SCS July 15

Senior Celebration Series: July 15

At Rensselaer, we are proud to recognize the student-athletes who are members of the Class of 2020. We thank them for their hard work, dedication and tremendous efforts in representing the Institute in a first-class manner academically and athletically. We wish them well in their futures.

SENIOR CELEBRATION SERIES: Jack Fallon

While at Rensselaer:
Linebacker … Played 36 games in … Had 53 solo tackles and 94 assisted stops … Five tackles for lost yards (13) … Two pass breakups, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery … Business and Management major.

From the coaching staff:
"Jack was a throwback linebacker for our defense.  A downhill player, he was a key contributor to our 2017 and 2018 League Championship teams." - March 2020

What others say:
The tough kid from "South Boston" (if that's how you spell Cape Cod). Jack was one of the backbones of our defense for the past two years, and quickly became a great leader as he got older. It was awesome to see him grow and mature over the past four years. I am definitely going to miss teams attempting to run a tailback screen only to get blown up by the hardest hitting LB in the Liberty League.” - March 2020

"His enthusiasm was contagious and it was amazing to play next to him. He is a guy that I will be friends with forever." - March 2020

"Easily the unsung hero of the defense. Didn't get the credit he deserved, but was always one of the hardest workers and a play maker on the field. He is known for making huge, game-changing plays and hits that could be heard from miles away. He's also a great teammate and one that would be there in a heartbeat if you needed them. He provided a spark to the team his junior year, which had a lot to do with our success, and had an equally impressive senior campaign and will be missed." - April 2020

SENIOR CELEBRATION SERIES: Zaire Wilson

While at Rensselaer:
Sprints/Jumps … Competed in 60, 100, 200, high jump and long jump in career … Career-bests in 60 (7.03) and long jump (6.79) in final meet, winning 60 and placing second in long jump at Liberty League Championship … Games and Simulation Arts and Sciences major ... Dean's Honor List.

From the coaching staff:
"Zaire is always smiling and laughing, often running between academic commitments, team practices and on-campus activities. Talented as a sprinter and jumper, he overcame injuries and setbacks to save the best for last, as he displayed a breakthrough performance in his final Liberty League Championship, winning the 60 dash and placing a close second in the long jump." - March 2020

What others say:
"Incredibly focused, a model for what a student-athlete is. Very motivated in all of his pursuits, and is a prime example of what it looks like when someone manages their tasks & responsibilities well.” - April 2020

"Could find the bright side in any situation and although he joked around a lot he was focused when it mattered." - April 2020

“Great competitor with insane bounce and always brings a positive attitude that lifts the spirits of those around him.” - April 2020

SENIOR CELEBRATION SERIES: Eric Xu

While at Rensselaer:
Finished first six times, second 11 times and third 10 times in career … Had 13 finals appearances at Liberty League Championships with six top-eight finishes … Computer Science major ... Intern at Kaiser Permanente.

From the coaching staff:
Eric was one of the hardest workers on the team. He has a passion for RPI swimming that helped push him and others beyond what they could imagine.” - March 2020

What others say:
"Eric Xu was one of the individuals on the team who was most passionate about the sport. He motivated us to never give up." - March 2020

"He is consistently one of the hardest workers in the pool and weight room. His dedication and perseverance is noticed and admired by all." - March 2020

Eric Xu is one of the most outgoing members of our team. He is a huge conversationalist and loves to create memories with his teammates. In the pool, he is a very hard worker and challenges himself during every practice. We will miss his competitive edge and humor." - April 2020

“Eric was the first person in the team I contacted before freshman year joining the team. He answered a lot of questions and concerns during the conversation. Either in practice or at school, he always gives me as much help as possible. How to become a better teammate, how to get better grades, etc.” - April 2020

"Thank you for being a great teammate and friend. You made freshman year a great time for me and it’s a shame I never got to say goodbye to you properly. I wish you the best of luck in the future!" - April 2020

“Eric Xu was a good friend to everyone on the team. He would always keep things lighthearted with his jokes and attitude.” - April 2020

“A source of positive energy in the pool and everywhere we travel, showed improvement as a teammate.” - April 2020

All Senior Celebration Series pieces are available by clicking HERE.

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