Sharing the Marquee: Marquis Holman and His Father, George Enjoy Their Athletic Successes Together

They were a team within a team, senior Marquis  Holman, a standout running back for the Everett High football team, and his father, George L. Holman, an aide to the coaching staff in the state’s most successful program.

While Marquis was rushing for more than 800 yards and eight touchdowns this season as the featured back, George was never far from the action in presence, pride or spirit.

The togetherness of father and son goes back to Marquis’s childhood but they have developed an even closer bond as a result of their dual participation in EHS athletics and their mutual respect and admiration for legendary coach John DiBiaso.

Under DiBiaso’s guidance, the 6-feet, 185-pound Holman made the leap from blocking back to GBL All-Star running back this season. Marquis has also been selected to play in the Harry Agganis All-Star Football Classic in June.

“It’s been a great experience playing football for Everett and I loved working with my teammates,” said Marquis. “We became a better team because we practiced hard and took what we learned in practice from the coaches on to the field.”

Marquis was hoping to win another Super Bowl championship but Central Catholic ended that dream in the Division 1 North final. A guard for the EHS basketball team, Marquis now hopes to end his career with a trip to the Boston Garden and a state title.

“I’ll do whatever it takes to help my team make history,” said Marquis. “I’ve been playing AAU basketball and in any gym I can to try and get better. I’m hoping this year’s team can get to the Garden.”

George L. Holman, who’s been recognized with an award for his work at the MBTA, helped out the Everett football team in many capacities from serving meals to recording games on videotape. George Holman said his son has made huge strides athletically and academically and he credits John DiBiaso for inspiring his son and bringing out his best.

“Coach DiBiaso is one of the most positive influences in my son’s life,” said Holman. “He’s really helped him mature and I’m proud of the young man Marquis is becoming.”

DiBiaso feels he benefited from a 2-for-1 deal with the addition of Marquis Holman to his defending GBL champion football and basketball teams.

“When Marquis entered our program as a junior, it was a bonus deal because I got Marquis who was a great player and George, who has been a great help to both the basketball and football programs,” said DiBiaso. “Marquis really stepped up this season. He’s been a great kid for us for two years. He’s one of the most popular kids in the building and all the players love him. He takes after his father. George is a great guy to have around our program. It’s like a tag team here. I get Marquis on the field and George on the sidelines.”

Marquis Holman said he enjoyed his entire EHS football experience. “The coaching staff is the best in the state. The training staff is amazing. Without the trainers, I wouldn’t have made it through the season. Miss Rachel Loan [EHS trainer] has been a very great influence and helped me out a lot.”

Marquis Holman is looking to continue his athletic career in college and he’s begun the application process. No matter where Marquis takes his talents next year, his father, George, will be close by, if not in person, then in his heart.

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