If anyone had the chance to see Central Catholic this fall, they came away impressed with the talent the Raiders had on the field.

Now, with many of those players moving on to colleges, one again has to be impressed with the destinations for the next level.

Let’s start with quarterback Ayden Pereira, an NEFJ All-State first team selection. Pereira is simply a playmaker, and he will move on to the University of Maine. There were some coaching changes there, but the Black Bears will run the same offense that Pereira was familiar with throughout the process.

“I do (think it’s a good choice) because I think it’s a great school,” Central coach Chuck Adamopoulos said. “It’s a good football tradition up there, great league. It’s one of the top two FCS leagues there are. Those top two teams are usually top teams. I think it’s a good spot.”

Junior Preston Zinter has been one of the top recruits in the area. He’s very good at really any position. At Central, he has played tight end, wide receiver, linebacker, and defensive end, and played all of them well.

“It’s been crazy with the schools coming in: SEC, ACC, Big Ten,” Adamopoulos said. “His demeanor didn’t change. He has had no ego. He’s so level headed. He’s definitely tired at this point, but he’s never been overwhelmed by it. And he didn’t let his studies suffer.”

Zinter is announcing his college intentions — between a number of major programs — on Friday.

Back to the seniors, wide receiver Justice McGrail will continue his career in the NESCAC at Williams.Safety Kolton Williams will play at Mass. Maritime. Two-year starter at center Mathew St. Hilaire will also play at Mass. Maritime. Inside linebacker Evan LeBlanc will decide between Plymouth State and Endicott. Nose guard Michael Brown is off to Hobart. Running back Nathel Achuo is between Springfield College and Bridgewater St.

Of the juniors, defensive tackle Jaden Wiggins has a Marshall offer and could see some additional Football Championship Subdivision interest. Running back/safety Matthias Latham is getting looks from Maine, Merrimack, and other FCS interest. Merrimack also has interest in inside linebacker Sean Mercuri. Outside linebacker Marcus Rivera should get FCS and Div. 2 looks. Ty Cannistraro, who showed a lot of improvement as a wide receiver and cornerback, will get Div. 2 and 3 interest. Running back/cornerback Marquis Bridgewater will also hear from Div. 2 and 3 programs.

Although he has not seen much varsity action yet, freshman quarterback Blake Herbert is already getting college looks. He has good size at 6-3, 200 pounds, and appears to be the guy who will replace Pereira.