Note: we will be adding all profiles to this PAGE over the next several weeks
MARK ANGELO
Class of 1978- Inducted 2007- Baseball, Football, Track
Mark was a great baseball player and an outstanding all-around three sport athlete with a knack for rising to the occasion.
As a junior, he batted .322 with 14 RBIs. In a truly exceptional senior year, Mark batted .446, leading the team in batting average, games (20), hits (29), doubles (3), triples (3), home runs (2), slugging percentage (.677),
on-base percentage (.589) and putouts. He also drove in 18 runs, struck out only three times and committed just two errors on the season.
In recognition of his accomplishments, Mark was named All-Middlesex League and All-Scholastic by the Boston Globe.
While baseball was unquestionably his best sport, Mark also had a well deserved reputation for clutch kicks in football. In his senior year, Mark's game winning field goal with 14 seconds left against Stoneham still resonates as one of the school's all-time clutch kicks.
Also in his senior season on the indoor track team, he broke a personal record with a shot put toss of 49-6 1/2, which qualified him for the Class B state finals where he finished sixth.
Enticed by his exceptional hitting, the St. Louis Cardinals drafted him in 1979. He opted to attend Worcester Academy for a year of prep school where he batted .415 for the baseball team. In 1980, he attended Florida Southern, beginning a stellar four year collegiate career. In 1981, Mark was selected for the NCAA Division 2 All-American team after batting .390 with 72 RBIs and eight home runs. He suffered a knee injury in his junior year, but bounced back as a senior batting .333.
In 1983, Mark was once again drafted by the St.Louis Cardinals in the 18th round. But a promising start to possible professional career ended when he reinjured his knee. Mark was elected to the Florida Southern Athletic Hall of Fame in 1988.
Class of 1978- Inducted 2007- Baseball, Football, Track
Mark was a great baseball player and an outstanding all-around three sport athlete with a knack for rising to the occasion.
As a junior, he batted .322 with 14 RBIs. In a truly exceptional senior year, Mark batted .446, leading the team in batting average, games (20), hits (29), doubles (3), triples (3), home runs (2), slugging percentage (.677),
on-base percentage (.589) and putouts. He also drove in 18 runs, struck out only three times and committed just two errors on the season.
In recognition of his accomplishments, Mark was named All-Middlesex League and All-Scholastic by the Boston Globe.
While baseball was unquestionably his best sport, Mark also had a well deserved reputation for clutch kicks in football. In his senior year, Mark's game winning field goal with 14 seconds left against Stoneham still resonates as one of the school's all-time clutch kicks.
Also in his senior season on the indoor track team, he broke a personal record with a shot put toss of 49-6 1/2, which qualified him for the Class B state finals where he finished sixth.
Enticed by his exceptional hitting, the St. Louis Cardinals drafted him in 1979. He opted to attend Worcester Academy for a year of prep school where he batted .415 for the baseball team. In 1980, he attended Florida Southern, beginning a stellar four year collegiate career. In 1981, Mark was selected for the NCAA Division 2 All-American team after batting .390 with 72 RBIs and eight home runs. He suffered a knee injury in his junior year, but bounced back as a senior batting .333.
In 1983, Mark was once again drafted by the St.Louis Cardinals in the 18th round. But a promising start to possible professional career ended when he reinjured his knee. Mark was elected to the Florida Southern Athletic Hall of Fame in 1988.
RUSS BOSBACH
Class of 1975- Inducted 2003- Track
Russ was one of the athletes most responsible for laying the Rockets' groundwork of success and racking up wins in the early days of "The Streak." A gifted and versatile jumper and hurdler, he broke school records in the high jump and triple jump and was the team's top point producer.
As a senior in the 1974-1975 indoor season, Russ won Middlesex League, Class B and All-State championships in the high jump, clearing a personal best 6-3. His time of 6.1 seconds in the 45-yard hurdles was also best on the team. Reading won the Middlesex League indoor title, finishing 9-0 to capture its third title in four years. In the post season, Reading won the Class B title with ease. Russ won the high jump at the Class Bs and later won an individual All-State high jump championship as well.
Outdoors, 1975 was one for the record books. That spring the Rockets reeled off their fourth straight league title, a third consecutive Class B championship, a Class B relay title, then capped it off with the All-State crown.
Russ' top outdoor event was unquestionably the triple jump and at the time of his induction, his leap of 45-2 is still the RMHS record. He set the record at the Andover Invitational, where he also took second in the 110 high hurdles and was named Outstanding Performer.
At the Class B championship, he was crowned champion in both the hurdles (15.0) and triple jump (44-5), helping Reading beat Andover for the title.
At the June 12 All-States at Andover, Reading capped its season by beating Seekonk, 38-33 to win the state championship. Russ was crowned state champion in the triple jump, leaping 44-7.
Following graduation, Bosbach went on to a terrific career as a jumper and hurdler at Westfield State College. He eventually eclipsed 46 feet in the triple jump with the Owls, setting the Westfield record. He earned All New England honors in the triple jump and qualified for the Division 3 National Championships.
Class of 1975- Inducted 2003- Track
Russ was one of the athletes most responsible for laying the Rockets' groundwork of success and racking up wins in the early days of "The Streak." A gifted and versatile jumper and hurdler, he broke school records in the high jump and triple jump and was the team's top point producer.
As a senior in the 1974-1975 indoor season, Russ won Middlesex League, Class B and All-State championships in the high jump, clearing a personal best 6-3. His time of 6.1 seconds in the 45-yard hurdles was also best on the team. Reading won the Middlesex League indoor title, finishing 9-0 to capture its third title in four years. In the post season, Reading won the Class B title with ease. Russ won the high jump at the Class Bs and later won an individual All-State high jump championship as well.
Outdoors, 1975 was one for the record books. That spring the Rockets reeled off their fourth straight league title, a third consecutive Class B championship, a Class B relay title, then capped it off with the All-State crown.
Russ' top outdoor event was unquestionably the triple jump and at the time of his induction, his leap of 45-2 is still the RMHS record. He set the record at the Andover Invitational, where he also took second in the 110 high hurdles and was named Outstanding Performer.
At the Class B championship, he was crowned champion in both the hurdles (15.0) and triple jump (44-5), helping Reading beat Andover for the title.
At the June 12 All-States at Andover, Reading capped its season by beating Seekonk, 38-33 to win the state championship. Russ was crowned state champion in the triple jump, leaping 44-7.
Following graduation, Bosbach went on to a terrific career as a jumper and hurdler at Westfield State College. He eventually eclipsed 46 feet in the triple jump with the Owls, setting the Westfield record. He earned All New England honors in the triple jump and qualified for the Division 3 National Championships.
TED BRYSON
Coach, Contributor- Inducted 2011
Ted was an integral part of the RMHS baseball program for 29 years from 1977 to 2006. During that time he served as JV coach for 10 years and 1987 on as an assistant varsity coach. In his first year, he pitched batting practice daily so the kids referred to him as the team's ace lefthander which became his nickname "Ace".
For his tenure with the JVs, he was the sole coach and though his main focus was developing players for the next level, his teams still probable won 70 percent of their games.
In 1987, Ted became the Assistant Varsity Coach, and was needed to fill in for Coach Moscariello who missed some time. Ted continued as assistant coach for the next 18 years. Ace was often the calming, steadying influence that individual players needed when things were not going well for them.
He was named as the first Assistant Baseball Coach of the Year by the Massachusetts Baseball Coaches Association in 2000 and in 2001 AFLAC Regional Assistant Coach of the Year.
Ted served in many coaching roles over the years on the boys and girls basketball teams as well as the golf team. For six weeks in 2010 he was also interim Athletic Director.
He has been announcer for home football games from 1977 up to his induction and for home basketball games from 1999 up to his induction into the Hall of Fame.
Coach, Contributor- Inducted 2011
Ted was an integral part of the RMHS baseball program for 29 years from 1977 to 2006. During that time he served as JV coach for 10 years and 1987 on as an assistant varsity coach. In his first year, he pitched batting practice daily so the kids referred to him as the team's ace lefthander which became his nickname "Ace".
For his tenure with the JVs, he was the sole coach and though his main focus was developing players for the next level, his teams still probable won 70 percent of their games.
In 1987, Ted became the Assistant Varsity Coach, and was needed to fill in for Coach Moscariello who missed some time. Ted continued as assistant coach for the next 18 years. Ace was often the calming, steadying influence that individual players needed when things were not going well for them.
He was named as the first Assistant Baseball Coach of the Year by the Massachusetts Baseball Coaches Association in 2000 and in 2001 AFLAC Regional Assistant Coach of the Year.
Ted served in many coaching roles over the years on the boys and girls basketball teams as well as the golf team. For six weeks in 2010 he was also interim Athletic Director.
He has been announcer for home football games from 1977 up to his induction and for home basketball games from 1999 up to his induction into the Hall of Fame.
MIKE CAMAROTA
Class of 1970- Inducted 1999- Hockey, Golf
While the Reading hockey team has had a few sophomores and even freshmen named to the All-League team, only one player in Reading history has been a three-time Middlesex League All-Star as a goalie. That player was Mike Camarota.
In the late 60's, Reading's varsity hockey program was still in its infancy and bore little resemblance to the dynasty it is today. But during that period with a fledgling program, Mike made All-League in 1968,'69 and '70.
In his sophomore year the the team led by coach John Burns made history by becoming the first Reading hockey team to make the state tournament. In those days a team had to win 75 percent of its games to qualify.
Playing with fellow Hall of Famers John Doherty and Jim Kiley in his sophomore year saw him post a league best 1.5 goals against average. In 16 regular season games he gave up just 24 goals, including four shut outs. He was the only sophomore selected to the All-Middlesex League team. In his junior and senior years, Mike was a co-captain and as a senior was named a Boston Globe third team All-Scholastic.
Mike also played on the golf team and in 1969 was a junior champion at the Meadow Brook Country Club.
Class of 1970- Inducted 1999- Hockey, Golf
While the Reading hockey team has had a few sophomores and even freshmen named to the All-League team, only one player in Reading history has been a three-time Middlesex League All-Star as a goalie. That player was Mike Camarota.
In the late 60's, Reading's varsity hockey program was still in its infancy and bore little resemblance to the dynasty it is today. But during that period with a fledgling program, Mike made All-League in 1968,'69 and '70.
In his sophomore year the the team led by coach John Burns made history by becoming the first Reading hockey team to make the state tournament. In those days a team had to win 75 percent of its games to qualify.
Playing with fellow Hall of Famers John Doherty and Jim Kiley in his sophomore year saw him post a league best 1.5 goals against average. In 16 regular season games he gave up just 24 goals, including four shut outs. He was the only sophomore selected to the All-Middlesex League team. In his junior and senior years, Mike was a co-captain and as a senior was named a Boston Globe third team All-Scholastic.
Mike also played on the golf team and in 1969 was a junior champion at the Meadow Brook Country Club.
KATIE COLLINS
Class of 2000- Inducted 2011- Field Hockey, Ice Hockey, Softball
In the late 1990s and into the new millennium outstanding Reading High athletes were aplenty and none was any better than Katie who was a three sport All-Scholastic, She made her marks in field hockey, ice hockey and softball during her four years at RMHS.
In field hockey she was an outstanding midfielder for the Lady Rockets and a two time Middlesex League All-Star. In the fall of 1999 she was named a Boston Herald All-Scholastic.
In the spring, Katie played for another Lady Rocket powerhouse, the softball team. She was an outstanding two-way player and three time Middlesex League All-Star. In her senior year she was also named Middlesex League MVP and an All-Scholastic by the Boston Globe.
But, Katie's best sport was ice hockey. Her senior year was RMHS's first year playing the sport. She was so much more skilled and advanced than most of the other high school girl players. For the season, Katie finished with 46 goals and 35 assists for 81 points, a single season high water mark that transcends both the girls and boys programs up to the time of her induction. While Reading was a fledgling program in 1999-2000, that didn't stop the honors from coming her way as she skated right on to the Boston Globe's girls hockey All-Scholastic Super Team.
Three sport All-Scholastic athletes do not come around very often and thus this makes the RMHS athletic career of Katie Collins very special.
Class of 2000- Inducted 2011- Field Hockey, Ice Hockey, Softball
In the late 1990s and into the new millennium outstanding Reading High athletes were aplenty and none was any better than Katie who was a three sport All-Scholastic, She made her marks in field hockey, ice hockey and softball during her four years at RMHS.
In field hockey she was an outstanding midfielder for the Lady Rockets and a two time Middlesex League All-Star. In the fall of 1999 she was named a Boston Herald All-Scholastic.
In the spring, Katie played for another Lady Rocket powerhouse, the softball team. She was an outstanding two-way player and three time Middlesex League All-Star. In her senior year she was also named Middlesex League MVP and an All-Scholastic by the Boston Globe.
But, Katie's best sport was ice hockey. Her senior year was RMHS's first year playing the sport. She was so much more skilled and advanced than most of the other high school girl players. For the season, Katie finished with 46 goals and 35 assists for 81 points, a single season high water mark that transcends both the girls and boys programs up to the time of her induction. While Reading was a fledgling program in 1999-2000, that didn't stop the honors from coming her way as she skated right on to the Boston Globe's girls hockey All-Scholastic Super Team.
Three sport All-Scholastic athletes do not come around very often and thus this makes the RMHS athletic career of Katie Collins very special.
SEAN COLLINS
Class of 2001- Inducted 2011- Ice Hockey
As a pure 14 year old freshman when he first pulled on the jersey with the Reading crest, Sean was gifted skill-wise beyond his years and size.
He wasted no time in making his mark with the Rockets and in the Middlesex League, In the season opener he recorded his first high school hat trick before the first period was over. He ended his freshman season as the team's leading scorer on the league leading team and Super 8 participant.
In his sophomore year, Sean again spearheaded the Rockets to the Middlesex League title with a 17-0-1 league record and yet another Super 8 berth. He received the first of his Middlesex League MVP awards for his efforts.
Sean's junior season of 1999-2000 had similar results along with accolades, It was a third straight 30 goal season for Sean as he found the mark 38 times to go with 41 assists for 79 points. He was named as co-MVP of the Middlesex League with teammate Steve Saviano and an All-Scholastic.
In his senior year a third straight MVP came his way as well as more All-Scholastic honors. When Sean's final high school numbers were added up he wound up as the all-time RMHS scorer with 270 points, a mark that could stand for an eternity.
Sean went on to the University of New Hampshire on a hockey scholarship where he attained All-American honors in his senior year.
Class of 2001- Inducted 2011- Ice Hockey
As a pure 14 year old freshman when he first pulled on the jersey with the Reading crest, Sean was gifted skill-wise beyond his years and size.
He wasted no time in making his mark with the Rockets and in the Middlesex League, In the season opener he recorded his first high school hat trick before the first period was over. He ended his freshman season as the team's leading scorer on the league leading team and Super 8 participant.
In his sophomore year, Sean again spearheaded the Rockets to the Middlesex League title with a 17-0-1 league record and yet another Super 8 berth. He received the first of his Middlesex League MVP awards for his efforts.
Sean's junior season of 1999-2000 had similar results along with accolades, It was a third straight 30 goal season for Sean as he found the mark 38 times to go with 41 assists for 79 points. He was named as co-MVP of the Middlesex League with teammate Steve Saviano and an All-Scholastic.
In his senior year a third straight MVP came his way as well as more All-Scholastic honors. When Sean's final high school numbers were added up he wound up as the all-time RMHS scorer with 270 points, a mark that could stand for an eternity.
Sean went on to the University of New Hampshire on a hockey scholarship where he attained All-American honors in his senior year.
HAL CROFT
Track Coach- Inducted 1999
When Hal took over the boys spring track team in 1971, he inherited a team that finished 0-9 in 1970. After a 3-6 first season, Croft's Rockets didn't lose another dual meet until the early 2000s. Up to the time of his induction, The Streak was a nationally-recognized record of 28 straight league titles and 252 consecutive dual meet victories. The success can be attributed to his unique combination of toughness, discipline and an uncanny ability to coax the best out of every member of his teams.
In the 1986-87 season he took over the winter track program and at the time of his induction the team had only lost three dual meets.
Though his message has always been that Reading track is a team sport with a priority on the dual meet over the post season, Hal's teams have won 17 Class B spring titles and he has turned out some of the finest individual athletes Massachusetts has seen. Russ Bosbach, Class of 1975, Gregg Duffy, Class of 1987 and Mark Jellison, Class of 1998, gave Hal an All-American in every decade he had coached up to the year 2000. For his outstanding work, he has been recognized as Massachusetts Coach of the Year six times by the Boston Globe and Boston Herald.
In 1986, he was inducted into the Massachusetts High School Track Hall of Fame. Ten years later he received additional high honors, taking home Coach of the Year from the National Track Federation and the Disney-McDonald Teacher-Coach of the Year award.
Track Coach- Inducted 1999
When Hal took over the boys spring track team in 1971, he inherited a team that finished 0-9 in 1970. After a 3-6 first season, Croft's Rockets didn't lose another dual meet until the early 2000s. Up to the time of his induction, The Streak was a nationally-recognized record of 28 straight league titles and 252 consecutive dual meet victories. The success can be attributed to his unique combination of toughness, discipline and an uncanny ability to coax the best out of every member of his teams.
In the 1986-87 season he took over the winter track program and at the time of his induction the team had only lost three dual meets.
Though his message has always been that Reading track is a team sport with a priority on the dual meet over the post season, Hal's teams have won 17 Class B spring titles and he has turned out some of the finest individual athletes Massachusetts has seen. Russ Bosbach, Class of 1975, Gregg Duffy, Class of 1987 and Mark Jellison, Class of 1998, gave Hal an All-American in every decade he had coached up to the year 2000. For his outstanding work, he has been recognized as Massachusetts Coach of the Year six times by the Boston Globe and Boston Herald.
In 1986, he was inducted into the Massachusetts High School Track Hall of Fame. Ten years later he received additional high honors, taking home Coach of the Year from the National Track Federation and the Disney-McDonald Teacher-Coach of the Year award.
GREGG DUFFY
Class of 1987- Inducted 1999- Track
Gregg was a five-time All-Scholastic and two-time Boston Globe track performer of the season.
As a sophomore, he was MVP at the Andover Invitational in the spring and was Middlesex League and Class B champion in his top event, the high jump, by clearing 6'6".
In his junior year, Gregg was Middlesex League MVP, Boston Herald All-Scholastic in the high jump, and named a Track All-American by the National High School Athletic Association. He broke the RMHS record and won both the Class B and All-State high jump championship by clearing 6'8".
Gregg's speed and versatility made him a dangerous opponent regardless of the event. He ran the 200, 400, and 800, and could could triple jump, run the mile, and as the anchor of the 4x100 relay team, and was noted for reeling in four or five runners in the home stretch of a race.
He capped off his RMHS track career with an extraordinary senior year. In the winter he won the state Class B and All-States with a state record high jump of 6'10". He was named an All-Scholastic by the Globe and Herald and track athlete of the season by the Globe. In the spring Gregg was State Class B Champion with a record 6'10-1/2" high jump, a record which was still standing in 1999. That same day he won the 400 in 49.8 seconds and anchored RMHS's winning mile relay team. He finished second in the high jump and 400 at the All-States. He was named All-Scholastic by the Globe and Herald.
Class of 1987- Inducted 1999- Track
Gregg was a five-time All-Scholastic and two-time Boston Globe track performer of the season.
As a sophomore, he was MVP at the Andover Invitational in the spring and was Middlesex League and Class B champion in his top event, the high jump, by clearing 6'6".
In his junior year, Gregg was Middlesex League MVP, Boston Herald All-Scholastic in the high jump, and named a Track All-American by the National High School Athletic Association. He broke the RMHS record and won both the Class B and All-State high jump championship by clearing 6'8".
Gregg's speed and versatility made him a dangerous opponent regardless of the event. He ran the 200, 400, and 800, and could could triple jump, run the mile, and as the anchor of the 4x100 relay team, and was noted for reeling in four or five runners in the home stretch of a race.
He capped off his RMHS track career with an extraordinary senior year. In the winter he won the state Class B and All-States with a state record high jump of 6'10". He was named an All-Scholastic by the Globe and Herald and track athlete of the season by the Globe. In the spring Gregg was State Class B Champion with a record 6'10-1/2" high jump, a record which was still standing in 1999. That same day he won the 400 in 49.8 seconds and anchored RMHS's winning mile relay team. He finished second in the high jump and 400 at the All-States. He was named All-Scholastic by the Globe and Herald.
GEORGE FENNELLY
Class of 1943- Inducted 1999- Football, Baseball
George excelled as a halfback for the football team and a pitcher/catcher on the baseball team. In football he started at left halfback for three years and was considered by his coach, Arthur Radvilas, to be one of the best backs to ever play for Reading. In his junior and senior years, he led the team in scoring. He also handled the team's kicking duties, putting the extra point through the uprights after his own touchdown run. In 1940, the football team finished with a 6-2 record, the best for the school in 11 years. George was captain of the football team in his senior year.
George shined even brighter on the diamond where he started as a catcher and pitcher for three years. In 1941, Reading won the league title for the first time in 12 years, qualified for the state playoffs and got to play a game at Fenway Park. He was captain of the team in 1943, and that year finished second in the league with a 7-4 record.
George was rewarded with All-League honors in 1942 and 1943. In '42, the Boston Traveler named him an All-Scholastic honorable mention as a pitcher, and in '43 he was tabbed All-Scholastic honorable mention
Class of 1943- Inducted 1999- Football, Baseball
George excelled as a halfback for the football team and a pitcher/catcher on the baseball team. In football he started at left halfback for three years and was considered by his coach, Arthur Radvilas, to be one of the best backs to ever play for Reading. In his junior and senior years, he led the team in scoring. He also handled the team's kicking duties, putting the extra point through the uprights after his own touchdown run. In 1940, the football team finished with a 6-2 record, the best for the school in 11 years. George was captain of the football team in his senior year.
George shined even brighter on the diamond where he started as a catcher and pitcher for three years. In 1941, Reading won the league title for the first time in 12 years, qualified for the state playoffs and got to play a game at Fenway Park. He was captain of the team in 1943, and that year finished second in the league with a 7-4 record.
George was rewarded with All-League honors in 1942 and 1943. In '42, the Boston Traveler named him an All-Scholastic honorable mention as a pitcher, and in '43 he was tabbed All-Scholastic honorable mention
DAVID GEORGE
Class of 1990- Inducted 2001- Baseball, Hockey
Pete Moscariello has seen his share of great baseball players come and go since taking over as head baseball coach at Reading in 1977. But the title of greatest hitter during that span belongs to David George.
An excellent defensive center fielder, David's potential was evident, cracking the starting lineup as a sophomore. He blossomed as a junior, earning league all-star status and leading the Rockets in numerous offensive categories, including runs, hits, doubles, stolen bases, a .477 batting average, slugging percentage and on-base percentage.
He went on to cap his career with a senior season for the ages. A captain, David's .517 batting average was the highest at the time of his inducted, since 1969 when accurate records started being kept. In addition to batting average, he led the team in hits, home runs, walks, RBIs, stolen bases, slugging percentage and on base percentage. His play in the field and at the plate helped lead the Rockets to back to back tournament appearances in 1989 and 1990.
As of his induction, David still holds records for most career hits (76), doubles (14), and is the only recorded RMHS player to have 30+ hits in two seasons.
Though the Rockets were never in contention for the Middlesex League title, he was voted league MVP, a rare feat. And the accolades didn't stop there. He participated in the Eastern Mass All-Star game and earned MVP of the game for his performance at the plate. He was also selected to play in the Massachusetts vs. Connecticut All-Star game. The Boston Globe and Boston Herald named him to their All-Scholastic teams.
David used his work ethic to also develop into a fine hockey player as well. He made varsity as a junior and as a converted forward, the co-captain earned all-star status in his senior year.
Upon graduation, David attended Amherst College and continued as a two sport athlete, earning All-ECAC honors his freshman year on the baseball team.
Class of 1990- Inducted 2001- Baseball, Hockey
Pete Moscariello has seen his share of great baseball players come and go since taking over as head baseball coach at Reading in 1977. But the title of greatest hitter during that span belongs to David George.
An excellent defensive center fielder, David's potential was evident, cracking the starting lineup as a sophomore. He blossomed as a junior, earning league all-star status and leading the Rockets in numerous offensive categories, including runs, hits, doubles, stolen bases, a .477 batting average, slugging percentage and on-base percentage.
He went on to cap his career with a senior season for the ages. A captain, David's .517 batting average was the highest at the time of his inducted, since 1969 when accurate records started being kept. In addition to batting average, he led the team in hits, home runs, walks, RBIs, stolen bases, slugging percentage and on base percentage. His play in the field and at the plate helped lead the Rockets to back to back tournament appearances in 1989 and 1990.
As of his induction, David still holds records for most career hits (76), doubles (14), and is the only recorded RMHS player to have 30+ hits in two seasons.
Though the Rockets were never in contention for the Middlesex League title, he was voted league MVP, a rare feat. And the accolades didn't stop there. He participated in the Eastern Mass All-Star game and earned MVP of the game for his performance at the plate. He was also selected to play in the Massachusetts vs. Connecticut All-Star game. The Boston Globe and Boston Herald named him to their All-Scholastic teams.
David used his work ethic to also develop into a fine hockey player as well. He made varsity as a junior and as a converted forward, the co-captain earned all-star status in his senior year.
Upon graduation, David attended Amherst College and continued as a two sport athlete, earning All-ECAC honors his freshman year on the baseball team.
NOAH GOLDSTEIN
Class of 1999- Inducted 2011- Soccer
Noah is on a very short list of the best soccer players to ever play at RMHS. He was a two-way force both offensively and defensively as a midfielder for four Rocket squads that all made the sectional tournament during his career.
After two seasons on the varsity, it was in his junior when he took his play to the next level. For most of the season he would draw double coverage or was shadowed, but still led the team in scoring with 12 goals and five assists, and also added to the Rockets' notoriously stingy defense. Noah received the first of two All-Middlesex League selections and was also an Eastern Mass All-Star.
Focused and ready for the challenge of his senior year, he was named team captain. Noah finished his senior year as the second leading scorer in the ML with 13 goals and 5 assists. He was named a ML All-Star for second straight season and league MVP. He was selected as the Daily Times Chronicle's "Player of the Year." while being selected for both the Boston Globe and Boston Herald's All-Scholastic reams.
Other honors that came his way included All-New England, All-State, and Eastern Mass All-Star for the second year.. B'nai Birth also tabbed him for its All-Star squad.
The following fall Noah took his talents to UMass Amherst where he played for the number 10 nationally ranked Minutemen.
Class of 1999- Inducted 2011- Soccer
Noah is on a very short list of the best soccer players to ever play at RMHS. He was a two-way force both offensively and defensively as a midfielder for four Rocket squads that all made the sectional tournament during his career.
After two seasons on the varsity, it was in his junior when he took his play to the next level. For most of the season he would draw double coverage or was shadowed, but still led the team in scoring with 12 goals and five assists, and also added to the Rockets' notoriously stingy defense. Noah received the first of two All-Middlesex League selections and was also an Eastern Mass All-Star.
Focused and ready for the challenge of his senior year, he was named team captain. Noah finished his senior year as the second leading scorer in the ML with 13 goals and 5 assists. He was named a ML All-Star for second straight season and league MVP. He was selected as the Daily Times Chronicle's "Player of the Year." while being selected for both the Boston Globe and Boston Herald's All-Scholastic reams.
Other honors that came his way included All-New England, All-State, and Eastern Mass All-Star for the second year.. B'nai Birth also tabbed him for its All-Star squad.
The following fall Noah took his talents to UMass Amherst where he played for the number 10 nationally ranked Minutemen.
DELSIN GRUBBS
Class of 1997- Inducted 2011- Football, Track
Many Reading High fans will remember Delsin as a member of the 11-0-0 RMHS Hall Of Fame champion football team of 1995 as well as the 1996 Super Bowl victors. But fewer will remember his record breaking years as a member of the winter and spring track teams.
As a member of the football team he was a team leader and Tri-Captain of the '96 team. Delsin was usually given the ball when tough yardage was needed. On defense he was a punishing tackler from his linebacker position. Following his senior season he was named All-Scholastic by the Boston Globe.
Delsin's track event was the shot put. He was a captain of the indoor team in his final season where he won his event at the Class B meet and finished second at the All-State meet. He then won the New England Championship with a 55 feet 2-1/4 inch throw.
In his final season on the outdoor team he was first at the Class B meet and second at the All-State meet. Delsin saved his best for the New England Championship with a RMHS record toss of 60 feet 1-inch, good enough for first place. At the time of his induction into the Hall of Fame he still held the school record. He broke the school record four times during the season and the Daily Times Chronicle reported his record throws were among the longest ever in the Middlesex League.
Delsin parlayed his high school success into a track scholarship at the University of Rhode Island.
Class of 1997- Inducted 2011- Football, Track
Many Reading High fans will remember Delsin as a member of the 11-0-0 RMHS Hall Of Fame champion football team of 1995 as well as the 1996 Super Bowl victors. But fewer will remember his record breaking years as a member of the winter and spring track teams.
As a member of the football team he was a team leader and Tri-Captain of the '96 team. Delsin was usually given the ball when tough yardage was needed. On defense he was a punishing tackler from his linebacker position. Following his senior season he was named All-Scholastic by the Boston Globe.
Delsin's track event was the shot put. He was a captain of the indoor team in his final season where he won his event at the Class B meet and finished second at the All-State meet. He then won the New England Championship with a 55 feet 2-1/4 inch throw.
In his final season on the outdoor team he was first at the Class B meet and second at the All-State meet. Delsin saved his best for the New England Championship with a RMHS record toss of 60 feet 1-inch, good enough for first place. At the time of his induction into the Hall of Fame he still held the school record. He broke the school record four times during the season and the Daily Times Chronicle reported his record throws were among the longest ever in the Middlesex League.
Delsin parlayed his high school success into a track scholarship at the University of Rhode Island.
TOM KASPRZAK
Football Coach- Inducted 2011
Tom took over as head coach for Reading High School in 1991. In two short years he changed a program that had been 0-10 in 1990 into a 10-0 team that won its first Middlesex League title in 18 years in 1992 along with a berth in the Division 2A Super Bowl, a game they lost to Methuen.
Reading was back in a bowl game in 1995, where Reading won its first ever Super Bowl game on a cold December day, 33-23, in a come-from-behind win. Trailing Acton-Boxborough 23-0, just before the half, they exploded for 33 unanswered points and beat one of the top rated programs in the state and ended their 26 game unbeaten streak.
Reading won three more Super Bowl championships in 1996, 1998 and 2000. The 2000 victory over Chelmsford was perhaps another testament of the coaching expertise of Tom and his fine coaching staff. Considered a heavy underdog against Chelmsford, the Rockets shocked the Eastern Mass football world with a 23-13 victory.
His time in Reading came to an end after the 2003 season. He brought Reading nine Middlesex League titles and four Super Bowl victories in those 13 years. He amassed 101 victories with a winning percentage of .754.
Football Coach- Inducted 2011
Tom took over as head coach for Reading High School in 1991. In two short years he changed a program that had been 0-10 in 1990 into a 10-0 team that won its first Middlesex League title in 18 years in 1992 along with a berth in the Division 2A Super Bowl, a game they lost to Methuen.
Reading was back in a bowl game in 1995, where Reading won its first ever Super Bowl game on a cold December day, 33-23, in a come-from-behind win. Trailing Acton-Boxborough 23-0, just before the half, they exploded for 33 unanswered points and beat one of the top rated programs in the state and ended their 26 game unbeaten streak.
Reading won three more Super Bowl championships in 1996, 1998 and 2000. The 2000 victory over Chelmsford was perhaps another testament of the coaching expertise of Tom and his fine coaching staff. Considered a heavy underdog against Chelmsford, the Rockets shocked the Eastern Mass football world with a 23-13 victory.
His time in Reading came to an end after the 2003 season. He brought Reading nine Middlesex League titles and four Super Bowl victories in those 13 years. He amassed 101 victories with a winning percentage of .754.
RALPH MILLEY
Class of 1951- Inducted 2001- Golf
Ralph was considered by many to be the finest golfer in school history. He captained the golf team to the Middlesex League title as senior. The Rockets so dominated league competition they lost just one half point during the season. That same year they also won the Greater Boston Division championship, beating Newton and Arlington in a round robin playoff. Playing along side Ralph were Dick Carleton, Bob Surdam, Jimmy Cook, Harold Cogger, Leo Connors and Henry Milton.
Despite his small stature (5-8, 140 lbs.), he was long off the tee and was able to score with an accurate short game. He could hit the ball as far as anyone in high school, but he felt the key to his success was consistency and keeping the ball in play.
Playing in his first state-wide competition at age 15, he finished fourth in the State Caddy championship. At age 16, representing the Meadow Brook Golf Club, he won the Junior Division title in the NE Junior Open by sinking a 15 foot birdie on the 21st hole. He tied for top honors at age 17 with a score of 76 at the Hearst junior golf tournament qualifier and advanced to the Nationals in Pittsburgh, finishing eighth. In 1952, the 18 year old won the state junior gold championship, winning the final 8- and -7 on the strength of a three under round through 11 holes. He was the first Meadow Brook representative to win a state junior championship and was given a free membership to the Club after the win.
Ralph accepted a golf scholarship to New Mexico A&M and credited Meadow Brook head pro Everett Stuart for helping him with his golf game. He is now retired as a regional sales manager for Hubbell/Raco.
Class of 1951- Inducted 2001- Golf
Ralph was considered by many to be the finest golfer in school history. He captained the golf team to the Middlesex League title as senior. The Rockets so dominated league competition they lost just one half point during the season. That same year they also won the Greater Boston Division championship, beating Newton and Arlington in a round robin playoff. Playing along side Ralph were Dick Carleton, Bob Surdam, Jimmy Cook, Harold Cogger, Leo Connors and Henry Milton.
Despite his small stature (5-8, 140 lbs.), he was long off the tee and was able to score with an accurate short game. He could hit the ball as far as anyone in high school, but he felt the key to his success was consistency and keeping the ball in play.
Playing in his first state-wide competition at age 15, he finished fourth in the State Caddy championship. At age 16, representing the Meadow Brook Golf Club, he won the Junior Division title in the NE Junior Open by sinking a 15 foot birdie on the 21st hole. He tied for top honors at age 17 with a score of 76 at the Hearst junior golf tournament qualifier and advanced to the Nationals in Pittsburgh, finishing eighth. In 1952, the 18 year old won the state junior gold championship, winning the final 8- and -7 on the strength of a three under round through 11 holes. He was the first Meadow Brook representative to win a state junior championship and was given a free membership to the Club after the win.
Ralph accepted a golf scholarship to New Mexico A&M and credited Meadow Brook head pro Everett Stuart for helping him with his golf game. He is now retired as a regional sales manager for Hubbell/Raco.
JIM MURPHY
Class of 1993- Inducted 1999- Football, Basketball, Baseball
The rebirth of RMHS football began in 1991 with the arrival of coach Tom Kasprzak and the coming of a young but talented quarterback named Jim Murphy. A three year starter, two at quarterback, he passed for 2,020 yards and 15 touchdowns in his career. In the fall of 1991 he passed for 1,284 yards, second all-time in RMHS history, and in eight of ten games he threw for 100 yards or better.
The Rockets passed all expectations in 1992. Led by Jim's two-way play at quarterback and defensive back, where he passed for 700 yards and eight touchdowns and intercepted eight passes at safety. Reading finished 10-0, won the Middlesex League and qualified for the Super Bowl for the first time since 1974. Though the Rockets lost to Methuen, 26-19, Jim was named a Boston Globe and Boston Herald All-Scholastic. He went on to Northeastern Univ. where he broke 28 passing records with the Huskies. In April '98 he signed as a free agent with the NFL's New England Patriots. His pro career also took him to Europe where he played for the Barcelona Dragons.
He was a three year starter on the basketball team and as a senior was All-Middlesex League and a second team Globe All-Scholastic. That year he set the RMHS single season record with 492 points scored and his 22.4 points per game was the third highest average at Reading. His 968 career points put him fourth among all-time RMHS scorers.
In the spring, Jim was a pitcher for the Reading baseball team. A two-year starter, he earned All-League honors as a senior after posting a 7-1 record with a 1.33 ERA and 48 strikeouts in 58 innings of work.
Class of 1993- Inducted 1999- Football, Basketball, Baseball
The rebirth of RMHS football began in 1991 with the arrival of coach Tom Kasprzak and the coming of a young but talented quarterback named Jim Murphy. A three year starter, two at quarterback, he passed for 2,020 yards and 15 touchdowns in his career. In the fall of 1991 he passed for 1,284 yards, second all-time in RMHS history, and in eight of ten games he threw for 100 yards or better.
The Rockets passed all expectations in 1992. Led by Jim's two-way play at quarterback and defensive back, where he passed for 700 yards and eight touchdowns and intercepted eight passes at safety. Reading finished 10-0, won the Middlesex League and qualified for the Super Bowl for the first time since 1974. Though the Rockets lost to Methuen, 26-19, Jim was named a Boston Globe and Boston Herald All-Scholastic. He went on to Northeastern Univ. where he broke 28 passing records with the Huskies. In April '98 he signed as a free agent with the NFL's New England Patriots. His pro career also took him to Europe where he played for the Barcelona Dragons.
He was a three year starter on the basketball team and as a senior was All-Middlesex League and a second team Globe All-Scholastic. That year he set the RMHS single season record with 492 points scored and his 22.4 points per game was the third highest average at Reading. His 968 career points put him fourth among all-time RMHS scorers.
In the spring, Jim was a pitcher for the Reading baseball team. A two-year starter, he earned All-League honors as a senior after posting a 7-1 record with a 1.33 ERA and 48 strikeouts in 58 innings of work.
ANGELA PANDOLFO
Class of 2004- Inducted 2011- Field Hockey, Softball
Angela attained a Hall of Fame level performance in two separate sports while having to overcome two severe injuries. In addition to statistics she was recognized for her competitiveness, toughness and ability to overcome adversity, and more importantly as a superior teammate.
As a team captain in two sports she was named a first team Middlesex League All-Star five times, the Daily Times Chronicle co-MVP and Spring Performer of the Year in softball in her senior year, and topped it off that same year being named a Boston Herald All-Scholastic in field hockey and a Boston Globe All-Scholastic in softball.
In the three full seasons she played field hockey and softball, her teams won 87% of the time with a 112-16-3 record and won three Middlesex League titles along with a state title in softball in 2001.
Angela received a scholarship to play softball at Boston College. While at BC, Angela was the recipient of the Barry Gallup Athletic scholarship. In her final season at BC she was co-captain of the softball team along with her sister Danielle.
Class of 2004- Inducted 2011- Field Hockey, Softball
Angela attained a Hall of Fame level performance in two separate sports while having to overcome two severe injuries. In addition to statistics she was recognized for her competitiveness, toughness and ability to overcome adversity, and more importantly as a superior teammate.
As a team captain in two sports she was named a first team Middlesex League All-Star five times, the Daily Times Chronicle co-MVP and Spring Performer of the Year in softball in her senior year, and topped it off that same year being named a Boston Herald All-Scholastic in field hockey and a Boston Globe All-Scholastic in softball.
In the three full seasons she played field hockey and softball, her teams won 87% of the time with a 112-16-3 record and won three Middlesex League titles along with a state title in softball in 2001.
Angela received a scholarship to play softball at Boston College. While at BC, Angela was the recipient of the Barry Gallup Athletic scholarship. In her final season at BC she was co-captain of the softball team along with her sister Danielle.
CHRIS PIZZOTTI
Class of 2004- Inducted 2011- Football, Basketball
A starting quarterback for the Rocket's football team for two season, Chris led both teams to Middlesex League co-championship. On the basketball court, he was also an outstanding player and he guided two Reading teams into the post-season as the team's leading scorer.
Football was where Chris gained most of his high school fame. He became the starting quarterback in 2002 as a junior and was twice named a Middlesex League All-Star, as well as being selected a Boston Globe and Boston Herald All-Scholastic after his senior year. At the time of his induction he held the single season record for touchdown passes with 20.
In basketball, he was twice named All-League and averaged 21.2 points in his senior year. That season, he scored 49 points and hauled in 20 rebounds in a game versus Stoneham. At the time it was the second highest single game point total in Rocket history. At the time of induction he was ninth all-time on the RMHS career scoring list and only three players ever made more three-pointers than the 87 he scored.
After graduation, Chris attended Harvard University. He blossomed into the Ivy League Player of the Year in 2008 and helped the Crimson beat rival Yale twice. He was signed as a free agent by the NFL's New York Jets and spent the 2009 training camp with the team. Later that fall he was signed by the Green Bay Packers to their practice squad.
Class of 2004- Inducted 2011- Football, Basketball
A starting quarterback for the Rocket's football team for two season, Chris led both teams to Middlesex League co-championship. On the basketball court, he was also an outstanding player and he guided two Reading teams into the post-season as the team's leading scorer.
Football was where Chris gained most of his high school fame. He became the starting quarterback in 2002 as a junior and was twice named a Middlesex League All-Star, as well as being selected a Boston Globe and Boston Herald All-Scholastic after his senior year. At the time of his induction he held the single season record for touchdown passes with 20.
In basketball, he was twice named All-League and averaged 21.2 points in his senior year. That season, he scored 49 points and hauled in 20 rebounds in a game versus Stoneham. At the time it was the second highest single game point total in Rocket history. At the time of induction he was ninth all-time on the RMHS career scoring list and only three players ever made more three-pointers than the 87 he scored.
After graduation, Chris attended Harvard University. He blossomed into the Ivy League Player of the Year in 2008 and helped the Crimson beat rival Yale twice. He was signed as a free agent by the NFL's New York Jets and spent the 2009 training camp with the team. Later that fall he was signed by the Green Bay Packers to their practice squad.
GAIL SAUNDERS
Class of 1984- Inducted 1999- Cross Country, Track
She was a record-setting track and cross country athlete from the moment she burst onto the Reading High sports scene. A two-time Boston Globe All-Scholastic , Gail was the first female athlete at RMHS to earn 12 varsity letters, to be selected to the all-league team 12 times, and to qualify for the New England track and field meet.
As a freshman on the cross country team her record in dual meets was 8-1 and she was named to the All-Middlesex League for the first of her 12 times. Continuing in her freshman year during the indoor season, Gail won the Division 2 state championship in the 1,000 meter with a meet record of 2:28.3 and ran the final leg of the mile relay that set a Division 2 record. She concluded the indoor season with a come from behind victory in the Eastern High School Track and Field Meet, winning by one ten-thousandths of a second. The Boston Globe selected Gail as the best in the state in the 1,000 meters. She won 1,000 again as a junior and was again named All-Scholastic by the Boston Globe.
In her junior year, Gail added to her legend when she ran the anchor leg in the Division 2 state meet relay and passed two runners to give her team the state championship by two-tenths of a second.
In her senior year, during the indoor season she had wins at the Methuen Invitational and Middlesex League meet and was named co-MVP of the Middlesex League. Outdoors she won the Andover Invitational for the fourth year.
By the time she graduated, Gail held five individual records, including 400, 600, 800, 1,000 and mile and was a member of three relay teams that set school records.
Class of 1984- Inducted 1999- Cross Country, Track
She was a record-setting track and cross country athlete from the moment she burst onto the Reading High sports scene. A two-time Boston Globe All-Scholastic , Gail was the first female athlete at RMHS to earn 12 varsity letters, to be selected to the all-league team 12 times, and to qualify for the New England track and field meet.
As a freshman on the cross country team her record in dual meets was 8-1 and she was named to the All-Middlesex League for the first of her 12 times. Continuing in her freshman year during the indoor season, Gail won the Division 2 state championship in the 1,000 meter with a meet record of 2:28.3 and ran the final leg of the mile relay that set a Division 2 record. She concluded the indoor season with a come from behind victory in the Eastern High School Track and Field Meet, winning by one ten-thousandths of a second. The Boston Globe selected Gail as the best in the state in the 1,000 meters. She won 1,000 again as a junior and was again named All-Scholastic by the Boston Globe.
In her junior year, Gail added to her legend when she ran the anchor leg in the Division 2 state meet relay and passed two runners to give her team the state championship by two-tenths of a second.
In her senior year, during the indoor season she had wins at the Methuen Invitational and Middlesex League meet and was named co-MVP of the Middlesex League. Outdoors she won the Andover Invitational for the fourth year.
By the time she graduated, Gail held five individual records, including 400, 600, 800, 1,000 and mile and was a member of three relay teams that set school records.
JANE SCHLOTH
Class of 1983- Inducted 2001- Track
A dynamic high jumper and hurdler Jane set records and helped begin a standard of excellence in Reading girls track that exists to this day. Upon graduation, she held records in the high jump, 45-yard indoord hurdles, 100 yard outdoor hurdles, and was part of a record setting 4x100 outdoor relay team.
In the Spring of her junior year, Jane earned All-Scholastic honors from the Boston Globe as a high jumper, her best event. She reached a height of 5-7-1/4 a record which still existed at the time of her induction.
Coupled with fellow RMHS Athletic Hall of Fame Cheryl Vedder, they helped the Lady Rockets achieve four straight undefeated league seasons in the spring. Indoors, the team was undefeated during her junior and senior seasons.
Jane's impact on the track team began as a sophomore when she set RMHS records in the 100 yard low hurdles and high jump at the Andover Invitational. Records continued to fall in the spring of 1982 when she teamed with Claire Rittenberg and Cheryl Vedder to set a Class C and All-State record in the high jump relay, with the trio combining for 15-2.
She so dominated the Middlesex League that she was league MVP three times during her career. The first such honor came in her junior year, when she won the hurdles and long jump in a key league meet. She duplicated that performance later in the year at the Middlesex League meet.
A senior co-captain , she was co-MVP in the winter and spring and was also Outstanding Performer at the Methuen, Wilmington, and Andover Invitationals. She was also named co-Rockette of the year with Vedder by the Daily Times Chronicle.
In the winter of her senior year, Jane finished second in the hurdles helping Reading win its highest honor in her tenure, a Division 2 State title. Outdoors and indoors, she helped the team win Class B relays, competing in the hurdles, high jump and also shot put, where she threw better than 30 feet on numerous occasions. In the Class B outdoor relays, she was part of a shuttle hurdles team that set a Class B record.
Jane attended the University of Massachusetts to continue her track career.
Class of 1983- Inducted 2001- Track
A dynamic high jumper and hurdler Jane set records and helped begin a standard of excellence in Reading girls track that exists to this day. Upon graduation, she held records in the high jump, 45-yard indoord hurdles, 100 yard outdoor hurdles, and was part of a record setting 4x100 outdoor relay team.
In the Spring of her junior year, Jane earned All-Scholastic honors from the Boston Globe as a high jumper, her best event. She reached a height of 5-7-1/4 a record which still existed at the time of her induction.
Coupled with fellow RMHS Athletic Hall of Fame Cheryl Vedder, they helped the Lady Rockets achieve four straight undefeated league seasons in the spring. Indoors, the team was undefeated during her junior and senior seasons.
Jane's impact on the track team began as a sophomore when she set RMHS records in the 100 yard low hurdles and high jump at the Andover Invitational. Records continued to fall in the spring of 1982 when she teamed with Claire Rittenberg and Cheryl Vedder to set a Class C and All-State record in the high jump relay, with the trio combining for 15-2.
She so dominated the Middlesex League that she was league MVP three times during her career. The first such honor came in her junior year, when she won the hurdles and long jump in a key league meet. She duplicated that performance later in the year at the Middlesex League meet.
A senior co-captain , she was co-MVP in the winter and spring and was also Outstanding Performer at the Methuen, Wilmington, and Andover Invitationals. She was also named co-Rockette of the year with Vedder by the Daily Times Chronicle.
In the winter of her senior year, Jane finished second in the hurdles helping Reading win its highest honor in her tenure, a Division 2 State title. Outdoors and indoors, she helped the team win Class B relays, competing in the hurdles, high jump and also shot put, where she threw better than 30 feet on numerous occasions. In the Class B outdoor relays, she was part of a shuttle hurdles team that set a Class B record.
Jane attended the University of Massachusetts to continue her track career.
LESLIE SHEEHAN
Class of 1980- Inducted 2001- Tennis
Perhaps the greatest female tennis player to ever play for RMHS, Leslie was a three-time Boston Globe All-Scholastic and three-time Middlesex All-Star at first singles. Her Reading career record was 40-3 in the regular season and 22-3 in the post season.
While at Reading she achieved a highest ranking of number one doubles player and number 12 singles player in her age group by the New England Lawn Tennis Association, an independent player rating service.
Leslie attended Boston University and became the first women's tennis player at the school to qualify for the NCAA tournament. Her career record at BU was 54-16 and she was ranked number one in NE, number two in the East and among the top 40 nationally. She was a three-time team MVP at BU and was inducted into the BU Athletic Hall of Fame in 1992. She also received the Mildred Barnes Award as Outstanding Female Athlete in her senior year as well as the Scarlet Key award, the highest form of distinction bestowed on an undergraduate.
In 1985 Leslie became head coach of BU's woman's tennis team and led the team to their first-ever NCAA tournament berth. She earned coach of the year honors in 1989 and 1996.
Leslie attended private school as a freshman. In her sophomore year the Reading team was second in the league and she reached the quarterfinals of the Eastern Mass Individual tournament. The team finished second again in the league her junior year and she finished third overall in the Emass Individual tournament. In her senior year in the third set of the North Sectionals Individual State tournament she sprained her ankle and missed the remainder of the season.
Class of 1980- Inducted 2001- Tennis
Perhaps the greatest female tennis player to ever play for RMHS, Leslie was a three-time Boston Globe All-Scholastic and three-time Middlesex All-Star at first singles. Her Reading career record was 40-3 in the regular season and 22-3 in the post season.
While at Reading she achieved a highest ranking of number one doubles player and number 12 singles player in her age group by the New England Lawn Tennis Association, an independent player rating service.
Leslie attended Boston University and became the first women's tennis player at the school to qualify for the NCAA tournament. Her career record at BU was 54-16 and she was ranked number one in NE, number two in the East and among the top 40 nationally. She was a three-time team MVP at BU and was inducted into the BU Athletic Hall of Fame in 1992. She also received the Mildred Barnes Award as Outstanding Female Athlete in her senior year as well as the Scarlet Key award, the highest form of distinction bestowed on an undergraduate.
In 1985 Leslie became head coach of BU's woman's tennis team and led the team to their first-ever NCAA tournament berth. She earned coach of the year honors in 1989 and 1996.
Leslie attended private school as a freshman. In her sophomore year the Reading team was second in the league and she reached the quarterfinals of the Eastern Mass Individual tournament. The team finished second again in the league her junior year and she finished third overall in the Emass Individual tournament. In her senior year in the third set of the North Sectionals Individual State tournament she sprained her ankle and missed the remainder of the season.
ZACH STEIN
Class of 2004- Inducted 2011- Gymnastics
A true competitor and completely devoted to his sport, Zach worked hard to bring his athletic skills to a high level. Since RMHS does not have a boy's team, he was not the first nor has he been the last male gymnast to compete with the girl's gymnastics team. Whatever advantage he may have based on strength may have worked against him in performing three events that were based more on balance and agility than strength. Zach overcame the criticism that may be directed at boys competing on girls' teams by undertaking daring moves that left spectators cheering.
By his junior year Zach was dominating the league season, sweeping all
events five times in seven meets and won the all around for the second straight year at the League meet. Following the season Zach was named the Daily Times Chronicle's Outstanding Winter Performer.
In his senior season Zach was first in the state in the all around at the Team meet and in the state Individual meet he was second in the all around. Zach was again named a league all-star, the Daily Times Chronicle's Outstanding Winter Performer, and a Boston Globe and Boston Herald All-Scholastic.
For his career, at one time or another, he held the school record for three of the four gymnastic events and the all around.
Zach attended Elmira College on a scholarship and at the time of his induction was coach of the RMHS girls gymnastics team.
Class of 2004- Inducted 2011- Gymnastics
A true competitor and completely devoted to his sport, Zach worked hard to bring his athletic skills to a high level. Since RMHS does not have a boy's team, he was not the first nor has he been the last male gymnast to compete with the girl's gymnastics team. Whatever advantage he may have based on strength may have worked against him in performing three events that were based more on balance and agility than strength. Zach overcame the criticism that may be directed at boys competing on girls' teams by undertaking daring moves that left spectators cheering.
By his junior year Zach was dominating the league season, sweeping all
events five times in seven meets and won the all around for the second straight year at the League meet. Following the season Zach was named the Daily Times Chronicle's Outstanding Winter Performer.
In his senior season Zach was first in the state in the all around at the Team meet and in the state Individual meet he was second in the all around. Zach was again named a league all-star, the Daily Times Chronicle's Outstanding Winter Performer, and a Boston Globe and Boston Herald All-Scholastic.
For his career, at one time or another, he held the school record for three of the four gymnastic events and the all around.
Zach attended Elmira College on a scholarship and at the time of his induction was coach of the RMHS girls gymnastics team.
KEVIN THOMSON
Class of 1989- Inducted 2001- Ice Hockey
Kevin was the overall total package as a hockey player. He could skate like the wind, was tough as nails, played both ends of the ice, and could score.
His four year total of 160 points allowed him to become Reading's all-time scoring leader following the 1989 season. At the time of his induction he was fourth on the list.
As a two time All-Middlesex League selection, a league co-MVP and an All-Scholastic, Kevin parlayed his ability into a hockey scholarship to the University of New Hampshire. He was a regular skater for the Wildcats his entire four years, showing the same heart and determination which made him one of Reading High's best hockey players.
Kevin broke onto the ice as a freshman forward, but blossomed as a sophomore right wing, scoring 20 goals with 21 assists. As a junior, Kevin had another 20 goal season and helped clinch a third straight Middlesex League title. That year Reading knocked off rival Woburn in the tournament to clinch the Division 1 North sectional title and played Catholic Memorial for the state title, losing 3-1.
Kevin had a great senior year with 28 goals and 31 assists for 59 points. He also tied a school record which he still held at the time of his induction with six goals in a game at Watertown.
Class of 1989- Inducted 2001- Ice Hockey
Kevin was the overall total package as a hockey player. He could skate like the wind, was tough as nails, played both ends of the ice, and could score.
His four year total of 160 points allowed him to become Reading's all-time scoring leader following the 1989 season. At the time of his induction he was fourth on the list.
As a two time All-Middlesex League selection, a league co-MVP and an All-Scholastic, Kevin parlayed his ability into a hockey scholarship to the University of New Hampshire. He was a regular skater for the Wildcats his entire four years, showing the same heart and determination which made him one of Reading High's best hockey players.
Kevin broke onto the ice as a freshman forward, but blossomed as a sophomore right wing, scoring 20 goals with 21 assists. As a junior, Kevin had another 20 goal season and helped clinch a third straight Middlesex League title. That year Reading knocked off rival Woburn in the tournament to clinch the Division 1 North sectional title and played Catholic Memorial for the state title, losing 3-1.
Kevin had a great senior year with 28 goals and 31 assists for 59 points. He also tied a school record which he still held at the time of his induction with six goals in a game at Watertown.
WILLIAM TUCKER
Class of 1992- Inducted 2001- Football, Track
Reading's all-time leading scorer and single season rushing and touchdown leader in football at the time of his induction, Bill Tucker was instrumental in turning around the school's football program.
Possessing size, strength and speed, the 6-2, 195-pounder was a tough customer to tackle. He could turn a short yardage third and one into a 60 yard touchdown sprint.
After a 10-0 season culminating with their first Middlesex League title since 1974, Reading lost in the Division 2 Super Bowl to Metheun, 26-19. With his team trailing 19-0, Bill nearly brought the Rockets all the way back, scoring three touchdowns while rushing for 169 yards on 26 carries. He reeled off a classic 72 yard romp to bring the Rockets within one touchdown
All in all it was a fabulous season for him- 1548 yards rushing and 25 touchdowns in 1991. His 210 career points as well as those other two marks stood as school records as of his induction.
Bill ran track to boost his speed and was a solid sprinter under Hall of Fame coach Hal Croft, earning league all-star honors in the 45 yard yard dash for the 1991-92 indoor season.
Academic and All-Scholastic honors followed from the MIAA and the Globe and Herald after graduation, as well as a full football scholarship to UMass. After a year at UMass, Bill transferred to Bentley College and switched his position to defensive end where he had great success.
Class of 1992- Inducted 2001- Football, Track
Reading's all-time leading scorer and single season rushing and touchdown leader in football at the time of his induction, Bill Tucker was instrumental in turning around the school's football program.
Possessing size, strength and speed, the 6-2, 195-pounder was a tough customer to tackle. He could turn a short yardage third and one into a 60 yard touchdown sprint.
After a 10-0 season culminating with their first Middlesex League title since 1974, Reading lost in the Division 2 Super Bowl to Metheun, 26-19. With his team trailing 19-0, Bill nearly brought the Rockets all the way back, scoring three touchdowns while rushing for 169 yards on 26 carries. He reeled off a classic 72 yard romp to bring the Rockets within one touchdown
All in all it was a fabulous season for him- 1548 yards rushing and 25 touchdowns in 1991. His 210 career points as well as those other two marks stood as school records as of his induction.
Bill ran track to boost his speed and was a solid sprinter under Hall of Fame coach Hal Croft, earning league all-star honors in the 45 yard yard dash for the 1991-92 indoor season.
Academic and All-Scholastic honors followed from the MIAA and the Globe and Herald after graduation, as well as a full football scholarship to UMass. After a year at UMass, Bill transferred to Bentley College and switched his position to defensive end where he had great success.
CHERYL VEDDER
Class of 1983- Inducted 2001- Track
Reading High had it share of good girls track teams before Cheryl arrived there. But with her help and that of teammates Jane Schloth and Gail Saunders, a dynasty was established.
After going 6-3 in 1978 and 5-3-1 in 1979, the Lady Rockets sprinted to 9-0 in outdoor dual meets in 1980, 81, 82 and 83. They were also undefeated in the 81-82 and 82-83 winter seasons.
By the time she graduated Cheryl held three individual RMHS records, the 100 (11.3), 200 (25.5) and 300 (36.3). She also helped set a host of relay records, including the mile, 4x400 and 4x110.
Attesting to her all-around athletic ability she high jumped 5-4 and had a best shot put throw of 32.2.
In her freshman year she as a member of the spring team she set a meet record in the 200 at the Andover Invitational and was part of a 4x110 relay team that broke a RMHS record.
Cheryl set an indoor league record in the high jump her sophomore year which was topped later that year by Jane Schloth. Coupled together, Cheryl and Jane were an unbearable high jump combination that regularly took the top two places in dual meets.
In the spring 1982, Cheryl and Jane helped set a Class C and All-State record of 15-2 in the high jump relay. She also was Class B state champion in the 220.
She was named co-captain of winter and spring teams in her senior year. Indoors the Lady Rockets had their finest season, winning the league title, Class B relays and the Division 2 state meet. Her 300 time of 36.6 at the Division 2 state meet was good for first and a new RMHS record. In the mile relay, Cheryl moved the team from fifth place to second and with Gail Saunders in the anchor, Reading took first place.
At the Andover Invitational in the spring, Cheryl won the 220 for the fourth year. Outdoors, the team won the Class B relays with Cheryl and the 4x400 relay team setting a Class B record.
She and Jane were so inseparable the two were named co-outstanding winter and spring track performers their senior year by the Middlesex League track coaches. The Daily Times Chronicle named the pair Rockettes of the Year in 1983.
Class of 1983- Inducted 2001- Track
Reading High had it share of good girls track teams before Cheryl arrived there. But with her help and that of teammates Jane Schloth and Gail Saunders, a dynasty was established.
After going 6-3 in 1978 and 5-3-1 in 1979, the Lady Rockets sprinted to 9-0 in outdoor dual meets in 1980, 81, 82 and 83. They were also undefeated in the 81-82 and 82-83 winter seasons.
By the time she graduated Cheryl held three individual RMHS records, the 100 (11.3), 200 (25.5) and 300 (36.3). She also helped set a host of relay records, including the mile, 4x400 and 4x110.
Attesting to her all-around athletic ability she high jumped 5-4 and had a best shot put throw of 32.2.
In her freshman year she as a member of the spring team she set a meet record in the 200 at the Andover Invitational and was part of a 4x110 relay team that broke a RMHS record.
Cheryl set an indoor league record in the high jump her sophomore year which was topped later that year by Jane Schloth. Coupled together, Cheryl and Jane were an unbearable high jump combination that regularly took the top two places in dual meets.
In the spring 1982, Cheryl and Jane helped set a Class C and All-State record of 15-2 in the high jump relay. She also was Class B state champion in the 220.
She was named co-captain of winter and spring teams in her senior year. Indoors the Lady Rockets had their finest season, winning the league title, Class B relays and the Division 2 state meet. Her 300 time of 36.6 at the Division 2 state meet was good for first and a new RMHS record. In the mile relay, Cheryl moved the team from fifth place to second and with Gail Saunders in the anchor, Reading took first place.
At the Andover Invitational in the spring, Cheryl won the 220 for the fourth year. Outdoors, the team won the Class B relays with Cheryl and the 4x400 relay team setting a Class B record.
She and Jane were so inseparable the two were named co-outstanding winter and spring track performers their senior year by the Middlesex League track coaches. The Daily Times Chronicle named the pair Rockettes of the Year in 1983.
GEORGE WATKINS
Class of 1968- Inducted 1999- Football, Basketball, Baseball
George was a three-sport star in an era when Reading's teams stood at the top of the Middlesex League. A three year starter under legendary football coach John Hollingsworth, his stellar two-way play was a key component of the football dynasty of the late '60s. During his three year career, the Rockets compiled and amazing overall record of 25-2. In 1965, his sophomore year, the team finished 9-0 and gave up just 32 points. The success continued in his junior and senior years and behind his play as a hard-hitting end and a sure-handed receiver, two more league titles followed. He was All-Middlesex League as a junior and in his senior year was team captain, all league again, and was named an All-Scholastic by the Boston Globe and Boston Herald.
In the winter, George was a two year starter on the basketball team. In his junior year, the team made it to the semi-finals of the Tech Tourney and for the season he was third highest scorer on the team. The Rockets returned to the tournament in the 1967-68 season and George was the team captain and leading rebounder and scorer, averaging almost 19 points per game. He was named All-Middlesex League and third team Boston Globe All-Scholastic.
He was a first baseman and outfielder for the baseball team under Coach Peter Finn. In his sophomore year the team advanced to the Eastern Mass championship game and his senior year the team won the EMass championship.
Teams that George was a starter on won seven ML titles with two Tech Tourney semi final appearances in basketball, one EMass baseball final and one EMass baseball championship.
Class of 1968- Inducted 1999- Football, Basketball, Baseball
George was a three-sport star in an era when Reading's teams stood at the top of the Middlesex League. A three year starter under legendary football coach John Hollingsworth, his stellar two-way play was a key component of the football dynasty of the late '60s. During his three year career, the Rockets compiled and amazing overall record of 25-2. In 1965, his sophomore year, the team finished 9-0 and gave up just 32 points. The success continued in his junior and senior years and behind his play as a hard-hitting end and a sure-handed receiver, two more league titles followed. He was All-Middlesex League as a junior and in his senior year was team captain, all league again, and was named an All-Scholastic by the Boston Globe and Boston Herald.
In the winter, George was a two year starter on the basketball team. In his junior year, the team made it to the semi-finals of the Tech Tourney and for the season he was third highest scorer on the team. The Rockets returned to the tournament in the 1967-68 season and George was the team captain and leading rebounder and scorer, averaging almost 19 points per game. He was named All-Middlesex League and third team Boston Globe All-Scholastic.
He was a first baseman and outfielder for the baseball team under Coach Peter Finn. In his sophomore year the team advanced to the Eastern Mass championship game and his senior year the team won the EMass championship.
Teams that George was a starter on won seven ML titles with two Tech Tourney semi final appearances in basketball, one EMass baseball final and one EMass baseball championship.
1960 FOOTBALL TEAM
Inducted 2001
As the first unbeaten and untied league championship in school history, the 9-0 1960 Reading High football team achieved groundbreaking success worthy of Hall of Fame induction.
On their way to the league title, the 1960 Rockets outscored their opponents 326 to 115 in nine games. The Rockets stormed their way through the league, posting blow out wins over Wakefield, Belmont, Concord, Springfield Classical, Methuen, Winchester, Lexington and Stoneham en route to theit historic season. As of the 2001 induction, head coach John Hollingsworth's Rockets continued to hold records for total points scored and average points per game.
The team was captained by two-way end Ken Olson, one of four first team All-Leaguers. Quarterbacking the team was RMHS Athletic Hall of Fame inductee and Boston Herald All-Scholastic Dick Horton, who connected on 40 of 68 pass attempts for 741 yards. While the team had an effective passing attack, its bread and butter was a ground game led by junior halfback Graham Gerade (767 yards and 15 touchdowns), Ron Sullivan (699 yards and 12 touchdowns), Charlie Bangs (546 yards and 7 touchdowns).
All-League guard Jim Brown anchored the Reading line along with tackle Don Coutreau. In all Brown, Olson, Gerade, Bangs, Horton, Sullivan and Coutreau were named to the All-League team. Rick Chesley, Phil Broeg, Nick Gregorio, John Torra, Steve Rhodes, Pete Strassel, Bob Gillian, Ned Kevorkian, Lawrence Lapham, John Muise, Ken DiCicco, Dick Cootey, and Paul Hubbard, among others, played vital roles that season as well.
Inducted 2001
As the first unbeaten and untied league championship in school history, the 9-0 1960 Reading High football team achieved groundbreaking success worthy of Hall of Fame induction.
On their way to the league title, the 1960 Rockets outscored their opponents 326 to 115 in nine games. The Rockets stormed their way through the league, posting blow out wins over Wakefield, Belmont, Concord, Springfield Classical, Methuen, Winchester, Lexington and Stoneham en route to theit historic season. As of the 2001 induction, head coach John Hollingsworth's Rockets continued to hold records for total points scored and average points per game.
The team was captained by two-way end Ken Olson, one of four first team All-Leaguers. Quarterbacking the team was RMHS Athletic Hall of Fame inductee and Boston Herald All-Scholastic Dick Horton, who connected on 40 of 68 pass attempts for 741 yards. While the team had an effective passing attack, its bread and butter was a ground game led by junior halfback Graham Gerade (767 yards and 15 touchdowns), Ron Sullivan (699 yards and 12 touchdowns), Charlie Bangs (546 yards and 7 touchdowns).
All-League guard Jim Brown anchored the Reading line along with tackle Don Coutreau. In all Brown, Olson, Gerade, Bangs, Horton, Sullivan and Coutreau were named to the All-League team. Rick Chesley, Phil Broeg, Nick Gregorio, John Torra, Steve Rhodes, Pete Strassel, Bob Gillian, Ned Kevorkian, Lawrence Lapham, John Muise, Ken DiCicco, Dick Cootey, and Paul Hubbard, among others, played vital roles that season as well.
1982 GIRLS TRACK TEAM
Inducted 2001
Middlesex League champions. Methuen Invitational champions. State coaches invitational champions. Class B Relays champions. Division 2 state champions. The 1982-83 Reading High girls track team literally won every single meet they entered that fabled season.
Led by co-captains, co-league MVPs, and Hall of Fame members Cheryl Vedder and Jane Schloth, the 1982-83 Rockettes were not only backboned with star caliber athletes, but possessed a great attitude and unquenchable work ethic. In addition to Vedder's dominance of the middle distances and Schloth's brilliance in the hurdles and high jump, the team featured dominant 1000 runner and RMHS Hall of Fame member, Gail Saunders, perhaps Reading's greatest female track athlete.
The trio of Hall of Famers were not alone. Claire Rittenberg shined in the hurdles and high jump with depth provided by Stacy Wooster. Jane Wallace picked up valuable points backing up Cheryl Vedder in the middle distances and Melissa Ryan starred in the shot put and dash.
After easily dispatching all its Middlesex League competition with a perfect 6-0 record, Reading went on to win the State Coaches Invitational beating out nearest competitor Falmouth 39-23. The team then rolled up 42 points to win the Class B Relays. In the Division 2 state meet, the team of Vedder, Harris, Holahan and Saunders won in a thrilling final relay to edge out second place Shrewsbury 44-42.5. In addition Saunders won the 1000, Vedder bested her own school record with a thord place finish in the 300, and Rittenburg and Schloth finished two-three in the hurdles.
Throughout the season, Suzanne Bourke, Theresa McCauley, Annemarie Crispo, Cheryl Doucette, Chrissy Harris, Melissa Ryan and Monica Holahan all played key roles in various relay teams, the Rockette's specialty. Other regular contributors included Barbara Simmons, Lisa George, Joan D'Entremont, Patty Duffy, Beth Fuller, and Ellen McSweeney.
Inducted 2001
Middlesex League champions. Methuen Invitational champions. State coaches invitational champions. Class B Relays champions. Division 2 state champions. The 1982-83 Reading High girls track team literally won every single meet they entered that fabled season.
Led by co-captains, co-league MVPs, and Hall of Fame members Cheryl Vedder and Jane Schloth, the 1982-83 Rockettes were not only backboned with star caliber athletes, but possessed a great attitude and unquenchable work ethic. In addition to Vedder's dominance of the middle distances and Schloth's brilliance in the hurdles and high jump, the team featured dominant 1000 runner and RMHS Hall of Fame member, Gail Saunders, perhaps Reading's greatest female track athlete.
The trio of Hall of Famers were not alone. Claire Rittenberg shined in the hurdles and high jump with depth provided by Stacy Wooster. Jane Wallace picked up valuable points backing up Cheryl Vedder in the middle distances and Melissa Ryan starred in the shot put and dash.
After easily dispatching all its Middlesex League competition with a perfect 6-0 record, Reading went on to win the State Coaches Invitational beating out nearest competitor Falmouth 39-23. The team then rolled up 42 points to win the Class B Relays. In the Division 2 state meet, the team of Vedder, Harris, Holahan and Saunders won in a thrilling final relay to edge out second place Shrewsbury 44-42.5. In addition Saunders won the 1000, Vedder bested her own school record with a thord place finish in the 300, and Rittenburg and Schloth finished two-three in the hurdles.
Throughout the season, Suzanne Bourke, Theresa McCauley, Annemarie Crispo, Cheryl Doucette, Chrissy Harris, Melissa Ryan and Monica Holahan all played key roles in various relay teams, the Rockette's specialty. Other regular contributors included Barbara Simmons, Lisa George, Joan D'Entremont, Patty Duffy, Beth Fuller, and Ellen McSweeney.
1987 BOYS TRACK TEAM
Inducted 1999
Coached by Hal Croft and led by league MVP Gregg Duffy, the team was an ideal combination of depth and individual talent that was able to dominate its league competition, scoring over 100 points in every meet with an average winning margin of 113-31.
The team captains were Gregg Duffy, Carl McFadden, John Mello and Derrick Sanford, each of whom earned All-Middlesex League honors. Duffy was selected as an All-Scholastic by both the Boston Globe and Boston Herald for high jumping 6-10 1/2 that spring, a Class B and RMHS record.
The team also featured All-Stars in Joe Castelli, Bob Stone, Ben Trevor, the 4x100 relay team of Brandon Millett, Donald Neville, Derek Watkins and Sanford and the mile relay team of Derrick Hall, McFadden, Michael Vedder and Duffy. After sweeping through its regular league schedule, the team won the Andover and Haverhill Invitational meets and the State Class B relays.
In the Class B Championships, the Rockets place a team or individual in the top six in an amazing 13 of 17 events, with wins by Duffy in the 400 and high jump, Sanford in the triple jump, Castelli in the pole vault and in the mile relay. The team posted a second place finish at the All-State meet, their best since 1975.
Inducted 1999
Coached by Hal Croft and led by league MVP Gregg Duffy, the team was an ideal combination of depth and individual talent that was able to dominate its league competition, scoring over 100 points in every meet with an average winning margin of 113-31.
The team captains were Gregg Duffy, Carl McFadden, John Mello and Derrick Sanford, each of whom earned All-Middlesex League honors. Duffy was selected as an All-Scholastic by both the Boston Globe and Boston Herald for high jumping 6-10 1/2 that spring, a Class B and RMHS record.
The team also featured All-Stars in Joe Castelli, Bob Stone, Ben Trevor, the 4x100 relay team of Brandon Millett, Donald Neville, Derek Watkins and Sanford and the mile relay team of Derrick Hall, McFadden, Michael Vedder and Duffy. After sweeping through its regular league schedule, the team won the Andover and Haverhill Invitational meets and the State Class B relays.
In the Class B Championships, the Rockets place a team or individual in the top six in an amazing 13 of 17 events, with wins by Duffy in the 400 and high jump, Sanford in the triple jump, Castelli in the pole vault and in the mile relay. The team posted a second place finish at the All-State meet, their best since 1975.
1994 BOYS SOCCER
Inducted 2011
Following a second place finish in '93, the Reading boys soccer team with its starting offensive core and goalkeeping intact coupled with a rebuilt defense set its eyes on the school's first league title.
Under the direction of new head coach Leo Figueiredo, the team became the first Reading squad to go undefeated during the regular season and win the Middlesex League title, as they transitioned from a historically defensive minded squad into an offensive juggernaut.
Captained by four year starters Jason Gracilieri and Billy Scott, the '94 team overwhelmed the Middlesex League with sprinters up front, toughness through the middle, rock solid defending and dynamic goal keeping. For this one season, the team transcended historical football passions and soccer was king as they took their fans on an exhilarating 22 game ride.
The team outscored their opponents 51-8 during the regular season and followed that by outscoring playoff opponents 11-1 over the course of their four game playoff. Despite out-shooting, out-hustling and regularly out-soccering the opposition, the squad was unable to finish their run to the State title, losing 1-0 in the North Sectional final.
Despite the loss, the team was showered with accolades at the conclusion of the season with eight selections to the Middlesex League All-Star team.
Inducted 2011
Following a second place finish in '93, the Reading boys soccer team with its starting offensive core and goalkeeping intact coupled with a rebuilt defense set its eyes on the school's first league title.
Under the direction of new head coach Leo Figueiredo, the team became the first Reading squad to go undefeated during the regular season and win the Middlesex League title, as they transitioned from a historically defensive minded squad into an offensive juggernaut.
Captained by four year starters Jason Gracilieri and Billy Scott, the '94 team overwhelmed the Middlesex League with sprinters up front, toughness through the middle, rock solid defending and dynamic goal keeping. For this one season, the team transcended historical football passions and soccer was king as they took their fans on an exhilarating 22 game ride.
The team outscored their opponents 51-8 during the regular season and followed that by outscoring playoff opponents 11-1 over the course of their four game playoff. Despite out-shooting, out-hustling and regularly out-soccering the opposition, the squad was unable to finish their run to the State title, losing 1-0 in the North Sectional final.
Despite the loss, the team was showered with accolades at the conclusion of the season with eight selections to the Middlesex League All-Star team.
1998 FOOTBALL TEAM
Inducted 2011
Hopes were high in 1998 and after a season opening loss to non-league opponent Gloucester, the Rockets would not lose another game all season.
The most exciting win came in Week 3 against Melrose. With 3:32 left in the third quarter the Red Raiders had a 14-0 lead. Reading finally got on the scoreboard with a seven yard Mike Boyd touchdown run to narrow the lead to 14-7 as the third quarter ended. Then came the final 43 seconds of the game which will go down as one of the most improbable comebacks in school history.
As the final minute of the game wound down, Adam Briggs completed a halfback option pass to Jamie Gath for a 15-yard touchdown to cut the lead to 14-13. Coach Kasprzak opted for two extra points and the win, but the attempt failed.
Melrose celebrated their probable victory, but then Mike Cain recovered an onside kick with 33 seconds left. A Boyd to Gath completion setup a 29 yard field goal attempt with three seconds left. Andrew Mallett, a former soccer player in his first year on the team was called in to kick the high pressure field goal and then proceeded to boot the game winner for the Rockets.
The season ended with Reading claiming its third Eastern Mass Division Super Bowl championship with a 37-6 victory against Braintree. With that win Kasprzak won his 100th game as a head coach and on that day Robbie Olivar became just the fourth Reading back to gain over 1,000 yards in a season. They also solidified their status as the Middlesex League's ream of the '90s by winning an unprecedented fourth straight league title.
Inducted 2011
Hopes were high in 1998 and after a season opening loss to non-league opponent Gloucester, the Rockets would not lose another game all season.
The most exciting win came in Week 3 against Melrose. With 3:32 left in the third quarter the Red Raiders had a 14-0 lead. Reading finally got on the scoreboard with a seven yard Mike Boyd touchdown run to narrow the lead to 14-7 as the third quarter ended. Then came the final 43 seconds of the game which will go down as one of the most improbable comebacks in school history.
As the final minute of the game wound down, Adam Briggs completed a halfback option pass to Jamie Gath for a 15-yard touchdown to cut the lead to 14-13. Coach Kasprzak opted for two extra points and the win, but the attempt failed.
Melrose celebrated their probable victory, but then Mike Cain recovered an onside kick with 33 seconds left. A Boyd to Gath completion setup a 29 yard field goal attempt with three seconds left. Andrew Mallett, a former soccer player in his first year on the team was called in to kick the high pressure field goal and then proceeded to boot the game winner for the Rockets.
The season ended with Reading claiming its third Eastern Mass Division Super Bowl championship with a 37-6 victory against Braintree. With that win Kasprzak won his 100th game as a head coach and on that day Robbie Olivar became just the fourth Reading back to gain over 1,000 yards in a season. They also solidified their status as the Middlesex League's ream of the '90s by winning an unprecedented fourth straight league title.