Mark Boillotat, Class of 1980: Football

Captain of the football team his senior year, Mark Boillotat ’80 demonstrated the drive and determination that opened the door to the Peddie Sports Hall of Fame. His innate ability to motivate others through word and deed made him a “force to be dealt with” every time he stepped on the field. His unrelenting efforts inspired his teammates to deliver their best in every game. It is for this extraordinary leadership that Mark is honored today.

During the 1978 and ’79 seasons, Peddie was blessed with a number of big, strong, fast linemen and Mark Boillotat was the best of the bunch. It is fair to say that no one was more responsible for the team’s success in those years than Mark. Throughout the season, press clippings all read like the one written after Peddie’s 30-0 “wipeout” of Pennington – describing the defense led by Mark as a “brutally systematic sledgehammer pounding against a cement wall that had to crack.”

Mark also contributed substantially to Peddie athletics as a heavyweight wrestler and standout defenseman on the lacrosse team. Through sheer determination, he “made it his mission,” as one coach put it, to respond to every opportunity to become better. During his senior season on the mat, Mark placed fourth in the state tournament and was named Peddie’s most improved wrestler. A four-year starter in lacrosse, he went on to play both lacrosse and football in college.

It was on the gridiron that Mark’s athleticism, willpower and leadership came together in the most remarkable way. He was named All-County three times, All-State twice and was the winner of the Robert Roberson Award his senior year “for use of talents and concern for others.” His individual skills as an athlete were exceptional; his ability to lead and make all those around him better was the stuff of legend. The Peddie Sports Hall of Fame is proud to recognize Mark Boillotat, an inspirational athlete, classmate and leader.