By Jen Toland, College Beat Writer
October 23, 2013
Worcester, MA --- Bruce Stearns was 31 years
old when he re-enrolled in college at Worcester State in 1986,
joined the track and field team, and showed he still had it as a
standout sprinter and hurdler.
"I remember a meet at the U.S. Military Academy," Stearns recalled
recently. "I ran out there and one of the kids in the (55-meter
hurdles) race came up to me and said, 'It's nice to see you older
people running in these meets and keeping in good shape.' After I
beat him, he wasn't too happy about the whole thing."
His first year at Worcester State, Stearns set school records in
the 55- and 100-meter hurdles and was the New England Division III
champion in the 55-meter hurdles.
On Friday, Stearns, who grew up in Worcester and graduated from
Doherty High, will be inducted with four others into the
Worcester State Athletics Hall of Fame.
"I was shocked," Stearns said when he heard of his induction. "It
really took me by surprise."
Stearns has continued as a vital member of the area track and
field circuit. Since 1981, he has served as a women's track and
field assistant at Holy Cross.
You can follow the Worcester State Lancers
on Facebook and Twitter