Thursday, November 5th, 2009

A local football team says a special thanks to someone who supports them from the sidelines. It's a surprise honor for a boy with special needs who's surpassed all obstacles to manage his middle school football team.

Matthew Noah is one of guys on the Andover Central Middle School team. In fact, he's the team manager.

"He loves it so much he gets to be around his boys everyday after school," said His mother Jodi.

What makes this so special is Matthew has a syndrome similar to autism. He started out with almost no social skills. His time on the team has changed that.

"He's a great kids we all love being around him. He brings joy to the team," said Matthew's teammate Kier Stamp.

That's why tonight there's a surprise. The school is retiring his jersey. Number 88.
It's a big smile and a standing ovation.

And for his mom,"Oh it's too much. It's incredible."

Because this is the boy who used to be shy and introverted.

"Now you just watch him here tonight. It's all about his boys. He's hugging his boys and is just very happy about just being with them. It is the world to him," said Jodi.

And one more surprise for Mathew. His coach arranged for him to be on the team next year when he goes to high school.