Lineman Clare Named Harvard Football MVP

Senior left tackle Mike Clare was named Harvard football's Most Valuable Player last night during the Crimson's end-of-the-season banquet at the Harvard Club of Boston.

Clare was also 127th captain of Harvard football.

Considered a pro-prospect, the 6'4, 325-pound Clare played in every game since his sophomore campaign and was considered a key part of the Crimson's successful running game this season.

With its captain overpowering opposing interior lineman throughout the 2000 season, Harvard's offense set numerous school records including total offense (4,679 yards), first downs (239) and the modern day record for point scored (327).

The Crimson topped the Ivy League in rushing yards per game with 179.4.

In other team news, junior defensive tackle Ryan Fitzgerald was named the 128th captain after a vote by the players yesterday before the dinner.

It was the first season in the starting line-up for the 6'2 225 pounder from nearby West Roxbury, Mass. He registered 29 tackles, five pass-breaks-ups, two fumble recoveries and one sack for the Crimson defense.

This is the third time in five years a defensive lineman has captained the Harvard football team.