8-31-2024 12:06am

Westwood Area Graduates Continue Athletic Pursuits at College

Darlene Cancell Editor

Photo by Heather Schnabel. Declan Murphy, graduate of Xaverian Brothers High School, poses for a photo with his family after committing in June to continue his athletic career at the University of Louisville in June.

As the school year begins for recent high school graduates of the Westwood area, here's a look at how some of them are continuing their athletic careers in college:

Declan Murphy (Westwood - pictured above)

Declan Murphy, a captain and three-year starter for Xaverian Brothers High School’s varsity rugby team, as well as a member of the New England Free Jacks Academy, recently committed to continue his athletic career at the University of Louisville in Kentucky. Declan signed his letter at Xaverian and was accompanied by his mom, Emily Sorblom, and his sisters, Fiona and Juliet.

According to Anif McDonald, Xaverian varsity rugby coach, “Declan is the true embodiment of the phrase ‘leading by example.’ His passion for the game and dedication to promoting the sport has helped grow our varsity rugby program over the last three years. We are excited to see him shine at Louisville!”

John “Jack” Cucinotta (Dedham)

John “Jack” Cucinotta, a three-year starter for Xaverian Brothers High School’s varsity rugby team and member of the New England Free Jacks Academy, recently committed to continue his athletic career at Fairfield University in Connecticut. Jack signed his letter at Xaverian and was accompanied by his parents, Cosimo and Paula Cucinotta.

According to Anif McDonald, Xaverian varsity rugby coach, “Jack’s rugby IQ and curiosity for the game has motivated him to become one of the strongest players on our team. He is constantly asking questions and implementing new skills and strategies for himself and his teammates which has helped our team become more successful. Fairfield is lucky to have him next year!”

Tory Stuckey (Norwood)

Tory Stuckey, a highly decorated, three-season track athlete for Xaverian Brothers High School, recently committed to continue his athletic career at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Tory signed his letter at Xaverian and was accompanied by his mom, Monique Lewis, his dad, Troy Stuckey, and his younger brother, Tre’son Stuckey.

Tory’s accolades are numerous. He was named a Catholic Conference All-Star for all three seasons of competition and was a medalist for both the high jump and the 4x400 relay at the MIAA Division 1 Championships and the Meet of Champions for his senior indoor season. He is a Division 1 State Champion for the 4x400 relay, and he and his fellow Hawks also set a new school record. In addition, they are the record holders for the Division 1 MSTCA Relays. Tory was a qualifier for both the indoor and spring Track New England Championships (high jump and 4x400 relay) and for Nationals for the 2024 outdoor season. He was also a New Balance Nationals Qualifier (4x200 and 4x400) and a Boston Herald All-Scholastic (4x400). Xaverian named him a Co-MVP for his senior indoor track season.

Xaverian’s Head Track Coach, Bill Foley, describes Tory as “an extremely hard-working and talented athlete.” He says, “Tory leads by example and displays a ‘never-quit' mentality that captivates his teammates. We are extremely proud of all he has accomplished in the short time he has been with our program and we look forward to seeing his talents at the collegiate level!”

Cate Hernon (Westwood)

Cate Herndon of Westwood will again serve as a captain of the Endicott women's cross country team, which opens up its 2024 season on Saturday, August 31 in the "Battle of the North Shore." in Wenham, announced Endicott College earlier this week. This year, Ms. Herndon is one of two team captains; last year, she was one of three team captains.

This year's team includes Ms. Herndon, a junior, along with five seniors, six sophomores and one freshman.

Last fall, the Endicott Gulls placed second at the Commonweath Coast Conference (CCC) Championship and 9th overall of 34 teams at the NCAA Division III East Regionals Championship.

Thanks to Endicott College Athletics and Recreation and Xaverian Brothers High School for sharing this news with Westwood Minute.