Comsewogue High School Senior Kaeden West was recently named the recipient of the 2023 Thomas Cutinella Leadership Award. Kaeden received the honor from the Suffolk County Football Coaches Association for excelling on and off the football field.
“Kaeden is the true embodiment of an exemplary student athlete who is consistently challenging himself and goes above and beyond to help his teammates succeed. We are so proud of his accomplishments and personal growth and we look forward to seeing how far his dedication, character and leadership take him after graduation,” said Director of Athletics Matteo DeVincenzo.
Named after the Shoreham-Wading River football player who passed away in 2014 after a head injury on the field, the Thomas Cutinella Leadership Award is given to a Suffolk County football player who displays leadership, is committed to volunteering in the community and excels academically.
Kaeden was a starting quarterback for the Varsity football team in his junior year when he broke his leg in the middle of the season. However, he remained a mentor to his teammates and exuded spirit and optimism throughout his recovery.
Kaeden came back strong in his senior year and was named to the All-County football team, , in addition to earning several accolades. Kaeden received the 2023 Suffolk County P.A.L. Sportsmanship Award, the Suffolk County Executive’s Youth Achievement Award and a proclamation from Suffolk County Legislator Nick Caracappa citing “Outstanding Teamwork and Exuberance in the Fourth Legislative District for 2023.”
“He is a boundless, bright star in the classroom, in the community, and on the field,” reads the proclamation. “Kaeden takes on the most challenging courses available and flourishes each year. He leads by example in the hallways of his high school with his accepting ways, positive attitude, and tremendous resolve.”
Kaeden is also a member of the Comsewogue High School Student Leadership Team, multiple honor societies and the Athletes Helping Athletes program.