By Jerry Filmore
WORCESTER — The Worcester Public Schools Athletic Hall of Fame will welcome a new class of inductees this spring as the community gathers to recognize athletes, coaches, and contributors who have made lasting impacts on school athletics.
The 2026 Worcester Public Schools Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony is scheduled for Friday, May 8, 2026, with a reception beginning at 5:00 p.m. followed by dinner at 6:00 p.m..
The Hall of Fame was established to honor individuals and teams who have demonstrated excellence in Worcester Public Schools athletics while also serving as role models through leadership, character, and contributions to their communities.
According to event materials, the program recognizes alumni who distinguished themselves through their participation in school athletics and who continued to bring honor to their organizations and communities through achievement or service.
The 2026 class includes former student-athletes and coaches from several Worcester high schools.
2026 Hall of Fame Inductees
Tammy Bailey — South High School
Wade Bovaird — Burncoat High School
Jahkari Carpenter — Doherty Memorial High School
Judy Cusick — Doherty Memorial High School
Eddy Frazier — Burncoat High School
Tishaun Jenkins — Worcester Vocational Technical High School
Robert Kelly — South High School
Elaine McKay — Burncoat High School, Coach
Sean Mulcahy — Doherty Memorial High School, Coach
Leigh Trzcinski — South High School
Leo Varetas — Doherty Memorial High School
Todd Walles — Doherty Memorial High School
Trafficia Warburton — Burncoat High School, Basketball
In addition to individual inductees, the ceremony will recognize Jennifer Toland, longtime sports reporter for the Worcester Telegram & Gazette, as an Outstanding Contributor to local athletics.
The Burncoat High School 1989–1990 Boys Basketball Team will also be honored as the 2026 team inductee.
Event organizers say the evening serves not only as a celebration of past achievements but also as a way to support the future of athletics within Worcester Public Schools.
Net proceeds from the event help fund athletic equipment and uniforms for the district’s teams. According to organizers, outfitting a single football player can cost nearly $1,000, making community support an important part of sustaining athletic opportunities for students.
The event is organized in partnership with the Worcester Educational Development Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supports Worcester Public Schools programs and initiatives.
Event Details Event: Worcester Public Schools Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Date: Friday, May 8, 2026 Reception: 5:00 p.m. Dinner: 6:00 p.m.
Ticket and sponsorship information is available through the Worcester Educational Development Foundation website.
Event organizers note that tickets are expected to sell out, and sales may close April 30 depending on availability.
Community members interested in tickets, sponsorship opportunities, or program advertisements can contact the Hall of Fame committee at WPSathletichalloffame@gmail.com or by phone at 774-502-0445.
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