In 1990, well before 2022 Weston High School graduate, Mary Catherine Hay, was even born a young musician by the name of Stanley Kirk Burrell took the nation by storm. Despite their generational differences the two share a common bond. When performing they both were recognized as MC Hammer.
That is where the similarities end though. The early 90’s hip hop version of Hammer was internationally known for his flamboyant outfits, individuality and flashy dance movements. The Weston High School, female Athlete of the Year Award winner will be remembered for her low key, team oriented, steady effort.
Back in the day, “Hammertime” meant a short, exuberant burst of energy that incorporated never seen before, moves that propelled the music industry to a new frontier. The modern-day version brings back memories of the athletes from the olden days who often sacrificed their body and possible personal accolades, playing for only one goal and that was for her team to win.
Being known as “Hammer” was fitting for Hay. A hammer is the unsung tool that is essential in building a solid structure from the ground up. It is strong and virtually indestructible. Conditions don’t affect its usefulness. It is a part of the building process that when used correctly is very valuable.
That was the way Hay played both on the basketball court and on the softball field. She was the one who did all the dirty work. On the court, she bodied up the often taller and bigger opponents, set the screens and blocked out defenders so that her teammates could have the freedom to score or get rebounds. On the softball field she led the team through her defensive efforts and constantly providing motivation. When not playing, Hay could be found supporting the boys teams as a Cheerleader.
Many others who have been selected as Athlete of the Year were chosen based primarily on their statistics. Hay is an exception to that. In all honesty her statistics were rather pedestrian. In basketball, she averaged only 6.2 points and grabbed 5.1 rebounds while adding 1.3 steals and 1.9 assists per game. Her batting average in softball was only .209 and she ended the year with just seven runs batted in and five stolen bases.
In 1966, New York Giant head football coach Allie Sherman, uttered one of the truest comments ever made when he said “statistics are for losers, it is the final score that counts.” That is exactly what was important to Hay as well. Stats didn’t matter, only wins did. The don’t keep stats on the attributes that Hay brought to her team be it in the locker room, class room, huddle during the game or in practice. That was where her leadership abilities and commitment was best seen which was instrumental in helping her younger teammates learn the correct way to conduct yourself as a true student athlete.
The impact she had on the Weston athletic program isn’t so much from what she did during games but before and after. It is the kind of thing that will be more recognized over the next several years through the play of the younger players she leaves behind. Like a hammer, her work can’t be judged until the final product is completed.
Hay also set a great example for her team mates to follow off the court as well. The daughter of Wayne and Amy completed her high school career with a sterling 3.931 cumulative grade point average earning her the distinction of becoming a Louisiana TOPS recipient. Hay was also a member of the prestigious BETA Club, Future Business Leaders of America and Fellowship of Christian Athletes all four years.
In summary, what Hay left is a legacy that all should attempt to duplicate but few will be able to do. The way she handled herself, her character, determination and class is unique. In other words…..
YOU CAN’T TOUCH THIS!
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