Renowned for his exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to nurturing young talent, for more than 45 years, Carlo Cherubino defined Academy of the Holy Names Athletics. His passion for sports and commitment to the development of student athletes has left an indelible mark on AHN’s sporting legacy.

Born in Italy before coming to Albany at the age of 12, Cherubino’s journey in sports began as a student-athlete in college. He excelled in cross country and track, displaying natural leadership abilities both on and off the track. Cherubino’s academic excellence and athletic achievements earned him a scholarship to the University at Albany, where he shined as a dedicated runner and team captain.

Cherubino is a 2023 inductee of the UAlbany Hall of Fame as a member of the 1973 Men’s Cross Country Team and 1987 inductee as a solo runner.

Cherubino began his Holy Names career in 1978. Four years later, Cherubino was named Athletic Director when AHN joined the Colonial Council. His vision to transform the sports program and instill a sense of camaraderie and excellence among the students was immediately apparent, as was his ability to inspire young athletes.

Under his leadership, AHN’s athletic department witnessed a remarkable upswing, boasting an array of successful sports teams and individual athletes. During his tenure, Cherubino led Holy Names outdoor and indoor track and field and cross-country teams to more than 60 titles combined from New York State, Section II, and the Colonial Council.

During the early 1980s, AHN athletics included basketball, volleyball, softball, soccer, tennis, and cheerleading at Christian Brothers Academy (CBA) and The LaSalle Institute as part of a private school league which included Albany Academy, Emma Willard, and Doane Stuart.

Cherubino oversaw the expansion of that program and its continued growth and success with the addition of outdoor and indoor track, cross country, skiing, lacrosse, golf, and swimming.

In addition to track and field and cross country, Cherubino coached soccer for 26 years, notching 303 wins in Section II, including four Colonial Council League titles, two sectional and one regional championship. He was also named Section II Coach of the Year in 1997 and New York State Soccer Coach of the Year in 1998.

Cherubino’s coaching philosophy emphasizes not only winning but also promoting character development, teamwork, and perseverance. He firmly believes sports can teach valuable life skills that extend far beyond the playing field. Through his mentorship and support, Cherubino has nurtured a generation of student-athletes who excel not only in sports but also in their academic pursuits and personal growth.

Under his guidance, Academy of the Holy Names has become renowned for its inclusive sports programs, welcoming students of all skill levels and backgrounds. Cherubino has been instrumental in fostering a positive and supportive environment that encourages students to pursue their passions and achieve their fullest potential.

Cherubino’s accomplishments and contributions have earned him recognition and respect from both the academic and athletic communities. His tireless dedication to the development of young athletes continues to inspire those around him, leaving an enduring legacy at AHN and in the hearts of all those whose lives he has touched.

In 2024, Academy of the Holy Names dedicated the Carlo Cherubino Athletic Hall of Fame in his honor. You can watch highlights of the unveiling as well as hear recollections from some of his former athletes who attended the event here.