Submitted Photo: Malik McCall, left, and Aries Cheverez, right, met with Jim Uszacki’s mother, Darlene, earlier this summer. McCall and Cheverez are Dunkirk’s two most recent winners of the Jim Uszacki Award, founded in his memory.
For over four decades, the name Jim Uszacki resonates deeply within Dunkirk High School. This legacy was born out of unspeakable tragedy in 1983, evolving into a powerful tribute that continues to uplift young athletes, cultivating not only skill but also character.
Jim Uszacki’s life was abruptly taken when he was just a sophomore at Dunkirk High School. The summer of 1983 turned to sorrow as a train struck his vehicle, snuffing out the promise of a young athlete’s future. His untimely death shocked the tight-knit Dunkirk community, leaving friends and family grappling with an irreplaceable loss.
In a bid to honor Jim’s spirit, the community decided that his memory would not fade into the past. With the assistance of Jim’s parents, Dunkirk High School established the Jim Uszacki Award in the very year of his passing. This award seeks to recognize the most outstanding sophomore athlete, focusing not solely on sports accomplishments but also on traits that encapsulated Jim’s character—dedication, coachability, and unselfishness. The inscription within the athletic lobby declares, “This memorial award is given to the sophomore athlete that best exhibits the traits and character; coach-ability and unselfishness that personified the late Jim Uszacki.”
This past June, the emotional weight of the award was palpable when Jim’s mother, Darlene, visited the recently revamped Dan Palmer Athletic Lobby at Dunkirk High School. There, she met the latest awardees, Malik McCall and Aries Cheverez. Their interaction showcased the bridge between past and present, with both athletes honoring Jim’s heritage within their own journeys in sports and life.
During their meeting, Darlene was offered a tour of the athletic facilities, which represented the strides the school has taken to foster young talent. As they walked through the halls, she shared vivid memories of her son’s athletic feats and warm stories that encapsulated the essence of Dunkirk, a place she continues to hold dear.
Malik McCall, who proudly holds the title of the 2024 winner, is not just an athlete but also an accomplished scholar, balancing participation in varsity football, basketball, and track & field. His engagement with the Unified basketball program underscores his commitment to embodying the spirit of the Jim Uszacki Award. As he navigates his senior year, the future remains a canvas of possibilities for Malik, including aspirations his father jokingly suggested—a career as a lawyer, perhaps.
Aries Cheverez, the 2025 award recipient, mirrors Malik’s commitment to excellence. A notable scholar and athlete, Aries has left his mark in varsity sports—contributions in football, basketball, and baseball reflect his diverse talents, coupled with active participation in various travel programs across Chautauqua County.
Athletic Director AJ Burnside spoke passionately about both athletes, stating they “embody exactly what you want in young leadership.” His remarks highlighted their ability to inspire teammates and serve as pillars in the school community. “These gentlemen are great role models and activists for the school. Dunkirk is absolutely privileged to have fine young men like these two,” he added, emphasizing the profound influence that young leaders can have on their peers.
Though Darlene Uszacki spends only part of the year in Western New York, the magnetic pull of Dunkirk keeps her coming back. Her visit was more than just a reminiscing journey; it was a heartfelt reminder of how individual stories weave into the larger fabric of community spirit. The Jim Uszacki Award stands as a beacon of hope and resilience, transforming grief into a legacy filled with inspiration for future generations.
For those interested in learning more about the Jim Uszacki Award and a host of athletic accolades from Dunkirk, details can be accessed on the newly revitalized DCSD Athletic Website at www.dunkirkcsd.org/athletics.