Worcester Community College Inducts First Alumni Athletics Hall Of Fame Class

WORCESTER, MA — Quinsigamond Community College honored athletes who helped shape its sports programs during an inaugural ceremony Saturday.

The QCC Alumni Athletics Hall of Fame inducted the 2006-07 men’s basketball team and former student-athletes Maurice “Mo” Horton, Rich Small and Trafficia Warburton on Saturday. The ceremony recognized their athletic accomplishments and the role community college sports played in their lives.

“Today’s event is about honoring excellence, preserving our college history and recognizing individuals whose contributions have shaped the legacy of Quinsigamond Community College athletics,” QCC President Luis Pedraja said. “Student athletes are examples of the discipline, grit and commitment it takes to succeed in college.”

QCC's 2006-07 Men’s Basketball Team, Mo Horton

The 2006-07 men’s basketball team became the first team in QCC history to advance to the National Junior College Athletic Association championship tournament, finishing fifth in the nation.

Elijah Simms led the nation in steals and ranked ninth in assists that season. Coach Jon Winer, then 25, became the youngest recipient of the NJCAA District 8 Coach of the Year award.

“This goes far beyond sports,” former player Dennis “Duke” Williams said. “You guys see me in a light where sometimes I don’t see myself. I’m great, because Quinsig told me I’m great.”

Horton helped lead the 2006-07 team after leading the nation in scoring in 2005. He remains the only player in QCC men’s basketball history to surpass 1,400 career points.

He credited Winer with recognizing his talent while holding him accountable and maintaining high expectations. He said becoming a student-athlete changed the direction of his life.

Trafficia Warburton

Warburton is one of the most accomplished women’s basketball players in QCC history. During her second season, she led NJCAA Region 21 in scoring and rebounding.

“QCC taught me how to overcome,” Warburton said. “Just keep moving forward no matter the pace.”

QCC Director of Athletics and Fitness Center Lisa Gurnick recognized Warburton for balancing academics, practices, travel, a social life and motherhood during her time at the college.

“You demonstrated that being a great athlete is much more than accomplishments on the court,” Gurnick said. “It’s about character, resilience, sacrifice and the example you set for others.”

Rich Small

Small first became involved with QCC as a member of the men’s basketball team. He later returned as a college employee and coach.

He continues to serve as an athletics ambassador, documenting QCC sporting events through photography and participating in community engagement.

“Athletics are necessary,” Small said. “Some people come up just to play ball first … but it might keep them here to get that degree and then move on.”

See Also:

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• Quinsigamond Community College Receives $1.9M Grant To Expand Child Care Support
• Worcester Community College Debuts Newly Renovated Student Support Space