portsmouth abbey news
Ravens Roundup: January 2025
Former NFL Linebacker Tully Banta-Cain Inspires Portsmouth Coaches with Lessons on Leadership
The Portsmouth Abbey Athletics Department recently welcomed two-time Super Bowl champion and former New England Patriots linebacker Tully Banta-Cain as a guest speaker during its January meeting for coaches. Drawing from his exceptional career in the NFL and his journey as a standout player for the University of California, Berkeley, Banta-Cain shared insights on leadership, motivation, and the transformative power of coaching.
Reflecting on his own experiences, he emphasized the critical role coaches play in shaping athletes—not just as players but as people. From his early days as a California Golden Bear, where he struggled to rise to academic and athletic challenges, to his time under legendary Patriots coach Bill Belichick, Banta-Cain described how tough, yet caring mentorship helped him unlock his potential. “The coach’s job,” he explained, “is to guide and show you that you are cared for. That makes all the difference.” He stressed the importance of coaches looking for the best in their student athletes and to always help them remember that the window for athletes to grow and improve is very short, and that in light of this, their academic growth is most important.
Banta-Cain also reminded the audience of the importance of discipline, hard work, and seizing the moment. “The pain of discipline and hard work is better than the pain of neglect and regret,” he said. “Coaches should always be encouraging students to make the most of their time as athletes. “
Athletic Director Chris Milmoe follows a tradition of using the January meeting as an opportunity to also bring in speakers for motivation and professional development. “Tonight, Tully delivered a message of athletic grit and inspiring stories to fire up our coaches, pushing them to continue their great work that makes a lasting impact on our student-athletes,” Milmoe said.
Now retired from professional sports and living in Newport, Rhode Island, Banta-Cain remains an active leader, coaching in his own Beach Football League and mentoring young players. His visit to Portsmouth Abbey is yet another example of the School's commitment to excellence and leadership through both academics and athletics. It was a memorable moment for the department and a reminder of how sports can profoundly impact young lives.
Winter Teams Working Hard
The frigid air of winter may be upon us, but Raven student-athletes are working to bring the heat to the courts, mats and rinks. With early wins in December, a few teams are looking to gain back their momentum this month.
Basketball
With a younger squad this year, boys varsity basketball won over Providence Country Day, Hebron Academy and Chapel-Hill Chauncy Hall at the start of the season in December. January is moving slower than imagined. However, the team is building strength, learning to work as one, and has a spirit that will carry them forward. The boys' JVB team saw early losses to Milton Academy and St. Georges but is looking to build on the season ahead. The JV team is also learning to play with fresh players as several boys moved to the varsity level.
The varsity girls had early wins over Landmark and Westminster but have struggled on and off the courts due to numerous injuries. Veteran player Elle Martin ’26 has missed playing time and newcomer Catie Keswick ’28 has been out all season. Still this team has seen its players build, bond and continue to hold their own. The JV team celebrated a win over Worcester and keeps working against some of the stronger teams in the league.
Hockey
The boys varsity hockey team is currently ranked first in the Holt Conference. Matthew Burgner ’25 set a record for 100 games played and is looking forward to the remainder of the season. “The past 100 games have been nothing shy of a wild journey. And the crazy thing is, we're still going, it's not over yet," he commented.
The JV boys are doing well with a record of 4 and 3 with wins over LaSalle, St. Georges, Milton, and Rectory School. The JV girls celebrated a 10-6 win over Tabor and have had a few close games since. The varsity squad is also rebuilding this year after losing powerhouse players to graduation. With two wins and a tie, they are looking to edge out the competition for the remainder of the season.
Squash
Girls varsity squash is another program building after the loss of key players in the Class of 2024. They earned a recent win over Tabor Academy and hope to continue that streak as the season continues. The JV team is also comprised of players newer to the sport. They are working to build momentum. The boys JV team is 2-2 with losses to strongholds St. George’s and Dexter Southfield and wins over Brooks School and Kingswood Oxford School.
Wrestling
The Ravens remain strong in wrestling, with wins for the boys over Exeter, Tabor, Thayer, and Wilbraham and Monson Academy. The girls are also gaining strength with wins over Tabor and Thayer Academies.