Massachusetts Youth Soccer and Bay State Physical Therapy Honor 2024 Comeback Player of the Year
North Andover’s Ernesto Fiallos Recognized for Resilience and Determination
Bay State Physical Therapy, the Official Injury Prevention Partner of Massachusetts Youth Soccer (MYS), is proud to announce the 2024–25 Bay State Physical Therapy Comeback Player of the Year: Ernesto Fiallos of the North Andover Soccer Association.
Selected from nominations submitted across the state, this annual award honors one Massachusetts Youth Soccer athlete who demonstrates extraordinary perseverance in overcoming injury and returning to the game they love.
A Story of Determination
Ernesto’s journey has been anything but easy. In middle school, he faced the heartbreak of a torn ACL in his right knee, an injury that would sideline most young athletes for nearly a year. After months of hard work and determination, he finally made it back to the field—only to face another devastating setback, tearing the ACL in his left knee during the championship game at the Massachusetts Tournament of Champions (MTOC).
Despite the heartbreak, Ernesto stayed engaged with his team. He attended practices and games, offered advice from the sidelines, and supported younger players (including his younger brother!) with encouragement and mentorship. Even on crutches, he could be found juggling a soccer ball on one leg, keeping his passion for the sport alive.
When he finally returned to play, he quickly made an impact, reminding everyone of his talent, scoring beautiful goals with his dominant left foot and elevating the play of his entire team. His efforts helped North Andover repeat as 2025 MTOC champions in the boys’ division 1, 9–10 group.
His coach, Jay Artz, who nominated Ernesto, praised him as “a fabulous soccer player and an even better person” and described him as “a quiet leader, an excellent student, and one of the most deserving players I’ve ever coached.”
The Role of Physical Therapy in Ernesto’s Recovery
Ernesto’s recovery journey took place at Bay State Physical Therapy – North Andover, where he worked closely with Maddie C., PT, DPT, his physical therapist, pictured together below.
Over the past several years, Ernesto (who is now in high school) has come to know the Bay State PT – North Andover team well, working with them through two ACL rehabilitations, care for patellar tendinitis and a quad strain, and most recently recovery from a meniscus tear.
Through every stage, Ernesto stayed focused on doing his part in therapy, while he and his family placed their trust in the clinic team. In turn, his PT Maddie and the entire North Andover staff remained dedicated to helping him reach his goal of returning safely to the game he loves. “Ernesto’s recovery journey has been nothing short of inspiring,” shared Curran. “At every stage, from ACL tears to tendinitis and most recently a meniscus injury, he has shown resilience, focus, and determination. He never lets challenges define him and approaches each phase of rehab with the mindset of an athlete determined to keep moving forward.”
Physical therapy plays a central role in helping athletes like Ernesto return to sport safely. From regaining strength and balance to building confidence and sport-specific readiness, the process is tailored to meet each stage of recovery. Ernesto embraced every challenge, asking thoughtful questions and working hard to put himself in the best position to succeed.
More Than a Comeback
What makes Ernesto’s story so inspiring is not only his return to soccer but also the way he carried himself throughout the journey. He uplifted teammates, offered support to younger players, and maintained a positive outlook through difficult circumstances.
“Ernesto’s story is a powerful reminder that recovery is rarely a straight path. Setbacks happen, but determination and consistency matter most,” shared his PT team. “He embodies what it means to never give up.”
Celebrating Excellence On and Off the Field
At Bay State Physical Therapy, we believe that sports have the power to shape athletes and entire communities. By partnering with Massachusetts Youth Soccer, we are proud to recognize athletes like Ernesto who show extraordinary commitment, resilience, and passion.
Congratulations to Ernesto Fiallos on being named the 2024–25 Bay State Physical Therapy Comeback Player of the Year.
To read about previous winners and to read their success stories, we invite you to visit our Newsroom. If you or a loved one would like to learn more about our team, our services, or to find a location near you, visit baystatept.com.