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Robert, Bedford set to begin anew

BEDFORD – Quarterback Connor Robert called the collection of talent around him in 2016 – the 12-0 state champion Bedford High Bulldogs – “an all-star team.”

Now a senior, Robert has flipped the page on last fall.

“This is my last year playing with all these kids I’ve grown up with forever. It’s stressful, but it’s just a matter of trying to enjoy the last time with them,” said Robert, the hero in last year’s title game with the lone TD coming off his right arm to classmate Noah Chaberek in the 7-0 win over Exeter.

“We won it. It was great, and we had a good time. We’ve honestly moved on. It’s time to work for it again. This is a completely different team. And it’s my last time with them. I’m just going to enjoy it while it lasts.”

Robert is the rare three-year starter behind center. He’s had some hefty expectations lofted on him.

“He’s a three-year guy, senior, captain and leader so a lot is expected,” said coach Derek Stank.

Robert has been paying attention, though. He’s a pure gamer, and understands what it takes.

He’s the guy who stepped up late in the state semifinals a year ago, throwing a pair of TD passes in a 27-20 victory over Merrimack.

“Fighting through it, living through it, things got tough at times,” said Robert. “It builds a little confidence, though, knowing those situations.”

For some high school athletes, the fall season is just the beginning of a big athletic year. For Robert, the fall means everything.

A regular volunteer for the Salvation Army, distributing gifts the past seven years, and helping out at a Manchester soup kitchen, Robert plays no other sport for the Bulldogs.

Come winter, it’s off to the slopes at Attitash and Wildcat for skiing.

This could be it.

“I would love to play college football, and I believe that can happen,’ said Robert.

“But I can’t think that far ahead. We want to win another state title. Right now, that’s all that matters.”

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