Much like the saying “it takes a village to raise a child,” it takes special people to make Section XI such a great place for our student-athletes.

The dedication of our coaches, commitment by the athletic administrators, passion of the fans, support of the families and efforts of our student-athletes are all a part of this formula.  While it nearly impossible to single out individuals who have led these efforts there are some that leave lasting impressions.

Section XI recently lost one of those individuals.  Charles McGuckin’s passing this week, while sad, leaves both lasting memories and an appreciation of what Charlie meant to Section XI.

Charlie served as the Director of Athletics for the Half Hollow Hills School District from 1976 to 1988.  Following his work at HHH, Charlie moved on to Section XI and continued to serve the student-athletes of Suffolk County as its Assistant Director from 1988 to 1992.

Cathy Gallagher, the Executive Director for Section XI from 1982 to 2003, said,  “Charlie was a special man! He was a colleague whom I knew as an Athletic Director, Football Chairman, Section XI Board Member, Section XI President and then as the Section XI Assistant Director.  Most importantly, he was my friend.  He was a compassionate human being devoted to his family, friends and football!  We can be proud that he served Section XI so well!”

Longtime Section XI Legal Counsel Kevin Seaman describes Charlie as, “having had all the character, presence, poise and genuineness,” needed to be not only a great person, but a great leader.

Personally, Charlie was a great mentor, role model, colleague and friend.  His efforts to make our Section the best possible were always his priority and the students were always the focus.

Charlie we will miss you!  We thank you for your dedication and commitment and please know that your positive impact and contributions will continue to be felt by the past, present and future student-athletes of Suffolk County.