Orlaith (Cunningham) Delgado
Orlaith Cunningham Delgado arrived in the United States from Ireland at the age of four with a love of sports already established. Growing up in Branford, she tried everything, including baseball, softball, basketball, and soccer.
Orlaith attended Branford High School, where she graduated as part of the Class of 2004. Her high school years were marked by an exceptional athletic career, earning her an impressive 12 varsity letters across four sports. Orlaith’s athletic prowess shone brightly in soccer, cross country, basketball, and outdoor track, showcasing her versatility and dedication.
Orlaith’s leadership was evident as she captained three of her high school teams: girls’ cross country, basketball, and outdoor track. She earned two varsity letters in soccer before turning to the trails in her junior year. In cross country, she achieved significant milestones, becoming a two-time SCC Champion and earning All-State and All New England Honors twice. Her outstanding performance also led to her being named the New Haven Register’s All Area MVP twice, and she set a course record at Branford Supply Pond that still stands today. In outdoor track, Orlaith’s talent continued to bloom, achieving All SCC and All State honors in the 1600 meters during her senior year.
Growing up in Connecticut, Orlaith’s sports heroes included UConn stars Jen Rizzotti and Rebecca Lobo. Orlaith spent hours practicing her dribbling and free-throws, leading to an impressive basketball career at Branford High School and earning her four varsity letters. One of the best point guards to ever suit up for the Hornets, Orlaith led her teams in assists and steals.
Orlaith’s athletic journey extended beyond high school. She was recruited by the University of Connecticut, and she earned varsity letters in cross country, indoor track, and outdoor track while pursuing her degree in nursing. Her athletic achievements included being a four-time member of the cross country team, a three-time member of the indoor track team, and a three-time member of the outdoor track team. Orlaith’s dedication to her sport was matched by her academic excellence, as she was named to the Big East and NCAA All-Academic Teams multiple times across all three sports.
One of Orlaith’s most notable accomplishments at UConn was earning All Big East Honors in the 3000-meter steeplechase, where she placed fourth and qualified for the NCAA Regional Finals.
Orlaith’s commitment to her education continued beyond her undergraduate years. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from UConn and later pursued a Master of Science in Nursing degree from Yale University. Her passion for healthcare and helping others led her to a fulfilling career as a nurse practitioner. Currently, Orlaith is practicing at UMass Memorial Medical Center, where she continues to make a positive impact on the lives of her patients.
Orlaith resides in Easton, Massachusetts, with her husband Mike and their two daughters, Natalie and Maeve. Both girls picked up their mom’s competitive spirit, participating in summer nights at the races and enjoying Saturday morning soccer practices.
