Matthew Hehir, dedicated his short but full life to the betterment of people around him and the game of hockey.

His drive and commitment in all of his pursuits will endure. His accomplishments as an athlete, teacher, coach, and real person are a matter of record.

He was instrumental in the start of varsity hockey at Worcester State in 1966 when he combined his efforts with Frank Shea, Robert Reidy, and the late John "Doc" Coughlin to elevate the program from club to varsity status. He was the team's leading scorer and captain in 1970 and 1971. He played every position, including goalie when necessary. Where ever he was needed to play, he did so with total enthusiasm and dedication.

He was a Central Massachusetts All Star while playing hockey at Sacred Heart Academy and after graduation from Worcester State College became the head hockey coach at St. Mary's High in Milford in 1971. He was a teacher at Sacred Heart Elementary School and was a member of the Worcester State Athletic Council for two years.

Tonight we honor Matthew Hehir's extraordinary life with his posthumous induction as a charter member of the Worcester State College Athletic Hall of Fame, and, in doing so, we are deeply honored.