Dave is the youngest of 3 brothers, all athletes at Amesbury High. An exceptional athlete, Dave starred in Baseball, Football and Hockey.
In Baseball Dave started as a freshman on a team that reached the state finals.
Patrolling centerfield. He still ranks 3rd all-time in games played,7th all-time in total bases, 6th all-time in runs scored, 9th all-time in hits and 2nd all time in stolen bases. He finished his career with a batting average of .298. He received many awards. In ‘73 the good sportsmanship award, ’74 highest batting average and best all-around athlete elected team captain. Cape Ann League all-star in ‘72, ‘73 and ‘74.
In Football, a starter as a sophomore. Always known for his quickness and speed.
His career stats were 1,601 yds rushing for a 5.9 yd per carry average. Career totals for kickoff returns totaled 404 yds. He scored a total of 74 points and ranks 3rd in career interceptions with 7. Voted the Tassinari Award as team MVP and Cape Ann League All-Star in ‘73. Named to the Prep All American Team in ‘74.
In Hockey Dave was a standout goalie. He still holds the school record for wins with 40. He also has the school record with 16 shutouts.
In ‘72 he was named Rookie of the Year, In ‘73 the unsung hero and in ‘74 for Outstanding career contribution. He was elected captain his senior year.
His head coach in football was Doug Wood who had this to say.
“Dave Motsis is one of the premier all-around 3-sport Fighting Indians athletes to graduate from AHS. He competed in football, hockey, and baseball during all 12 seasons of his high school career at an extremely high level.
He was a team leader in all 3 sports leading by example in a very humble manner, always stressing TEAM over individual success. Having 2 older brothers, George and Fred who excelled athletically in their own way, he never lived in their shadow, as he carved out his own path to athletic success.
Dave was also very instrumental in the historical success of AHS Varsity Baseball serving as an assistant to fellow Hall of Famer Jerry Mondalto. His position helped lead the program to the best overall record of all time. Finally, he is extremely loyal to his friends, former teammates, former and fellow coaches. Well deserved Dave, congratulations.”
Jerry Mondalto had this to say. “When I played, I knew of Dave as he was the little brother to George and Freddie Motsis. I didn’t know much about him other than he was quiet, didn’t say much but hustled his butt off. When your game is speed, it’s hard to take a play off.
In hockey, that was his sport and his goaltending was incredible. When he came to coach with us, is when I got to know him best. Great instincts, super competitive, loved a challenge, played to win. Could steal signs from the other dugout with the best of them. I enjoyed coaching with Dave, nice to see his accomplishments being recognized, he might have been the younger brother but he was the better athlete.”
Dave also coached youth hockey and little league for many years.
Dave’s biggest supporter has always been his wife, Diane. High school sweethearts who have raised 3 AHS athletes of their own.
Dave received 10 varsity letters and was an integral part of 5 championships.
We are pleased to induct David Motsis, Class of 1974, into the AHS Athletic Hall of Fame.
