Molloy, Over 250 Alumni & Distinguished Guests

Pay Tribute to Coach Jack Curran

The Archbishop Molloy High School community, as well as the world of sports, suffered a tremendous loss on March 14th, 2013 when Coach Jack Curran passed away at the age of 82. Curran had devoted his entire career to teaching and nurturing teenage athletes at Molloy. As a result, there are hundreds of individuals that will tell you they owe a great deal of their success in life to Curran’s guidance and friendship. While Curran’s passing brought great sadness, it also encouraged us to remember the person he was, and the legacy he has left behind. “He was truly a giant.” “He touched the lives of so many athletes, non-athletes, opposing players and students.” “We thought we were just learning about the game, but we were also learning so much about life.” “Coach Curran saved my life.” These are just some of the wonderful words alumni have shared over the past two months.

In February 2013, Molloy had planned to honor Curran in his 55th year as Head Coach by rededicating the newly updated Jack Curran Gymnasium in his honor during a triple header versus Christ the King High School. Unfortunately, the event was cancelled due to inclement weather. Coach had been looking forward to the triple header, but when asked if he was excited about being honored, he answered the only way he knew how, “That’s great, but I’d rather just win the game!” While the rededication was rescheduled for April 27th to coincide with a Players’ Day event, our community would come to the sad realization that Coach would not be there. Despite the initial shock of Curran’s passing, there was still a great desire by many to honor the Molloy legend. In turn, the planned Players’ Day became a Tribute to Coach Curran, inviting many of Coach’s former players, as well as all members of our community, out to the school to remember the man who changed their lives.

The event began with a tailgate near Stanner Field as Molloy faced rival Chaminade. Alumni, family members and friends enjoyed refreshments and reminisced about Curran and “the good ole days” while they watched the Varsity boys battle it out on the field. Following the game, a Memorial Mass was held in the Jack Curran Gymnasium, which saw over 250 alumni and distinguished guests in attendance. Together, our community prayed for Coach, remembering him as a loving, faithful man who received communion every single day. After all, if there was anything else that could have defined Curran, it would have been his relationship with God.

Following Mass, Athletic Director Mike McCleary commenced the rededication ceremony. State Senator Joseph Addabbo Jr. ’82 and State Assemblyman Edward Braunstein ’99 presented Molloy with a Legislative Resolution, representing New York State’s official acknowledgement of Curran’s passing and great influence on our city. Braunstein, who played basketball for Curran during his time at Molloy, shared anecdotes that reflected the relationship that many had with their coach. Kevin Joyce ’69, one of Curran’s most intense players, was emotional when asked to speak in front of the crowd. “I love him, and I miss him,” said Joyce as he struggled to find the right words. Each speaker, including McCleary and Molloy President Richard Karsten ’81, spoke to the remarkable character and spirit Curran displayed every day.

As the rededication event continued, a tribute video highlighted a number of Curran’s best players, and many of the featured vintage photos represented how he is still remembered by many generations of players (you can view this video tribute HERE). Following the conclusion of the video, President Karsten and members of Molloy’s Varsity baseball team unveiled the beautiful new plaque which will reside just outside the gym’s entrance for many years. The plaque reads, “Jack Curran, 1930-2013, Coach-Teacher-Mentor, 9 Hall of Fame Inductions, 22 Coach of the Year Awards, 972 Wins in Basketball, Most in NYS History, 1,708 Wins in Baseball, Most in NYS History, ‘The road to success is always under construction‘ – Jack Curran” Also featured on the plaque is a photo mosaic of Curran, which is made up of many of his players throughout the years. Those in attendance were in awe of the beautiful new piece, and all were in agreement that it was a fitting tribute to the man that “built” this gym. “Coach always said it wasn’t about him, it was about the players. So the players, in this case, are forming the image of Coach, which is a great tribute,” said Karsten.

As the ceremony came to a close, alumni crowded around the plaque for photos while media in attendance interviewed several of Curran’s most recent star players, including Mike Baxter ’02 (New York Mets), Sundiata Gaines ’04 (Utah Jazz, New Jersey Nets), Matt Rizzotti ’04 (MiLB, Philadelphia Phillies, Oakland A’s, Minnesota Twins). “He was the foundation, and through his courage and knowledge of the game, it helped evolve my game. But what made him more special was him off the court,” Gaines told Currents TV. “Nobody can replace him. That goes without saying. No one will ever be another Jack Curran,” reflected Rizzotti, who always had a strong relationship with Coach. “It wasn’t about winning games for him,” said Baxter, who is relishing playing ball for his hometown team. “I think it was about helping kids get to places they wanted to be…he wanted you to go to college, he wanted you to get an education, and then he wanted you to be a happy man. And that’s all he really wanted.”

While Coach Curran’s passing initially brought great sadness, there was nothing but joy on April 27th in remembering his spirit and his legacy. It is clear that in the days ahead we will all continue to remember Curran, and in doing so feel blessed that he will always be with us.

Click Here for a full photo gallery from our Tribute to Coach Curran

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President Karsten ’81 Honored by St. Francis College

This year’s St. Francis College Charter Day Convocation (the 129th anniversary of the granting of the school’s charter) was a special one for Molloy President Richard Karsten ’81. The long-time dedicated Stanner alum was honored for his work on behalf of Catholic education with the degree of Doctor of Humane Letters by the college’s Board of Trustees. He has served on several local parish committees and volunteers his time on behalf of Catholic education. For roughly 20 years, Karsten lent his business sensibilities and his creativity to Molloy through various projects, ultimately resulting in his induction into the Stanner Hall of Fame in 2007. In 2010, Karsten would be appointed President of Molloy, and with his new responsibilities came the same dedication he had always exhibited to his alma mater. Since his appointment, Karsten has been determined to put the students of Molloy first, working hard to sustain the high-level of excellence that once nurtured him. Introduced by fellow Stanner alum J. Christopher Mangan ’79, Karsten would then address the crowd, “I am humbled and honored to accept this recognition on behalf of Archbishop Molloy High School’s faculty, administration and guidance counselors. And I share this award with so many people who believe in Catholic education in our great city, and who work tirelessly in our local parishes, in grade schools, and at the high school and college levels.” President of St. Francis College Brendan Dugan presented Karsten with the honorary degree, congratulating him on his many successes, particularly in his role as president of Molloy. “I am inspired by President Dugan’s work on behalf of St. Francis College’s vibrant student and alumni community. He has ‘super-charged’ their spirit, and has benefited the local Brooklyn community as well. It is clear to me that St. Francis College has great leadership. In this way, I look forward to my work ahead at Molloy. It is just beginning.” Pictured Top: L-R – Fr. Michael L. Reilly (Principal of St. Joseph by-the-Sea High School), Brendan Dugan (President of St. Francis College), Edolphus “Ed” Towns (Member of Congress, 1983-2013), Sis. Joan Gallagher (Principal of St. Joseph High School), Richard Karsten (President of Archbishop Molloy High School). Lower Left: President Karsten addresses the crowd as a proud honoree. Lower Right: Ed Cameron (Assistant Principal for Academics at Molloy), Kathy Karsten, Jim Sheehan (Molloy’s English Department Chair), Mary Ann Safrey (Assistant Principal for Academics at Molloy).

Stanners Honored by Basketball Old-Timers of America

Stanner Hall of Famers Tom Konchalski ’64 and Willie Hall ’58 were honored during the 74th Annual Basketball Old-Timers of America dinner on May 3rd at Bishop Ford High School. Konchalski and Hall were among 4 inductees, also including Mike Riordan and Coach Bobby Cremins. Hall is remembered as a stellar basketball player at Molloy and also St. John’s University, particularly during the 1959 season as a member of the undefeated freshman team. In an interview with The Tablet, Hall was quoted saying, “I had so many good people behind me like Coach Carnesecca, Jack Curran, I had so many good people in my life that made the world a better place for me and a lot of other people. And I love that to this day.” Konchalski is known these days as a “Super Scout” nationally. His knowledge of high school basketball is unparalleled, and his professional insights and evaluations have been sought by coaches in many different colleges. “Going to the games is the fun part,” Konchalski tells The Tablet. “Writing the report is the work, but just going to the games is a joy, and when I grew up in New York City it was hard not to fall in love with this game.” For more comments from Tom Konchalski and Willie Hall, check out The Tablet.

Around the School

Molloy Remembers Brother Francis Regis With Memorial Mass

The Marist community was extremely saddened by the passing of Brother Francis Regis this past December. Br. Regis was one of the most beloved Marist Brothers in the history of Archbishop Molloy High School. His kindness and remarkable spirit meant a great deal to so many at Molloy and beyond throughout his career. He influenced the lives of thousands of students as a guidance counselor, mentor, and friend, and in doing so he was able to do God’s work, what he truly loved to do, for the majority of his life. On Thursday, May 9th, Students, faculty and alumni joined together in the Captain Marsloe Gym to remember Br. Regis during a special Memorial Mass. Speakers included individuals whose lives he impacted in a special way, including Jessica Pastore ’04, Jerry Walsh ’56, and Claudia Fernandes ’12.

Brother James Norton, a friend and colleague of Br. Regis for decades, presented a sincere and thoughtful eulogy, highlighting Br. Regis’ most memorable qualities. “Regis was always the guy who stood out,” said Br. James. “He was a comforting presence for me and others. He was wise, reassuring, and helped me have a better perspective on life. I knew he was close to God, and that he felt blessed for his vocation as a Marist Brother.” Brother Dan O’Riordan ’85, who was taught by Br. Regis and worked alongside him later in life as a Marist Brother, echoed comments made by others during the Mass. “If it weren’t for Brother Regis, I wouldn’t be here,” said Br. Dan. “I was failing 6 out of 7 subjects at one time, but Regis put me back on track.” A brief presentation was also shared, featuring vintage footage of Br. Regis during a SMILE event in the late 1980s. At the end of Mass, everyone was given two prayer cards containing Br. Regis’ favorite prayer Let Go, And Let God; one to keep, and one to share with a friend. This is something Br. Regis practiced often, and it was a fitting tribute to his humble, yet profound legacy.

Let Go, and Let God

“Today I let go and I let God take charge of this life of mine. Now in the dark corners of my soul, His light is beginning to shine. All of the cares and worries that I have carried around for so long, He has lifted them from my shoulders, and filled my heart with love. Problems that were overwhelming suddenly seem very small, and come what may, starting today, I know I can handle them all. If you are troubled, ‘Let Go, and Let God’ take charge of your life for you, and however dark life’s shadows seem, His light will come shining through.”

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Students, Faculty Organize For Blood Drive

On April 30th, roughly 159 registered donors comprised of students and faculty gave their time, and more importantly their blood, in support of many of our friends and neighbors around New York City. Molloy welcomed the Long Island division of the NYC Blood Bank for its Annual Blood Drive, which collects blood donations for individuals with medical needs. The blood drive began before school and ended at 3pm, at which time the 176th pint of blood was collected to wrap up the day. “I would like to thank all those who donated and who were supportive of our blood drive,” said Kathy Forgione, Molloy’s on site Registered Nurse who organizes this effort each year. “The drive ran so smoothly, I am looking forward to next year’s effort already.” Congratulations to our students and faculty, who helped give the gift of life for those who need it most. (Photos courtesy of The Stanner newspaper)

Mets Outfielder Mike Baxter ’02 is already the first Stanner ever to hit a home run in the major leagues, sending one over the wall for the hometown team in 2012. This past week, Baxter made some more history for our school as he became the first Stanner to win a major league game with a walkoff hit. On Tuesday versus the Chicago White Sox, with 1 out in the bottom of the 10th inning, Baxter sent a line drive double into the right field corner that brought home the winning run and sent all the fans home happy. Baxter was interviewed during the postgame show and on a national telecast later in the evening. It was a great moment for “The Kid from Whitestone,” who grew up rooting for the Mets as a kid. But Baxter wasn’t done! On Thursday versus the Pittsburgh Pirates, Baxter came through again! This time, the outfielder smacked a single into center field, resulting in his second walkoff hit of the week. For the second time in three nights, Baxter was mobbed by his teammates, and Stanners on Facebook and Twitter reacted with words of congratulations and excitement. Don’t look now, but #PrideofWhitestone is trending!

Jim Shannon ’83 was the keynote speaker and alumni honoree at the St. John’s Tobin College of Business’ 4th Annual Beta Gamma Sigma Honor Society Induction Dinner at Russo’s on the Bay. Pictured with Jim are his wife Anissa and friend/fellow Stanner alum Jim Galowski ’81.

Adrienne Zhou ’12 and Niles Uy ’12 have both been admitted to the Hertog Scholars Program, which resides within the CUNY Macaulay Honors College. Only 20 students a year are accepted to this program, which is dedicated to developing the full intellectual and academic potential of committed students. The program achieves this by “immersing students in a sequence of required multidisciplinary seminars focused on close readings and discussion of enduring texts that ask vital contemporary questions.” Hertog Scholars are required to complete 18 seminar credits over a two-year period. Congratulations to Adrienne and Niles on this fantastic achievement.

Tourron Whitfield ’11 was recently named to the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference’s (MAAC) All-Academic Team, a distinction only given to 10 student athletes. Tourron, a sophomore basketball player studying business administration at Marist College, received the honor having met the requirement of maintaining at least a 3.2 GPA as an outstanding athlete. In addition, Tourron was also named Student Athlete of the Month for April. Congratulations to Tourron on these well deserved honors.