powerful running game that racked up 233 yards on the ground while the defense was holding the Red Raiders to 66 total offensive yards. And, in a big 14-8 upset of highly touted Taunton, Dion recovered two fumbles and was irrunense in leading a defense that shut down Taunton's powerful running game. In a thrilling, last second 24-19 victory over Durfee, offensive center Tom Dion led an Attleboro running game that racked up 260 yards on the ground. Again in a 22-22 thriller against North Attleboro on Thanksgiving Day, the Dion-led offensive line paved the way for Hall of Fame fullback Mark Hanewich's three rushing touchdowns.
A two year All Sun District selection at offensive center, the steady and consistent Dion was described as "repeat choice to anchor the offensive line, and with good reason. A consistent force behind the AHS running game, he was the man who the Attleboro backs followed into open territory."