Award presented to Herkimer Generals soccer player in memory of Peter McAvoy

In memory of the late Peter McAvoy, the Herkimer County Hunger Coalition, along with Ray and Kay Lenarcic, have established the Captain Peter McAvoy Outstanding Male Soccer Player Award.

The Lenarcics presented the award to Alex Charles on May 17, 2021, along with a $250 donation to the General’s Cupboard food pantry in his name. A two-year standout soccer player for the Generals, Charles was selected for demonstrating athleticism, scholarship, and leadership.

McAvoy was an All-American and captain at Herkimer. The defender contributed to two Division III national championships for Herkimer, scoring the winning goal in the 2013 quarter-final, semi-final and final games, all with 1-0 scores. McAvoy collapsed and died suddenly on April 19, 2014, the result of a cardiac arrhythmia.

“Peter McAvoy was an exceptional young man. The native Scot not only excelled on the soccer pitch, but in the classroom as well. And he was the quintessential example of a leader,” said Lenarcic. “While his tragic, sudden death may have extinguished his bright light, its afterglow will guarantee that he will never be forgotten, be it in his heather-blessed homeland or on the ‘Hill.’” Lenarcic is a professor emeritus and a member of the Herkimer County Hunger Coalition.

Head men’s soccer coach Pepe Aragon said, “Alex is truly deserving of the Pete McAvoy award. He is a great captain who leads by example both on and off of the field just like Pete did.  Alex is a class act.”

Charles is from St. Kitts and recently graduated from Herkimer College with an associate in applied science degree in Sports & Recreation Management. He is considering offers from several four-year colleges to continue his education and soccer career in the fall.