The first QCC Alumni Athletics Hall of Fame ceremony was held last Saturday, Nov. 7, inducting the 2006-07 men's basketball team and former student-athletes Maurice "Mo" Horton, Rich Small and Trafficia Warburton.
“Today's event is about honoring excellence, preserving our college history and recognizing individuals whose contributions have shaped the legacy of Quinsigamond Community College athletics,” said QCC President Dr. Luis Pedraja. “Student athletes are examples of the discipline, grit and commitment it takes to succeed in college.”
The 2006-07 men's basketball team is one for the history books. They became the first team in school history to advance to the NJCAA national championship tournament, ultimately finishing fifth in the nation. QCC athletes earned national accolades, including Elijah Sims, who led the nation in steals and ranked ninth in assists. Additionally, at just 25 years old, coach Jon Winer became the youngest recipient of the NJCAA District 8 Coach of the Year award.
The list of accomplishments for inductees was long, but most took away more than records and trophies.
“This goes far beyond sports. You guys see me in a light where sometimes I don’t see myself. I’m great, because Quinsig told me I’m great,” said Dennis “Duke” Williams, a player from the 2006-07 team.
A key contributor to the team's success, Maurice "Mo" Horton helped lead the 2006-07 squad, led the nation in scoring in 2005 and remains the only player in program history to surpass 1,400 career points.
“We didn’t just build a winning basketball team, we built a family, and that’s something I’ll carry with me forever,” Horton said.
Horton recalled how becoming a student-athlete changed the trajectory of his life. He credited Winer for believing in his talents yet holding him accountable and keeping high standards. Both Winer and Horton expressed how their relationship with each has left a lasting impact.
“Community colleges like QCC are so important because not everybody has a traditional path to higher education. Sometimes people need someone to open the door…and help them recognize their potential,” Horton said. “QCC did that for me, and I hope it continues to do that for generations of young people in our community.”
While Horton reflected on the mentorship that shaped his future, Warburton spoke about perseverance and determination.
“QCC taught me how to overcome. Just keep moving forward no matter the pace,” Warburton said.
“People should definitely support community colleges, especially Quinsig. It’s a stepping stone to where you want to be.”
Warburton remains one of the most accomplished women's basketball players in program history. In her second season, she led NJCAA’s Region 21 in both scoring and rebounding. Beyond her statistics, she was known for her work ethic on and off the court.
“You managed academics, practices, road trips, social life and, most importantly, being a mother to your son. That kind of commitment is extraordinary,” Director of Athletics & Fitness Center Lisa Gurnick said to Warburton. “You demonstrated that being a great athlete is much more than accomplishments on the court. It’s about character, resilience, sacrifice and the example you set for others.”
Small's connection to QCC began as a member of the men's basketball team and deepened when he returned years later as a college employee before eventually becoming a coach. Today, Small remains an athletics ambassador, promoting and documenting QCC sporting events through his photography and community engagement.
“Athletics are necessary,” Small said. “Some people come up just to play ball first…but it might keep them here to get that degree and then move on.”