The Cougars of Old Colony Regional Technical High School have something to celebrate.

No, it’s not a championship team, but the honor belongs to the sports department — namely, the man at the helm.

Athletic Director Matt Trahan has received high praise from the state of Massachusetts.

Trahan is the recipient of the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association's 2025 Distinguished Service Award.

Hometown Honoree

"It's definitely something, kind of blew me away," Trahan said.

The annual MIAA Distinguished Service Award recognizes one male and one female "for unique and invaluable service to the thousands of students attending MIAA member schools across the Commonwealth."

Courtesy Mare' Studios
Courtesy Mare' Studios
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As someone who grew up playing sports, I know the tremendous impact coaches, teammates and athletic programs had in my life.

I consistently revert back to the life lessons learned through sport, and in speaking with Trahan, I quickly realized he felt the same.

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Lessons Beyond the Court

"I coached basketball for 25 years and on Sunday mornings, alumni come back and they come back in droves. That speaks volumes more than just the wins and the championships," Trahan said.

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Inspired by a Mentor

His desire to become an athletic director dates back to his own high school days, inspired by Bill Hart, the late AD at Bishop Stang High School.

The phrase "Play Like Champions" hangs above Trahan's desk at Old Colony, but it's the subtext on that very sign that holds the most importance to Trahan: "Sportsmanship, Commitment, Pride."

Courtesy Wes Sykes
Courtesy Wes Sykes
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Right at Home

Serving as the school's athletic director, Trahan's role goes beyond the office. "It's more of a lifestyle than it is just a job," he said. "I've been at the school for 20 years, I've been blessed to be at Old Colony, it's a great place."

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His career keeps him busy, always in communication with students and staff at Old Colony and across the state, all in the hope of continuing to improve their programs.

Recognition of a Lifetime

His recent accolade is a well-deserved recognition of the hard work and dedication he has consistently demonstrated.

"I had no idea about who nominated me, I still don't know," he said. "I didn't know anything about being in the running. I just happened to get a call from the MIAA."

The MIAA will host a banquet in December with Trahan and other recipients in attendance.

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