Biography

For the first time in its 31-year history the Attleboro Area Football Hall of Fame has selected two players from the same team to enter the Hall of Fame together. Don LeBlanc and John Morin were not only outstanding, three year stalwarts and All Bristol County All Stars in the Bombardier offensive and defensive line, they were senior co-captains whose leadership skills totally changed the direction of Attleboro High School football teams for many years to come. On the field, Morin and LeBlanc led by example with their hard-hitting, tenacious and, when needed, ferocious style of play. Off the field, Morin and LeBlanc displayed true leadership while creating a sense of teamwork by encouraging and teaching their teammates, especially underclassmen, who were so vital to the success of Attleboro's first winning season in several years. And, most important of all, it was the winning attitude, the work ethic, and the mental toughness demonstrated by Morin and LeBlanc that was passed on to the outstanding Attleboro teams that were so successful in the 60's and 70's.

Co-captain Don LeBlanc, a three-year starter at center and tackle, was a strong but agile and athletic 6' 190 pounder who played with power, speed, and finesse. He had a great blocking technique and could overpower his opponent but also had the speed to get downfield to lead the running game with a key downfield block. On defense, LeBlanc was a three-year force from his tackle spot where he could hold up his opponent and stop the running play or side step into the backfield to get to the quarterback to disrupt the passing game.

Co-captain Morin started his AHS career as a reserve running back until the rugged 5'8" 180 lb. powerhouse junior teamed up with LeBlanc on the other side ofthe line to form one of Attleboro's best and most consistent tackle combinations. Although smaller that most of his opponents, the fiery and aggressive Morin never backed down from "a good fight" and could punish his opponent with his speed and toughness and beat him to the punch with a devastating and tenacious block. With his backfield-like quickness, John was a natural at getting out in front of the running backs as he was always on the lookout for someone to knock down. On defense, John once again used his toughness and great speed to jam up the running play or roam from sideline to sideline to chase down the opposing ball carrier.

The 1958 newspaper game write-ups are filled with accolades for the hard hits, fumble recoveries, quarterback sacks and outstanding line play of John Morin and Don LeBlanc including a pre-game Turkey Day article proclaiming that the "stalwart Attleboro line led by Morin and LeBlanc has been no less than sensational all through the season." Sensational was the word on Thanksgiving Day as Morin and LeBlanc held North scoreless as they led AHS to its first victory over North in six years and began a winning tradition for the Blue And White.