Xavier High School has a rich history of producing some of the best athletes the state of Connecticut has ever seen. One of these athletes is Reverend Greg Woods '73, who is one of the most decorated football players in Xavier's history.
During his senior year in the fall of 1972, Woods was part of a football team that finished with a perfect 10-0 record. He rushed for an impressive 1,585 yards and scored 27 touchdowns that season, earning him All-Hartford County Conference and All-State honors. Woods was a team captain and a key player in Xavier's success that year.
Woods had the talent to play football at the collegiate level, and he was offered a four-year scholarship to Notre Dame. However, he chose to attend the University of Kentucky instead. Woods' success with the Wildcats earned him the opportunity to play professionally in the Canadian Football League (CFL) for the Ottawa Rough Riders.
Despite his success on the football field, Woods felt a calling to serve others. He graduated from the seminary in 1990 and became a minister. More than 50 years after graduating from Xavier, Reverend Woods is still living out the school's mission.
He is the Founder and Executive Director of the Hartford Rescue Mission, an organization that provides food, shelter, and other services to those in need. Reverend Woods firmly believes that building relationships with guests, volunteers, donors, and community partners is the key to the success of the Hartford Rescue Mission.
In February, Xavier had the honor of hosting Reverend Woods for a presentation about his journey beyond Xavier and his relationship with God. His powerful words left a lasting impression on everyone present. He reminded us that at Xavier, we are all part of one team and one community, equal to each other and united in the presence of God.
To honor and recognize his impact on the Xavier community, we donated the funds raised from a Xavier Apparel Day, which amounted to more than $1,700, to the Hartford Rescue Mission. The school community was proud to support such a worthy cause and to show appreciation for Reverend Woods and his dedication to serving others.
Reverend Woods' story is an inspiration to us all. He was a talented athlete who chose to use his gifts to make a positive impact on the world. His commitment to serving others and building relationships is a testament to the values instilled in him during his time at Xavier.
Xavier High School, a Tradition of Excellence