If Kent teaches its students anything, it is to persevere with courage and an open heart. The loss of the beloved Mr. Wright demanded this from the faculty and students. This past Saturday, the Kent football team came together to play a game in honor of the late Coach Michael Wright ‘81, a man whose influence continues to shape the program. Though the team fell short in the final quarter, every play reflected the determination, unity, and grit that Coach Wright instilled in his players. From the pregame ceremony to each drive on the field, there was a feeling of purpose as the team sought to honor his legacy. When handing his jersey to his family and watching the running backs score, Coach Wright certainly shone through each face on the field.
Coach Wright’s impact extended far beyond the field. A standout athlete at Kent, he played varsity football, basketball, and baseball, earning the prestigious Columbia Cup at Commencement. After graduating, he completed his bachelor’s degree at St. Lawrence University and was inducted into the inaugural Kent School Athletic Hall of Fame in 2001. Returning to Kent as a faculty member in 2021, he dedicated himself to the community as Associate Director of Admissions, Assistant Football Coach, Assistant Boys Varsity Basketball Coach, Head Varsity Baseball Coach, and student advisor. His legacy of leadership and mentorship was felt in every corner of the school, and the players this season are committed to carrying that legacy forward. As one player, Liam McKee reflected, “He was a positive light.” Captain Jojo Njoh-Mbengue added, “ He respected everyone. It didn’t matter if you were a starter or on the bench, he treated everyone the same.” There was no lesser player in Coach Wright’s eyes, only boys whose success he was wholeheartedly committed to.
As the captains reflected on the memorial game, a common theme emerged: the team felt a mix of emotion, pride, and responsibility. Going into the game, the atmosphere was charged, with players determined to honor Coach Wright’s standard of excellence. “It was definitely an emotional game,” Njoh-Mbengue reflected. “Coach Wright meant a lot to me, and I really wanted us to win for him. Even though we didn’t get the result we wanted, we never stopped fighting. That’s something he would have been proud of.” The team’s preparation didn’t involve changing routines, but the memory of Coach Wright was a guiding presence throughout the week, and especially during the ceremony.
Coach Wright’s influence was described as deeply personal. Players recalled how he treated everyone with respect, regardless of position or playing time, and how he had a unique ability to motivate and inspire the people around him. One player remembered being thrown into varsity as a freshman and how Coach Wright took the time to ease his nerves, instill confidence, and ensure he was in the right mindset. Another shared fond memories in advisory, like walks to Wilson’s, an experience consistent with Wright’s genuine interest in the lives of his students. Even now, the players honor him through the words they share with their teammates, their sportsmanship and competitiveness on the field, and small reminders like the initials “MW” on their helmets. As Captain Will McNamara noted, “He was incredibly humble, probably the most humble person I’ve ever met… selfless and always willing to help others.”
The team’s growth this season is a testament to Wright’s legacy. With a roster that includes new players and a postgraduate captain, the team has quickly bonded and created a sense of family in pursuit of their goals for the year. This year’s football season looks especially promising and is reflected in the new captain, Crew Monaco. As a postgraduate player, Monaco is committed to performance and culture. “My values are all about making the team feel like a family, making sure everyone feels included. I try to lead by example on the field, but I’m also here to motivate the team and get everyone fired up,” he says. With his leadership, the team is poised to continue building on Kent football’s growing momentum.
Practices are rigorous and focused, and every player is encouraged to reflect on the lessons Coach Wright instilled: accountability, perseverance, and teamwork. Looking beyond the field, the captains hope to keep Coach Wright’s memory alive not just through play, but through character. They strive to emulate his humility, selflessness, and positive energy to foster a team culture where every member feels valued and inspired to be the best they can be. As one captain said, “The season is fully dedicated to him. Everything we do moving forward is about honoring the kind of person and coach he was.”
Though Coach Wright is no longer coaching practices or games, his influence endures. The memorial game was more than a tribute, it was a reminder of the standard he set and the culture he built. As the team moves forward, they do so with the knowledge that his legacy is in their effort, their unity, and their dedication to one another. For Kent football, every play this season is a testament to Coach Wright’s lasting impact: a legacy of mentorship and unwavering commitment to the game and every man on the team. Mr. Wright was kind, and so Kent shall strive to be kind. Mr. Wright was generous, and so Kent will open their arms to whoever may need them. Kent school has many legacies, in sports, academics, the arts, but the most important one is in the people.
