This is a new occasional feature on former student-athletes from the area who have moved on to new endeavors. I am looking mostly for sports, but it can be outside of sports. The first one is on Dan Mulrooney. If you have someone you think would be good for “Checking In”, you can email me at sportsonct69@gmail.com. You can also send me a Tweet @SportsonCT69.
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| Dan Mulrooney Photo courtesy of WPI Athletics |
The high school football season started Monday, and area teams like Holy Cross are working hard toward the season opener.
Also working hard is former Crusader star Dan Mulrooney. Mulrooney is in his fourth season with Worcester Polytechnic Institute, his third as an assistant coach. Mulrooney is the defensive coordinator for WPI.
Mulrooney had a terrific career at Holy Cross, where he was a two-time All-State player. Mulrooney helped the Crusaders get to two state championship games, including a victory in 2006.
Mulrooney began his college career at Boston College, then finished up at Stony Brook University. Mulrooney led the Seawolves in tackles with 75 in 2011.
Holy Cross made the state playoffs in 2004, 2005 and 2006. Mulrooney was a two-time All-NVL and three-time All-City selection.
The Crusaders reached the Class SS state championship game in 2004, where it lost to Woodland. Mulrooney was a sophomore at the time.
In 2005, Holy Cross put a scare into top-seeded Brookfield in a 35-30 loss in Class SS, and Mulrooney was a big reason why. He carried 17 times for 171 yards and three touchdowns (15, 20, 2). Mulrooney also caught four passes for 40 yards. His final touchdown run cut Holy Cross’ deficit to 35-28 in the fourth quarter, but the Crusaders didn’t get any closer than 35-30.
Mulrooney was a one-man wrecking crew as a senior in the 2006 Class SS state championship game. He carried the ball 20 times for 353 yards and four touchdowns in a 40-0 Holy Cross victory. Mulrooney scored on runs of 72, 76, 49 and 29 yards. His 72-yard touchdown run was on the first play from scrimmage. Mulrooney was the 2006 NVL Player of the Year.
Mulrooney was also a strong defensive player at Holy Cross. He ended up seeing time on both sides of the ball at Boston College before moving on to Stony Brook.
Mulrooney is now passing his knowledge out to players at WPI.
