LOWELL, MA - Growing up in Massachusetts carries a unique charm - from snowy winter days that transform neighborhoods into winter wonderlands to the salty sea breeze and sun-kissed sands of summer escapes on Cape Cod. And when autumn arrives, the landscape erupts into a breathtaking display of vibrant colors, drawing people to go 'leaf peeping' in quaint New England towns. 

Yet amidst the tranquil beauty of the countryside, a shared sense of community binds residents together. Whether it's lending a hand to neighbors during a snowstorm or coming together for town festivals and parades, the spirit of camaraderie runs deep in Massachusetts. 

For young football enthusiasts, one dream often ignites their passion: the chance to play professionally in their home state. For offensive lineman Jake Guidone and defensive lineman James Nyamwaya, two towering figures at 6'3" and 6'5", respectively, this dream is no longer a distant hope but a thrilling reality. 

Their journeys have led them to suit up for the Massachusetts Pirates this season. While their paths to this momentous opportunity diverged in unique ways, they share a resolute connection to the New England landscape that shaped their football aspirations. 

Guidone's football journey started in the neighboring towns of Norwood and Walpole, where he honed his skills on the gridiron. However, as he matured, Guidone found himself drawn to the serene streets of Westwood, where he now resides, embracing the community and small-town charm that Massachusetts epitomizes.

"I grew up in Norwood and Walpole and split my time between both of those locations," Guidone said. "I just loved that Massachusetts small-town vibe. I started playing Walpole youth football in third grade, and I had unbelievable coaches who really set the groundwork for what was to come."

Nyamwaya's journey into football would be put on hold until high school. Born in Kenya, he made the transition to Andover at the age of ten, following his father's employment opportunity as a teacher at Phillips Academy.

"It was really cool, but obviously, things were very different," Nyamwaya said. "I had never seen snow before coming from Kenya, so getting used to stuff like that was weird. I didn't know it'd get super dark out so early, either, which was hard to get used to. But everyone in Andover was really nice, which made it a smooth transition. The hardest part was, for sure, getting used to the cold."

As he acclimated to the brisk winters of Massachusetts, Nyamwaya found unexpected solace in the snow, remarking, "I got really used to the snow and learned to like it," Nyamwaya said. "I also loved that it was a football-driven town; high school football was a big thing there, so I liked how everyone I was around focused on that. But I didn't start playing until my freshman year at Andover High School." 

Opting for a distinctive path during his high school years, Guidone enrolled at Xaverian Brothers High School, an esteemed private all-boys Catholic institution. Reflecting on his time there, Guidone expresses fondness, stating, "I loved Xaverian," Guidone said. "We were a powerhouse and ended up going 44-4 in my time there. That's where my career began; I was able to come into my own as an offensive lineman at Xaverian and figure out who I am as a player and as a person and, of course, win a couple of state championships in the process too."

Transitioning to the collegiate level, Guidone ventured north to Hanover, New Hampshire, to pursue his education at Dartmouth College, renowned for its Ivy League status. "I fell in love with the place," Guidone said. "I did a camp there before I got an offer, and I impressed the staff. I remember my coach, Buddy Teevins, talked with me during the camp, and he just seemed like one of the nicest, most genuine people that I've ever met. Buddy saw my potential, so he was one of the main reasons I chose Dartmouth."

"The campus was also phenomenal," Guidone added. "Hanover, New Hampshire, is quite a scenic place. The rivers and mountains are amazing. I was fishing and hiking every weekend; it was a great couple of years."

During his tenure at Dartmouth, Guidone's accolades spoke volumes of his prowess on the field. Garnering recognition as an FCS All-American, First-Team All-Ivy, and All-New England, Guidone's contributions were pivotal in securing two Ivy League championships for his team in 2019 and 2021.

"It was a great ride," Guidone said. "The team and its culture were things I don't think a lot of people get to experience in their athletic careers. Thanks to the coaches and the team around me, I was able to help the team the best I could."

Similarly, Nyamwaya's journey took him northward to Bridgeton, Maine, where he chose to enroll at Bridgeton Academy, a prestigious postgraduate college prep school. Reflecting on his decision, he explained, "Since I had just started playing football in my freshman year of high school, I felt like I needed one more year to perfect my game before I moved on to college. Being in Maine taught me to be disciplined because there wasn't much to do around Bridgeton other than play football. It taught me how to get into a routine and take care of business."

To pursue his passion for football at the Division III level, Nyamwaya transitioned to Curry College in Milton, MA, where he was named to the Commonwealth Coast Conference First Team in his Junior year. "I loved my time at Curry," Nyamwaya said. I made some great friends and had the opportunity to be coached by some amazing coaches. It was also good for my development because I played every game since I got there, even in freshman year. Living in Milton was pretty similar to Andover; it's a suburban town, so the switch was easy, and I enjoyed my time there."

Transferring to Merrimack College for his senior year marked a pivotal moment for Nyamwaya as he pursued the opportunity to compete in Division I football. In 2022, his standout performance earned him recognition as an All-Northeast Conference Second Team selection, with his impressive 5.5 sacks tying him for fourth most in the conference.

"I loved being so close to home," Nyamwaya said. "Just being close to my parents and my siblings was super nice. I had gotten enough of being by myself at Curry, so once I got to Merrimack, I really focused on football and locked in. But it was super helpful being able to go home and take myself out of the college life to see family."

Guidone's academic journey led him to the University of Connecticut, where he started his graduate studies while making significant contributions to the Huskies football program, helping UConn go to their first bowl game in seven years. "UConn offered me a fantastic opportunity," Guidone said. "I only had one year of eligibility left, so it was tough to find people who wanted to take a chance on a one-year guy, but UConn took that chance, and I'm glad they did. It was a great experience, and I'm thankful for it. I learned so much there. I think that's really what helped me propel my career to get me where I am today."

Guidone and Nyamwaya found themselves fortunate to have their college careers unfold in the familiar landscapes of New England, though it wasn't necessarily part of their initial plans.

Reflecting on his affinity for the region, Guidone shares, "I love New England. I grew up in Massachusetts, and it's really the only state I know. I've traveled, obviously, but Massachusetts is my home. It wasn't a primary concern to stay in New England in college, but I loved being close to home, and I always like to see my parents and family whenever possible." 

Similarly, Nyamwaya admits that remaining in the New England area wasn't originally part of his life plan, but he's grateful for how things unfolded. "It wasn't my intention to stay in the New England area my entire life; it just worked out that way. But I'm glad that I was able to stay somewhat close to home."

Following their college careers, both Guidone and Nyamwaya had opportunities to pursue professional careers in the NFL. Guidone recently participated in workouts with the Green Bay Packers in September, having previously attended rookie minicamp with the Baltimore Ravens as an undrafted free agent last season. Meanwhile, Nyamwaya took part in rookie minicamp with the Pittsburgh Steelers last season as an undrafted free agent.

Back in Massachusetts, both Guidone and Nyamwaya find themselves in familiar territory. With the ink still wet on their contracts, fueling their excitement to return home and play professionally in their home state. 

Guidone expresses his astonishment at his current situation, stating, "I never thought I'd have the opportunity to play professionally in my home state. For a team like the Pirates to sign me means the world, and it's an absolute blessing. I'm super excited to get out there, represent my home state to the best of my ability, and get some wins for the Pirates."

Similarly, Nyamwaya reveals the significance of staying close to home, saying, "I had a couple of offers from other IFL teams, but it just felt right to stay home and be close to my family. It's super because I'm already used to everything here and know where everything is. It's nice to be playing in my home state. Playing professional football is obviously a dream for me, coming from Kenya and not even touching a football until high school; it is crazy to see how far I've come and will go."

Their paths diverge when it comes to familiarity with Lowell: Nyamwaya is well acquainted with the city, while Guidone is stepping into it for the first time. 

Nyamwaya reflects on his connection to Lowell, sharing, "I actually drive by Lowell every single day, and I used to have a friend who lived in Lowell, so I hung out in Lowell a lot. So, I definitely know my way around Lowell." 

In contrast, Guidone admits to being a newcomer to the area, saying, "I'll have to do a little bit of exploring." He adds, "I need a couple of good restaurant recommendations from anyone out there."

As Guidone and Nyamwaya eagerly anticipate their integration into the Lowell community, the upcoming Lowell WinterFest on February 17 is a highlight on their calendar. Guidone shares his excitement, mentioning, "I saw that they are going to have ice carvings. I'm looking forward to that because there are a lot of skilled artists out there, and I love any ice artwork."

Guidone and Nyamwaya are also enthusiastic about another highlight of the Lowell WinterFest: the Soup Bowl competition, in which local restaurants showcase their best soups for attendees to sample and vote on their favorite. 

Guidone expresses his excitement for the event, saying, "If they need a judge for that, count me in; that sounds like it's right up my alley!" 

Adding to the excitement, Nyamwaya shares, "I'm a big food guy, and I like soup, so I can't wait to check out the Soup Bowl."

Both players grasp the importance of participating in community gatherings like the Lowell WinterFest, yet their motivations stray from one another. 

Guidone emphasizes the significance of showing appreciation for the fans who support the team, stating, "It's pivotal to interact with fans at events like this. If you want people to support you, and you want them to appreciate what you're doing, then you've got to show them some appreciation, too. They are taking their time and money to come to watch you play; the least you could do is have fun with them and build up the community."

Conversely, Nyamwaya sees community engagement as an opportunity to inspire others through his journey, stating, "It's important to me to engage with fans, especially kids, and just let them know they can achieve anything. I'm a good example of that, coming from Kenya and playing professional football yet playing professionally despite a late start. It's important to see someone from your area achieve their dreams. So, I feel like that would be helpful for people in the Lowell and Massachusetts communities."

Both players agree there's nothing better than being a Massachusetts native and representing the state in a sport they love.

About the Massachusetts Pirates                                                                                     
The 2021 United Bowl Champions; Massachusetts Pirates are members of the Indoor Football League (IFL) and play their home games at the Tsongas Center at UMass Lowell. For more information on the Massachusetts Pirates please call (508)452-MASS (6277), email contact@masspiratesfootball.com or visit http://www.masspiratesfootball.com. Follow the Pirates on Facebook via Facebook.com/MAPirates, Instagram @mass.pirates, and Twitter @mass_pirates.