The John F. Coughlin Memorial Scholarship

Criteria: ($500 per year) Awarded to a new or current student who demonstrates superior scholarship combined with a strong career interest and financial need.

The late John F. Coughlin played a major role in the personal, professional, and athletic development of many players, coaches, and officials at Worcester State University. He was the first and most successful hockey coach in the history of Worcester State University, and his teams won more than 140 games in his 15-year career. Under his leadership, the Lancers won the Eastern College Athletic (ECAC) Division III hockey championships for many years.

He was founder of the Worcester Little League in 1956 and coached for 17 years. He was instrumental in the formation of the Worcester Peewee Youth Hockey Association and also coached for 14 years. In 1981, the Worcester community honored him for his work with youth sports for over 25 years.

The Worcester State University football field was dedicated in his name in 1986. He was referred to as a “one man alumni association” years before an active alumni association was developed at the University. His giving and caring continues today through those he taught by his example.