Senior Shane Ciunci Named Man of the Year

The Bishop Hendricken Man of the Year Award is the highest honor bestowed upon a student. Presented annually, the award recognizes a graduating senior who exemplifies the ideals of a Hendricken man: academic achievement commensurate with his ability, a positive attitude toward the school’s code of conduct, dedication to service, active involvement in extracurricular life, and strong relationships within both the school and the broader community. The award has been given each year since Bishop Hendricken’s first graduating class in 1962 and is selected by members of the graduating class and faculty.

“Shane is an exceptional student and leader who consistently demonstrates drive, discipline, and leadership,” said DeCiccio. “In addition to excelling academically and competitively, he is an active participant in the Leadership Academy, where he continues to develop his skills and inspire those around him. Most impressively, Shane has taken the initiative to found his own nonprofit organization, showcasing not only his ambition but also his commitment to making a meaningful impact in his community.”

Shane has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence in all facets of student life. While maintaining a 4.0 GPA, he serves as Student Body President and has been elected Class President all four years. He is a leader across numerous organizations, including Co-Founder of the Stock Market Club, President of DECA, where he placed 6th internationally, and Executive Producer of the Hawks Morning Broadcast.

A standout student-athlete, Shane is a two-time First Team All-State tennis player and team captain, as well as a member of the Math Team, where he serves as captain and top scorer.

Most notably, Shane is the founder of Rally4Racquets, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to tennis for underprivileged youth across New England. Through his leadership, the organization has partnered with more than 100 clubs and institutions, including Babolat and the International Tennis Hall of Fame, to collect and distribute over 2,450 tennis racquets, valued at approximately $250,000. He has also organized community outreach initiatives, including donation drives and youth clinics, while leading a team of volunteers to expand the organization’s reach and impact.

In addition, Shane is actively involved in the Leadership Academy, Unified Volleyball, and serves as a peer mentor and peer minister, further reflecting his commitment to service and community.

“I am grateful and humbled to be recognized as Man of the Year. It has been the greatest gift of my life to come to Bishop Hendricken, and I am so honored to have played a role in a community that has given me so much over the past four years,” said Ciunci. “The lessons I have learned here, kindness, hard work, service, and faith, will guide me for the rest of my life.”