WAKEFIELD — Northeast Metro Tech is highlighting the leadership of varsity basketball team senior co-captains Jeanahel Exilus and Esien Clarke, whose leadership has melded players from 12 communities into a team that is off to a stellar start this year. 

Exilus, of Malden, is a co-op student in the Electrical Program, while Clarke, also of Malden, is a co-op student in the Plumbing Program. Both co-captains have been playing basketball for four years at Northeast Metro Tech, consistently raising their level of play while maintaining top grades.

The Northeast Metro Tech varsity basketball team is off to a great start this year and recently won the Cape Ann Savings Bank Rockport Holiday Tournament due to outstanding performances from Exilus and Clarke. Exilus, a forward, was named to the All-Tournament Team. Clarke, a point guard, was selected as the tournament's Most Valuable Player. 

Varsity basketball coach Jay Seigal said both co-captains set an example by showing up on time, working hard in practice, and working to motivate other players via quiet leadership instead of showmanship. 

"Jeanahel and Esien exemplify what it means to be student-athletes at Northeast Metro Tech," said Coach Seigal. "They are quiet, dependable leaders, who lead by example — they show up on time, work hard every day, and put the team first. Their leadership has united teammates from 12 communities into a bonded, cohesive team."

“Looking back at our school record and what we’ve accomplished this year is surreal," said Jeanahel Exilus. "We’ve been grinding, learning to trust each other, and I’m proud that the work we put in has translated into this success.”  

“I’m really honored to receive the MVP Award and proud that I was able to perform to the best of my ability," said Esien Clarke. "This wouldn’t have been possible without my teammates — I’m so proud of how we worked together to be successful. We knew what we were capable of as a team and used that to our advantage.”  

"Jeanahel and Esien aren't just excellent athletes and excellent leaders, they have excelled in their vocational programs and showed leadership in the classroom and hallways," said Superintendent David DiBarri. "We are proud of the example that these two set on a daily basis, and we are thrilled to see their hard work paying off."