Thu Sep 19 08:12:35 UTC 2024: ## Belmont Hill Boasts Two Future Blue Devils: Rupley and Onuoha Head to Duke

BELMONT – Belmont Hill School is celebrating a rare feat – having two Division 1-caliber defensive ends on their roster, both committed to playing for Duke University. Thomas Rupley, a 6-foot-4, 250-pound defensive end, and 6-foot-4, 230-pound Sampson Onuoha, have impressed coaches with their athleticism and work ethic.

Coach Anthony Fucillo expressed his pride, acknowledging the rarity of having two such talented defensive ends on one team. “A lot of teams in New England might have one guy, so it is very rare to have two of them on your team,” Fucillo said. “Both of them come off the edge with power and strength – we’re fortunate to have them.”

Defensive coordinator Joe LaLiberte echoed Fucillo’s sentiment, describing the duo as “an embarrassment of riches.” He praised their natural talent and their dedication to continuous improvement. “Beyond the fact that they are blessed with pure athletic ability, they are incredibly easy to coach,” LaLiberte said. “Both of them are hungry to get better and even after they committed (to Duke), they still have that desire to improve.”

The two players arrived at Belmont Hill under different circumstances. Rupley, whose mother is a faculty member at the school, instantly fell in love with the institution during an eighth-grade visit. Onuoha, a standout basketball player from Great Britain, arrived at Belmont Hill three years ago and decided to give football a try in his sophomore year.

Both players thrived in their respective sports. Rupley, a seasoned veteran on the football field, quickly earned all-ISL honors as a freshman and contributed significantly to Belmont Hill’s successful run to an ISL-7 title last year. Onuoha, a relative newcomer to football, swiftly developed into a highly sought-after prospect, receiving offers from numerous universities, including his dream school, Duke.

Despite their different journeys, Rupley and Onuoha have become close friends, supporting each other through the recruiting process and ultimately choosing Duke together. Both players were drawn to the university’s academics and athletic program, with Rupley also being impressed by Duke’s promising football trajectory.

Fucillo emphasized the importance of Rupley and Onuoha’s character, praising their humility and dedication to the team. “In this crazy world of recruiting, branding and social media, they’ve stayed so humble through the entire process,” Fucillo said. “They have never made their paths bigger than the team goals. I really believe that one reason we were so successful last year was the way they worked hard every single day.”

Belmont Hill is proud to send these two exceptional student-athletes to Duke, where they are sure to make their mark on the field and beyond.

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