In the age of the two-way football player, Boston University's Jim Kenney ranked among the best.
The 6-foot-3, 210-pound New Haven, Connecticut, native was an accomplished offensive and defensive end for the Terriers, and handled all of the clubs kicking duties in his senior year.
He was the primary receiver for Terrier quarterbacks Len Hill and Emo DiNitto, leading the club in receptions and yards both as a junior and senior.
In his final year, Kenney averaged over 30 minutes of playing time per game and in one contest saw 50 minutes of action. Aside from his 16 catches and 241 yards, he also was the Terriers' scoring leader with three touchdowns, nine extra points and one field goal. He served with Johnny Maio as team captain, earned All-New England and All-East honors and was voted the squad's MVP.
Kenney's performance in the Terriers' 33-7 win over William & Mary that year gives full understanding of his importance to the team. Minutes into the game, he blocked a punt and recovered it in the end zone for a touchdown. He then deflected a pass to teammate Pat McCue, who returned it 32 yards for another score. In the second half, his key block opened a hole for running back Paul Cancro, who raced 47 yards for a touchdown. His day was completed with a reception deep in William & Mary territory that set up the game's final points.
When the season ended, Terrier head coach Steve Sinko was quoted as saying, "I wish Jim Kenney had another year."
The coach did not get his wish, but Kenney was not forgotten. In 1964, he was voted to the Terriers' Post-War All-Star Team as a second team end. In 1989, Jim Kenney was remembered again by being inducted into the University's Athletic Hall of Fame.
