With his family, friends, teachers, teammates and coaches watching, C-R senior Thomas McConnelee signed his letter of intent to attend Roberts Wesleyan University in Rochester and compete on the university’s division 2 track and field team.
During the signing ceremony, held on Feb. 7 at Cobleskill-Richmondville High School, C-R Athletic Director John Henry said, “Thomas is the epitome of a C-R athlete,” highlighting Thomas’s commitment to becoming the best athlete he can be.
“The only time I’ve ever had to yell at Tommy is when he was outside in a thunderstorm and just wanted to get his last few throws in,” Coach Henry noted.
Thomas has always been an “all in” kind of athlete according to track and field coach Chris Palmer. He first began his track and field journey in middle school and primarily participated in running and jumping events.
According to throwing coach Ed Hantho, Thomas gave throwing a try a few times his seventh, eighth, and ninth grade seasons, however he really began to excel in his sophomore year.
“I think he figured out ‘I want to do this throwing thing’ after seeing his older brother throw and go to sectionals, and what he put his mind to, he made happen,” said Hantho.
In his sophomore year, Thomas placed third in the Colonial Council Championships and fourth at the Section 2 Championships in discus, however he missed state qualifiers by mere inches.
His junior year is when it all clicked. Thomas worked tirelessly to improve his technique and became serious about weight training. His hard work resulted in a first place finish at the Section 2 Championships in both shotput and discus. He qualified for the state competition and placed second in New York State in discus.
“He owns every school record here except the outdoor shot put and he jumped up so many feet last year, the opportunities are endless and I can’t wait for the outdoor season,” Hantho said.
When Thomas was asked to share a few words, he thanked everyone in attendance. “Everyone here has had a positive impact on me and has helped me through this journey,” he said.
While at RWU, Thomas plans to study Exercise Science.
Pastor Andrew Fetter was also in attendance to share in the celebration with Thomas and his family.