Canisius High SchoolFall 2014 TODAY Canisius High SchoolFall 2014 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair: Robert Reger ’66 Vice Chair: Ronald A. Raccuia ’86 TODAY Peter M. Augustine ’83 Dr. Christopher J. Bartolone ’81 Canisius High School 1180 Delaware Avenue | Buffalo, N.Y. 14209 Jeremy B. Beck ’89 716.882.0466 | www.canisiushigh.org Rev. Vincent L. Biagi, S.J. Facebook: canisiushs | Twitter: @canisiushs Rev. Kenneth J. Boller, S.J. Instagram: @canisiushs Sr. Charlene Fontana, S.S.J. Matthew S. Hamp ’71 Rev. Philip G. Judge, S.J. Timothy L. Kane ’80 Kenneth J. Kencel ’77 Stephen F. Leous, Sr. ’76 Dr. Thomas A. Lombardo, Jr. ’65 Michael D. Madden ’67 Rocco J. Maggiotto ’68 Anthony D. Mancinelli ’68 Anthony L. Manzella ’72 Daniel P. Mecca ’87 Rev. Joseph Rogliano What’s

INSIDE Canisius High School

FEATURES TODAY

A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE Rev. Joseph Costantino, S.J. CHS’s athletic program has been built upon a long tradition President of winning seasons, talented coaches, and dedicated players. Learn about the greats of the past and how today’s student- 6 Timothy Fitzgerald athletes work hard to maintain the legacy of excellence. Principal

CREW’S WINNING TRADITION INSTITUTIONAL Since 1956, the crew program has produced national titles and ADVANCEMENT TEAM a pair of Olympic medalists. This winning tradition has led to 8 CHS become known throughout the country for strong results Craig Harris and tremendous student-athletes. Vice President for Institutional Advancement THE BALANCE In keeping with the school’s mission of transforming the Deborah Burke “whole person,” student-athletes must excel on the field and Director of Annual Giving 10 in the classroom as well. Standouts like ’09 and Gordon Lyons ’11 personify the success of CHS’s approach. Thomas Lucia Public Relations & Social Media ROOM FOR GROWTH A state-of-the-art facility that includes two locker rooms and Colleen Sellick 14 trainers’ rooms was dedicated and put into immediate use on Director of Special Events Sept. 6 when the varsity football team opened its 2014 season with a decisive 48-3 win over McQuaid Jesuit. Patricia Vukelic Advancement Services Coordinator THE IGNATIAN PLAYBOOK Whether through retreats, service projects, or team prayer Brenda Weber-Miller services, Ignatian spirituality is woven throughout every facet Corporate and Foundation 18 of the athletic program. The result is a student-athlete who is Relations Officer strong of mind, body, and faith. Paul Zablocki ’01 Director of Alumni Relations

MORE NEWS ON THE COVER CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Rev. Joseph Costantino, S.J. 4 President’s Message The back row consists of Timothy Fitzgerald 5 Principal’s Message (left to right) Athletic Director Martin J. Haumesser 12 Spring Sports Recap Jim Mauro, senior Richard Miller, Thomas Lucia senior Daniel Jordan, and Principal 15 Alumni Volunteer Corps Timothy Fitzgerald. The front LAYOUT AND DESIGN 16 2014 Athletic Hall of Fame includes (left to right) senior Betsy Frazer 19 Coach Bryan Tenney T.J. Wheatley, junior Stafford 20 Alums in Sports Truehart, President Rev. Joseph PHOTOGRAPHY 21 Alumni News & Notes Costantino, S.J., and Ellen Fitzgerald sophomore Griffin Schmit. 22 In Memoriam: Nancy J. Parisi Rev. Gerald McIntyre, S.J. Mark Struckmann Thomas Wolf from the PRESIDENT’S OFFICE

We also raised money and Tenney, who is celebrating For everything built a locker room at the his 25th year of coaching the there is a season. Robert J. Stransky Athletic varsity team this Complex. Cutting the ribbon season. We pay tribute to some Ecclesiastes 3:1 and blessing this new building of our tremendous coaches at our season-opening football from the past each year by hank God there is a game on September 6 was an inducting them, along with other season for everything inspiring culmination of my first distinguished alumni, into our under heaven, year as president. Our hope is Athletic Hall of Fame. Be sure especially when it that, through your continued to check out our article about comes to athletics at generosity, baseball fields those who will be admitted into TCanisius High School. If that and courts will one day the Hall in 2014. weren’t the case, our talented join the locker room facility in We hope you enjoy this issue student-athletes would sadly West Seneca. of CHS Today with its focus on be limited to just one sport. Yet what is, without a doubt, one many of them compete all year Another magis dream is to of the finest athletic programs long. Some even manage to become the first high school in in the country. Thank you for squeeze in time to perform in Western to have its empowering us through your our plays or become involved own erg house. Unsure of what faithful prayers and financial in the many service programs, an “erg house” is? Be sure to support. Go Crusaders! retreats and clubs we offer. read our piece on the school’s And of course, they study. crew team. Rev. Joe Costantino, S.J. I am happy to say that we have President a very long and proud tradition Our athletic program is built of scholarly student-athletes. on a tradition of outstanding P.S. – Keep cheering on your We are excited to highlight coaches. We highlight the varsity football team. As of this some of them in this issue of dedicated service of one writing, they are ranked in the CHS Today. such man in this issue, Bryan top 50 in the nation! Throughout this past year, athletics has certainly been on my mind. Our new Spirituality in Sports program, which we have worked on over the last several months, aims to grant the parents of all of our student- athletes a better understanding and appreciation for how we integrate sports into the larger project of forming their sons as respectful “men with and for others.” You can learn more about this initiative from our article on the role an Ignatian Jesuit education plays in the “...blessing this new building at our season-opening football game on FALL 2014 FALL CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL TODAY lives of our student-athletes. September 6 was an inspiring culmination of my first year as president.”

4 from the PRINCIPAL’S OFFICE

he long-standing sportscaster Mark Giangreco Here at CHS, we maintain 36 reputation of Canisius ’70, sportswriter Eric Brady teams in 16 sports and list High School as an ’72 and legendary columnist approximately 500 of our nearly institution dedicated to Larry Felser ’51 have also called 900 students on team rosters. academic excellence themselves Crusaders. There is In contrast to the national Tis well documented. Similarly, no question that CHS’s impact average, a full 15-20% of our the many tremendous on the national sports scene student-athletes participate in accomplishments of CHS’s is impressive and one that college athletics at some level. athletic teams and student- continues to this day. And there is a reason for that. athletes are points of pride for Not only does our dedicated generations of alums. However, the difference faculty and staff prepare these between the lives of our young men for the spiritual Major-league baseball player current student-athletes and and academic challenges of Sibby Sisti ’38, Olympians Jim those that have come before college, but for the athletic Neil ’86 and Steven Coppola them is dramatic. The 21st rigors as well. Our ranks now ’02, NFL players Phil McConkey Century Crusader faces stiff include certified strength and ’75, Jimmy Gaines ’10 and competition for positions on condition specialists Morgan John Urschel ’09, have all his own team and even longer Collins and Chris Stuff who attained the highest level of odds to ever play at the regularly work with students. In accomplishment in their field. collegiate level. In fact, less addition, the school continues Blackhawks General than 2% of the nation’s high- to expand and upgrade all CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL TODAY FALL 2014 Manager ’91, school athletes will continue of its facilities, including the former executive to participate in that sport on-campus fitness center and Larry Quinn ’70, Chicago in college. the recently completed locker rooms at the Robert J. Stransky Athletic Complex. All of these things help to build a student-athlete who is prepared for the stresses of competition, both on the field and off it. For when a young man has everything our school gives him – strength of spirit, of mind, and of body – he is assured of success. The entire Canisius community should take pride in the way we have been represented by our student- athletes past and present. It’s a great time to be a Crusader! Timothy K. Fitzgerald Principal

5 tradition than John Barnes ’42. In all, the legendary Barnes coached three sports – football, LEGACY OF and baseball – for a combined 100 seasons. Starting in 1931, Barnes coached varsity football and went on to win 287 games and earn 10 championships. He remains the EXCELLENCE sixth-winningest high school football coach in New York State history. Barnes also coached basketball for 22 seasons (he won 342 games in that time), A Winning Tradition Runs and baseball for 34. Larry Felser ’51 was a member Deep within Canisius Athletics of the football team at CHS, but is better known for his work in the press box. He worked as xcellence on the fields In baseball, CHS has won 12 a sportswriter and columnist and courts by its Georgetown Cups since 1991. for the Buffalo Courier-Express athletes has become And the list goes on. and the Buffalo Evening News. almost expected at In 1984, Larry became the Canisius High School. youngest recipient of the Dick EDating back to the early days History of McCann Memorial Award for of the school itself, a legacy of success distinguished reporting of excellence has flourished within professional football. all of CHS’s teams. Crusader The roster of legendary football squads consistently Crusaders is long and storied. Phil McConkey ’75 was a part dominate on the gridiron. However, a few alumni illustrate of the Crusader’s famous Basketball players are a familiar just how deep this legacy of “Streak” – an impressive run sight at the Manhattan Cup excellence runs. of six undefeated seasons – finals. Canisius crew teams Ed George ’24 went on to who went on to win a Super rule the waters in , make his mark as a collegiate Bowl with the . while swimmers dive into wrestling champion and as a Dr. Vince Amoia ’81, a former championships year after year. participant in the 1928 Olympic Arizona State running back, was The squad has won 14 Games in Amsterdam. Perhaps selected in the 1986 NFL Draft consecutive Monsignor Martin no man in school history better by the New York Jets. Association championship titles. symbolizes CHS’s athletic Stan Bowman ’91, a golfer and hockey player in his Crusader days, is a two-time winner of the Stanley Cup as of the NHL’s . Steve Coppola ’02 was a member of the crew team who went on to represent the United States at the 2008 Olympics in China. And two recent alums, John Urschel ’09 and Jimmy Gaines ’10, are currently playing in the NFL; John as a member of the and Jimmy as a member of the Buffalo Bills’ practice squad.

Continuing the tradition Sports fans once listened to games on transistor radios. Today, they get instant updates Senior Richard Miller’s game-winning hit last year against St. Joe’s clinched

FALL 2014 FALL CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL TODAY on pocket-sized smartphones. a Georgetown Cup for the Crusaders. Behind him is the 1896 team.

6 Simple canvas high-top sneakers have been replaced by high-tech athletic shoes specifically designed to the needs of each sport. And the height, weight and fitness level of the average student-athlete of 1950 is much different than those same characteristics of their modern-day counterparts. There is no question that much has changed in the sports world over the last several decades. Pursuing excellence at Canisius, however, has not. The Crusaders featured on the cover of this magazine offer proof that the legacy of excellence is alive and well. Richard Miller ’15 played third base on the CHS team that defeated St. Joe’s in the 2014 Georgetown Cup championship. “Football [at CHS] is like a college program” says senior T.J. Wheatley In fact, it was his dramatic, walk- pictured above with the 1900 Crusaders. off hit that drove in the winning run and clinched the 2-1 victory. Rich was one of three Crusaders Buffalo Bills. “Here, the coaches drawn interest from Canisius named to the New York State know what they are doing and, College, Sienna College, and Sportswriters Association’s as a result, we (the players) are Richmond University. It is 2014 All-State Team and he has ready every game.” expected that the number of already verbally committed to Daniel Jordan ’15 was a force schools interested in Stafford play college baseball at Towson as a member of the A Boat will increase as he continues to University (Md.). “Athletics that took second in the Senior improve over the course of his played a big part in my choosing Heavyweight Eight at this year’s two remaining seasons. “The to come here,” Rich says. “I New York State Scholastic basketball program’s coches really like that Canisius teams Rowing Championships. Dan focus on individual player go into each season expecting has been named to the 2015 development and team building. to win a championship.” U.S. Junior Worlds Development That focus allows all of us to Team that will travel to be the best we can be,”

Tyrone “T.J.” Stafford says. CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL TODAY FALL 2014 Wheatley ’15 has Spain for 10 days to been described train for the 2015 Griffin Schmit ’17 is a member by the Buffalo “Canisius season. He is of the varsity volleyball team News as one teams go into being eyed by that is pursuing an incredible of the most the U.S. Naval 15th-straight Monsignor Martin talented each season Academy, the Athletic Association title this players local expecting University of year. Griffin was pulled up to high school California at play on the varsity squad as a football has to win a Berkley, Boston freshman last year, a rarity in ever seen. University and Crusader athletics. And not Expectedly, he championship.” Brown University, only did he play in the is being heavily among others. championship match against recruited by schools “Crusader coaches St. Joe’s, Griffin had the game- such traditional college are the best at giving you winning point. Some West football powers as Alabama, the tools to take your skills to Coast colleges have already Michigan, USC, UCLA, and the next level,” Dan says. “I contacted him and he identifies Miami. Wherever he ends up think that is why so many of our his coach as a big reason for going, though, T.J. knows his rowers do so well his success. “I really don’t think Canisius experience will help in college.” there is a better volleyball coach him. “Football here is run like Stafford Truehart ’16 played in than a college program,” says T.J. power forward as a sophomore Coach Weislo,” Griffin says. “I who transferred from a Central for the varsity basketball hope to grow in a leadership New York high school when squad and set a team record role and have a part in winning his father, Tyrone, was named for blocked shots in a season. the championship for the next Running Backs’ Coach for the Even as a junior, Stafford has three seasons.”

7 CREW’S WINNING Year after year, Crusader oarsmen are TRADITION driven to be the best

hen people 90 student-athletes who train Spring is the premier season talk about high throughout the year, competing during which rowers compete school rowing in three seasons. In the fall, head-to-head in sprint races in Western New there are “head races,” time – usually 1,500 meters or the York, the name trial-type events that are longer, standard two kilometers. W“Canisius High School” comes usually around five kilometers. to the minds of most. In fact, In winter, rowers take to the Varsity Head Coach Tom CHS’s program is recognized school’s state-of-the-art Flaherty has led the program throughout the United States indoor facility that features 50 since 1996. He credits a for its consistent success, and ergometers, video-networked combination of a strong represents one of the school’s “virtual rowing shells,” sliders, coaching staff, outstanding strongest athletic traditions. and an array of custom-built support from parents and training equipment. Rowers alumni, and the backing of The program got its start in the will also take part in what are the school itself for crew’s late 1940s and grew under the called “erg-attas,” indoor winter consistent and continual watchful eye of legendary coach competitions against other success. “There is great Charles Fontana. For many schools using the ergometers. camaraderie in the Canisius years, he labored to ensure that crew community as we are all a strong foundation would be pursuing excellence together,” laid. And it was. he explains. “It’s not about one particular rower, or the coaches In the years since, Crusader – it’s about the team, everyone rowers have raced across pulling for one another.” the water to win countless U.S. National, Canadian National, and New York State Producing championships, competing against the best oarsman in the collegiate rowers sport. The squad is currently based at the Buffalo Scholastic Every year, CHS oarsmen Rowing Association (BSRA) graduate from the school and located in the Old First Ward go on to compete at the next area on the Buffalo River. level -- including top rowing With varsity and freshman colleges such as Princeton, programs, the crew team Harvard, and the U.S. Naval FALL 2014 FALL CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL TODAY includes anywhere from 75 to Academy. In fact, Coach

8 in Norway. Following an exceptional college career at Princeton University, he currently serves as the head coach of the varsity men’s team at Princeton.

Steven Coppola ’02 was a member of the U.S. Olympic Rowing Team Men’s Eight crew that won a bronze medal at the 2008 games in Beijing.

“When you look at how far so many of our rowers have gone in their careers, it says a lot,” Coach Flaherty says. With a number of state, national and international titles to its name, CHS’s “Their successes in college and crew program is without question one of the country’s finest. beyond make Canisius even better because of the image of excellence these student- Flaherty’s three sons, Thomas but academically. “The sport athletes project for ’96, Scott ’97, and Kevin ’00, all lends itself to strong academic the school.” rowed at Canisius High School performers, as the rower and went on to the United develops discipline, time States Naval Academy. management skills, and strong Looking ahead study habits,” he says. “The top The continued success of CHS’s One of the best examples of colleges look for that critical rowers on the international level this tradition of success comes balance and that is one of the is more evidence of the spirit from a single group – CHS’s reasons why so many Crusader of excellence that runs through Senior Eight rowers from 2011. rowers are selected for such every rowing team at the school. In this particular nine-man boat, fine schools.” As that tradition continues, an extraordinary seven seniors the Canisius community can headed to college to continue look forward to more great their rowing careers: Success on performances coming out of the boathouse in the years ahead. • Coxswain Kevin the world stage Tompkins ’11 went to CHS’s crew program has been a “The support from Canisius Syracuse University force on the international rowing High School administration, • No. 8 seat Will Downing ’11 faculty, parents and alumni has

scene as well. CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL TODAY FALL 2014 went to Princeton been incredible and they are key • No. 7 went Liam Moffett ’11 James Neil ’86 was named to to the success of our program,” to the U.S. Naval Academy the U.S. Olympic Rowing Team Coach Flaherty. “We have • No. 6 James Hamp ’11 went that competed in Spain in 1992. built the crew program from the to Princeton bottom up, but we can’t • No. 5 James LaVersa ’11 Martin Crotty ’94 was part of do it without backing from went to Holy Cross the junior men’s eight that won above. I can’t begin to describe • No. 2 Connor Mangan ’11 a bronze medal at the 1993 how grateful all of us are for went to Harvard Junior World Championships that support.” • No. 1 Emmett Ogiony ’11 went to University of Pennsylvania

In addition, Michael Hamp ’12, a junior in the No. 4 seat on that boat, went on to row at the U.S. Naval Academy and Mark Hirschbeck 13, a sophomore in the No. 3 seat, attended Cornell University.

Coach Flaherty points out that the top collegiate programs have come to recognize the type of graduates that come out of CHS, not only athletically,

9 Student-athletes excel in college ACADEMICS & beyond

he Canisius High & ATHLETICS School community takes distinct pride in the number of its student-athletes who Tgo on to the nation’s most IN BALANCE distinguished colleges and universities. Harvard. Princeton. Brown. Cornell. Georgetown. The U.S. Naval Academy. Year after year, the list of college choices is impressive. It should be known that CHS graduates do not get into these schools based on athletic ability alone. They must have the grades to match. Each embodies a distinctly Canisius approach in which athletics and academics go along hand-in- hand with the school’s Jesuit principles to form a “whole person.” One who is well rounded in terms of mind, body, and spirit.

Ready for the next level As part of its college preparatory education model, CHS participates in the College Board’s Advanced Placement (A.P.) program. Qualified students who wish to challenge themselves beyond the already demanding curriculum can take college-level A.P. courses in English, history, mathematics, and science (biology, chemistry and physics). Student-athletes understand that the academic demands of the school, paired with the challenges of playing a sport, are not for the faint of heart. But they also know they have the support of the faculty, coaches and staff to help them succeed. To this end, coaches John Urschel ’09 has earned as many accolades on the field as he has off regularly speak with players FALL 2014 FALL CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL TODAY of it. Photo courtesy of the Baltimore Ravens. about academic responsibility

10 and accountability. Some teams Division III All-East selection, even hold study halls together. Classroom and to the NABC Honors Court. Learning labs and other after- and court class support systems are also Gordon says balancing sports available to all. Gordon Lyons ’11 was a and academics in college comes standout on CHS’s basketball naturally to him because of his “Student-athletes routinely team and a captain on the experience at CHS. “Canisius come back to Canisius and say 2011 squad that won the put me on a great path,” he their academic experience at Monsignor Martin Manhattan explains. “There is a greater our school was more demanding Cup championship his senior volume of work at the college and challenging than college,” year. A 6’5” center, Gordon was level, but in terms of facing Principal Timothy Fitzgerald named to the league’s first team challenging academics and says. “The student-athlete takes and MVP of the Manhattan Club the need for disciplined study a very workman-like approach to Tournament. He also played four habits, I was ready because of his studies which prepares him years of baseball. what I learned at Canisius.” well for college.” Named “Mr, Canisius” at With plans to pursue a master’s With strict athletic eligibility graduation, Gordon was degree in accounting, Gordon requirements dependent on recruited to play basketball says he is grateful for how maintaining academic standing, at State University of New CHS’ faculty and curriculum it is no wonder so many York at Geneseo where he is challenged him. “I was in the Crusaders are able to keep currently studying accounting. top 10 in my class because the up their grades while playing While staying on the Dean’s faculty always pushed me to do sports at the next level. Here are List every year, his on-court my best,” he concludes. “While just a couple of examples. success also continues. He has teachers understood the life of been named First Team All- a student-athlete, they never SUNYAC, a National Association gave us special treatment and I Football of Basketball Coaches (NABC) am thankful for that.” and figures If a Western New York sports fan has not heard of CHS alumnus John Urschel ’09 by now, they have not been paying attention. The All-Big Ten offensive lineman at Penn State was selected by the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens in the

2014 draft. Even more recently, CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL TODAY FALL 2014 he made his first professional start, appearing in a Ravens’ win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. And while these things are noteworthy, what John has done off the playing field is equally remarkable.

John graduated with a 4.0 grade-point average with a degree in mathematics in 2012, just three years after enrolling at Penn State. He immediately began working on a master’s degree in math and graduated in 2013, again with a 4.0 GPA. He has since begun to work on a master’s in math education with the plan of earning a Ph.D. after his football career is over. John’s formative years at CHS cannot be overlooked as having played a role in his many A former “Mr. Canisius,” Gordon Lyons ’11 has become a prolific scorer at succesess. the collegiate level. Photo courtesy of SUNY Geneseo.

11 trong seasons from all of CHS’s varsity spring sports teams allowed the Crusaders to once again capture Sthe 2013-14 Supremacy Cup, the award that recognizes the top athletic program in the Monsignor Martin Athletic Association. It was the 11th time in the last 13 years that CHS has earned the prestigious honor. The varsity lacrosse team raced out to 5-0 and 7-1 records before finishing its 2014 season with an 11-7 mark. The Crusaders’ campaign ended in the league semi-finals at the hands of the eventual champs, the Bishop Timon- St. Jude Tigers.

Ryan Matthews ’14

Michael Ferrick ’16 SPRING TENNIS The Crusaders posted a very strong 10-3 record that included a best-ever showing at the 2014 All-Catholic tournament. Ryan Coppola ’16 was named SPORTS CHS’s 2013-14 Spring Athlete of the Season after winning the All-Catholic singles’ title as a Spring Successes Add Up freshman.

FALL 2014 FALL CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL TODAY to Supremacy Cup Title

12 Joe Ebner ’14 Jaelin Marong ’15 CREW BASEBALL TRACK The crew team enjoyed another The baseball team went 5-0 The track squad enjoyed a very successful spring season. in the playoffs en route to strong outdoor season and One group in particular – the another Georgetown Cup finished third in the league. varsity eight – shined, taking title. Early-round wins against Particularly strong performances top honors at the annual Timon and St. Francis set up a came from Desmond Nicholas NYS Scholastic Championships championship series with rival (100m and 200m), Jaelin Marong and advancing to the Scholastic St. Joe’s. The Crusaders won (400m), and the members of the

Rowing Association National the first game 3-2 and then beat 4x100 and 4x400 relay teams. CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL TODAY FALL 2014 Championships. the Marauders on a walk-off hit by Richard Miller to give the team a 2-1, cup-clinching victory.

13 student-athletes and all those visiting student-athletes safe,” part of Father Costantino’s blessing read. “Bless their coaches and our entire athletic program, may it be one embodying true Christian values. Bless the members of our ‘Blue Crew’ and all of our spectators whose faithful presence helps us to know through them of your presence and support!” Although the initial Stransky complex was completed several years ago, the locker room project was only recently approved by the Town of West Seneca in the fall of 2013. A ground-breaking event was held during the spring and not only signified the beginning ROOM of construction, but the completion of a very successful fundraising campaign that was spear-headed by CHS alums Steve Leous ’76 and Tim TO GROW Kane ’80. “Our students and coaches are extremely grateful to all of Crusaders Christen New the many alumni, donors and staff members that made its Locker Room Facility With a Win construction possible,” says Mr. Mauro. “We are thrilled to have this important addition to the Stransky Athletic Complex he days of student-athletes changing into their uniforms and looking forward to not only in the mud and cold are history. On Sept. 6, before the using it in the years to come, varsity football team’s season-opening win over McQuaid but to celebrating in it.” Jesuit (Rochester, N.Y.), a special ribbon-cutting Tceremony was held that formally marked the opening of a new, state-of-the-art locker room and training facility at the Robert J. Stransky Memorial Athletic Complex in West Seneca. Flanked by Robert Reger ’66 (board president), Rich Robbins (head football coach) and Jim Mauro (athletic director), school president Rev. Joe Costantino, S.J., engaged a large group of alumni, staff members, fans and friends in a prayer and blessing of the building, which immediately went into good use as members of both football teams filed in prior to the game’s kickoff.

“Both on and off the field, O God, Board President Robert Reger ’66, CHS President Rev. Joseph Costantino, FALL 2014 FALL CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL TODAY keep our Canisius High School S.J., Coach Rich Robbins and Athletic Director Jim Mauro cut the ribbon.

14 Volunteer Service: Serves as a volunteer with the annual Music is Art Festival Future Plans: Graduate school in special education, teaching art to special-needs students “My brother, Sean Whalen ’09, was an AV last year, so, through him, I saw first-hand the many benefits of the program,” Kevin explains. “I’ve always wanted to teach art and now it’s exciting to see and live the challenges from the teacher’s side. It’s also wonderful to be able to work with faculty members I respect and admire.”

Paul Steinig ’10 College: Williams College Degree: B.A. in History Interests: History, hockey, coaching Volunteer Service: Liaison between Williams College’s hockey team and the Team MEET THE NEW Impact organization Future Plans: Law school “We all enjoyed our four years here and having the opportunity to return and volunteer our services to Canisius is very AVC TEAM important,” Paul says. “The school means a lot to each one of us and the AVC is a great Crusaders Helping Crusaders: way to contribute our time and different talents to help its The Alumni Volunteer Corps Program continued success.”

enters its fourth year Alexander Vilardo ’10 CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL TODAY FALL 2014 College: Degree: B.A. in English new team of recent Degree: B.A. in English Interests: Writing, teacher for college graduates Interests: Literature, history, Canisius’ Higher Achievement will make their mark comedy, writing Program (HAP) during the throughout campus Volunteer Service: Loaves and summer as part of the school’s Fishes in Ithaca; fundraising for Volunteer Service: Assistant Avery popular Alumni Volunteer coach for the Buffalo Big Brothers Organization Corps (AVC). Future Plans: Graduate school Shamrocks Hockey Club’s Mite The program, in its fourth year or possibly more teaching and Bantam teams; tutor at in 2014-15, is an 11-month, St. Augustine’s Nativity/ academic year initiative in which “It feels like coming back Miguel School Canisius High School (CHS) home. Everyone has been very welcoming and supportive,” Future Plans: Law school alums offer volunteer service to “One of the many great things their alma mater while figuring Jon says about the AVC. “Teachers who I have respected about a Jesuit school such as out their own future plans and Canisius is that, as students, career paths. for years have told me they consider us faculty now.” you really get to know the The four men who will serve as faculty and staff, even beyond Alumni Volunteers during this the classroom,” Alexander says. school year (pictured above, left Kevin Whalen ’10 “Returning and serving as a to right): College: Buffalo State College mentor to the students here Degree: B.F.A. in Painting now is my way of giving back to Jonathan Schuta ’10 Interests: Art, drawing and the many people who helped me College: Ithaca College painting at Canisius.”

15 ATHLETIC The Athletic Hall of Fame inductions take place each fall, recognizing outstanding HALL OF FAME student-athletes of the past, while bringing together former teammates, alumni and friends. The Hall is pleased to welcome the following Crusaders as INDUCTEES honored members in 2014:

Dr. Michael Sansone ’64 Kenneth Schoetz ’74 Martin Crotty ’94 Baseball, Basketball, Football Crew Football, Track & Field Ken played offensive Marty was a standout rower tackle during the football who exemplified the program’s Mike was a four-sport athlete team’s famous “Streak”, an philosophy of discipline and who excelled in every one – extraordinary 42-0-1 record hard work. In his junior year, football, basketball, track and compiled from 1972 to 1977. In Marty was a member of the field and baseball. He was the Ken’s senior year, he was one Junior Heavyweight Coxed first junior to win four varsity of the captains of the Burke Four that placed third at the letters in a single season in league championship team Canadian Schoolboy National CHS history. A running back in that went 8-0. The same year, Championship. That summer, he football, he was third in total Ken was named to the First was invited to compete with the yards in the Bishop Burke Team All-Catholic, First Team U.S. National Team and was part league his senior year. An All-Western New York, Second of the junior men’s eight that outfielder in baseball, he played Team All-State, and the Prep won a bronze medal at the 1993 for the Canisius Tyro’s American All- Team Junior World Championships. Legion Post champions. In selected by national sports In his senior year, Marty served basketball, he saw action for writers, and published by Coach as team captain and was part three years and played in the & Athlete magazine. That year’s of the Varsity Four that won a Manhattan Cup his junior year. listing also included future Pro gold medal at the U.S. Scholastic He was All-Catholic as a track Football Hall of Fame member, Rowing Championship. The and field star and had numerous Earl Campbell. summer following graduation, first- and second-place finishes he was again a member of the

FALL 2014 FALL CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL TODAY in his senior season. National Team junior men’s eight.

16 Ryan Crawford ’99 Members of the 1978 Wrestling Team Lacrosse The 1978 wrestling team won 12 straight matches and became one of only three unbeaten teams in Western New York that year. The Ryan played varsity lacrosse team placed eight of 12 wrestlers in the finals and claimed three all four years as a midfielder championships and five second-place awards. CHS went on to and face-off specialist and defeat DeSales in the All-Catholic Wrestling Tournament. set numerous school records. In 1999, with Ryan as captain, • Michael Ahern ’78 • Joseph Farage ’80 the lacrosse team captured its 2nd Team All-Catholic & U.S. • Timothy Kensinger ’78 first-ever WNY Private School Junior Olympic Champion 1st Team All-Catholic Championship, defeating Bishop • Joseph Bona ’78 • Michael Kreuz ’79 Timon in the finals. Ryan earned 1st Team All-Catholic • Michael Kubiniec ’79 First Team All-Western New York • Timothy Carlin ’78 • Joseph Nowaczyk ’79 honors in his junior and senior 1st Team All-Catholic year, and was named a High 2nd Team All-Catholic • Edward Conway ’80 School All-American after his • Emmett Reilly ’78 2nd Team All-Catholic senior year. 2nd Team All-Catholic • Michael Curletta ’78 • Emery Rogers • Leonard Falsone ’78 Coach CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL TODAY FALL 2014 2nd Team All-Catholic & • Richard Stanton ’79 Bronze Medal NYS Open Championship

2014 JOHN F. BARNES AWARD Dr. Leo A. Kane ’50 Dr. Leo Kane never played soccer nor did he coach the sport. But the soccer program owes its beginnings to him. A member of the Distinguished Alumni Hall of Honor, Dr. Kane was instrumental in working with CHS administrators to start a soccer team, purchasing soccer balls and uniforms, hiring a coach, and even securing a playing field. The first Crusader soccer team took the field in the fall of 1978, coached by Stephen Mechtler, and had an impressive 5-3 record, making it into the league semifinals. The next year, the team went undefeated in league play and won games against a number of local schools that had more established soccer programs. Dr. Kane had four sons who attended CHS – Patrick ’78, Tim ’80, Brian ’81, Kevin ’83 – and he continued to be a generous supporter of the school throughout his lifetime.

17 THE IGNATIAN Jesuit Education Inspires PLAYBOOK Student-Athletes

xcellence in sports at Coaches are not the only CHS should come as Spreading group that receives this special no surprise considering the Word training, though. The parents the school’s motto and of student-athletes also attend its Jesuit model – “Men Ignatian seminars are held for Ignatian seminars to allow Efor and With Others.” What coaches at Canisius – some them to better understand the better definition of teamwork is of whom did not attend a formation process and what it there than young men working Jesuit school – so that they will mean for their son. Such together for the common good? understand the school’s history activities have been a huge hit. For the team. For others. and mission and can weave this philosophy into their instruction. CHS’s student-athletes are fully A team effort molded in the Jesuit tradition. Further, each coach is asked A careful balance of academics, to organize a team retreat, one As the only Jesuit high school spirituality and sportsmanship that integrates the Ignatian in Western New York, it is fair enhances their success on the approach with other bonding to say the sports program is field. The spiritual component activities to foster the spirit unique at Canisius. Ignatian cannot be overlooked, according of working together and for spirituality separates the school to Jim Mauro, athletic director. others. The retreats generally from all others in the area, and involve taking on various the high level of leadership of “Crusaders play to win. But Campus Ministry activities its student-athletes season at the root of all Canisius such as volunteering with after season, year after year, athletic successes is Ignatian local charitable organizations. demonstrates this spirit- spirituality,” he explains. Retreats also include a group centered approach. “Student-athletes are taught Mass or time for the student- the Jesuit approach to athletes to listen to reflections “We educate young men not making decisions, conducting from coaches and teammates. only in how to compete in themselves on and off the Rev. Joseph W. Lux, S.J., serves sports, but in how to compete field with integrity, and always as chaplain for all of CHS’s in life,” Jim Mauro concludes. remaining aware of the needs of teams and not only oversees “Being ‘Men for Others’ makes others, whether it’s a teammate these activities, but helps a difference on the playing field

FALL 2014 FALL CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL TODAY or an opponent.” plan them. and in the community.”

18 We were playing St. Joe’s and we were winning 5-2 going into the last inning. We went on to lose 6-5 and it stung. I do remember that. What memories do you have of the legendary Connie McGillicuddie? BT: I was coached and taught by Connie when I was here as a student. I looked up to him as a coach and a person. He was limited physically in what he could show us on the field, but he talked the game of baseball so well. Even after he retired, he was still like my general manager. We’d talk through just about every game – the good, the bad, and the ugly. He was a great mentor. You have had the chance to coach your four sons. What is NINE QUESTIONS WITH that like? BT: Three graduated from CHS and one is a junior now. It was BASEBALL COACH an honor to coach them. It’s a great feeling when your son is playing for you and I was lucky enough to have a couple of BRYAN TENNEY them playing at the same time. But there’s a downside, too. When things don’t go their way, or the team doesn’t do so well, his season will be CHS of baseball and I loved the it’s tough. It’s hard to sit back Varsity Baseball Coach school. It was a great fit. I and watch your kids struggle or Bryan Tenney’s 25th coached the freshman team doubt themselves. But, given at the school. He’s a until Connie retired, then I was all of that, I wouldn’t trade the proud alum (Class of offered the position of varsity CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL TODAY FALL 2014 experience for the world. T1976), an even prouder husband coach. and father, and one of the Do you feel pressure to Were you nervous for your most successful coaches in succeed? first game? WNY, having accumulated BT: Not really. Of course, I don’t hundreds of victories and BT: I was. I had played baseball like at the end of the season several Georgetown Cup my whole life. I played here and if the team isn’t successful. championships. He’s also a then at Duke University. I had But I believe success can be “coaches’ coach,” a man who tryouts with the Dodgers and measured in different ways. is incredibly humble, not one Braves, but my playing career Success can mean one thing for the spotlight, and always ended in 1980. I hadn’t touched to one team and something willing to put student-athletes a baseball for quite a while at else for another. I’ve had first. And that’s what makes that time. When they asked talented teams that don’t play him great. me to coach, my first reaction together and don’t do well. was “Yes! I love baseball.” But How did it all begin? I’ve also had teams that were then reality set in. I was a little not as physically gifted, but BT: I was running a pair of nervous. I began to realize that had a strong work ethic and restaurants for my family there’s more to coaching than understanding of the team after college. In 1988, I just picking up a bat or putting concept that went on to hold was approached by Connie a glove on your hand. the [Georgetown] Cup at the McGillicuddie and asked to Do you remember the first one? end of the season. Do I feel coach the freshman team. pressure to win? Not really. Honestly, I didn’t even know BT: After all the years, I But I do want every player I CHS had a freshman team! I remember a lot of games, but coach to succeed. knew I could handle the extra not necessarily the first one. I responsibility, I loved the game do remember one of the first. Continued on page 20

19 ALUMS IN SPORTS

ith the addition of as those of the First Niagara • Pat Malacaro ’02, Broadcaster. Baltimore Ravens’ Center, the and Pat is a part of the Buffalo offensive lineman . Bisons’ radio and television Jon Urschel ’09, • Ken Lehner ’85, Managing broadcasts and also serves the list of CHS Partner of Bottom Nine, LLC. a number of roles with local Walums currently enjoying a sports radio station WGR 550. Ken has more than 15 years of career in sports is long. Here are sports management experience just a few names: in MLB, the NFL and the NHL. He • Mark Giangreco ’70, Sports currently serves as president of Director and Anchor for WLS- MiLB’s Rockland Boulders. TV in Chicago. During his nearly 40-year career, Mark has won a number of awards including three Emmys. • Erik Brady ’72, Sports Reporter at USA Today. After starting his career with the Buffalo Courier-Express, he took a position with a new daily newspaper, USA Today, in 1982. He has won a number of awards • Jimmy Gaines ’10, Practice for sports journalism. Squad Member of the NFL’s • Jim Bednarek ’76 is in his • Stan Bowman ’91, Vice Buffalo Bills. Gaines played 19th season as Vice President President/General Manager of linebacker for the University of Finance and Administration the NHL’s Chicago Blackhawks. of Miami (Fla.) Hurricanes from with Boston’s TD Garden and Stan joined the organization in 2010-13, and, despite not being his seventh season with the 2000 and was elevated to his drafted, earned a free-agent dual role as Vice President of current post in 2009. He’s a contract with the Bills. Finance for the NHL’s Bruins. two-time Stanley Cup champion. If you are a CHS alum currently • Dave Zygaj ’81, Vice President • Jon Shaw ’02, Pro Scout/ working in the field of sports of Legal Affairs with the NHL’s Special Projects with the NFL’s and you weren’t mentioned Buffalo Sabres. Dave is currently Indianapolis Colts. Jon is in his above, please let us know. responsible for managing all of ninth season with the Colts and E-mail Tom Lucia at the Sabres’ legal issues, as well his third as a scout. [email protected].

What traits must a student- BT: A very understanding Coach Tenney, cont. athlete possess to succeed? wife! At one point in my early coaching career, I had four boys BT: My best players have always How do you define success? at home – all under the age of had a few things in common: six. So I give all the credit in the BT: We had four or five players they treat each other well, they world to my wife, Sheila, who from last year who went on have respect for the game, went above and beyond while I to play college baseball. And they respect their parents and was at practices and games at that’s terrific. That’s one way to coaches, and they commit to night and on the weekends. measure success. But, to me, working as hard in school as I really feel that three things the concept of team is where they do on the baseball field. success lies. A player can’t have led to my success: my succeed until he realizes he 25 years! What’s the secret to wife, my love of baseball and my FALL 2014 FALL CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL TODAY needs all of his teammates. your success? love of CHS.

20 ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES

Robert Missert ’44 is 88 years Christopher Clark ’01 is proud old and wants everyone to know BIRTHS to announce the birth of his son, he is “still kicking!” Evan Tibbetts ’00 and his wife John Donald Clark (below), who welcomed their first baby, Jack, was born on August 19, 2014 Gene Vukelic ’48 was recently in March 2013. They adopted a presented with a lifetime daughter, Ellie, in April 2014. achievement award from Business First of Buffalo for his remarkable career.

Robert Larzelere ’55 has been retired and recently visited Ireland. His two grandsons currently attend Texas A&M.

James Corda ’60 retired in 2009 and has been married to Michael Sullivan ’93 and his his wife, Janet, for 48 years. wife welcomed their daughter, ALUMNI They have three children and Mary Claire Sullivan (above), HOCKEY GAME: four grandchildren. James who was born on May 16, 2014. helps out at his parish and is Jan. 3, 2015 proud of brother Norm Corda The 2015 Alumni Hockey Game ’52 and son John Corda ’02. has a date, Jan. 3, and a very unique venue, the Healthy William Mahoney ’80 serves Zone Rink in East Aurora, N.Y.

as head coach of D’Youville The rink is the same one used CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL TODAY FALL 2014 College’s cross-country team. during the 2008 Winter Classic played at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Nicholas Pietrocarlo ’89 has After the game, participants started a new opportunity with will gather at the Riley Street Computer Aid, Inc., of South Station for food, prizes and fun. Florida as technology director. James Nash ’96 and his wife announce the birth of their son, If you’d like to play, or you Colin Reed Nash (above) who need additional information, Rocco Diina ’96 was named was born on May 26, 2014. contact Sam Rizzo ’97 at First Niagara Financial Group’s [email protected]. top mortgage producer across the company’s entire northeast footprint in 2013.

Leon Smith ’97 will graduate from the State University of New York at Buffalo with an executive MBA in May of 2015.

MARRIAGE Ian DeLuke ’01 and the former Elise Janicke were married on Aug. 16 in Ellicottville, N.Y. Members of the Class of 1951 recently swung by for lunch.

21 IN MEMORIAM: Upcoming REV. GERALD EVENTS

FIRST FRIDAY MASS Friday, November 7 McINTYRE, S.J. 7:45 a.m. @ St. Michael’s

FALL DRAMA he Canisius High School family was saddened to learn of the CLUB PRODUCTION untimely, sudden passing of Rev. Gerald J. McIntyre, S.J. A Thursday, November 13 - long-time member of the English Department at CHS and Friday, November 15 the school’s first Director of Admissions, Father McIntyre 7:30 p.m. @ CHS made a sincere and indelible impression on the lives of Tthousands of students, faculty and staff. ENTRANCE & Fr. McIntyre entered the right out of high school in SCHOLARSHIP 1962 and was ordained in 1974. During his life, he earned degrees in EXAM English from Fordham (A.B.) and the Catholic University of America Saturday, November 22 (M.A.) and an M.Div. from Woodstock College. 8:30 a.m. @ CHS He was a member of the CHS community for a number of years, including stints in 1971, 1976-79, 1981, and 1983-89. Much of his time ADVENT on campus was spent as an English teacher, however in REFLECTION the late 80s, with the school struggling with enrollment, Fr. McIntyre took on the task of recruitment and admissions, assuming the title Thursday, December 4 of Director of Admissions. 6:30 p.m. @ CHS

In the years after he left WNY, Fr. McIntyre spent 10 years FIRST FRIDAY MASS in Africa working in Jesuit Friday, December 5 formation; two years in Nigeria 7:45 a.m. @ St. Michael’s and eight in Zimbabwe. Dividing his time between the seminary classroom and administration, JUG NIGHT his last few years in Africa were Friday, December 26 spent serving as vice-rector, 6:30 p.m. @ CHS and then as acting rector, of Arrupe College, the Jesuit college of philosophy and ALUMNI humanities he helped to found HOCKEY GAME in 1994. Saturday, January 3, 2015 Healthy Zone Rink More recently, Fr. McIntyre worked at the Jesuit Retreat House in Morristown, N.J., 36th CHILLY and the Le Moyne Jesuit CHALLENGE Community in Syracuse, N.Y. Sunday, February 22, 2015 10 a.m. Registration @ CHS He will be remembered for his Noon Start mastery of different languages and cultures, his humble nature, his tireless work for the GAMBIT XLI Jesuit order and his passion for helping those who needed Saturday, March 21, 2015 it most. Father McIntyre will 5:30 p.m. @ CHS be missed. Rev. Gerald J. McIntyre, S.J., as he FALL 2014 FALL CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL TODAY appeared in the 1971 Yearbook.

22 Thank you, Carmelo Scaccia ’47 for your commitment to the students of Canisius High School

Carmelo Scaccia ’47 is a true “man for others.” A retired executive who worked for the AM&A’s department store, “Carm” and his wife, Lynn, are regular supporters of CHS’s Annual Fund and have also established a bequest in the school’s honor. By doing so, the couple knows they will be able to make a tremendous impact on the lives of young men for years to come.

“We support Canisius to encourage its continued academic excellence, specifically with underprivileged students. We want them to have the same opportunities that I had.”

For more information on how you can support Canisius High School’s While there are many different ways to assist the school mission and students, contact: and its mission, one of the most impactful is through a bequest. Individuals who take part in this kind of program Craig Harris are automatically enrolled in the St. Society V.P. for Institutional Advancement 716.200.0265 and gain satisfaction in knowing they are ensuring the [email protected] vibrancy of the Canisius High School community. NON-PROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT 847 BUFFALO, NY

Canisius High School 1180 Delaware Avenue Buffalo, NY 14209