The Golden Dozen award is a dish best served rare, for it is reserved for those student-athletes few and far between; eye-opening scholars like Mahopac High School senior Nate Mascoll, a multi-sport All-Section standout and equally outstanding student.
The Westchester Chapter of the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame on Friday, Jan. 30, announced its 52nd class of Golden Dozen Scholar Athletes. It's an honor reserved for the highest achievers on and off the field. There were more than 30 nominees for the award, which highlights the players who produce in the arena and in the classroom while having a meaningful impact on their communities.
A do-it-all first-team All-NYS football player – running back, wide receiver, linebacker, defensive back, kick returner – and All-Section baseball player, Mascoll, who carries a 4.0 GPA, met all the criteria and then some.
After a record-setting season on the gridiron in 2025, after being tabbed president of the Mahopac chapter of the National Honor Society in 2025, after setting a standard that few student-athletes in Putnam County history have lived up to, Mascoll didn’t need to cut the line; he was placed smack-dab near the top in county history.
“Simply stated, Nate is an elite student-athlete and extraordinary young man,” Mahopac football coach Dominick DeMatteo said. “He checks more boxes than any student-athlete I have ever coached in my entire career.”
Off the field, those boxes include being an accomplished trumpet player, a multi-lingualist, a vast community servant and soon-to-be student-athlete at prestigious Amherst College.
“Nate excels in the athletic arena, and has achieved tremendous success academically while constantly challenging himself with rigorous courses and programs,” DeMatteo said of his captain, who averaged 7.7 yards per carry (plus 1,578 all-purpose yards) and rushed for 16 TDs while playing exemplary defense on the other side of the ball. “He is an accomplished performer in the arts and he is an extremely mature adolescent who embodies the essence of leadership.”
In a long line of overachievers at Mahopac High, Mascoll is front and center. Let’s get to know him.
You had a lot of schools to choose from, what made Amherst stand out? After touring the school and interacting with the coaches, team, and students and faculty on campus, I could tell it was a special place. The academics are top tier, and I felt at home.
Is it your goal to play football and baseball at Amherst or is that too much to ask, even for you? Currently, I’m only committed to playing football. They said I have the opportunity to do both if I choose to. I’ll have to feel that out while I’m at school.
What do you plan to major in? Currently going for biology, with plans to apply to physicians assistant school after I graduate.
What’s been the most challenging part of high school? Definitely balancing my busy schedule from day to day. I think it’ll only help me as I continue into college because all I know is busy, no time off.
What’s your favorite high school memory? Definitely just the time spent with friends and family. I’ve had a great high school experience. One highlight of my career was definitely my trip to Germany with the German Club this past summer.
It’s been nearly 30 years since Mahopac baseball last won the Section 1 title, so what makes you think you and your mates can end that drought this spring? We’re coming off a great year of just coming up short of a title. We’re returning the heart of our lineup with talent in younger grades as well. We’re committed to the process; we have a goal.
Has a Mahopac teacher or administrator made a difference in your life? Honestly, I can’t choose a specific one, because they’ve all made a difference in my life. Even teachers that I didn’t have as my own were easy to bond with and talk to. I really prioritized making strong connections with all staff.
People are so divided these days, what trait do you possess that might unify us? I’d say my leadership skills and ability to get others to follow and do the right thing. I’m not scared to speak my own truth and give assistance to anyone who needs it.
What do you see yourself accomplishing five to 10 years from now? My hope is to become a physician’s assistant and fulfill my dream of helping others every day.
Name a chore that you hate: I don’t mind doing chores, but my least favorite is probably doing the dishes.
Favorite place to visit: Although I’ve only been once, Germany was my favorite trip I’ve ever gone on.
What are your hobbies, outside of sports? I love music – I play the trumpet, and play the piano for fun – love the gym, and volunteering.
Is there an adult, coach or athlete that you look up to as a role model? My father. He’s been a coach to me since a young age. Always teaching lessons every day and helping me improve in all facets of life.
What’s the best slice of pizza in Mahopac? I’m a big fan of Cacciatori’s.
Favorite local restaurant? Kobu is my go-to spot.
One day off from school or practice, what do you have lined up for the day? I love to be outside, active, listening to music and taking time to calm the mind.
What are you an expert at? I don’t think I can call myself an expert at anything yet. That’s exactly what drives me. I’m a student of life.
What are you not nearly an expert at? I’d like to be an expert with money. How to save, invest, and multiply my money.
Do you have a favorite pre-game ritual? I always listen to music to calm me down and say a quick prayer for safety, guidance, and strength for my teammates and me.
Do you have a favorite musician or band? Billy Joel has always been my No. 1 artist.
What’s your favorite sport to play? Favorite sport to watch? It varies from season to season. I enjoy [baseball and football] very much. Favorite sport to watch is football for sure.
Who’s your favorite professional athlete? I’m a huge fan of [Lion’s running back] Jahmyr Gibbs. I feel my playstyle reflects his a lot.
Do you have a favorite pro team? New England Patriots.
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