Peabody's Rocha and Hiou Honored as Scholar-Athletes

Elite Peabody distance runner Catarina Rocha not only grabbed another state title in the 2-mile earlier this month, followed by 9th place at Nationals, she also recently received her second straight North Shore Female Student-Athlete of the Year Award from Moynihan Lumber. She had a 3.7 Grade Point Average.

The award was made even more special this year because it was Mayor Ted Bettencourt presenting it to Rocha on June 11 at Salem Country Club – Bettencourt was the first male student-athlete of the year recognized by Moynihan 22 years ago.

Bettencourt said at a School Committee meeting later that night that Rocha is “richly” deserving of the recognition for her prowess as an athlete and a student, and now a graduate headed to college.

“It’s important to recognize the great accomplishments of our students,” he said. Bettencourt added he also wanted to recognize great work done by a recent grad as well.

Peabody High grad Nicholas Hiou was called up from the audience to receive a special commendation from the city in light of Hiou receiving the Senior Scholar-Athlete Award at UMass Dartmouth (he received a similar award as a junior) where he played football for four seasons. He was also an NCAA Division III Academic All-District selection.

Hiou, who was a three-sport athlete for the Tanners, just graduated from college this spring with a degree in finance, having earned at least a 3.8 GPA in six of seven semesters on campus. He was also the Corsairs’ third leading receiver last season with 22 catches for 156 yards.

“We’ve been very impressed with everything you’ve done,” Bettencourt told Hiou, commending him for his hard work, commitment and good sportsmanship. “It’s great to see a Peabody alum doing great things.”

“It’s really an honor to be recognized by a city I grew up in my whole life. I don’t really plan on leaving anytime soon,” said Hiou.