5 Super Athletes With Ties To Barnstable-Hyannis

Sports have a way of teaching invaluable life lessons — building character, fostering teamwork and strengthening the bonds within a community. In the Barnstable-Hyannis area, these values have shaped some truly remarkable athletes from different eras, whose accomplishments continue to inspire.

Patch has teamed up with T-Mobile to spotlight five standout athletes whose achievements have left a lasting mark on our community. While this list is just a snapshot, there are countless others who have helped shape the rich sports culture in our area.

1. Matt Mangini (Baseball)

Massachusetts-born Matt Mangini made his mark in baseball with a brief MLB career for the Seattle Mariners in 2010. A standout at both NC State and Oklahoma State, he shone in the Cape Cod Baseball League with the Hyannis Mets in 2006. His performance earned him the Thurman Munson Award for highest batting average and being named an all-star starting third baseman. He continued his baseball career in the minor leagues and has played for the Tampa Bay Rays, Arizona Diamondbacks and Cincinnati Reds.

2. Maxwell Willman (Hockey)

Max Willman, a Barnstable native, is a notable National Hockey League player who most recently played for the New Jersey Devils in the 2023-24 season. After leading Barnstable High School to three consecutive Old Colony League championships and serving as team captain, Willman pursued a postgraduate year at Williston Northampton School, which helped launch his collegiate career at Brown University. His NHL career has also included several seasons with the Buffalo Sabres and the Philadelphia Flyers.

3. Laura Cogswell (Ice Hockey)

Laura Cogswell is a 2022 Barnstable High School graduate who excelled as a left defenseman in ice hockey. A varsity team member since eighth grade, she earned Cape and Islands League All-Star honors twice and was named team MVP as a sophomore. Cogswell’s leadership as a team captain in her senior year propelled her to continue her hockey career at Miami University of Ohio.

4. Ryan Gardiner (Track)

Hyannis native Ryan Gardiner is a record-setting sprinter who broke the Barnstable High School record for the 200-meter dash with a time of 23.0 in 2021. Known for his relentless work ethic and commitment to self-improvement, Gardiner also contributed to the school’s success in the 4x100m relay. His determination and drive reflect his passion for excellence in athletics and academics.

5. Dierdre Mullin (Lacrosse)

Dierdre Mullin of Barnstable High School (Class of 2022) has transitioned her lacrosse talents to Franklin Pierce University. As a defender, Mullin made her collegiate debut in 2023 and recorded her first ground ball and caused turnover during her freshman season. Her strong defensive skills and experience at Barnstable have positioned her as a valuable asset to her college team.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.