All photos by Bill O’Brien
Congratulations to Branford’s own Cathy McGuirk for being named to the National Field Hockey Coaches Association Hall of Fame. She will be inducted on Jan. 17, 2019, at the NFHCA annual dinner in Lake Mary, Florida.
“I’m thrilled to receive this high honor,” said McGuirk. “In my wildest dreams I never thought about being chosen for the National Field Hockey Hall of Fame, It’s overwhelming.”
She was also named by the group as the National Field Hockey Coach of the Year in 1994 and was presented with the Connecticut Sportswriters’ Alliance Gold Key Award in 2014.
McGuirk, and her husband John, were recently treated to a Thank You reception at the Branford Yacht Club.
Many former players and parents attended the event.
She retired from coaching last January after 41 seasons. She had an overall record of 558 – 129-66 – 12 and holds the record for most wins by a field hockey coach in the history of the state of Connecticut. She has won 17 regular season league titles and her teams have qualified for the state tournament for 40 consecutive years. The Hornets won 10 state championships under her stewardship.
Cathy is a legend in the field hockey coaching ranks,” said co-athletic director Savis Synodi (left). “Her record is amazing.”
“We’re going to miss her big time,” added Jake Palluzzi(above, right). “She built a dynasty here at Branford, and we are proud of her selection into the National Field Hockey Coaches Association.”
Team members celebrate Cathy McGuirk’s 500th win in 2014.
And a cake celebrated 558 wins.
McGuirk has been selected to the Branford Sports Hall of Fame, Branford Education Hall of Fame, the Connecticut High School Coaches Association Hall of Fame, and the SCSU Athletic Hall of Fame.
