Former star soccer player Ucal McKenzie tragically passed away on Saturday, May 30 while playing club soccer in Boston at the age of 32.  Ucal was an extraordinary mid-fielder throughout his playing days at Suffolk which spanned the years 1994-1998.  He also was an assistant coach at his alma mater prior to successful high school head coaching years at Cambridge Rindge and Latin School and Newton North High School. 

His freshman season witnessed the most significant turnaround for this sport from a 2-8-1 record to a 10-4 season with Ucal selected as the team's "Rookie of the Year."  Throughout his Suffolk playing career, Mr. McKenzie's presence on the soccer pitch was inspirational and exceptional culminating with his captain's status and team "Most Valuable Player" recognition in his senior season.

"It is with great sadness that we mourn the passing of this wonderful person" a heartbroken Jim Nelson, Suffolk University's Director of Athletics stated upon hearing the news of Ucal's death.  "Ucal was very much a star on and off of the soccer field who represented all of the wonderful positive character traits that we in athletics wish for in all of the student athletes, past, present and future who represent Suffolk University and his great sport of soccer."  "Ucal, in addition to taking his baccalaureate degree from our University also won the heart of his future wife, Suzanne McCarthy, also a student at Suffolk throughout their undergraduate days together.  Our prayers and sympathy are extended to Suzanne and all of Ucal's Family."

McKenzie, originally from Jamaica, lived in Dorchester with his wife Suzanne. He was the boys' soccer coach at Newton North High School as well as a guidance counselor and peer mentor advisor. McKenzie was known throughout the Greater Boston area for his work with youth through soccer.

His wake will be on Friday, June 5
6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Murphy Funeral Home
1020 Dorchester Avenue
Dorchester, MA 02125

Funeral services will be on Saturday, June 6
1:00 p.m.
New Beginning Church of God
500 Talbot Ave
Dorchester, MA 02124

Donations can be made to Suzanne McKenzie c/o The Ucal McKenzie Soccer Foundation, soccer foundation in Ucal's name to continue his legacy and to honor his love of the sport.

A Facebook group has been created in his memory, click here