Connor Fahey Wins Charlie Capalbo Inspiration Award

We are so proud to announce that senior student, Connor Fahey, was awarded the 2024 Charlie Capalbo Inspiration Award at the Ruden Report Awards Gala, held on October 27 at Sacred Heart University. Despite facing two significant, season-ending injuries over consecutive years, Connor has transformed these challenges into powerful sources of motivation and leadership, inspiring his teammates and community alike.

Connor’s journey has been marked by resilience. Originally slated as the starting quarterback for the 2023 football season, he suffered a severe hamstring injury, only to work through a rigorous rehabilitation, determined to make his return. But precisely a year later, in a preseason scrimmage, Connor sustained another season-ending injury, breaking his leg. Undeterred, Connor has continued to lead his team from the sidelines, offering support and becoming the “eyes and ears” for his teammates during every game.

Reflecting on his journey, Connor shared, “No one knows what it feels like to work so hard to come back from an injury and then go through it all again, especially as your high school career ends. But the bond with my teammates is beyond any season—we’re best friends on and off the field. I’m proud to support them, and I want to give back to the guys who’ve been my rock.”

Principal Nancy DiBuono praised Connor as “an exceptional student and leader” and commended his positive influence at St. Joseph High School. “Connor embodies our school’s mission to develop thoughtful leaders and positive influences in our world. He’s an exceptional athlete, but there is so much more to this young man. As a Peer Minister, Student Ambassador, and a UCONN Calculus student, he inspires everyone with his resilience, humility, and kindness.”

Connor’s leadership extends beyond the field; he has motivated his teammates to perform at their highest level, turning each game day into a celebration of camaraderie and shared determination. Head Coach Joe Della Vecchia emphasized Connor’s unique role on the team, noting, “Connor has provided something much more challenging than athletic talent—he’s given us motivation and has brought the team together.”

In addition to his accolades, Connor recently called into the Ruden Report’s weekly podcast to discuss his journey and the importance of finding new passions when facing setbacks. Reflecting on his plans, Connor shared, “I’m blessed to have committed to Trinity College, where I’ll be playing DB. The support of the Trinity coaching staff during my recovery has been incredible, and I can’t wait to get back on the field.”

Connor Fahey’s story is a testament to the spirit of St. Joseph High School, where students are “on a mission for more”—pushing through adversity, supporting one another, and emerging as leaders ready to make an impact in the world.