Framingham’s Hichos Makes NJCAA Men’s Soccer All-Region Team

FRAMINGHAM – MassBay Community College student athletes Simon Hichos of Framingham, and Mario Leone of Newton, have been named to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region 21 Men’s Soccer All-Region team.

Hichos earned first-team honors, while Leone earned a second-team distinction.

These first-year players both helped lead the MassBay Buccaneers to the Region 21 playoff spot, the first men’s soccer tournament appearance for MassBay since 2019.

“Simon and Mario had a great season for us as we build a championship program here at MassBay,” said MassBay Men’s Head Soccer Coach Jeff Braverman. “Simon shows up everyday and gives 110 percent. He is very respectful off the field, but a fiery competitor on it. Mario is always trying to improve his craft, whether it is hitting the gym on his days off or asking the coaches how he can improve. Both student athletes are first class footballers and represent MassBay in a very positive manner.”

Hichos a starting forward, appeared in all eight games for the Bucs, scoring eight goals this season. 

Leone played defense in seven games. Hichos graduated from Framingham High School, and Leone was born and raised in Italy.

Both students are pursuing associate degrees in biotechnology.

“I am very happy for both Simon and Mario,” said MassBay Director of Athletics Adam Nelson. “They worked hard all season and deserved to be recognized by the Region. Coach Braverman and his staff have our men’s soccer program pointed in the right direction, and they couldn’t have done it without the commitment and sacrifice of both of these players.”

The Buccaneers will begin their off-season workouts in the spring semester, as they prepare for the 2023 – 2024 season.

In full transparency, photos and press release submitted to SOURCE media for publication.