The first day of the 2026-2027 school year brought our students, families, and alumni together to celebrate what makes the Xaverian experience so special. 

The afternoon began with a Back-to-School-Bash, which gave students an opportunity to reconnect with friends and welcome new classmates while building excitement for the year ahead. Students enjoyed lawn games on the Brother Daniel Skala Plaza, along with a build-your-own-burger station. Parents also had an opportunity to connect at the Parents’ Council Kickoff event, where they learned about the many ways to become involved in the life of the school. From volunteering at events to supporting activities throughout the year, the kickoff highlighted the important role parents play in strengthening the Xaverian experience.

As the afternoon transitioned into the evening, the Xaverian community gathered for a special remembrance ceremony marking the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001. Held before the first home football game of the season, the ceremony offered an opportunity to pause and remember the lives lost, including Everett “Marty” Proctor III ’75, who lost his life in the tragic events of September 11, 2001, and Sergeant Adam Kennedy ’00, a U.S. Army soldier who was killed in Iraq and in whose honor Xaverian’s American flag is displayed.

Before the coin toss, alumni “honorary captains” were called to center field in recognition of their service. Representing Xaverian were Army Veteran and Brockton Firefighter Raymond Gobbi ’13, Brockton Police Officer Joe Gobbi ’14, U.S. Marine Corps Corporal Caleb Bell ’22, U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer 3rd Class Luke Bell ’25, Hull Police Sergeant Ed Minelli ’07, retired U.S. Army National Guard Colonel Andy Lawlor ’81, retired Massachusetts State Police Major Mike Farley ’84, Major Jay Farley ’91 of the Division of Homeland Security, and Homeland Security Special Agent Kevin Cronin ’86.

The freshman football team then carried out a solemn tribute, with the unfurling of a 60-foot American flag, followed by the Westwood Fire Honor Guard accompanied by Westwood Police, a prayer by Father Matthew Norwood, and the X-Men’s performance of the national anthem. The ceremony was capped off with a helicopter flyover by the Massachusetts State Police. The ceremony brought together members of the Xaverian and Bishop Feehan communities and highlighted those who have served or continue to serve as members of the military or as first responders.

Following the ceremony, the Hawks took the field for their first home game against Bishop Feehan. In a thrilling overtime battle, Xaverian secured a 42-36 victory, giving the community another exciting moment to celebrate together.

From welcoming students and families back to campus and honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, the first day of school reflected the strength of the Xaverian community and the values that connect generations of Hawks.