Henry Vetter ’22 may have been a freshman, but he sure didn’t play like one! Henry was named the New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC) Men’s Basketball 2023 Rookie of the Year after a standout first season at Trinity College.
The third Trinity player ever to be so honored, Henry averaged 10.8 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 2.5 assists while playing all 25 games at guard. He was second on the team in scoring, assists, and three-point field goals (42), helping the Bantams to a 16-9 record and a spot in the NESCAC Tournament.
“Playing at the next level is something I have dreamed about. I appreciate the coaching staff for believing in me,” Henry said. “It was nice to get recognition from the other coaches in the league, too. There are a lot of good players, coaches, and teams in the NESCAC, and it is a great environment to play in. Coach (Head Coach James Cosgrove) called me into the office to give me the news about the award, and I was so happy to share it with my family and friends!” One of those proud family members is his father, fellow Canterbury alumnus Alex Vetter ’89.
At Canterbury, Henry was All-New England Class B in basketball and named “Most Improved Athlete” at the Sixth Form Awards. He averaged 11 points, three rebounds, and three assists per game on the court for the Saints. He also played Varsity Football and, as a senior, ran Varsity Track, for which he received a Coaches’ Award.
He left quite an impression during his time on the hilltop. “Henry is a tremendous young man who worked hard from the day he arrived on campus as a freshman. He related to his teammates exceptionally well, led by example through his practice efforts, and at game time was always ready to go,” said Director of Athletics Jim Stone P ’23, ’24. “It is no surprise that he has made a major impact in the NESCAC in his first year. Coaches love players who are willing to do everything they can to help the team win, and that is Henry. He is a high-character kid, great teammate, and fierce competitor.”
Henry has equally positive feelings about his high school. “I appreciate the opportunities that Canterbury gave me both on and off the court. I was lucky to have great coaching and be part of an elite program,” he shared. “It was nice to hear from people at the School throughout my season at Trinity. Mr. Potter (English Teacher Bob Potter) actually came to a few games. At Canterbury, he sat at every home game working the scorer’s table, and it was cool to be playing in a collegiate game and look over to see him there, still watching. I love Mr. Potter!”
He continued: “There were quite a few people from the Canterbury community who reached out when I won the award and throughout the year. It makes me realize what a great support system I have there.”
Congratulations, Henry, and best wishes for even more success in the years to come.