Bishop Hendricken kicker Cole Peterson recently made his college decision official, committing to play for Division I Merrimack College in North Andover, Massachusetts, next fall.

Peterson was one of the state’s top kickers his senior year and was a key member in Hendricken’s state championship run.

Peterson finished his senior season going 29-for-30 in point after attempts, and had a career-long field goal of 56 yards. Perhaps Peterson’s best performance came in the regular season when the Hawks faced powerhouse North Kingstown on the road and pulled out the 42-34 victory. Peterson was a perfect 6-for-6 in extra points and helped Hendricken keep pace down the stretch.

“It feels good. I’m proud to continue my athletic career at the Division I level,” said Peterson, who thanked his coaches and parents for helping him reach his peak performance. “I definitely would not be here without [Bishop Hendricken] Coach Keith Croft as well as my personal kicking trainer Bruce Massarotti. As well as my parents, my parents giving me rides everywhere and doing what was best for me.”

Peterson felt a strong bond between the players at Merrimack and was also impressed with the facilities during his visit. He is excited to take his next step at the school that was at the top of his list.

“Honestly, I felt a brotherhood when I went there and it was similar to Hendricken in that everyone had [each other’s] backs. It looks like a cool school, the campus is very nice, it was appealing to me. It was definitely my No. 1,” said Peterson.

Merrimack graduated its senior kicker from last season, opening the door for Peterson to compete for the spot his freshman campaign.

Peterson is excited for the opportunity to play right away and embraces that challenge of competing at the Division I level.

“I’m expecting a lot of competition, but I feel like Hendricken prepared me very well for competition day in and day out. I’m looking forward to getting started and competing for a spot. Their kicker just graduated, so I’ll have an opportunity to compete for a spot,” said Peterson. “It’s going to be a lot faster paced and there will be a lot more pressure on me on every kick. But you just have to focus on your job and do what you can control.”

Peterson will miss his friends at Hendricken as he gets prepared to take the next step in his football and academic career.

“I’m going to miss the practices, the locker room, that was the fun part, seeing everyone day in and day out. Seeing them in school, seeing them in practice for half the year, that is very special and I’m going to miss that,” said Peterson. “I’m looking forward to the next level though and next year and just playing football.”