CLASS OF 2024 RMHS ATHLETIC HOF INDUCTEES
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2009 Football
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2010 Girls Swimming
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INDUCTED ATHLETES 1997-2017
JEN ABRAMS
Class of 2008- Inducted 2017- Field Hockey, Ice Hockey, Softball
Jen Abrams is in an elite category when it comes to high school athletics. She was a three-sport athlete and captain, and secured her spot as arguably the top three-sport female athlete to ever play for Reading High. Her natural athleticism, drive and dedication equipped her to play at an extremely high level in field hockey, ice hockey and softball.
Described as “talented and multi-versatile,” softball was her greatest passion, but she made an equally lasting impression in the field hockey and ice hockey as she did on the softball diamond. When her career ended in the spring of 2008, Jen Abrams was an eight-time Middlesex League All-Star in her three sports combined.
Although never picking up a field hockey stick until her freshman year, she was a natural at her chosen position of center mid-field. Jen finished her field hockey career in the top-five in all-time career scoring. She was selected a Boston Globe and Boston Herald All-Scholastic her senior year in field hockey.
Ice hockey was another sport Jen contributed to with her gifted scoring abilities. She joined the girls hockey team as a freshman and by the end of her senior year, she had eclipsed 100 points for her career and was named a Middlesex League All-Star as a senior.
When it comes to softball, Jen was a huge asset for Reading every time she put on a Reading uniform and showed her versatility with her ability to play both center field and catcher.
Jen was named captain her junior and senior years and graduated as Reading’s career leader in hits and runs scored. She was a Middlesex League All-Star all four years. In her junior and senior years in 2007, she was named to the Boston Globe and Boston Herald All-Scholastic teams.
Jen went on to play Division 1 softball at Providence. After college, Jen’s passion for sports remained. She coached softball at Seton Hall for three seasons and is currently serving as Penn State’s hitting coach.
Class of 2008- Inducted 2017- Field Hockey, Ice Hockey, Softball
Jen Abrams is in an elite category when it comes to high school athletics. She was a three-sport athlete and captain, and secured her spot as arguably the top three-sport female athlete to ever play for Reading High. Her natural athleticism, drive and dedication equipped her to play at an extremely high level in field hockey, ice hockey and softball.
Described as “talented and multi-versatile,” softball was her greatest passion, but she made an equally lasting impression in the field hockey and ice hockey as she did on the softball diamond. When her career ended in the spring of 2008, Jen Abrams was an eight-time Middlesex League All-Star in her three sports combined.
Although never picking up a field hockey stick until her freshman year, she was a natural at her chosen position of center mid-field. Jen finished her field hockey career in the top-five in all-time career scoring. She was selected a Boston Globe and Boston Herald All-Scholastic her senior year in field hockey.
Ice hockey was another sport Jen contributed to with her gifted scoring abilities. She joined the girls hockey team as a freshman and by the end of her senior year, she had eclipsed 100 points for her career and was named a Middlesex League All-Star as a senior.
When it comes to softball, Jen was a huge asset for Reading every time she put on a Reading uniform and showed her versatility with her ability to play both center field and catcher.
Jen was named captain her junior and senior years and graduated as Reading’s career leader in hits and runs scored. She was a Middlesex League All-Star all four years. In her junior and senior years in 2007, she was named to the Boston Globe and Boston Herald All-Scholastic teams.
Jen went on to play Division 1 softball at Providence. After college, Jen’s passion for sports remained. She coached softball at Seton Hall for three seasons and is currently serving as Penn State’s hitting coach.
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.
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Matt Austin
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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.
JENNIFER BOWDOIN
Class of 1992- Inducted 1998- Field Hockey, Basketball, Softball
Jennifer was an honors student and the first female athlete to receive All-Scholastic honors in two sports. A three sport athlete, Jenn captained the field hockey, basketball and softball teams during her senior year.
As a senior, she was recognized by the Boston Herald as an All-Scholastic field hockey player. Playing left inside forward, Jenn earned Middlesex League All-Star honors in her junior and senior seasons. Over those two seasons she scored 29 goals and had 13 assists. When a vital goal was needed, she was always up to the challenge as she was capable of creating opportunities for both herself and her teammates against the toughest defenses. She helped drive RMHS to its first ML field hockey championship. Then in the post season, she led the team all the way to the state tournament's North Sectional finals.
In the winter she was a four year varsity basketball star where she played both point guard and small forward. She was
named a Middlesex League All-Star in her senior year.
Twice recognized by the Boston Globe as an All-Scholastic softball player, Jenn started at third base for four years. Reading won the ML title each of those four years. Remembered for her quick and sure defense, she also batted .300 or better in three seasons and twice led the team in stolen bases and extra base hits. Jennifer was named a Middlesex League All-Star in both her junior and senior seasons.
A quiet leader and thoughtful teammate, Jenn was recognized by the Boston Globe as a Globe Good Sport for her selfless leadership, high level of sportsmanship and outstanding athletic achievements during eleven varsity seasons at RMHS.
Class of 1992- Inducted 1998- Field Hockey, Basketball, Softball
Jennifer was an honors student and the first female athlete to receive All-Scholastic honors in two sports. A three sport athlete, Jenn captained the field hockey, basketball and softball teams during her senior year.
As a senior, she was recognized by the Boston Herald as an All-Scholastic field hockey player. Playing left inside forward, Jenn earned Middlesex League All-Star honors in her junior and senior seasons. Over those two seasons she scored 29 goals and had 13 assists. When a vital goal was needed, she was always up to the challenge as she was capable of creating opportunities for both herself and her teammates against the toughest defenses. She helped drive RMHS to its first ML field hockey championship. Then in the post season, she led the team all the way to the state tournament's North Sectional finals.
In the winter she was a four year varsity basketball star where she played both point guard and small forward. She was
named a Middlesex League All-Star in her senior year.
Twice recognized by the Boston Globe as an All-Scholastic softball player, Jenn started at third base for four years. Reading won the ML title each of those four years. Remembered for her quick and sure defense, she also batted .300 or better in three seasons and twice led the team in stolen bases and extra base hits. Jennifer was named a Middlesex League All-Star in both her junior and senior seasons.
A quiet leader and thoughtful teammate, Jenn was recognized by the Boston Globe as a Globe Good Sport for her selfless leadership, high level of sportsmanship and outstanding athletic achievements during eleven varsity seasons at RMHS.
MICHAEL BOYD
Class of 1999- Inducted 2017 Football, Basketball, Track
RMHS Class of 1999’s Mike Boyd was an outstanding three-sport athlete and captain of the football and basketball teams in his senior season. A winner of eight varsity letters, he was a two-time All-League selection in football, a two-time league all-star in basketball, and in his senior year earned league all-star honors in the javelin.
Football was Boyd’s best sport. The 6-2, 180-pound Boyd started the 1997 and ‘98 seasons at quarterback and was a productive, winning signal caller. But his natural position was safety.
Perhaps Boyd’s greatest athletic accomplishment at Reading High was being the only sophomore to start on Reading’s unbeaten 1996 Div. 2 Super Bowl championship squad. As a senior Boyd led the team at quarterback to a 10-1 Middlesex League and Div. 2 Super Bowl championship season. Boyd earned his second All-League selection in football after the 1998 season.
Boyd’s second best sport was basketball where he was a good passer, defender, and mid-range jump shooter. As a senior Boyd was named a Middlesex League All-Star while averaging 11 points per game.
Boyd was a consistent top three finisher in the javelin in his senior year helping the Rockets win their fourth straight Class B title and earned all-star honors.
Following graduation Boyd attended Bentley College where he continued his football career as a safety and special teams’ player.
Boyd returned to his high school alma mater, coming back to coach the freshman and then varsity teams as an assistant under head coach John Fiore.
Boyd was diagnosed with cancer in his mid-20’s and was the inspiration for the 2009 Super Bowl champion Rockets where they honored him with the “Don’t Quit” motto throughout the season.
Reading’s Defensive Player of the Year award is now named the “Mike Boyd Award”
Class of 1999- Inducted 2017 Football, Basketball, Track
RMHS Class of 1999’s Mike Boyd was an outstanding three-sport athlete and captain of the football and basketball teams in his senior season. A winner of eight varsity letters, he was a two-time All-League selection in football, a two-time league all-star in basketball, and in his senior year earned league all-star honors in the javelin.
Football was Boyd’s best sport. The 6-2, 180-pound Boyd started the 1997 and ‘98 seasons at quarterback and was a productive, winning signal caller. But his natural position was safety.
Perhaps Boyd’s greatest athletic accomplishment at Reading High was being the only sophomore to start on Reading’s unbeaten 1996 Div. 2 Super Bowl championship squad. As a senior Boyd led the team at quarterback to a 10-1 Middlesex League and Div. 2 Super Bowl championship season. Boyd earned his second All-League selection in football after the 1998 season.
Boyd’s second best sport was basketball where he was a good passer, defender, and mid-range jump shooter. As a senior Boyd was named a Middlesex League All-Star while averaging 11 points per game.
Boyd was a consistent top three finisher in the javelin in his senior year helping the Rockets win their fourth straight Class B title and earned all-star honors.
Following graduation Boyd attended Bentley College where he continued his football career as a safety and special teams’ player.
Boyd returned to his high school alma mater, coming back to coach the freshman and then varsity teams as an assistant under head coach John Fiore.
Boyd was diagnosed with cancer in his mid-20’s and was the inspiration for the 2009 Super Bowl champion Rockets where they honored him with the “Don’t Quit” motto throughout the season.
Reading’s Defensive Player of the Year award is now named the “Mike Boyd Award”
TIM BRYANT
Class of 2001 - Inducted 2015- Football, Baseball
He coupled his outstanding athletic ability with great strength of character, intelligence and sense of humor" These words were used to describe Tim Bryant by his legendary Hall of Fame football coach, Tom Kasprzak.
Tim's other RMHS Hall Of Fame coach, Pete Moscariello described Tim as “an excellent leader and teammate who represented his school and team with class and integrity at all times.”
Two RMHS coaching icons, who have seen more than their fair share of talented athletes, including several current members of the Hall of Fame, chose the words character, class, integrity and intelligence among others, to describe this outstanding two-sport captain, All-Star and baseball All-Scholastic, who graduated with the Class of 2001.
Tim was one of four captains of the 2000 football team that was a Super Bowl champion and was an All-League selection that season at defensive back.
He ended his football career sharing the single-season touchdown receptions’ record of 10 while averaging an astounding 19 yards per catch. His 12 career TD catches is also tied for second all-time at Reading. His 6 interception season and 10 for his career put him among the leaders all-time for Reading.
While a very talented football player, Bryant always had a love of baseball and in his senior season the captain had a statistical year for the ages.
On the mound, his complete season 10-1 record with an overall ERA of 1.66. At the plate, Bryant ended the regular season and playoffs combined with a .414 batting average with 36 hits of which 19 went for extra bases including a team leading 6 home runs and 33 RBI.
After RMHS, Bryant went on to play four years of baseball at Bentley University where he was captain and is considered one of the top pitchers in the school’s history by legendary Coach Bob DeFelice.
Class of 2001 - Inducted 2015- Football, Baseball
He coupled his outstanding athletic ability with great strength of character, intelligence and sense of humor" These words were used to describe Tim Bryant by his legendary Hall of Fame football coach, Tom Kasprzak.
Tim's other RMHS Hall Of Fame coach, Pete Moscariello described Tim as “an excellent leader and teammate who represented his school and team with class and integrity at all times.”
Two RMHS coaching icons, who have seen more than their fair share of talented athletes, including several current members of the Hall of Fame, chose the words character, class, integrity and intelligence among others, to describe this outstanding two-sport captain, All-Star and baseball All-Scholastic, who graduated with the Class of 2001.
Tim was one of four captains of the 2000 football team that was a Super Bowl champion and was an All-League selection that season at defensive back.
He ended his football career sharing the single-season touchdown receptions’ record of 10 while averaging an astounding 19 yards per catch. His 12 career TD catches is also tied for second all-time at Reading. His 6 interception season and 10 for his career put him among the leaders all-time for Reading.
While a very talented football player, Bryant always had a love of baseball and in his senior season the captain had a statistical year for the ages.
On the mound, his complete season 10-1 record with an overall ERA of 1.66. At the plate, Bryant ended the regular season and playoffs combined with a .414 batting average with 36 hits of which 19 went for extra bases including a team leading 6 home runs and 33 RBI.
After RMHS, Bryant went on to play four years of baseball at Bentley University where he was captain and is considered one of the top pitchers in the school’s history by legendary Coach Bob DeFelice.
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.
COURTNEY CAMPBELL
Class of 2003- Inducted 2013- Field Hockey, Softball
Courtney may be one of the most unassuming athletes inducted into the RMHS Athletic Hall of Fame. Not physically big nor exceptionally fast, she was an All-Scholastic in two sports due to her drive, commitment, determination and intelligence on the field.
In her sophomore year she was a member of the 2001 State Champion softball team, and she wasn't just along for the ride. She was a valuable contributor, usually batting second and playing a stellar center field. She was named to the first of her three Middlesex League All-Star teams that year. She continued her solid play as a junior and senior. Courtney was team captain her senior year and batted .422 with four doubles, six triples and three home runs.
As good as Courtney was in softball, she may have been even better in field hockey. An unselfish, two-way player, she earned the respect of teammates and opponents alike with her earnest efforts and skills. Whether on offense or defense, Courtney's greatest asset was her ability to read the field and sense a developing plsay.
In her junior year the team compiled a 17-2-2 record while she lead the team in scoring with 9 goals and 11 assists.. She was name a ML All-Star.
As a senior Courtney switched from midfield to corner defender and still manage to score 10 goals and 12 assists. The team finished with a 20-2 record and won a share of the Middlesex League title for the first time in 10 seasons.
Courtney played field hockey at Stonehill College and was named a Division II All-American.
Class of 2003- Inducted 2013- Field Hockey, Softball
Courtney may be one of the most unassuming athletes inducted into the RMHS Athletic Hall of Fame. Not physically big nor exceptionally fast, she was an All-Scholastic in two sports due to her drive, commitment, determination and intelligence on the field.
In her sophomore year she was a member of the 2001 State Champion softball team, and she wasn't just along for the ride. She was a valuable contributor, usually batting second and playing a stellar center field. She was named to the first of her three Middlesex League All-Star teams that year. She continued her solid play as a junior and senior. Courtney was team captain her senior year and batted .422 with four doubles, six triples and three home runs.
As good as Courtney was in softball, she may have been even better in field hockey. An unselfish, two-way player, she earned the respect of teammates and opponents alike with her earnest efforts and skills. Whether on offense or defense, Courtney's greatest asset was her ability to read the field and sense a developing plsay.
In her junior year the team compiled a 17-2-2 record while she lead the team in scoring with 9 goals and 11 assists.. She was name a ML All-Star.
As a senior Courtney switched from midfield to corner defender and still manage to score 10 goals and 12 assists. The team finished with a 20-2 record and won a share of the Middlesex League title for the first time in 10 seasons.
Courtney played field hockey at Stonehill College and was named a Division II All-American.
BILL CARROLL
Class of 1967- Inducted 2015- Football, Basketball, Baseball
During the decade of the 1960’s when Reading produced a host of Hall of Fame athletes, the Class of 1967’s Bill Carroll took a back seat to no one when it came to achievement in the realm of RMHS athletics.
A three-sport starter and all-league performer in two sports, Carroll was an integral part of 5 Middlesex League champion teams. This included HOF teams in both football and basketball, and baseball teams that went to the Eastern Mass finals or semifinals for two straight years.
As a member of the powerhouse Reading football teams of the mid-1960’s Bill would have been the starting quarterback in most programs in the state, however, despite being behind All-Scholastic quarterback Bill Kelly on the depth chart, he made his mark elsewhere as a versatile two-way performer at receiver and defensive back.
In the course of his football career Carroll compiled at least a single entry in almost every statistical category including; rushing touchdown, touchdown reception, passing touchdown, two-point conversion, interception, fumble recovery, and sack, and for good measure, he was the holder on placekicks.
A two-year starter at guard in basketball Carroll was the leading scorer and first team All-League for the 1967 Hall of Fame team that was the Middlesex League champ and progressed to the Tech Tourney semifinals.
In baseball, the two- year starting second baseman led one of the state’s top teams in hitting as a senior and scooping up All-League honors. As a senior he was the recipient of the Wakeling Award given to the RMHS student that exemplified excellence in athletics and in the classroom.
Carroll returned to Reading after attending Amherst College where he continued to make his mark in 38-year career, as a respected teacher, successful coach and even as an announcer in his extraordinary run at RMHS.
Class of 1967- Inducted 2015- Football, Basketball, Baseball
During the decade of the 1960’s when Reading produced a host of Hall of Fame athletes, the Class of 1967’s Bill Carroll took a back seat to no one when it came to achievement in the realm of RMHS athletics.
A three-sport starter and all-league performer in two sports, Carroll was an integral part of 5 Middlesex League champion teams. This included HOF teams in both football and basketball, and baseball teams that went to the Eastern Mass finals or semifinals for two straight years.
As a member of the powerhouse Reading football teams of the mid-1960’s Bill would have been the starting quarterback in most programs in the state, however, despite being behind All-Scholastic quarterback Bill Kelly on the depth chart, he made his mark elsewhere as a versatile two-way performer at receiver and defensive back.
In the course of his football career Carroll compiled at least a single entry in almost every statistical category including; rushing touchdown, touchdown reception, passing touchdown, two-point conversion, interception, fumble recovery, and sack, and for good measure, he was the holder on placekicks.
A two-year starter at guard in basketball Carroll was the leading scorer and first team All-League for the 1967 Hall of Fame team that was the Middlesex League champ and progressed to the Tech Tourney semifinals.
In baseball, the two- year starting second baseman led one of the state’s top teams in hitting as a senior and scooping up All-League honors. As a senior he was the recipient of the Wakeling Award given to the RMHS student that exemplified excellence in athletics and in the classroom.
Carroll returned to Reading after attending Amherst College where he continued to make his mark in 38-year career, as a respected teacher, successful coach and even as an announcer in his extraordinary run at RMHS.
MATT CARROLL
Class of 1997- Inducted 2007- Swimming
Perhaps no other Reading athlete dominated their sport over a four year period like Matt. From his freshman year through graduation, he didn't just seem unbeatable-- he nearly was.
A four year letter winner with the swim team, Matt completely rewrote the record books and graduated with his name stamped on eight school records, including five individual events-- the 200 individual medley, 100 freestyle, 200 freestyle, 100 back stroke and 500 freestyle-- and three record setting relay teams.
Matt was a two year captain, an eight time Middlesex League champion, a four time league all-star and a four time league MVP. At the time of his induction he still held five RMHS records: the 200 individual medley, 100 freestyle, 200 freestyle, 500 freestyle and the 400 medley relay.
With nearly 100 individual races under his belt, Matt lost only three times in the Middlesex League-- twice as a freshman and only once as a sophomore. He excelled at the annual league meet and was undefeated every year, earning a total of eight blue ribbons as the Middlesex League champ in his respective events.
In his freshman year, Matt began what turned out to be a four year run of appearances in the State Championship meet
As a freshman he was 6th in the 500 yard freestyle and 4th in the 200 yard freestyle. He was 4th in the 500 freestyle as a sophomore. In his junior year he was second in the 200 freestyle. In his final appearance he was second in the 500 freestyle--losing to a future Olympian..
Class of 1997- Inducted 2007- Swimming
Perhaps no other Reading athlete dominated their sport over a four year period like Matt. From his freshman year through graduation, he didn't just seem unbeatable-- he nearly was.
A four year letter winner with the swim team, Matt completely rewrote the record books and graduated with his name stamped on eight school records, including five individual events-- the 200 individual medley, 100 freestyle, 200 freestyle, 100 back stroke and 500 freestyle-- and three record setting relay teams.
Matt was a two year captain, an eight time Middlesex League champion, a four time league all-star and a four time league MVP. At the time of his induction he still held five RMHS records: the 200 individual medley, 100 freestyle, 200 freestyle, 500 freestyle and the 400 medley relay.
With nearly 100 individual races under his belt, Matt lost only three times in the Middlesex League-- twice as a freshman and only once as a sophomore. He excelled at the annual league meet and was undefeated every year, earning a total of eight blue ribbons as the Middlesex League champ in his respective events.
In his freshman year, Matt began what turned out to be a four year run of appearances in the State Championship meet
As a freshman he was 6th in the 500 yard freestyle and 4th in the 200 yard freestyle. He was 4th in the 500 freestyle as a sophomore. In his junior year he was second in the 200 freestyle. In his final appearance he was second in the 500 freestyle--losing to a future Olympian..
JAMIE CERRETANI
Class of 2000- Inducted 2017 Baseball, Tennis
Jamie Cerretani’s athletic talent stood out on the courts, fields and gyms of Reading at a very young age. No matter the sport, he excelled at it.
He showed the most talent at a young age in tennis and when he entered Reading High in the Fall of 1996, he was already an accomplished New England ranked junior player, having competed at the highest levels on the junior circuit.
During his freshman year, he played his one and only season of Reading High tennis. He breezed through Middlesex League competition going undefeated at No. 1 Singles for the Rockets
In the postseason, he won the North individual title, then a state semifinal match before bowing out in the state final. For the season, he was named a Middlesex League All-Star and made both the Boston Globe and Herald All-Scholastic teams.
In his senior year of baseball Cerretani’s performance was as great as any Reading player has ever achieved.
His extraordinary stats in the regular season included a .500 batting avg. with 31 hits, 26 runs scored, 8 doubles, 3 triples, 6 home runs, an on-base percentage of .625 and a slugging percentage of 1.016. On the mound, he was 4-2 with a 1.64 ERA and was outstanding at shortstop with only two errors on the year.
Cerretani was named to the Middlesex League All Star team and was the League MVP. He was also selected to both the Herald and Globe All-Scholastic teams and was the Daily Times Chronicle Baseball Player of the Year.
Upon graduating from RMHS, Cerretani went on to play tennis at Brown University where his stellar career landed him in the school’s Hall of Fame.
Moving on to a pro tennis career focused primarily on doubles, Cerretani has won 4 ATP titles with his most recent coming at the Ecuador Open during the 2017 season.
Class of 2000- Inducted 2017 Baseball, Tennis
Jamie Cerretani’s athletic talent stood out on the courts, fields and gyms of Reading at a very young age. No matter the sport, he excelled at it.
He showed the most talent at a young age in tennis and when he entered Reading High in the Fall of 1996, he was already an accomplished New England ranked junior player, having competed at the highest levels on the junior circuit.
During his freshman year, he played his one and only season of Reading High tennis. He breezed through Middlesex League competition going undefeated at No. 1 Singles for the Rockets
In the postseason, he won the North individual title, then a state semifinal match before bowing out in the state final. For the season, he was named a Middlesex League All-Star and made both the Boston Globe and Herald All-Scholastic teams.
In his senior year of baseball Cerretani’s performance was as great as any Reading player has ever achieved.
His extraordinary stats in the regular season included a .500 batting avg. with 31 hits, 26 runs scored, 8 doubles, 3 triples, 6 home runs, an on-base percentage of .625 and a slugging percentage of 1.016. On the mound, he was 4-2 with a 1.64 ERA and was outstanding at shortstop with only two errors on the year.
Cerretani was named to the Middlesex League All Star team and was the League MVP. He was also selected to both the Herald and Globe All-Scholastic teams and was the Daily Times Chronicle Baseball Player of the Year.
Upon graduating from RMHS, Cerretani went on to play tennis at Brown University where his stellar career landed him in the school’s Hall of Fame.
Moving on to a pro tennis career focused primarily on doubles, Cerretani has won 4 ATP titles with his most recent coming at the Ecuador Open during the 2017 season.
JANICE COATES
Class of 1986- Inducted 2013- Basketball, Softball
Janice's athletic ability enable her to progress very quickly in her chosen sports in spite of having less experience in them than some of her teammates. She was able to catch on to the sports quickly and play them at a high level and well enough to be named All-Middlesex League twice.
A guard/forward on the RMHS girls varsity basketball team for four seasons, she combined an inside presence on the court and displaying excellent ball handling and shooting skills. During her basketball career she scored 813 points.
Janice was a solid left-handed hitter with power to all fields and speed on the bases. She started her varsity softball career as a sophomore and finished the season with a .419 batting average.
In her junior season her team won the league title and was Division One North Sectional winner in the State tournament. The highlight of her senior year was being league champs again and Division One State Champions. Both her last two years she was named Middlesex League All-Star. Her career batting average was .417.
Class of 1986- Inducted 2013- Basketball, Softball
Janice's athletic ability enable her to progress very quickly in her chosen sports in spite of having less experience in them than some of her teammates. She was able to catch on to the sports quickly and play them at a high level and well enough to be named All-Middlesex League twice.
A guard/forward on the RMHS girls varsity basketball team for four seasons, she combined an inside presence on the court and displaying excellent ball handling and shooting skills. During her basketball career she scored 813 points.
Janice was a solid left-handed hitter with power to all fields and speed on the bases. She started her varsity softball career as a sophomore and finished the season with a .419 batting average.
In her junior season her team won the league title and was Division One North Sectional winner in the State tournament. The highlight of her senior year was being league champs again and Division One State Champions. Both her last two years she was named Middlesex League All-Star. Her career batting average was .417.
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.
ANDREA COMEAU
Class of 1996- Inducted 2005- Track
Andrea might be the best Reading High girls track performer of all time.
A six time Middlesex League MVP, Middlesex League, Class B, All-State and New England champion in the 100 hurdles, Class B and All-State champion in the high jump and Northern heptathlon champion, she dominated the competition as perhaps no other runner up to the time of her inducted.
From her sophomore year to her senior year, she never lost a league running or hurdling event, winning or sharing league MVP honors for both indoor and outdoor track for three consecutive years. She was named Daily Times Chronicle outstanding girls track performer for five of those six seasons as well.
At the time of her induction, Andrea still held the school records in the 55 and 100 meter hurdles and high jump. Additionally, she anchored a school record breaking 4X400 meter relay team.
At the indoor Class B championship in her senior year Andrea won the high jump with a new meet record of 5'10". She also won the 55 meter hurdles, breaking her own meet record, with a time of 8.52 seconds.
At the indoor All-State meet in the winter of 1996, she placed second in the hurdles and won the high jump. At the end of the indoor season she was named the Boston Globe's Girls Indoor Track Performer of the Year as well as Boston Herald All-Scholastic.
In the spring of 1996, Andrea was a repeat Globe and Herald All-Scholastic and was the cornerstone of the only girls track team to win an All-State championship.
Reading defended its Class B title. Andrea won the high jump and anchored the winning 4x400 relay. She finished second in the high jump.
At the All-State meet, she won the 100 hurdles, placed second in the high jump and ran the anchor leg of the Lady Rockets' second place 4x400 relay team. She ended her career with a victory in the 100 hurdles at the New England championships.
Class of 1996- Inducted 2005- Track
Andrea might be the best Reading High girls track performer of all time.
A six time Middlesex League MVP, Middlesex League, Class B, All-State and New England champion in the 100 hurdles, Class B and All-State champion in the high jump and Northern heptathlon champion, she dominated the competition as perhaps no other runner up to the time of her inducted.
From her sophomore year to her senior year, she never lost a league running or hurdling event, winning or sharing league MVP honors for both indoor and outdoor track for three consecutive years. She was named Daily Times Chronicle outstanding girls track performer for five of those six seasons as well.
At the time of her induction, Andrea still held the school records in the 55 and 100 meter hurdles and high jump. Additionally, she anchored a school record breaking 4X400 meter relay team.
At the indoor Class B championship in her senior year Andrea won the high jump with a new meet record of 5'10". She also won the 55 meter hurdles, breaking her own meet record, with a time of 8.52 seconds.
At the indoor All-State meet in the winter of 1996, she placed second in the hurdles and won the high jump. At the end of the indoor season she was named the Boston Globe's Girls Indoor Track Performer of the Year as well as Boston Herald All-Scholastic.
In the spring of 1996, Andrea was a repeat Globe and Herald All-Scholastic and was the cornerstone of the only girls track team to win an All-State championship.
Reading defended its Class B title. Andrea won the high jump and anchored the winning 4x400 relay. She finished second in the high jump.
At the All-State meet, she won the 100 hurdles, placed second in the high jump and ran the anchor leg of the Lady Rockets' second place 4x400 relay team. She ended her career with a victory in the 100 hurdles at the New England championships.
MARY CONNOLLY
Class of 1990- Inducted 2003- Track
Quiet and unassuming, Mary was a brilliant track athlete whose actions on the track spoke louder than any words.
A two time Boston Globe and one time Boston Herald All-Scholastic she set an awfully high bar for the great track athletes of the 1990s to follow. The versatile hurdler and jumper was a four time Middlesex League MVP. She won an amazing seven Class B championships including four in hurdles and three in high jump. Mary was also an All-State indoor high jump champion as a junior and an All-State and New England champion in the hurdles as a senior in the spring of 1990.
At the time of her graduation, Mary held records in the indoor (6.6) and outdoor (14.8) high hurdles and indoor high jump (5-6).
Mary also excelled in the seven event, heptathlon. She threw the shot put over 30 feet and came within a 1/2 inch of breaking the school long jump record. In her senior year she shined in the 200 and 4x400 relay.
Although her teams never won the Middlesex League title, finishing as runner ups to Lexington and Stoneham, Mary was almost unbeatable. She was undefeated in outdoor dual meet competition her junior and senior year and finished no worse than second in indoor meets.
Mary capped her career off with her highest honor, a New England championship in the 100 hurdles (14.79) against the best competition on the East Coast. She took third in the high jump at the New England meet and was the only athlete to place in two events.
An excellent student as well as athlete, Mary attended Harvard University where she continued her track career.
Class of 1990- Inducted 2003- Track
Quiet and unassuming, Mary was a brilliant track athlete whose actions on the track spoke louder than any words.
A two time Boston Globe and one time Boston Herald All-Scholastic she set an awfully high bar for the great track athletes of the 1990s to follow. The versatile hurdler and jumper was a four time Middlesex League MVP. She won an amazing seven Class B championships including four in hurdles and three in high jump. Mary was also an All-State indoor high jump champion as a junior and an All-State and New England champion in the hurdles as a senior in the spring of 1990.
At the time of her graduation, Mary held records in the indoor (6.6) and outdoor (14.8) high hurdles and indoor high jump (5-6).
Mary also excelled in the seven event, heptathlon. She threw the shot put over 30 feet and came within a 1/2 inch of breaking the school long jump record. In her senior year she shined in the 200 and 4x400 relay.
Although her teams never won the Middlesex League title, finishing as runner ups to Lexington and Stoneham, Mary was almost unbeatable. She was undefeated in outdoor dual meet competition her junior and senior year and finished no worse than second in indoor meets.
Mary capped her career off with her highest honor, a New England championship in the 100 hurdles (14.79) against the best competition on the East Coast. She took third in the high jump at the New England meet and was the only athlete to place in two events.
An excellent student as well as athlete, Mary attended Harvard University where she continued her track career.
JOHN DOHERTY
Class of 1969- Inducted 1997- Hockey, Baseball
John was a two time Middlesex League All-Star in both baseball and hockey and earned six varsity letters during his three year career. He captained each sport during his senior year while also earning All-Scholastic honors and playing in the prestigious Hearst Sandlot All-Star baseball game his senior year.
He was a three year varsity player for John Burns' hockey team as a solid blue liner. But it was baseball on which he left his mark. He batted .367, .500 and .529 in three varsity baseball seasons.
On January 18, 1979 he fulfilled his lifelong dream by signing his first professional contract with the California Angels. After five years of preparation and hitting over .300 at each minor league level, John was called to the parent club as a first baseman/designated hitter. Thus John became the first RMHS graduate to play baseball at the major league level.
Class of 1969- Inducted 1997- Hockey, Baseball
John was a two time Middlesex League All-Star in both baseball and hockey and earned six varsity letters during his three year career. He captained each sport during his senior year while also earning All-Scholastic honors and playing in the prestigious Hearst Sandlot All-Star baseball game his senior year.
He was a three year varsity player for John Burns' hockey team as a solid blue liner. But it was baseball on which he left his mark. He batted .367, .500 and .529 in three varsity baseball seasons.
On January 18, 1979 he fulfilled his lifelong dream by signing his first professional contract with the California Angels. After five years of preparation and hitting over .300 at each minor league level, John was called to the parent club as a first baseman/designated hitter. Thus John became the first RMHS graduate to play baseball at the major league level.
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.
CHRIS DYMENT
Class of 1998- Inducted 2009- Hockey
At 6' 3" and 195 pounds, Chris established himself as one of the most dominant hockey players in the Middlesex League during the 1990s.
Highly skilled with an acute hockey sense, his awareness in seeing the ice and anticipating situations is what set him above all others. Additionally, his physical presence on the defensive end proved to be the backbone for the Rockets during their championship run from 1995-1998.
An integral part for Reading during the span, Chris helped lead the Rockets to four Middlesex League titles, four Super 8 appearances and a perfect 18-0 league record in 1997.
Perhaps no Rocket player has ever been as team oriented as Chris. Countless times he could have been a one man show and taken over games, but the Reading defenseman opted to pick his spots and get his teammates involved. Still, he was on induction night the highest scoring defenseman in RMHS history with 149 career points on 65 goals and 84 assists.
Chris was a four time all-league defenseman and a two time MVP of the Middlesex League. He also received All-Scholastic honors from the Boston Globe and Boston Herald. He parlayed those achievements into a hockey scholarship to Boston University where he was All-Hockey East first team in 2000 and 2002. Those same years he was named second team East All-American.
Chris was drafted in the fourth round, 97th overall, by the Montreal Canadians in the 1997 draft. He went on to have pro stops in Houston, Springfield, Providence and Albany of the American Hockey League, Florida and Trenton of the East Coast League, as well as playing one year in Italy.
Class of 1998- Inducted 2009- Hockey
At 6' 3" and 195 pounds, Chris established himself as one of the most dominant hockey players in the Middlesex League during the 1990s.
Highly skilled with an acute hockey sense, his awareness in seeing the ice and anticipating situations is what set him above all others. Additionally, his physical presence on the defensive end proved to be the backbone for the Rockets during their championship run from 1995-1998.
An integral part for Reading during the span, Chris helped lead the Rockets to four Middlesex League titles, four Super 8 appearances and a perfect 18-0 league record in 1997.
Perhaps no Rocket player has ever been as team oriented as Chris. Countless times he could have been a one man show and taken over games, but the Reading defenseman opted to pick his spots and get his teammates involved. Still, he was on induction night the highest scoring defenseman in RMHS history with 149 career points on 65 goals and 84 assists.
Chris was a four time all-league defenseman and a two time MVP of the Middlesex League. He also received All-Scholastic honors from the Boston Globe and Boston Herald. He parlayed those achievements into a hockey scholarship to Boston University where he was All-Hockey East first team in 2000 and 2002. Those same years he was named second team East All-American.
Chris was drafted in the fourth round, 97th overall, by the Montreal Canadians in the 1997 draft. He went on to have pro stops in Houston, Springfield, Providence and Albany of the American Hockey League, Florida and Trenton of the East Coast League, as well as playing one year in Italy.
MARK FALLON
Class of 1973- Inducted 1997- Track, Football
Mark was an honor student who embodied committment, independence and character, He burst onto the Reading and state scenes in January 1972 when he reeled in a 40 yard lead on the Lexington track to catch and pass one of the state's best sprinters. His relay team won the event and the Reading track team won the Middlesex League championship.
In the winter of 1973 in Northeastern University's Cabot Cage on a rectangular track, he moved up to the 600 to set a state record of 1:16.2 in the State Coaches Invitational. He returned to Cabot Cage in March to improve that record to 1:15.3. On a May day in Watertown, running by himself on one of the few composition tracks in the Middlesex League, Mark ran a 48.6 in the 440- a RMHS and ML record. Later that spring, he ran 49.0 in the Andover Invitational 440, another mark which was standing at his induction. He went on to win the 1973 State and New England championships.
Mark also had a successful career for the Rockets on the gridiron as an outside running threat from his halfback position. After high school Mark attended Villanova and earned a spot on the NCAA Division 1 All-American team as a member of Villanova's National Championship two mile relay team.
Class of 1973- Inducted 1997- Track, Football
Mark was an honor student who embodied committment, independence and character, He burst onto the Reading and state scenes in January 1972 when he reeled in a 40 yard lead on the Lexington track to catch and pass one of the state's best sprinters. His relay team won the event and the Reading track team won the Middlesex League championship.
In the winter of 1973 in Northeastern University's Cabot Cage on a rectangular track, he moved up to the 600 to set a state record of 1:16.2 in the State Coaches Invitational. He returned to Cabot Cage in March to improve that record to 1:15.3. On a May day in Watertown, running by himself on one of the few composition tracks in the Middlesex League, Mark ran a 48.6 in the 440- a RMHS and ML record. Later that spring, he ran 49.0 in the Andover Invitational 440, another mark which was standing at his induction. He went on to win the 1973 State and New England championships.
Mark also had a successful career for the Rockets on the gridiron as an outside running threat from his halfback position. After high school Mark attended Villanova and earned a spot on the NCAA Division 1 All-American team as a member of Villanova's National Championship two mile relay team.
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
STEVE GATH
Class of 2003- Inducted 2013- Football, Basketball, Baseball
A three sport ML All-Star, Steve accomplishments on the playing field were numerous but it was his leadership, work ethic, passion for playing the game, and playing it right that best represents his high school legacy.
The respect of his teammates is evidenced by the fact he was elected captain of the football, basketball, and baseball teams in his senior year.
Steve's productivity on the football team was remarkable. He amassed 10 touchdowns pass receiving, three defensive touchdowns, and one special teams touchdown and 11 pass interceptions. He was a member of three Middlesex League teams and one Super Bowl champion team.
In his senior year, he was the floor leader of the basketball team and helped lead the Rockets to a post season berth in the Division 2 North tournament where they lost in overtime to the Number 2 seeded East Boston Jets. Steve was named to the second ML All-Star team.
As a three year starter on the baseball team, he played one year at third base and two at shortstop. He was All-ML in his junior and senior years and a Boston Globe All-Scholastic in his senior year.
At the time of his induction, Steve was RMHS all-time leader in runs scored, doubles, and assists and in the top five for hits, at-bats, runs batted-in, bases on balls, and stolen bases. In his final season, he did not strike out once in 80 plate appearances.
Class of 2003- Inducted 2013- Football, Basketball, Baseball
A three sport ML All-Star, Steve accomplishments on the playing field were numerous but it was his leadership, work ethic, passion for playing the game, and playing it right that best represents his high school legacy.
The respect of his teammates is evidenced by the fact he was elected captain of the football, basketball, and baseball teams in his senior year.
Steve's productivity on the football team was remarkable. He amassed 10 touchdowns pass receiving, three defensive touchdowns, and one special teams touchdown and 11 pass interceptions. He was a member of three Middlesex League teams and one Super Bowl champion team.
In his senior year, he was the floor leader of the basketball team and helped lead the Rockets to a post season berth in the Division 2 North tournament where they lost in overtime to the Number 2 seeded East Boston Jets. Steve was named to the second ML All-Star team.
As a three year starter on the baseball team, he played one year at third base and two at shortstop. He was All-ML in his junior and senior years and a Boston Globe All-Scholastic in his senior year.
At the time of his induction, Steve was RMHS all-time leader in runs scored, doubles, and assists and in the top five for hits, at-bats, runs batted-in, bases on balls, and stolen bases. In his final season, he did not strike out once in 80 plate appearances.
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.
MICHAEL GOLDEN
Class of 1983- Inducted 1997- Hockey
A talented center iceman, Mike was the individual who brought credibility to RMHS' hockey during the early 1980s.
Coinciding with the arrival of new head coach Peter Doherty during the 1980-1981 hockey season, Mike immediately became Reading's "golden boy." As a sophomore, he led the Rockets in scoring with 17 goals and 18 assists.
In his senior season, he dominated the Middlesex League as few have done before or since. He swept through the league like a tornado as he tallied eight point games not once but twice. They were still single game records at the time of his induction. Mike's 41 assists was still a single season record on induction night. Along with 22 goals, the 63 points he scored in the 1982-83 season make him one of the players to top the 60 point season mark at RMHS.
Mike was selected Middlesex League MVP for the 1982-83 season and All-Scholastic honors soon followed. In the spring he played for Team Massachusetts against a similar team of high school stars from Minnesota in a memorable three game series. The highlight of his year was being selected by the Edmonton Oilers in the second round of the 1983 NHL entry draft.
A fine college career at the University of Maine followed, where he was a Hobey Baker Award finalist during his final season.
Class of 1983- Inducted 1997- Hockey
A talented center iceman, Mike was the individual who brought credibility to RMHS' hockey during the early 1980s.
Coinciding with the arrival of new head coach Peter Doherty during the 1980-1981 hockey season, Mike immediately became Reading's "golden boy." As a sophomore, he led the Rockets in scoring with 17 goals and 18 assists.
In his senior season, he dominated the Middlesex League as few have done before or since. He swept through the league like a tornado as he tallied eight point games not once but twice. They were still single game records at the time of his induction. Mike's 41 assists was still a single season record on induction night. Along with 22 goals, the 63 points he scored in the 1982-83 season make him one of the players to top the 60 point season mark at RMHS.
Mike was selected Middlesex League MVP for the 1982-83 season and All-Scholastic honors soon followed. In the spring he played for Team Massachusetts against a similar team of high school stars from Minnesota in a memorable three game series. The highlight of his year was being selected by the Edmonton Oilers in the second round of the 1983 NHL entry draft.
A fine college career at the University of Maine followed, where he was a Hobey Baker Award finalist during his final season.
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.
MIKE GRUBOR
Class of 1985- Inducted 1997- Soccer
Milorad "Mike" Grubor helped change the image and expectations of RMHS boys soccer. Up to the time of his induction, no athlete made more of an impact on the soccer program than Mike.
A rugged competitor, he was able to help those around him play at a higher level. The 1983 and 1984 Rocket teams established a new standard of excellance for Reading teams. It is no coincidence that since Grubor's teams broke through and competed in the state tournament, subsequent Rocket teams have carried the torch by earning Middlesex League crowns and numerous MIAA post season state tournament berths.
Mike's career at RMHS covered two seasons. He earned Middlesex League All-Star status in both 1983 and 1984. A striker and midfielder, he led the league in scoring as a senior with 42 points (30 goals and 12 assists). He brought further notoriety to the program by becoming Reading's first soccer All-Scholastic when he was named to both the Boston Globe and Boston Herald teams in 1984.
Upon graduation, Mike attended the University of Hartford on a full soccer scholarship and enjoyed an outstanding four years at the Division 1 level.
Class of 1985- Inducted 1997- Soccer
Milorad "Mike" Grubor helped change the image and expectations of RMHS boys soccer. Up to the time of his induction, no athlete made more of an impact on the soccer program than Mike.
A rugged competitor, he was able to help those around him play at a higher level. The 1983 and 1984 Rocket teams established a new standard of excellance for Reading teams. It is no coincidence that since Grubor's teams broke through and competed in the state tournament, subsequent Rocket teams have carried the torch by earning Middlesex League crowns and numerous MIAA post season state tournament berths.
Mike's career at RMHS covered two seasons. He earned Middlesex League All-Star status in both 1983 and 1984. A striker and midfielder, he led the league in scoring as a senior with 42 points (30 goals and 12 assists). He brought further notoriety to the program by becoming Reading's first soccer All-Scholastic when he was named to both the Boston Globe and Boston Herald teams in 1984.
Upon graduation, Mike attended the University of Hartford on a full soccer scholarship and enjoyed an outstanding four years at the Division 1 level.
KATERI HAUCK
Class of 1985- Inducted in 2015- Soccer, Gymnastics
What a gift the Reading Memorial High School gymnastics’ program received when Kateri moved to the Town of Reading for her junior year. She was a special talent and became a major force in the Middlesex League.
Her success in gymnastics started at a young age. At age 11 Kateri was a member of the Junior Olympic team and finished fourth in the finals of the National AAU meet for her age group. After that meet she turned down an offer to move to Texas and be coached by Bela Karoyli.
In her first dual meet season for Reading she placed first 22 times in 26 events while going undefeated on the balance beam. At the Middlesex League meet she won all four events and was the all-around champion and at the State meet she finished fourth in the all-around.
For her spectacular work she was name Girls Gymnast of the Year by the Daily Times Chronicle and All-Scholastic by the Boston Herald.
As a co-captain her senior year in 1994-95, she won all but two of the 24 events she entered and was the League all-around champion once again. For her two-year Middlesex League career she was undefeated on the uneven bars in dual and league meets.
At the State Individual Girls Gymnastics meet she finished first on the uneven bars and sixth in the all-around. Kateri was named All-Scholastic by the Boston Herald for the second time and also by the Boston Globe. She was again chosen by the Daily Times Chronicle as its top gymnast.
Following the season, Kateri was named a member of Team Massachusetts for the National High School Gymnastics Championship at San Jose, California.
Kateri was also a two-year member of the girls varsity soccer team and was chosen as one of the three captains in her senior year.
CHARLIE HEINECK
Class of 1979- Inducted 2005- Basketball
Standing 6'8", Charlie was a towering fixture in the Middlesex League during his three years as a starting center for the basketball team. By the end of his days as a Rocket, he carved out a place in the record books as the first recorded 1000 point scorer in school history.
Charlie was an excellent post player, rebounder and shot blocker. He had the added dimension of a soft mid-range jump shot, making him nearly impossible to stop.
His senior season was one to remember. He scored 404 points for a 19.7 average, grabbed 235 rebounds for an 11.8 average and had 125 blocks, an amazing 6.2 per game average. His play in the paint led the Rockets to a 19-1 record and a rare Middlesex League championship. To do this the team had to beat out league powerhouse and defending Division 1 state champion Lexington.
In 1979, Charlie was named a Boston Globe All-Scholastic. The other center on the squad was 6'11" sophomore Patrick Ewing from Cambridge Rindge and Latin. Charlie also named ML co-MVP.
In all, he was a two time league all-star and helped lead the Rockets to three straight tournament berths under head coach Bill Carroll. Charlie's career numbers at Reading were 1105 points, 752 rebounds and 395 blocked shots.
Led by his unstoppable play, the Rockets finally overtook Lexington for the league title in the 78-79 season. Their regular season mark of 19-1 tied the 1966-67 team for the school record in total wins. At the time of his induction they still held the record. In the Division 1 state tournament in 1979, RMHS had a bye in the first round, but unfortunately met up with powerhouse Don Bosco in the quarter finals and were eliminated.
Charlie went on to Northeastern University to play basketball where he was the starting center for a team that made it to the NCAA tournament.
Class of 1979- Inducted 2005- Basketball
Standing 6'8", Charlie was a towering fixture in the Middlesex League during his three years as a starting center for the basketball team. By the end of his days as a Rocket, he carved out a place in the record books as the first recorded 1000 point scorer in school history.
Charlie was an excellent post player, rebounder and shot blocker. He had the added dimension of a soft mid-range jump shot, making him nearly impossible to stop.
His senior season was one to remember. He scored 404 points for a 19.7 average, grabbed 235 rebounds for an 11.8 average and had 125 blocks, an amazing 6.2 per game average. His play in the paint led the Rockets to a 19-1 record and a rare Middlesex League championship. To do this the team had to beat out league powerhouse and defending Division 1 state champion Lexington.
In 1979, Charlie was named a Boston Globe All-Scholastic. The other center on the squad was 6'11" sophomore Patrick Ewing from Cambridge Rindge and Latin. Charlie also named ML co-MVP.
In all, he was a two time league all-star and helped lead the Rockets to three straight tournament berths under head coach Bill Carroll. Charlie's career numbers at Reading were 1105 points, 752 rebounds and 395 blocked shots.
Led by his unstoppable play, the Rockets finally overtook Lexington for the league title in the 78-79 season. Their regular season mark of 19-1 tied the 1966-67 team for the school record in total wins. At the time of his induction they still held the record. In the Division 1 state tournament in 1979, RMHS had a bye in the first round, but unfortunately met up with powerhouse Don Bosco in the quarter finals and were eliminated.
Charlie went on to Northeastern University to play basketball where he was the starting center for a team that made it to the NCAA tournament.
BARBARA HICKEY
Class of 1993- Inducted 2015- Swimming
The Reading High girls swim team program began in the fall of 1988 and prior to the grand accomplishments of the post-2000 era it was Barbara Hickey who helped lay the foundation for the girls swim program under Reading Athletic Hall of Fame coach Lois Margeson’s leadership.
In Year 2 in 1989, Barbara, who was then a freshman, came out for the team and went on to power the Rockets to their first real success over the next four years.
What Hickey accomplished at Reading High during those early years labeled her the program’s first superstar and distinguished her as the program’s best swimmer for nearly the first 20 years of its existence.
By the time Barbara Hickey graduated in 1993 she held school records for the 200 and 500 freestyles that stood for over a decade. Barbara was also a four-time Middlesex League All-Star and a three-time Middlesex League Meet champion.
Barbara was unbeatable in dual meet competition her senior year seemingly lapping the field in her victories. She led Reading to its second straight Middlesex League regular season title.
In the North Sectionals, Hickey took second in the 200 freestyle and third in the 500 freestyle. In the state meet, Barbara Hickey went on to close out her Reading High career in impressive fashion with a third-place finish in the 500 freestyle and a sixth in the 200 freestyle, both in school record times.
College swimming awaited her as Barbara continued to excel at UMass Amherst as a two-year captain of the women’s swim team and also a two-year captain of the women’s water polo team and Academic All-American.
Her swim times in three events at UMass, the 1650, 1000 and 500 freestyles, still rank among the top-10 best all-time to this day.
Class of 1993- Inducted 2015- Swimming
The Reading High girls swim team program began in the fall of 1988 and prior to the grand accomplishments of the post-2000 era it was Barbara Hickey who helped lay the foundation for the girls swim program under Reading Athletic Hall of Fame coach Lois Margeson’s leadership.
In Year 2 in 1989, Barbara, who was then a freshman, came out for the team and went on to power the Rockets to their first real success over the next four years.
What Hickey accomplished at Reading High during those early years labeled her the program’s first superstar and distinguished her as the program’s best swimmer for nearly the first 20 years of its existence.
By the time Barbara Hickey graduated in 1993 she held school records for the 200 and 500 freestyles that stood for over a decade. Barbara was also a four-time Middlesex League All-Star and a three-time Middlesex League Meet champion.
Barbara was unbeatable in dual meet competition her senior year seemingly lapping the field in her victories. She led Reading to its second straight Middlesex League regular season title.
In the North Sectionals, Hickey took second in the 200 freestyle and third in the 500 freestyle. In the state meet, Barbara Hickey went on to close out her Reading High career in impressive fashion with a third-place finish in the 500 freestyle and a sixth in the 200 freestyle, both in school record times.
College swimming awaited her as Barbara continued to excel at UMass Amherst as a two-year captain of the women’s swim team and also a two-year captain of the women’s water polo team and Academic All-American.
Her swim times in three events at UMass, the 1650, 1000 and 500 freestyles, still rank among the top-10 best all-time to this day.
KEN HOLLINGSWORTH
Class of 1975- Inducted 1998- Football, Basketball, Baseball
Ken was like many young men of his time, a student-athlete who played high school sports all three seasons. In addition to playing football, he was a steady basketball player and a standout baseball player.
During his pre-teen years, Ken may have involuntarily sent a message to opposing Middlesex League football coaches of what was to come when as a nine year old, he was New England Pass, Punt and Kick champion. In fact he competed in the Eastern championships, held at Yankee Stadium during half-time of a New York Football Giants football game.
Ken was an outstanding kicker and possession receiver on the gridiron and held several school records at induction time: career touchdown receptions (11), season touchdown receptions (10 in 1974), consecutive games scored (14), and career field goals (5). Also at the time of his induction, Ken was sixth in career points (129) and single season points (103 in 1974).
Ken was tri-captain, along with Tom Dwyer and Don Rice, of the '74 football team which finished undefeated in the regular season and became Reading's first Super Bowl team. As a result of his outstanding efforts on that team, he was named a Middlesex League All-Star and All-Scholastic.
In addition to his gridiron success, Ken was captain of the 1975 Rocket baseball team, led the league in hitting and was a Middlesex League All-Star.
Class of 1975- Inducted 1998- Football, Basketball, Baseball
Ken was like many young men of his time, a student-athlete who played high school sports all three seasons. In addition to playing football, he was a steady basketball player and a standout baseball player.
During his pre-teen years, Ken may have involuntarily sent a message to opposing Middlesex League football coaches of what was to come when as a nine year old, he was New England Pass, Punt and Kick champion. In fact he competed in the Eastern championships, held at Yankee Stadium during half-time of a New York Football Giants football game.
Ken was an outstanding kicker and possession receiver on the gridiron and held several school records at induction time: career touchdown receptions (11), season touchdown receptions (10 in 1974), consecutive games scored (14), and career field goals (5). Also at the time of his induction, Ken was sixth in career points (129) and single season points (103 in 1974).
Ken was tri-captain, along with Tom Dwyer and Don Rice, of the '74 football team which finished undefeated in the regular season and became Reading's first Super Bowl team. As a result of his outstanding efforts on that team, he was named a Middlesex League All-Star and All-Scholastic.
In addition to his gridiron success, Ken was captain of the 1975 Rocket baseball team, led the league in hitting and was a Middlesex League All-Star.
TIM HOLMES
Class of 1981- Inducted 1998- Wrestling, Football
Tim earned varsity letters in football and wrestling during his athletic career, but it was on the wrestling mat where he showed superior ability. He improved each year during his three years on the wrestling team, excelling in the 129 pound division.
As tough a competitor as Tim was during the season, he may have worked harder in the off season to make himself a stronger, quicker and better wrestler. He was always running to improve his stamina and stay in top shape.
As a sophomore Tim had an outstanding debut season with a 13-3 record. He carried that success over to the post season, finishing second in the sectionals and sixth at the state meet. He had a 10-1 Middlesex League record in his junior year. He again finished second in the sectionals and improved to fourth at the State Meet. As a result, he was named to the 1979-80 Middlesex League All-Star team.
His hard work paid off even more in his senior year as he dominated the 129 pound division, recording 31 victories and only one defeat. He captured the Lowell Holiday Tournament and the Methuen Invitational championships. Tim was selected again for the Middlesex League All-Star team. In the post season, Tim rolled to the North Sectional title, the Massachusetts state title aqnd capped an outstanding season by winning the New England championship.
As a result of his stellar senior year, Tim was named to the Boston Globe All-Scholastic team. He compiled a career record of 66 wins and 11 losses.
Class of 1981- Inducted 1998- Wrestling, Football
Tim earned varsity letters in football and wrestling during his athletic career, but it was on the wrestling mat where he showed superior ability. He improved each year during his three years on the wrestling team, excelling in the 129 pound division.
As tough a competitor as Tim was during the season, he may have worked harder in the off season to make himself a stronger, quicker and better wrestler. He was always running to improve his stamina and stay in top shape.
As a sophomore Tim had an outstanding debut season with a 13-3 record. He carried that success over to the post season, finishing second in the sectionals and sixth at the state meet. He had a 10-1 Middlesex League record in his junior year. He again finished second in the sectionals and improved to fourth at the State Meet. As a result, he was named to the 1979-80 Middlesex League All-Star team.
His hard work paid off even more in his senior year as he dominated the 129 pound division, recording 31 victories and only one defeat. He captured the Lowell Holiday Tournament and the Methuen Invitational championships. Tim was selected again for the Middlesex League All-Star team. In the post season, Tim rolled to the North Sectional title, the Massachusetts state title aqnd capped an outstanding season by winning the New England championship.
As a result of his stellar senior year, Tim was named to the Boston Globe All-Scholastic team. He compiled a career record of 66 wins and 11 losses.
DICK HORTON
Class of 1961- Inducted 1997- Football, Basketball, Baseball
Dick was the epitome of the well rounded All-American kid who lived next door. A respected leader among his peers, Dick served as Class President and was very highly ranked academically in his graduating class.
He was a MIddlesex League All-Star, All-Scholastic, High School All-America quarterback and field general for John Hollingsworth's undefeated 1960 football team. When he wasn't scoring touchdowns, the big redhead was an overpowering linebacker on the defensive side of the ball.
Dick was co-captain of Walter Hawkes' 1961 Tech Tourney basketball team. During his junior season, he led the Rockets to the Class B Bay State Tourney championship versus Shrewsbury and earned a berth on the All-Tourney team. Dick's dad, Wendell, a 1926 Reading High graduate, was a two year star and captain of the basketball team his senior year.
Dick, a hard hitting catcher and captain for John Pacino's 1961 Eastern Massachusetts Tournament baseball team, was selected a Middlesex League All-Star and All-Scholastic in baseball as well.
Class of 1961- Inducted 1997- Football, Basketball, Baseball
Dick was the epitome of the well rounded All-American kid who lived next door. A respected leader among his peers, Dick served as Class President and was very highly ranked academically in his graduating class.
He was a MIddlesex League All-Star, All-Scholastic, High School All-America quarterback and field general for John Hollingsworth's undefeated 1960 football team. When he wasn't scoring touchdowns, the big redhead was an overpowering linebacker on the defensive side of the ball.
Dick was co-captain of Walter Hawkes' 1961 Tech Tourney basketball team. During his junior season, he led the Rockets to the Class B Bay State Tourney championship versus Shrewsbury and earned a berth on the All-Tourney team. Dick's dad, Wendell, a 1926 Reading High graduate, was a two year star and captain of the basketball team his senior year.
Dick, a hard hitting catcher and captain for John Pacino's 1961 Eastern Massachusetts Tournament baseball team, was selected a Middlesex League All-Star and All-Scholastic in baseball as well.
MIKE JACKSON
Class of 1967- Inducted 2013- Football, Basketball, Baseball
The mid-to-late 1960's was one of the golden eras for RMHS athletic teams. During that era, Mike epitomized the three sport athlete with his athletic versatility and winning performance, while displaying strong leadership qualities.
He was a member of the varsity football, basketball, and baseball teams from his sophomore to senior year. In his senior year he was co-captain of the basketball team and captain of the baseball team. In his nine varsity seasons, Mike was a major contributor to teams that won six Middlesex League titles.
Mike was a two year starter on the powerhouse football teams which had a combined record of 23-2 and won two ML titles. At 5'8" and 175 pounds, he was a running back on offense and corner back on defense.
From his point guard position he was the floor leader for the 1967 basketball which advanced to the Class B semi-finals in the Tech Tourney at the Boston Garden.
A three year starting catcher on the baseball team, he was named all-league twice and presented with the Fred B. Cole Award by the Lawrence Eagle Tribune for his contribution to baseball. In addition to his leadership behind the plate , he batted third in the batting order, where he hit for both power and batting average. The team won the league title and qualified for the State tournament three times, reaching the Class A Eastern Mass finals twice.
After graduation Mike attended Bowdoin College on a scholarship and was a four year member of both the football and baseball teams.
Class of 1967- Inducted 2013- Football, Basketball, Baseball
The mid-to-late 1960's was one of the golden eras for RMHS athletic teams. During that era, Mike epitomized the three sport athlete with his athletic versatility and winning performance, while displaying strong leadership qualities.
He was a member of the varsity football, basketball, and baseball teams from his sophomore to senior year. In his senior year he was co-captain of the basketball team and captain of the baseball team. In his nine varsity seasons, Mike was a major contributor to teams that won six Middlesex League titles.
Mike was a two year starter on the powerhouse football teams which had a combined record of 23-2 and won two ML titles. At 5'8" and 175 pounds, he was a running back on offense and corner back on defense.
From his point guard position he was the floor leader for the 1967 basketball which advanced to the Class B semi-finals in the Tech Tourney at the Boston Garden.
A three year starting catcher on the baseball team, he was named all-league twice and presented with the Fred B. Cole Award by the Lawrence Eagle Tribune for his contribution to baseball. In addition to his leadership behind the plate , he batted third in the batting order, where he hit for both power and batting average. The team won the league title and qualified for the State tournament three times, reaching the Class A Eastern Mass finals twice.
After graduation Mike attended Bowdoin College on a scholarship and was a four year member of both the football and baseball teams.
MARK JELLISON
Class of 1998- Inducted 2009- Football, Track
Mark was outstanding in two sports: football and track. He played wide receiver, safety and quarterback on football teams and was co-captain of the 1997 team. He led the Middlesex League in 1997 with an average return of over 20 yards. His four touchdowns on punt returns was a career school record at the time of his induction.
However, his primary interest was track. During the winter season of his junior year, he was Class B champion in the 55m high hurdles and long jump. Mark was champion of the All-States in the high hurdles and at the New England meet, he finished second. He also held the RMHS 55m high hurdles record on induction night of 7.55 seconds.
In 1997-98, as a team co-captain, he continued his impressive work of the previous season. At the State Coaches Invitational he set a meet record of 23' 0.25" in the long jump. At the Dartmouth Invitational he won the long jump with a leap of 22' 6.5". His 6'' 7" high jump was a personal best and good enough for first place at the Class B meet. At the All-State meet he finished second in the hurdles and fourth (6' 6") in the high jump. Back to the long jump at the New England championships, 22' 11" was good for a first place finish and he was third (7.63) in the hurdles. Mark finished the indoor season at the Indoor National championship with a second place finish in the pentathon with 3829 points, another RMHS record on induction day. Another school record at induction time during his senior year was 5.8 seconds in the 45 yard hurdles. For the winter season, he was ML MVP, Reading Chronicle Outstanding Winter Performer and a Boston Globe All-Scholastic.
In his final spring season, he was first at the Class B and All-State meets and finished second at the New Englands in the long jump. During outdoor season, Mark set two school records which he held on induction night, both set at the Class B meet, 13.9 for 110 high hurdles and 23' 1 1/4" in the long jump. It is unlikely that anyone ever broke two records in one day at the Class B meet. The long jump record broke the one his father, Jay Jellison, had held for over 30 years. At the States he finished for the second consecutive year in the long jump. At the National Championships in North Carolina, Mark finished fourth in the long jump with a leap of 24' 1 1/2" and was named an All-American. He was named ML MVP and the Reading Chronicle Outstanding Spring Performer.
Class of 1998- Inducted 2009- Football, Track
Mark was outstanding in two sports: football and track. He played wide receiver, safety and quarterback on football teams and was co-captain of the 1997 team. He led the Middlesex League in 1997 with an average return of over 20 yards. His four touchdowns on punt returns was a career school record at the time of his induction.
However, his primary interest was track. During the winter season of his junior year, he was Class B champion in the 55m high hurdles and long jump. Mark was champion of the All-States in the high hurdles and at the New England meet, he finished second. He also held the RMHS 55m high hurdles record on induction night of 7.55 seconds.
In 1997-98, as a team co-captain, he continued his impressive work of the previous season. At the State Coaches Invitational he set a meet record of 23' 0.25" in the long jump. At the Dartmouth Invitational he won the long jump with a leap of 22' 6.5". His 6'' 7" high jump was a personal best and good enough for first place at the Class B meet. At the All-State meet he finished second in the hurdles and fourth (6' 6") in the high jump. Back to the long jump at the New England championships, 22' 11" was good for a first place finish and he was third (7.63) in the hurdles. Mark finished the indoor season at the Indoor National championship with a second place finish in the pentathon with 3829 points, another RMHS record on induction day. Another school record at induction time during his senior year was 5.8 seconds in the 45 yard hurdles. For the winter season, he was ML MVP, Reading Chronicle Outstanding Winter Performer and a Boston Globe All-Scholastic.
In his final spring season, he was first at the Class B and All-State meets and finished second at the New Englands in the long jump. During outdoor season, Mark set two school records which he held on induction night, both set at the Class B meet, 13.9 for 110 high hurdles and 23' 1 1/4" in the long jump. It is unlikely that anyone ever broke two records in one day at the Class B meet. The long jump record broke the one his father, Jay Jellison, had held for over 30 years. At the States he finished for the second consecutive year in the long jump. At the National Championships in North Carolina, Mark finished fourth in the long jump with a leap of 24' 1 1/2" and was named an All-American. He was named ML MVP and the Reading Chronicle Outstanding Spring Performer.
ERIK KALOYANIDES
Class of 1998- Inducted 2009- Football, Baseball
Described by his coach, Tom Kasprzak, as one of the best linemen he has coached, Erik was dedicated, very athletic for his size, able to play with pain and move seamlessly from offensive guard to offensive tackle.
A budding pitcher and first baseman, he played baseball for four years, two at the varsity level. In his senior year, he was co-captain of the team.
He spent most of his sophomore year on the football team as a backup and became a starter down the stretch on the Super Bowl team which was loaded with talented players. He started at defensive tackle in the Super Bowl after just turning fifteen in late October.
As a junior, Erik played both ways, offense and defense. On offense he was teamed at guard with senior Matt Noonan. Coach Kaz believes this was the best tandem of guards ever at RMHS. This team was also heavy with talented players and went on to win a second consecutive Super Bowl. Eric was named to the second Middlesex League All-Star team.
His senior year got off to a bad start when in the opening game he suffered an elbow injury. He played the next several games in pain and wore an elbow brace for the rest of the season. One of his highlight games was against Lexington, when the game plan was to direct a running game at Lexington's top defensive tackle. Erik was the key as he had to neutralize him on most of the plays. During one stretch the team ran the same play ten to twelve times consecutively with Erik blocking the defensive tackle. Erik was successful and Reading went on to rout Lexington. This was the game Erik was being scouted by Syracuse University. The scout told Coack Kaz after the game that he was impressed with Erik's ability to pull out and block a linebacker and then proceed down field to block the safety.
Erik was one of the team's co-captains in his senior year and was a Boston Globe All-Scholastic, was named to the All-Eastern Massachusetts team and was a Middlesex League All-Star.
He went on to play at Syracuse University where he became a starting guard for the Orangemen.
Class of 1998- Inducted 2009- Football, Baseball
Described by his coach, Tom Kasprzak, as one of the best linemen he has coached, Erik was dedicated, very athletic for his size, able to play with pain and move seamlessly from offensive guard to offensive tackle.
A budding pitcher and first baseman, he played baseball for four years, two at the varsity level. In his senior year, he was co-captain of the team.
He spent most of his sophomore year on the football team as a backup and became a starter down the stretch on the Super Bowl team which was loaded with talented players. He started at defensive tackle in the Super Bowl after just turning fifteen in late October.
As a junior, Erik played both ways, offense and defense. On offense he was teamed at guard with senior Matt Noonan. Coach Kaz believes this was the best tandem of guards ever at RMHS. This team was also heavy with talented players and went on to win a second consecutive Super Bowl. Eric was named to the second Middlesex League All-Star team.
His senior year got off to a bad start when in the opening game he suffered an elbow injury. He played the next several games in pain and wore an elbow brace for the rest of the season. One of his highlight games was against Lexington, when the game plan was to direct a running game at Lexington's top defensive tackle. Erik was the key as he had to neutralize him on most of the plays. During one stretch the team ran the same play ten to twelve times consecutively with Erik blocking the defensive tackle. Erik was successful and Reading went on to rout Lexington. This was the game Erik was being scouted by Syracuse University. The scout told Coack Kaz after the game that he was impressed with Erik's ability to pull out and block a linebacker and then proceed down field to block the safety.
Erik was one of the team's co-captains in his senior year and was a Boston Globe All-Scholastic, was named to the All-Eastern Massachusetts team and was a Middlesex League All-Star.
He went on to play at Syracuse University where he became a starting guard for the Orangemen.
BILL KELLY
Class of 1967- Inducted 1997- Football, Basketball, Baseball
Bill was the consummate student-athlete, achieving extraordinary athletic prowess while graduating in the top ten percent of his class.
RMHS baseball coach Peter Moscariello described him as "THE name in Reading High sports during his era. He was a top-notch student and Harvard graduate and was probably the most respected and well liked student in his class. He epitomized everything a Reading student could aspire to be."
During "Kell's" outstanding three year varsity career, he earned nine varsity letters- three each in football, basketball and baseball and helped win a total of six Middlesex League titles ( one basketball, two football and three baseball). He was a two time All-Scholastic in both football ('65 & '66) and baseball ('66 & '67), in addition to being a multiple All-League selection in all three sports. Bill continued to play football and baseball at Harvard University.
He'll always be remembered for his recovery of the late game onside kick as Harvard rallied to tie Yale 29-29 in 1968 and also for pitching the Harvard team into the 1971 College World Series.
Class of 1967- Inducted 1997- Football, Basketball, Baseball
Bill was the consummate student-athlete, achieving extraordinary athletic prowess while graduating in the top ten percent of his class.
RMHS baseball coach Peter Moscariello described him as "THE name in Reading High sports during his era. He was a top-notch student and Harvard graduate and was probably the most respected and well liked student in his class. He epitomized everything a Reading student could aspire to be."
During "Kell's" outstanding three year varsity career, he earned nine varsity letters- three each in football, basketball and baseball and helped win a total of six Middlesex League titles ( one basketball, two football and three baseball). He was a two time All-Scholastic in both football ('65 & '66) and baseball ('66 & '67), in addition to being a multiple All-League selection in all three sports. Bill continued to play football and baseball at Harvard University.
He'll always be remembered for his recovery of the late game onside kick as Harvard rallied to tie Yale 29-29 in 1968 and also for pitching the Harvard team into the 1971 College World Series.
TOM KELLY
Class of 1965- Inducted 2017- Football, Basketball, Baseball
During the 1960’s, Reading High was blessed with many talented three-sport athletes who made up some of the best teams ever produced at RMHS. Tom Kelly, Reading High Class of 1965 was one of those special talents.
A two-sport captain in football and basketball and three-year starter in baseball, Tom combined abundant skills on the field compiling 8 varsity letters.
As a senior on the gridiron the 2 year starting quarterback ended his football career in style throwing three touchdowns on Thanksgiving Day which was the first time a Reading player had accomplished that feat in a game. After the season, Kelly received the highest honor for a Rocket football player with his selection as the winner of the Henry Ingersoll Award and he was also named a Middlesex League All-Star team.
As captain of the basketball team he was a big part of the Tech Tourney team his junior year but a knee injury kept out most of his entire senior season on the hardwood.
Kelly was a stellar baseball player where he was a three year starting second baseman. He hit over .400 in his last two seasons on teams that reached the state tournament.
As a senior Kelly, a Middlesex League All Star was also named to the Boston Globe All-Scholastic team. That season he batted .404 which included 6 doubles, 3 triples and 2 homers. Kelly was also invited to play in the prestigious Hearst All-Star game played at Fenway Park and banged out two hits in the classic.
Following Reading High, Tom moved on to Amherst College where he became a 4-year letter winner and captain of both the basketball and baseball teams
As he graduated from Amherst, Kelly was awarded the prestigious Hitchcock Fellowship and the eventual Doctor Kelly became a professor at John Carroll University in Ohio.
Class of 1965- Inducted 2017- Football, Basketball, Baseball
During the 1960’s, Reading High was blessed with many talented three-sport athletes who made up some of the best teams ever produced at RMHS. Tom Kelly, Reading High Class of 1965 was one of those special talents.
A two-sport captain in football and basketball and three-year starter in baseball, Tom combined abundant skills on the field compiling 8 varsity letters.
As a senior on the gridiron the 2 year starting quarterback ended his football career in style throwing three touchdowns on Thanksgiving Day which was the first time a Reading player had accomplished that feat in a game. After the season, Kelly received the highest honor for a Rocket football player with his selection as the winner of the Henry Ingersoll Award and he was also named a Middlesex League All-Star team.
As captain of the basketball team he was a big part of the Tech Tourney team his junior year but a knee injury kept out most of his entire senior season on the hardwood.
Kelly was a stellar baseball player where he was a three year starting second baseman. He hit over .400 in his last two seasons on teams that reached the state tournament.
As a senior Kelly, a Middlesex League All Star was also named to the Boston Globe All-Scholastic team. That season he batted .404 which included 6 doubles, 3 triples and 2 homers. Kelly was also invited to play in the prestigious Hearst All-Star game played at Fenway Park and banged out two hits in the classic.
Following Reading High, Tom moved on to Amherst College where he became a 4-year letter winner and captain of both the basketball and baseball teams
As he graduated from Amherst, Kelly was awarded the prestigious Hitchcock Fellowship and the eventual Doctor Kelly became a professor at John Carroll University in Ohio.
JIM KILEY
Class of 1968- Inducted 1998- Football, Hockey, Baseball
During his three year varsity career, Jim was a dynamic three sport star, earning nine varsity letters and playing a vital role in the success of six Middlesex League championship teams- three eaqch in football and baseball.
On the gridiron, Jim was an explosive running back, defensive back and excellent punter. A ML All-Star as a junior, he outdid himself as a senior, winning the league scoring title and the Ingersoll Award. He capped his football career by being named to the Record-American All-Scholastic team and earning honorable mention on the Boston Globe and Boston Travelers teams.
In the winter, Jim was a three year varsity forward for John Burns' hockey teams. A solid skater and scorer, he helped lead the team to its first post season tournament during his senior year. He was rewarded for his efforts when he was named a first team Middlesex League All-Star in the 1967-68 season.
Jim started on three consecutive ML champion baseball teams as a shortstop and pitcher. During his senior year, the team won the Eastern Massachusetts Class A title before being defeated by Springfield Tech in the state finals. A two time league all-star, he played in the Record-American Sandlot All-Star game at Fenway Park in 1967 and 1968. He was named to the Boston Globe 1968 All-Scholastic team as a utility player while also being named first team shortstop on the Record-American All-Scholastic team.
Though chosen in the eighth round of the 1968 major league baseball draft by the Chicago White Sox, Jim elected to attend the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he had an outstanding collegiate career,
Class of 1968- Inducted 1998- Football, Hockey, Baseball
During his three year varsity career, Jim was a dynamic three sport star, earning nine varsity letters and playing a vital role in the success of six Middlesex League championship teams- three eaqch in football and baseball.
On the gridiron, Jim was an explosive running back, defensive back and excellent punter. A ML All-Star as a junior, he outdid himself as a senior, winning the league scoring title and the Ingersoll Award. He capped his football career by being named to the Record-American All-Scholastic team and earning honorable mention on the Boston Globe and Boston Travelers teams.
In the winter, Jim was a three year varsity forward for John Burns' hockey teams. A solid skater and scorer, he helped lead the team to its first post season tournament during his senior year. He was rewarded for his efforts when he was named a first team Middlesex League All-Star in the 1967-68 season.
Jim started on three consecutive ML champion baseball teams as a shortstop and pitcher. During his senior year, the team won the Eastern Massachusetts Class A title before being defeated by Springfield Tech in the state finals. A two time league all-star, he played in the Record-American Sandlot All-Star game at Fenway Park in 1967 and 1968. He was named to the Boston Globe 1968 All-Scholastic team as a utility player while also being named first team shortstop on the Record-American All-Scholastic team.
Though chosen in the eighth round of the 1968 major league baseball draft by the Chicago White Sox, Jim elected to attend the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he had an outstanding collegiate career,
STEPHEN LANE
Class of 1987- Inducted 1998- Basketball, Baseball
Steve is one of the finest athletes to ever don a Rocket uniform. A four year starter in basketball and four year letter winner in baseball, his achievements and leadership qualities are second to none.
Though a two year, two sport All-Scholastic performer, Steve was one of Reading's most unselfish, team oriented athletes. As noted by basketball coach Bill Carroll, "Steve made everyone who played with him better due to his hard work, dedication and unselfish play."
The most vivid memory of Steve on the basketball court was his outstanding effort on March 3, 1986 in the State Tournament as the Rockets beat Andover in double overtime, 84-82. His contribution to this victory was a not so quiet triple double, tabbing 30 points, 10 rebounds and 13 assists.
Here is a partial list of Steve's achievements as a Rocket player:
BASKETBALL: Captain his senior year, leading 1987 team to Middlesex League title; 1000 career points scored in 83 games, school record at induction most games; Robert Holt Award winner; two time Middlesex League MVP and three time ML All-Star; Boston Globe and Boston Herald All-Scholastic (1986 and 1987); two time Daily Times Chronicle Player of the Year; 1987 Gatorade Massachusetts Player of the Year
BASEBALL: Held or shared 11 RMHS career records at time of graduation; team qualified for state tournament three times; two time Middlesex League All-Star; Boston Herald All-Scholastic 1986 and 1987; Daily Times Chronicle Player of the Year 1987
Steve was also inducted into the UMass Lowell Hall of Fame, where he was again an outstanding two sport performer.
Class of 1987- Inducted 1998- Basketball, Baseball
Steve is one of the finest athletes to ever don a Rocket uniform. A four year starter in basketball and four year letter winner in baseball, his achievements and leadership qualities are second to none.
Though a two year, two sport All-Scholastic performer, Steve was one of Reading's most unselfish, team oriented athletes. As noted by basketball coach Bill Carroll, "Steve made everyone who played with him better due to his hard work, dedication and unselfish play."
The most vivid memory of Steve on the basketball court was his outstanding effort on March 3, 1986 in the State Tournament as the Rockets beat Andover in double overtime, 84-82. His contribution to this victory was a not so quiet triple double, tabbing 30 points, 10 rebounds and 13 assists.
Here is a partial list of Steve's achievements as a Rocket player:
BASKETBALL: Captain his senior year, leading 1987 team to Middlesex League title; 1000 career points scored in 83 games, school record at induction most games; Robert Holt Award winner; two time Middlesex League MVP and three time ML All-Star; Boston Globe and Boston Herald All-Scholastic (1986 and 1987); two time Daily Times Chronicle Player of the Year; 1987 Gatorade Massachusetts Player of the Year
BASEBALL: Held or shared 11 RMHS career records at time of graduation; team qualified for state tournament three times; two time Middlesex League All-Star; Boston Herald All-Scholastic 1986 and 1987; Daily Times Chronicle Player of the Year 1987
Steve was also inducted into the UMass Lowell Hall of Fame, where he was again an outstanding two sport performer.
STEVE LANGONE
Class of 1996- Inducted 2003- Baseball, Basketball
Steve was the cornerstone and staff ace of the 1996 Division 2 state Champion Rockets. With incomparable control and a dazzling array of pitches, he was the ultimate thinking man's pitcher.
In his senior year, the Boston Globe named him the Division 2 Player of the Year and was a Boston Herald and Globe All-Scholastic. Steve was a Middlesex League All-Star three times and ML MVP in 1996. He also made the elite American and National High School Baseball All-Region teams and was a three time Daily Times Chronicle Pitcher of the Year.
Steve lost his first Middlesex League start to Stoneham but went on to post 24 consecutive regular season wins to finish with a career record of 24-1 in league play. With postseason play included , his career numbers are 29-3, 222.2 innings pitched, 38 walks, 273 strikeouts and a 0.75 ERA. At the time of his induction he held RMHS career records for wins, strikeouts, ERA, winning percentage and complete games.
When not on the mound, Steve was a superb defensive player at shortstop and second base and posted career numbers of batting average .340, 69 runs, 79 hits and 59 RBIs.
In the 1996 Division 2 state tournament, he had three complete game wins and recorded a save in another game. In the only game he didn't pitch, he had a walk off game winning hit. Overall in his senior year he was 10-0 with an ERA of 0.38, 115 strikeouts and just eight walks.
Steve also played basketball and was named team captain in his senior year.
Steve attended Boston College and his 1.55 ERA as a senior was the best in the country in Division 1. He was drafted in the 21st round by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2000. He worked his way up to the Triple A Las Vegas 51s.
Class of 1996- Inducted 2003- Baseball, Basketball
Steve was the cornerstone and staff ace of the 1996 Division 2 state Champion Rockets. With incomparable control and a dazzling array of pitches, he was the ultimate thinking man's pitcher.
In his senior year, the Boston Globe named him the Division 2 Player of the Year and was a Boston Herald and Globe All-Scholastic. Steve was a Middlesex League All-Star three times and ML MVP in 1996. He also made the elite American and National High School Baseball All-Region teams and was a three time Daily Times Chronicle Pitcher of the Year.
Steve lost his first Middlesex League start to Stoneham but went on to post 24 consecutive regular season wins to finish with a career record of 24-1 in league play. With postseason play included , his career numbers are 29-3, 222.2 innings pitched, 38 walks, 273 strikeouts and a 0.75 ERA. At the time of his induction he held RMHS career records for wins, strikeouts, ERA, winning percentage and complete games.
When not on the mound, Steve was a superb defensive player at shortstop and second base and posted career numbers of batting average .340, 69 runs, 79 hits and 59 RBIs.
In the 1996 Division 2 state tournament, he had three complete game wins and recorded a save in another game. In the only game he didn't pitch, he had a walk off game winning hit. Overall in his senior year he was 10-0 with an ERA of 0.38, 115 strikeouts and just eight walks.
Steve also played basketball and was named team captain in his senior year.
Steve attended Boston College and his 1.55 ERA as a senior was the best in the country in Division 1. He was drafted in the 21st round by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2000. He worked his way up to the Triple A Las Vegas 51s.
MICHAEL LAPIERRE
Class of 1981- Inducted 2005- Tennis
Prior to 1978, the Reading High boys tennis program could be best described as middle of the road. The team over the years rarely made it into the top echelon of the Middlesex League and trips to the state tournament did not happen.
But in 1978, a freshman arrived, who according to head coach Bruce Appleby, did nothing less than turn the program around. By the first league meet of the year, Michael had won the position of first singles which he would hold for his four high school years. No member of the boys team had accomplished that before and up to the time of his induction, since.
In his freshman year his record was 7-5 in league matches and the team made the state tournament. It would be the first of four consecutive trips to the state tournament with Michael leading the way.
In the 1980 season, he was undefeated with a 12-0 record. In his last two years he compiled a regular season record of 19-4.
While the Rockets were unable to win a league or sectional title during his years on the team, he was instrumental in elevating the program from a middle of the pack club to a team that was a contender. The Rockets were a force against the powerhouse programs like Lexington and Winchester.
After graduation Michael played tennis at Flagler College in Florida. Later he became the tennis pro at the Winchester Racquet Club.
Class of 1981- Inducted 2005- Tennis
Prior to 1978, the Reading High boys tennis program could be best described as middle of the road. The team over the years rarely made it into the top echelon of the Middlesex League and trips to the state tournament did not happen.
But in 1978, a freshman arrived, who according to head coach Bruce Appleby, did nothing less than turn the program around. By the first league meet of the year, Michael had won the position of first singles which he would hold for his four high school years. No member of the boys team had accomplished that before and up to the time of his induction, since.
In his freshman year his record was 7-5 in league matches and the team made the state tournament. It would be the first of four consecutive trips to the state tournament with Michael leading the way.
In the 1980 season, he was undefeated with a 12-0 record. In his last two years he compiled a regular season record of 19-4.
While the Rockets were unable to win a league or sectional title during his years on the team, he was instrumental in elevating the program from a middle of the pack club to a team that was a contender. The Rockets were a force against the powerhouse programs like Lexington and Winchester.
After graduation Michael played tennis at Flagler College in Florida. Later he became the tennis pro at the Winchester Racquet Club.
DAN LAROCCO
Class of 1982- Inducted 2007- Football, Track
Dan was one of the fastest athletes ever to compete for RMHS. At the time of his graduation, he held six individual track records and another three as a member of relay teams. Dan was named a Boston Globe All-Scholastic five times, two for indoor and three for outdoor track.
As a sophomore member of the winter track team, he primarily ran the 45 yard dash. He was undefeated in the event and capped the year by winning the 50 yard dash at the state Class B meet. In the spring he won both All-State and New England championships in the 100 yard dash.
In his junior year in winter track, Dan again went undefeated in the 45 yard dash, the mile relay and the 300 yard dash. He was Class C state champion in the 50 yard dash. During the outdoor season, Dan was undefeated in the 100 for the second straight season and won the state Class B championship in a time of 9.7 seconds, besting his former school record time.
He concluded his high school spring track career by finishing undefeated in both the 100 and 200 yard sprints. As he had done in the previous two years, he broke the school record in the 100 yard dash, lowering the mark to 9.6 seconds. He ended his career by taking home state Class B and All-State championships in the 200 meter dash.
At the time of his induction, Dan still held the school records for the 45 yard dash (5.1 seconds), 50 yard dash ( 5.5 seconds), 100 meters (10.9 seconds) and 300 yard dash (32.0 seconds).
Dan also played football and was a Middlesex League All-Star as a senior running back. He received a scholarship to Northeastern University where he continued his track career.
Class of 1982- Inducted 2007- Football, Track
Dan was one of the fastest athletes ever to compete for RMHS. At the time of his graduation, he held six individual track records and another three as a member of relay teams. Dan was named a Boston Globe All-Scholastic five times, two for indoor and three for outdoor track.
As a sophomore member of the winter track team, he primarily ran the 45 yard dash. He was undefeated in the event and capped the year by winning the 50 yard dash at the state Class B meet. In the spring he won both All-State and New England championships in the 100 yard dash.
In his junior year in winter track, Dan again went undefeated in the 45 yard dash, the mile relay and the 300 yard dash. He was Class C state champion in the 50 yard dash. During the outdoor season, Dan was undefeated in the 100 for the second straight season and won the state Class B championship in a time of 9.7 seconds, besting his former school record time.
He concluded his high school spring track career by finishing undefeated in both the 100 and 200 yard sprints. As he had done in the previous two years, he broke the school record in the 100 yard dash, lowering the mark to 9.6 seconds. He ended his career by taking home state Class B and All-State championships in the 200 meter dash.
At the time of his induction, Dan still held the school records for the 45 yard dash (5.1 seconds), 50 yard dash ( 5.5 seconds), 100 meters (10.9 seconds) and 300 yard dash (32.0 seconds).
Dan also played football and was a Middlesex League All-Star as a senior running back. He received a scholarship to Northeastern University where he continued his track career.
TOM LYONS
Class of 1952- Inducted 2003- Football, Basketball, Baseball
Tom was excellent three sport athlete whose best sport was baseball. His excellence on the gridiron paved his way to an acceptance at Brown University.
But even when a bad shoulder injury and a debilitating case of polio cut short his athletic career at Brown, it was far from the end. He would go on to graduate from Harvard in 1957, publish five books on U.S. History and teach at Phillips Academy in Andover.
At Reading, after playing linebacker his sophomore year, Tom won the starting quarterback job in his junior year. After a slow start that included one loss and two ties to begin the season, the Rockets reeled off six straight wins to finish the season.
In his senior the Rockets finished 6-3 and he won the Ingersoll Award and was named a third team All-Scholastic.
In 1952, he quarterbacked the Brown freshmen to their first undefeated, untied season which included 24-0 and 59-0 wins over Yale and Harvard.
Tom also excelled in basketball and baseball. In his senior year he played forward on the basketball team which finished second in the Middlesex League. He averaged double figures in scoring and nearly the same in rebounding.
On the baseball diamond, Tom started for three years, two at shortstop. The Rockets won the Middlesex League in his senior year before falling to Danvers in the state tournament. In addition to good fielding, Tom batted .375 with power in his junior and senior years. He was team captain in his senior year. He achieved honorable mention as a baseball player in the Boston Globe, Post and Herald.
Class of 1952- Inducted 2003- Football, Basketball, Baseball
Tom was excellent three sport athlete whose best sport was baseball. His excellence on the gridiron paved his way to an acceptance at Brown University.
But even when a bad shoulder injury and a debilitating case of polio cut short his athletic career at Brown, it was far from the end. He would go on to graduate from Harvard in 1957, publish five books on U.S. History and teach at Phillips Academy in Andover.
At Reading, after playing linebacker his sophomore year, Tom won the starting quarterback job in his junior year. After a slow start that included one loss and two ties to begin the season, the Rockets reeled off six straight wins to finish the season.
In his senior the Rockets finished 6-3 and he won the Ingersoll Award and was named a third team All-Scholastic.
In 1952, he quarterbacked the Brown freshmen to their first undefeated, untied season which included 24-0 and 59-0 wins over Yale and Harvard.
Tom also excelled in basketball and baseball. In his senior year he played forward on the basketball team which finished second in the Middlesex League. He averaged double figures in scoring and nearly the same in rebounding.
On the baseball diamond, Tom started for three years, two at shortstop. The Rockets won the Middlesex League in his senior year before falling to Danvers in the state tournament. In addition to good fielding, Tom batted .375 with power in his junior and senior years. He was team captain in his senior year. He achieved honorable mention as a baseball player in the Boston Globe, Post and Herald.
KERRIN MCDONALD
Class of 1994- Inducted 2017 - Swimmimg
The Reading High girls swim team program began in the fall of 1988 and just two years later when Kerrin McDonald came aboard she became a key component in propelling the program to lofty heights in the League and in the State
McDonald’s achievements were quite notable. By 1993 McDonald was an eight-time Middlesex League Meet champion as she won the 50 and 100 freestyles every year. McDonald also became the program’s first sectional champion when she won the 100 breaststroke in the North Sectionals in 1993.
By the end of her senior season in swimming, she held five of the eight individual school records, setting the standards in the 100 freestyle, the backstroke, the butterfly, the breaststroke and 200 individual medley. She was also a member of three relay teams that held school records at the time of her graduation.
In all, McDonald was a key contributor to three straight Middlesex League championships and became a four-time Middlesex League All-Star.
McDonald was anything but one-dimensional in the pool. While her eight League Meet titles were in the freestyle sprint events, she was versatile enough and strong enough due to her stamina and club team training to be a threat in any stroke in the sport as her various school records at the time would attest.
Reading girls swim coach Lois Margeson said at the time: “With Kerrin, she can swim a relay and then I can bring her right back for the next event and she’ll still be able to do her best performance. She has the energy. I can swim her in any event and she’ll be outstanding.”
Though not her specialty stroke, McDonald’s butterfly time of 1:01.40 has only been bettered by one other Reading swimmer, multiple-time state champion Erica Belcher in 2007.
A heavily recruited swimmer by colleges, McDonald settled on Boston College and swam two years for the Eagles before concentrating fully on academics.
Class of 1994- Inducted 2017 - Swimmimg
The Reading High girls swim team program began in the fall of 1988 and just two years later when Kerrin McDonald came aboard she became a key component in propelling the program to lofty heights in the League and in the State
McDonald’s achievements were quite notable. By 1993 McDonald was an eight-time Middlesex League Meet champion as she won the 50 and 100 freestyles every year. McDonald also became the program’s first sectional champion when she won the 100 breaststroke in the North Sectionals in 1993.
By the end of her senior season in swimming, she held five of the eight individual school records, setting the standards in the 100 freestyle, the backstroke, the butterfly, the breaststroke and 200 individual medley. She was also a member of three relay teams that held school records at the time of her graduation.
In all, McDonald was a key contributor to three straight Middlesex League championships and became a four-time Middlesex League All-Star.
McDonald was anything but one-dimensional in the pool. While her eight League Meet titles were in the freestyle sprint events, she was versatile enough and strong enough due to her stamina and club team training to be a threat in any stroke in the sport as her various school records at the time would attest.
Reading girls swim coach Lois Margeson said at the time: “With Kerrin, she can swim a relay and then I can bring her right back for the next event and she’ll still be able to do her best performance. She has the energy. I can swim her in any event and she’ll be outstanding.”
Though not her specialty stroke, McDonald’s butterfly time of 1:01.40 has only been bettered by one other Reading swimmer, multiple-time state champion Erica Belcher in 2007.
A heavily recruited swimmer by colleges, McDonald settled on Boston College and swam two years for the Eagles before concentrating fully on academics.
DON MCGILLICUDDY
Class of 1956- Inducted 1997- Baseball, Basketball
Don pitched and played first base on the RMHS varsity baseball team for three seasons, 1954-1956. His junior and senior years he was named a Middlesex League All-Star while also being named to the Boston Post and Boston Globe All-Scholastic teams. "Mac" was named to the Hearst Sandlot All-Star team in 1955 and 1956 and was selected for the Boston Globe Baseball School in 1956.
Don was also a standout basketball player for three seasons and was elected captain during his senior year. He was Reading's scoring machine and his 57 points versus Wakefield on January 20, 1956 was still a single game school scoring record at the time of his induction. He was selected a Middlesex League All-Star and received All-Scholastic honors for both the 1954-1955 and 1955-1956 seasons.
While attending Brandeis University, Don was drafted by the New York baseball Giants. After signing, he played several seasons in their minor league system before returning to Brandeis to complete his education. Local fans recall Don as a physical education teacher in Stoneham, where he served as their very successful varsity baseball coach.
Class of 1956- Inducted 1997- Baseball, Basketball
Don pitched and played first base on the RMHS varsity baseball team for three seasons, 1954-1956. His junior and senior years he was named a Middlesex League All-Star while also being named to the Boston Post and Boston Globe All-Scholastic teams. "Mac" was named to the Hearst Sandlot All-Star team in 1955 and 1956 and was selected for the Boston Globe Baseball School in 1956.
Don was also a standout basketball player for three seasons and was elected captain during his senior year. He was Reading's scoring machine and his 57 points versus Wakefield on January 20, 1956 was still a single game school scoring record at the time of his induction. He was selected a Middlesex League All-Star and received All-Scholastic honors for both the 1954-1955 and 1955-1956 seasons.
While attending Brandeis University, Don was drafted by the New York baseball Giants. After signing, he played several seasons in their minor league system before returning to Brandeis to complete his education. Local fans recall Don as a physical education teacher in Stoneham, where he served as their very successful varsity baseball coach.
JOHN MEEHAN
Class of 1963- Inducted 2013- Football, Hockey, Baseball
A man for all seasons, John's athletic ability stood out on the playing fields and ice in three varsity sports. He was a two year starting quarterback on the football team, a two year league All-Star on the hockey team, and league and State level all-star in baseball.
John was a member of the undefeated 1960 RMHS Hall of Fame football team. In his senior season, the "hustling redhead" was an elusive option quarterback and a valued contributor in the defensive secondary.
In the second year of varsity hockey at RMHS, the 15 year old John Meehan joined the team as a defenseman. He eventually was named team captain and became the first league All-Star for Reading, an honor he achieved twice.
In baseball he stood out both offensively and defensively. A catcher and team captain in his senior year, he led the team in hitting with a .409 average and received all-league recognition at the end of the season.
John topped off his athletic career by being named recipient of the Dr. Charles Wakeling Award which honored the senior boy who best represented achievement, academics and leadership.
John attended Dartmouth College where he was captain of the hockey team. He is a Viet Nam veteran and served as a Navy officer on a PT boat. He attended graduate school at the University of Minnesota. He eventually became CEO at Hartford (Conn.) Hospital.
Class of 1963- Inducted 2013- Football, Hockey, Baseball
A man for all seasons, John's athletic ability stood out on the playing fields and ice in three varsity sports. He was a two year starting quarterback on the football team, a two year league All-Star on the hockey team, and league and State level all-star in baseball.
John was a member of the undefeated 1960 RMHS Hall of Fame football team. In his senior season, the "hustling redhead" was an elusive option quarterback and a valued contributor in the defensive secondary.
In the second year of varsity hockey at RMHS, the 15 year old John Meehan joined the team as a defenseman. He eventually was named team captain and became the first league All-Star for Reading, an honor he achieved twice.
In baseball he stood out both offensively and defensively. A catcher and team captain in his senior year, he led the team in hitting with a .409 average and received all-league recognition at the end of the season.
John topped off his athletic career by being named recipient of the Dr. Charles Wakeling Award which honored the senior boy who best represented achievement, academics and leadership.
John attended Dartmouth College where he was captain of the hockey team. He is a Viet Nam veteran and served as a Navy officer on a PT boat. He attended graduate school at the University of Minnesota. He eventually became CEO at Hartford (Conn.) Hospital.
JEFF MILLER
Class of 1985- Inducted 2017- Golf, Hockey, Baseball
The Class of 1985’s Jeff Miller athleticism and versatility was evident in whatever sport he was performing. But it was his character, leadership abilities, and competitiveness that drove him to reach a Hall of Fame status.
Miller captained and was named MVP for all three teams his senior year, and reached league all-star status in each, while achieving an elite level performance and recognition in hockey. All three of the teams made the State tournament.
In golf playing in the No. 1 position for his final two years he was Honorable Mention All-League as a junior, and as a senior was named a League All-Star and runner-up for League MVP.
Hockey was the sport that Miller received the most notoriety as a rugged, hard-hitting and skilled defenseman.
As a senior, Miller was named co-MVP of the Rockets and a first-team league All-Star while leading all League defensemen in scoring and was also named to the prestigious Hockey Night in Boston All-Scholastic team.
Miller was widely recognized as the best defenseman in school history at the time of his graduation. His career 64 points was tops amongst Reading defenseman all-time until it was broken in 1998 and still stands at 3rd best of all-time.
Miller went on to play 4 years of hockey at Dartmouth College and was co-captain of the team in his senior year.
In baseball the two-year varsity letterman was named captain for his senior year and backed that up by being named the team MVP as he put together a triple-crown season leading the team in batting average, home runs and RBI.
Miller’s senior season stats were amongst the best few recorded all-time for a single season for a Rocket with a .459 batting average, 5 doubles, 3 triples, and 6 home runs while driving in 25 runs.
Class of 1985- Inducted 2017- Golf, Hockey, Baseball
The Class of 1985’s Jeff Miller athleticism and versatility was evident in whatever sport he was performing. But it was his character, leadership abilities, and competitiveness that drove him to reach a Hall of Fame status.
Miller captained and was named MVP for all three teams his senior year, and reached league all-star status in each, while achieving an elite level performance and recognition in hockey. All three of the teams made the State tournament.
In golf playing in the No. 1 position for his final two years he was Honorable Mention All-League as a junior, and as a senior was named a League All-Star and runner-up for League MVP.
Hockey was the sport that Miller received the most notoriety as a rugged, hard-hitting and skilled defenseman.
As a senior, Miller was named co-MVP of the Rockets and a first-team league All-Star while leading all League defensemen in scoring and was also named to the prestigious Hockey Night in Boston All-Scholastic team.
Miller was widely recognized as the best defenseman in school history at the time of his graduation. His career 64 points was tops amongst Reading defenseman all-time until it was broken in 1998 and still stands at 3rd best of all-time.
Miller went on to play 4 years of hockey at Dartmouth College and was co-captain of the team in his senior year.
In baseball the two-year varsity letterman was named captain for his senior year and backed that up by being named the team MVP as he put together a triple-crown season leading the team in batting average, home runs and RBI.
Miller’s senior season stats were amongst the best few recorded all-time for a single season for a Rocket with a .459 batting average, 5 doubles, 3 triples, and 6 home runs while driving in 25 runs.
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.
BETH MOXCEY
Class of 1988- Inducted 2005- Softball, Soccer
Beth was elected to the Hall of Fame primarily because of her ability on the softball field, but she also may be regarded as one of RMHS' best girls hockey players. Unfortunately during her tenure at Reading High, the school did not have a girls hockey team.
In her sophomore year, Beth started at third base for the softball team which went on to win the Division 1 state championship. That year she was the youngest player on the team and managed a .288 batting average. The next year she batted .370 and finally in her senior year, .367
She was co-captain of the Rockettes during her final year and committed just two errors in the field.
She played on three Middlesex League champion teams and in her last two seasons, the Rockettes advanced to the Division 1 North semifinals. The combined team record in 1987 and 1988 was 40-7.
Beth was All-Middlesex League in 1987 and 1988 and was a Boston Globe All-Scholastic as a senior. The Daily Times Chronicle named her the Outstanding Softball Player of the Year as well as Rockette of the Year in 1988.
Beth also played soccer and was an honorable mention ML All-Star in 1986 and to the second All-Star team as a sweeper in 1987.
Ice hockey was her first love. As there was no girls team in those days, Beth played JV boys hockey for two years before joining an organized outside club team. In her junior and senior years, playing for the Stoneham Unicorns, she helped the team win back to back U.S. Girls/Women's National Ice Hockey Championships.
After graduation she continued her hockey career at Cornell University, where she was a four-time All-Ivy League player.
She returned to Reading and in the 1999-2000 season was appointed RMHS' first girls hockey coach.
Class of 1988- Inducted 2005- Softball, Soccer
Beth was elected to the Hall of Fame primarily because of her ability on the softball field, but she also may be regarded as one of RMHS' best girls hockey players. Unfortunately during her tenure at Reading High, the school did not have a girls hockey team.
In her sophomore year, Beth started at third base for the softball team which went on to win the Division 1 state championship. That year she was the youngest player on the team and managed a .288 batting average. The next year she batted .370 and finally in her senior year, .367
She was co-captain of the Rockettes during her final year and committed just two errors in the field.
She played on three Middlesex League champion teams and in her last two seasons, the Rockettes advanced to the Division 1 North semifinals. The combined team record in 1987 and 1988 was 40-7.
Beth was All-Middlesex League in 1987 and 1988 and was a Boston Globe All-Scholastic as a senior. The Daily Times Chronicle named her the Outstanding Softball Player of the Year as well as Rockette of the Year in 1988.
Beth also played soccer and was an honorable mention ML All-Star in 1986 and to the second All-Star team as a sweeper in 1987.
Ice hockey was her first love. As there was no girls team in those days, Beth played JV boys hockey for two years before joining an organized outside club team. In her junior and senior years, playing for the Stoneham Unicorns, she helped the team win back to back U.S. Girls/Women's National Ice Hockey Championships.
After graduation she continued her hockey career at Cornell University, where she was a four-time All-Ivy League player.
She returned to Reading and in the 1999-2000 season was appointed RMHS' first girls hockey coach.
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.
TOM MURRAY
Class of 1955- Inducted 1997- Football
In almost 100 years of Reading High School football, few players have had as lasting an impact on the record books as Tom Murray.
He was a coach's player, but was an outstanding teammate. His reputation and legacy were built on a sturdy body and strong legs which burst for touchdown runs of 65, 71, 80, 85 and 90 yards from scrimmage. Tom had the speed and finesse to run kick off returns for 85 and 95 yard touchdowns. He possessed the stamina to score five touchdowns against Methuen in 1954, a single game record that hadn't been broken at the time of his induction. He scored 42 points as a sophomore, 50 as a junior and 114 as a senior, a single season record that lasted 28 years. His career mark of 206 points was the school record for 38 years.
The 1954 season was the crown jewel of Tom's marvelous high school career as he was named an All-Scholastic football player in four Boston newspapers: The Boston Globe, The Boston Post, The Boston Herald and The Boston Record-American. After graduation Tom attended Indiana University.
Class of 1955- Inducted 1997- Football
In almost 100 years of Reading High School football, few players have had as lasting an impact on the record books as Tom Murray.
He was a coach's player, but was an outstanding teammate. His reputation and legacy were built on a sturdy body and strong legs which burst for touchdown runs of 65, 71, 80, 85 and 90 yards from scrimmage. Tom had the speed and finesse to run kick off returns for 85 and 95 yard touchdowns. He possessed the stamina to score five touchdowns against Methuen in 1954, a single game record that hadn't been broken at the time of his induction. He scored 42 points as a sophomore, 50 as a junior and 114 as a senior, a single season record that lasted 28 years. His career mark of 206 points was the school record for 38 years.
The 1954 season was the crown jewel of Tom's marvelous high school career as he was named an All-Scholastic football player in four Boston newspapers: The Boston Globe, The Boston Post, The Boston Herald and The Boston Record-American. After graduation Tom attended Indiana University.
DAVID NUGENT
Class of 1983- Inducted 2005- Football
Despite fielding some great football teams, very few players from Reading have gone on to play Division 1 college football. David was one of the few.
Standing roughly 6'3" and weighing about 245 pounds in high school, he had the physical tools and work ethic to not only earn a full scholarship to Boston College, but also to be a two year starter for the team and to be named captain in his senior year.
David was starting center and defensive tackle for St. Mark's School in Southboro his freshman year. He transferred to Reading High in his sophomore year.and resumed playing center and tackle under head coach Jack White.
He could bench press 365 pounds in high school and while he was big and powerful what made him great was his surprising agility and quick feet.
In his senior year he was an unstoppable force. A two-way tackle, David's dominant play helped Reading to a fine 7-3 record. He had five sacks on defense and his blocking helped open big holes for Brian O'Neil, enabling him to gain over 1000 yards for the season.
David was named All-Middlesex League and a Boston Herald All-Scholastic offensive tackle. He played in the elite Agganis All-Star game and was named an honorable mention National High School Football All-American.
He played for BC from 1984-87 and in his junior year was a starter at nose guard. He was drafted in the 12th round, 321st overall by the New England Patriots in 1988.
Class of 1983- Inducted 2005- Football
Despite fielding some great football teams, very few players from Reading have gone on to play Division 1 college football. David was one of the few.
Standing roughly 6'3" and weighing about 245 pounds in high school, he had the physical tools and work ethic to not only earn a full scholarship to Boston College, but also to be a two year starter for the team and to be named captain in his senior year.
David was starting center and defensive tackle for St. Mark's School in Southboro his freshman year. He transferred to Reading High in his sophomore year.and resumed playing center and tackle under head coach Jack White.
He could bench press 365 pounds in high school and while he was big and powerful what made him great was his surprising agility and quick feet.
In his senior year he was an unstoppable force. A two-way tackle, David's dominant play helped Reading to a fine 7-3 record. He had five sacks on defense and his blocking helped open big holes for Brian O'Neil, enabling him to gain over 1000 yards for the season.
David was named All-Middlesex League and a Boston Herald All-Scholastic offensive tackle. He played in the elite Agganis All-Star game and was named an honorable mention National High School Football All-American.
He played for BC from 1984-87 and in his junior year was a starter at nose guard. He was drafted in the 12th round, 321st overall by the New England Patriots in 1988.
SARA O'BRIEN
Class of 2000- Inducted 2009- Track
Along with a litany of record breaking performances and titles at all levels of state and regional competition, Sara's tenacious running style, perseverance and competitiveness are what she is remembered for most.
During her years with the Lady Rockets, Sara set three individual school records in the 400m, 600m and 1000m. She was also the the anchor of the record setting 4x400m relay. On induction night all but the 1000m record were still standing.
As a freshman, during the indoor season at the league meet, Sara took first place in the 300m and was a member of the winning 4x400 relay team at the state championships.
During her sophomore year, she repeated as the league indoor champion in the 300m and took first place at the Class B championships in the 600m. Later during the outdoor season took first in the 400m at the Andover Invitational as well as third in the 400m at the Class B state championship. She was selected as Middlesex League.
Injuries limited her during the indoor season of her junior year, but she still anchored the 4x400m relay that clinched the league title for RMHS with a dramatic come from behind win against league favorite Lexington.
Still recovering from injury that spring, Sara remained one of the state's top competitors. In her junior season of outdoor track, she was named MVP of the Andover Invitational where she won the 400m and was part of the winning 4x400m relay. She would also capture first place in the 400m and be a member of the 4x400 championship relay team at the Class B state championship.
In her final indoor season, Sara tore through the competition and was undefeated in the Middlesex League. She set aq school record in the 600m and was named ML MVP and a Boston Globe All-Scholastic.
That spring she was even more impressive winning every individual event at both the league and state level. She repeated as MVP of the Andover Invitational, set the school record in the 400m and won her first ever All-State title in the 400m. Her performance in the 400m earned her a third place finish at the New England championships and she finished second at the state heptathlon. She was named a Richard Phelps Scholar Athlete by the Boston Globe.
Class of 2000- Inducted 2009- Track
Along with a litany of record breaking performances and titles at all levels of state and regional competition, Sara's tenacious running style, perseverance and competitiveness are what she is remembered for most.
During her years with the Lady Rockets, Sara set three individual school records in the 400m, 600m and 1000m. She was also the the anchor of the record setting 4x400m relay. On induction night all but the 1000m record were still standing.
As a freshman, during the indoor season at the league meet, Sara took first place in the 300m and was a member of the winning 4x400 relay team at the state championships.
During her sophomore year, she repeated as the league indoor champion in the 300m and took first place at the Class B championships in the 600m. Later during the outdoor season took first in the 400m at the Andover Invitational as well as third in the 400m at the Class B state championship. She was selected as Middlesex League.
Injuries limited her during the indoor season of her junior year, but she still anchored the 4x400m relay that clinched the league title for RMHS with a dramatic come from behind win against league favorite Lexington.
Still recovering from injury that spring, Sara remained one of the state's top competitors. In her junior season of outdoor track, she was named MVP of the Andover Invitational where she won the 400m and was part of the winning 4x400m relay. She would also capture first place in the 400m and be a member of the 4x400 championship relay team at the Class B state championship.
In her final indoor season, Sara tore through the competition and was undefeated in the Middlesex League. She set aq school record in the 600m and was named ML MVP and a Boston Globe All-Scholastic.
That spring she was even more impressive winning every individual event at both the league and state level. She repeated as MVP of the Andover Invitational, set the school record in the 400m and won her first ever All-State title in the 400m. Her performance in the 400m earned her a third place finish at the New England championships and she finished second at the state heptathlon. She was named a Richard Phelps Scholar Athlete by the Boston Globe.
KIM O'DONNELL
Class of 2007- Inducted 2017- Gymnastics
Not many of us can say we were athletes before entering the 1st grade, but that is the case for Kim O’Donnell – the greatest gymnast in RMHS history.
Kim was introduced to the sport at age 4 and never looked back. By the ripe age of 6, Kim was invited to compete on the club team at the Woburn-based “Gymnastics and more” studio, and by middle school she was already competing at level 10 – the highest level a club gymnast can achieve.
“She kind of broke the mold,” said her HS Coach Diane Blume. “Lots of private gymnasts don’t participate with a high school team, but Kim wanted to do both and see what the high school scene was all about.”
Kim was fiercely dedicated to both her club team and RMHS, and trained for six hours a day between her private gym sessions and high school workouts.
Kim’s individual accomplishments are nothing short of incredible. Her school records include: All-around, floor exercise, uneven bars, balance beam and vault (a shared record with teammate Zach Stein).
At the state level, she received first place all-around in 2005 and 2007, second place in 2006, and third place in 2004. She was also recognized by the Boston Globe and Boston Herald as an All-Scholastic athlete all 4 years, and was cited the Gymnast of the Year in the Middlesex League for 3 years and the Boston Globe as a junior.
Kim was a member of Team Massachusetts for four years that competed at the Nationals. At the Nationals she finished first in the All-Around as a sophomore to go along with 2nd and 3rd place finishes in two other years.
Kim went on to become a gymnast at Cornell University -- balance beam and vault being her two primary events and never missed competing in a meet for all four years. Her team won three Ivy League titles, capping their gymnastics careers with the program’s first ECAC championship.
Class of 2007- Inducted 2017- Gymnastics
Not many of us can say we were athletes before entering the 1st grade, but that is the case for Kim O’Donnell – the greatest gymnast in RMHS history.
Kim was introduced to the sport at age 4 and never looked back. By the ripe age of 6, Kim was invited to compete on the club team at the Woburn-based “Gymnastics and more” studio, and by middle school she was already competing at level 10 – the highest level a club gymnast can achieve.
“She kind of broke the mold,” said her HS Coach Diane Blume. “Lots of private gymnasts don’t participate with a high school team, but Kim wanted to do both and see what the high school scene was all about.”
Kim was fiercely dedicated to both her club team and RMHS, and trained for six hours a day between her private gym sessions and high school workouts.
Kim’s individual accomplishments are nothing short of incredible. Her school records include: All-around, floor exercise, uneven bars, balance beam and vault (a shared record with teammate Zach Stein).
At the state level, she received first place all-around in 2005 and 2007, second place in 2006, and third place in 2004. She was also recognized by the Boston Globe and Boston Herald as an All-Scholastic athlete all 4 years, and was cited the Gymnast of the Year in the Middlesex League for 3 years and the Boston Globe as a junior.
Kim was a member of Team Massachusetts for four years that competed at the Nationals. At the Nationals she finished first in the All-Around as a sophomore to go along with 2nd and 3rd place finishes in two other years.
Kim went on to become a gymnast at Cornell University -- balance beam and vault being her two primary events and never missed competing in a meet for all four years. Her team won three Ivy League titles, capping their gymnastics careers with the program’s first ECAC championship.
ERIK OLSON
Class of 1997- Inducted 2009- Football, Basketball, Baseball
Standing 6' 8", Erik was as dominant as he was daunting on the gridiron, basketball court and the3 diamond.
As a junior, he stepped in as a starting tackle on the offensive line during Reading's unblemished season in 1995 that culminated with a dramatic come from behind win over Acto-Boxboro in the Division 2 Super Bowl.
Things only got better for Erik during his senior campaign as he broke the RMHS sack record with 8 1/2 sacks. His contributions during the 1996 season earned him All-Middlesex League honors at offensive tackle and he was recruited by a number of Division One colleges.
During the winter seasons, Erik established himself as a dominant force in the paint and the team's top rebounder. He was a starting member of the basketball team during his junior and senior seasons and helped lead the Rockets to a brief appearance in the Division 2 North tournament in 1996. He was also named a Middlesex League All-Star during his senior season in which he averaged 15.3 points per game.
In the spring, Erik joined Reading's varsity baseball team as a sophomore and became a member of the Rockets' pitching rotation as a junior. During his junior season, he helped Reading to the Division 2 playoffs in which he won three of the six games and was named the Division 2 state tournament MVP. For the season, he was named a ML All-Star and finished with a record of 8-2 with a 1.43 ERA and 63 strikeouts in 54 innings.
Erik finished his senior season with an 8-2 record and a pair of saves. His 0.74 ERA was tops in the Middlesex League and he struck out 87 batters along the way with the league's best strikeouts per inning average. Of the nine starts he made that year, he pitched five complete games and shutout the opposition three times.
At the plate, Erik finished with a .344 batting average with 18 RBIs and four home runs.
For his efforts, Ken was named Outstanding Spring Performer by the Reading Chronicle, Middlesex League All-Star and ML MVP. Both the Boston Herald and Boston Globe named him an All-Scholastic and he earned the distinction of being the Massachusetts Division 2 Player of the Year.
Class of 1997- Inducted 2009- Football, Basketball, Baseball
Standing 6' 8", Erik was as dominant as he was daunting on the gridiron, basketball court and the3 diamond.
As a junior, he stepped in as a starting tackle on the offensive line during Reading's unblemished season in 1995 that culminated with a dramatic come from behind win over Acto-Boxboro in the Division 2 Super Bowl.
Things only got better for Erik during his senior campaign as he broke the RMHS sack record with 8 1/2 sacks. His contributions during the 1996 season earned him All-Middlesex League honors at offensive tackle and he was recruited by a number of Division One colleges.
During the winter seasons, Erik established himself as a dominant force in the paint and the team's top rebounder. He was a starting member of the basketball team during his junior and senior seasons and helped lead the Rockets to a brief appearance in the Division 2 North tournament in 1996. He was also named a Middlesex League All-Star during his senior season in which he averaged 15.3 points per game.
In the spring, Erik joined Reading's varsity baseball team as a sophomore and became a member of the Rockets' pitching rotation as a junior. During his junior season, he helped Reading to the Division 2 playoffs in which he won three of the six games and was named the Division 2 state tournament MVP. For the season, he was named a ML All-Star and finished with a record of 8-2 with a 1.43 ERA and 63 strikeouts in 54 innings.
Erik finished his senior season with an 8-2 record and a pair of saves. His 0.74 ERA was tops in the Middlesex League and he struck out 87 batters along the way with the league's best strikeouts per inning average. Of the nine starts he made that year, he pitched five complete games and shutout the opposition three times.
At the plate, Erik finished with a .344 batting average with 18 RBIs and four home runs.
For his efforts, Ken was named Outstanding Spring Performer by the Reading Chronicle, Middlesex League All-Star and ML MVP. Both the Boston Herald and Boston Globe named him an All-Scholastic and he earned the distinction of being the Massachusetts Division 2 Player of the Year.
KEN OLSON
Class of 1961- Inducted 2015 - Football, Basketball, Baseball
In the first 60 years of athletics at Reading Memorial High School very few matched Class of 1961’s Ken Olson versatile athletic skill. But what set him apart even more was the leadership and character he embodied in the athletic venues and in his personal life.
Ken’s RMHS athletic career consisted of 8 varsity letters, captaincy of the 1960 RMHS Hall of Fame football team and numerous all-state and all-league honors while fashioning a new brand of athlete, the “four-sport” athlete.
Ken made no bigger impression then as a two-way end on the football field. A fierce blocker and tackler he was a three-year starter on offense and defense. Along the way he garnered two all-league first team selections and was selected by the Boston Globe and Herald as an All-Scholastic and was the recipient of the prestigious Ingersoll Award as selected by the coaching staff.
In basketball, Ken was a two-time league All-Star and a key member of the 1961 Tech Tourney semifinal team that won the Middlesex League title and garnered a 16-1 overall record.
Ken was the starting third baseman and batted .351 as a freshman on the varsity baseball team but described as someone who was “more interested in the experience then the achievements.” He left baseball after his junior year to try his hand at track & field where he was a top scorer and placed fifth in the state in the javelin throw.
At UNH, Ken was a captain of the football team, and added lacrosse to his sporting resume where he became a star and eventual captain.
Ken was a decorated Air Force pilot who flew over 100 missions over North Vietnam and had a long career as a commercial airline pilot.
Class of 1961- Inducted 2015 - Football, Basketball, Baseball
In the first 60 years of athletics at Reading Memorial High School very few matched Class of 1961’s Ken Olson versatile athletic skill. But what set him apart even more was the leadership and character he embodied in the athletic venues and in his personal life.
Ken’s RMHS athletic career consisted of 8 varsity letters, captaincy of the 1960 RMHS Hall of Fame football team and numerous all-state and all-league honors while fashioning a new brand of athlete, the “four-sport” athlete.
Ken made no bigger impression then as a two-way end on the football field. A fierce blocker and tackler he was a three-year starter on offense and defense. Along the way he garnered two all-league first team selections and was selected by the Boston Globe and Herald as an All-Scholastic and was the recipient of the prestigious Ingersoll Award as selected by the coaching staff.
In basketball, Ken was a two-time league All-Star and a key member of the 1961 Tech Tourney semifinal team that won the Middlesex League title and garnered a 16-1 overall record.
Ken was the starting third baseman and batted .351 as a freshman on the varsity baseball team but described as someone who was “more interested in the experience then the achievements.” He left baseball after his junior year to try his hand at track & field where he was a top scorer and placed fifth in the state in the javelin throw.
At UNH, Ken was a captain of the football team, and added lacrosse to his sporting resume where he became a star and eventual captain.
Ken was a decorated Air Force pilot who flew over 100 missions over North Vietnam and had a long career as a commercial airline pilot.
BRIAN O'NEIL
Class of 1983 - Inducted 2015- Football, Wrestling, Baseball
There may have been bigger and faster athletes than Brian O’Neil during his high school career, but you would be hard pressed to find one with more determination and commitment.
Brian O’Neil graduated in the early 1980’s but he could have fit in easily during the 1960’s with his straight-laced, buttoned-up All-American boy persona whose drive turned him into one of the best three-sport athletes Reading High ever had.
Football may have been the sport Brian was most noted for. At 5-foot-9 and 180 pounds. O’Neil, a running back, had a year for the record books in his 1982 senior season.
His 116 points scored that season broke a 28-year-old RMHS record at the time. That fall he wound up second in Eastern Mass. Division 1 in scoring. Also an exceptional punter, Brian averaged 38.6 yards per kick.
He was named a Middlesex League All-Star for his efforts and was chosen for the Harry Agganis All-Star football game. Brian was also the recipient of the coveted Ingersoll Award.
Wrestling was the sport O’Neil came late to but he treated it with no less passion than football or baseball. Brian was the first RMHS sophomore to qualify for the states since Reading Athletic Hall of Famer Tim Holmes did in 1979. Coached by another Reading Athletic Hall of Famer in Coach Tom Darrin, O’Neil lost only four dual meet matches in three years on the varsity.
In the spring of his senior year Brian was Reading’s shortstop and pitcher for the baseball team, batting .321 with two home runs while going 3-1 on the mound with a 2.96 ERA for another Reading Athletic Hall of Fame coach Pete Moscariello.
Brian went on to play for football at Harvard where he was the team’s starting fullback and punter his senior year and received an honorable mention on the All-New England team.
Class of 1983 - Inducted 2015- Football, Wrestling, Baseball
There may have been bigger and faster athletes than Brian O’Neil during his high school career, but you would be hard pressed to find one with more determination and commitment.
Brian O’Neil graduated in the early 1980’s but he could have fit in easily during the 1960’s with his straight-laced, buttoned-up All-American boy persona whose drive turned him into one of the best three-sport athletes Reading High ever had.
Football may have been the sport Brian was most noted for. At 5-foot-9 and 180 pounds. O’Neil, a running back, had a year for the record books in his 1982 senior season.
His 116 points scored that season broke a 28-year-old RMHS record at the time. That fall he wound up second in Eastern Mass. Division 1 in scoring. Also an exceptional punter, Brian averaged 38.6 yards per kick.
He was named a Middlesex League All-Star for his efforts and was chosen for the Harry Agganis All-Star football game. Brian was also the recipient of the coveted Ingersoll Award.
Wrestling was the sport O’Neil came late to but he treated it with no less passion than football or baseball. Brian was the first RMHS sophomore to qualify for the states since Reading Athletic Hall of Famer Tim Holmes did in 1979. Coached by another Reading Athletic Hall of Famer in Coach Tom Darrin, O’Neil lost only four dual meet matches in three years on the varsity.
In the spring of his senior year Brian was Reading’s shortstop and pitcher for the baseball team, batting .321 with two home runs while going 3-1 on the mound with a 2.96 ERA for another Reading Athletic Hall of Fame coach Pete Moscariello.
Brian went on to play for football at Harvard where he was the team’s starting fullback and punter his senior year and received an honorable mention on the All-New England team.
KIM O'RIORDAN
Class of 1986- Inducted 1997- Softball
Kim, a four year varsity softball team starter, was an outstanding pitcher and a very productive hitter for the Rockets from 1983-86.
Her four year pitching record was 42 wins and only six losses. Between her freshman and sophomore seasons, she had a combined 14-3 record. She then stepped it up another notch to finish with a 28-3 record during her junior and senior years. In those combined junior and senior seasons, she threw an astonishing 206 strikeouts in just 204 innings. Kim's final high school victory was fittingly a 7-3 victory over Springfield Cathedral to win the Division 1 state championship.
As a hitter, she batted over .400 in her sophomore, junior and senior seasons. Over her final 51 games, Kim had 25 extra base hits including 7 home runs and 66 RBIs.
After the championship game with Springfield Cathedral, Steve Algeri of The Reading Chronicle wrote . . . "(Kim) was on the hot seat for one last time in her brilliant career and she responded with a lot of guts and firmly secured her place in Reading High athletic history as one of the greatest competitors of all time."
Class of 1986- Inducted 1997- Softball
Kim, a four year varsity softball team starter, was an outstanding pitcher and a very productive hitter for the Rockets from 1983-86.
Her four year pitching record was 42 wins and only six losses. Between her freshman and sophomore seasons, she had a combined 14-3 record. She then stepped it up another notch to finish with a 28-3 record during her junior and senior years. In those combined junior and senior seasons, she threw an astonishing 206 strikeouts in just 204 innings. Kim's final high school victory was fittingly a 7-3 victory over Springfield Cathedral to win the Division 1 state championship.
As a hitter, she batted over .400 in her sophomore, junior and senior seasons. Over her final 51 games, Kim had 25 extra base hits including 7 home runs and 66 RBIs.
After the championship game with Springfield Cathedral, Steve Algeri of The Reading Chronicle wrote . . . "(Kim) was on the hot seat for one last time in her brilliant career and she responded with a lot of guts and firmly secured her place in Reading High athletic history as one of the greatest competitors of all time."
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.
DANIELLE PANDOLFO
Class of 2005 - Inducted 2015- Field Hockey, Softball
“Clutch” This is the perfect word to describe the type of athlete Danielle Pandolfo was for the Reading Memorial High School Rockets. She was a star athlete in both softball and field hockey, and whether her team needed an assist, a goal, a hit, a run, a pitch, or just some motivation… More often than not, Danielle would find a way to deliver.
She finished her field hockey career as a 4-year varsity starter, 3-time Middlesex League all-star, and a 2004 All-Scholastic.
On the softball diamond, her accolades are just as significant. A 4-year starter, 2-time All-Star, a League MVP, an All-Scholastic, and Div. 1 Player of the Year in 2005 as she led her team to three Middlesex League championships and a berth in the Div. 1 North Sectional final.
Danielle’s senior year field hockey season topped off a highly celebrated, consistently amazing, reign over the Middlesex League. Hat-tricks and “buzzer-beaters” were the norm, and her field hockey season came to a close only after she and her team caught fire in the postseason. She netted seven goals and two assists in her team’s run to the D1 North Title. Finishing the season with 23 goals and six assists, she was named a Middlesex League all-star for the third time.
On the softball diamond Danielle’s senior year was the culmination of an epic overall high school athletic career. She did not disappoint, going 18-0 in the regular season with a 0.21 ERA while leading the Rocket to the Middlesex League championship and earning league MVP honors and well as Boston Globe Player of the Year. She batted .470 with six homers and 17 RBIs for a Reading team that finished 23-1.
After she left her mark on Reading High School as one of its most accomplished athletes of all-time; Danielle went on to play softball at Boston College where she was named a tri-captain her senior year.
Class of 2005 - Inducted 2015- Field Hockey, Softball
“Clutch” This is the perfect word to describe the type of athlete Danielle Pandolfo was for the Reading Memorial High School Rockets. She was a star athlete in both softball and field hockey, and whether her team needed an assist, a goal, a hit, a run, a pitch, or just some motivation… More often than not, Danielle would find a way to deliver.
She finished her field hockey career as a 4-year varsity starter, 3-time Middlesex League all-star, and a 2004 All-Scholastic.
On the softball diamond, her accolades are just as significant. A 4-year starter, 2-time All-Star, a League MVP, an All-Scholastic, and Div. 1 Player of the Year in 2005 as she led her team to three Middlesex League championships and a berth in the Div. 1 North Sectional final.
Danielle’s senior year field hockey season topped off a highly celebrated, consistently amazing, reign over the Middlesex League. Hat-tricks and “buzzer-beaters” were the norm, and her field hockey season came to a close only after she and her team caught fire in the postseason. She netted seven goals and two assists in her team’s run to the D1 North Title. Finishing the season with 23 goals and six assists, she was named a Middlesex League all-star for the third time.
On the softball diamond Danielle’s senior year was the culmination of an epic overall high school athletic career. She did not disappoint, going 18-0 in the regular season with a 0.21 ERA while leading the Rocket to the Middlesex League championship and earning league MVP honors and well as Boston Globe Player of the Year. She batted .470 with six homers and 17 RBIs for a Reading team that finished 23-1.
After she left her mark on Reading High School as one of its most accomplished athletes of all-time; Danielle went on to play softball at Boston College where she was named a tri-captain her senior year.
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.
DAVID PIZZOTTI
Class of 1996- Inducted 2005- Football, Basketball, Baseball
A classic three sport athlete and captain of the football, basketball and baseball teams, David had numerous individual accolades. He was a three sport Middlesex League All-Star, Boston Globe Division 2 All-Star and a Boston Herald and Globe All-Scholastic.
But, his greatest legacy was winning. In the fall of 1995, he quarterbacked the Rockets to the school's first Super Bowl championship. And in the spring, his pitching and hitting helped propel the baseball team to its first Division 2 state championship.
David was a three year varsity basketball player and a starting forward for two years. He was elected co-captain his senior year and was named a Middlesex League All-Star for the 1995-96 season.
He was even more gifted in baseball. David earned three varsity letters and in his senior year he was a team tri-captain and a Boston Globe Division 2 All-Star, a Boston Herald All-Scholastic and a repeat All- Middlesex League player.
In his final spring, he was undefeated as a pitcher with a 5-0 record and an ERA of 0.525. He struck out 49 batters in 40 innings, while walking only two. At the plate he batted .363 with six doubles, three triples and one home run. His 27 RBI led the team. In the field David had no errors in 108 chances, a single season team record.
In football, he played quarterback and safety, leading the team to an undefeated 10-0 regular season as a senior. The Rockets faced an undefeated Acton-Boxboro team in the Division 2 Super Bowl at Birch Meadow. The Rockets trailed 23-6 at the half, but David threw for three touchdowns in the second half to help rally the team to a stirring 33-23 comeback.
For the season, he finished with a then school record of 17 TD passes and threw for 1107 yards. At the time of his graduation, he was only the fourth RMHS player to exceed 1000 yards passing in a season and his 24 career TD passes was second most in school history. He was named All-Middlesex League and a Boston Globe All-Scholastic. Following graduation he attended Boston University and Harvard, playing football for both schools.
Class of 1996- Inducted 2005- Football, Basketball, Baseball
A classic three sport athlete and captain of the football, basketball and baseball teams, David had numerous individual accolades. He was a three sport Middlesex League All-Star, Boston Globe Division 2 All-Star and a Boston Herald and Globe All-Scholastic.
But, his greatest legacy was winning. In the fall of 1995, he quarterbacked the Rockets to the school's first Super Bowl championship. And in the spring, his pitching and hitting helped propel the baseball team to its first Division 2 state championship.
David was a three year varsity basketball player and a starting forward for two years. He was elected co-captain his senior year and was named a Middlesex League All-Star for the 1995-96 season.
He was even more gifted in baseball. David earned three varsity letters and in his senior year he was a team tri-captain and a Boston Globe Division 2 All-Star, a Boston Herald All-Scholastic and a repeat All- Middlesex League player.
In his final spring, he was undefeated as a pitcher with a 5-0 record and an ERA of 0.525. He struck out 49 batters in 40 innings, while walking only two. At the plate he batted .363 with six doubles, three triples and one home run. His 27 RBI led the team. In the field David had no errors in 108 chances, a single season team record.
In football, he played quarterback and safety, leading the team to an undefeated 10-0 regular season as a senior. The Rockets faced an undefeated Acton-Boxboro team in the Division 2 Super Bowl at Birch Meadow. The Rockets trailed 23-6 at the half, but David threw for three touchdowns in the second half to help rally the team to a stirring 33-23 comeback.
For the season, he finished with a then school record of 17 TD passes and threw for 1107 yards. At the time of his graduation, he was only the fourth RMHS player to exceed 1000 yards passing in a season and his 24 career TD passes was second most in school history. He was named All-Middlesex League and a Boston Globe All-Scholastic. Following graduation he attended Boston University and Harvard, playing football for both schools.
KATIE QUINN
Class of 1988- Inducted 2003- Softball
When Katie graduated, she was regarded as the best pitcher ever to don a RMHS softball uniform. And following a stellar four year career with the Lady Catamounts of the University of Vermont, she earned the distinction as that school's best pitcher too.
Katie's career record at Reading High was 44-7 with 357 strikeouts in 344.1 innings and an ERA of 0.89. A two time Middlesex League All-Star and league MVP in her senior year, Katie was a Boston Herald All-Scholastic in 1987 and 1988 and a Boston Globe All-Scholastic in 1988. As a senior she was chosen as runner up for the Eastern Mass Division 1 Player of the Year.
Katie's accomplishments are even more remarkable given she played her entire career with a foot long metal rod in her back which was implanted in 1985 to correct a severe case scoliosis.
In her sophomore year, she made a key relief appearance in the Division 1 North finals, helping Reading win its first Division 1 state title. That year Katie finished 4-0 in 39.2 innings with a 1.94 ERA.
Katie recorded a tremendous 20-3 record in her junior year with 143 strikeouts in 149 innings and a 1.03 ERA.
She capped off her final year with a season to remember. RMHS repeated as ML champs and she was the catalyst on the mound finishing with a 20-4 record and 182 strikeouts in 148 innings and a miniscule 0.38 ERA. She spun four no hitters, recorded 11 shut outs and was the ML MVP.
At UVM she carved out a legacy as rich as that at RMHS. At the end of her career in 1992 she was UVM's career leader in strikeouts, wins, ERA, games pitched, complete games and innings pitched. Her career record was 43-35 with a 1.33 ERA.
Class of 1988- Inducted 2003- Softball
When Katie graduated, she was regarded as the best pitcher ever to don a RMHS softball uniform. And following a stellar four year career with the Lady Catamounts of the University of Vermont, she earned the distinction as that school's best pitcher too.
Katie's career record at Reading High was 44-7 with 357 strikeouts in 344.1 innings and an ERA of 0.89. A two time Middlesex League All-Star and league MVP in her senior year, Katie was a Boston Herald All-Scholastic in 1987 and 1988 and a Boston Globe All-Scholastic in 1988. As a senior she was chosen as runner up for the Eastern Mass Division 1 Player of the Year.
Katie's accomplishments are even more remarkable given she played her entire career with a foot long metal rod in her back which was implanted in 1985 to correct a severe case scoliosis.
In her sophomore year, she made a key relief appearance in the Division 1 North finals, helping Reading win its first Division 1 state title. That year Katie finished 4-0 in 39.2 innings with a 1.94 ERA.
Katie recorded a tremendous 20-3 record in her junior year with 143 strikeouts in 149 innings and a 1.03 ERA.
She capped off her final year with a season to remember. RMHS repeated as ML champs and she was the catalyst on the mound finishing with a 20-4 record and 182 strikeouts in 148 innings and a miniscule 0.38 ERA. She spun four no hitters, recorded 11 shut outs and was the ML MVP.
At UVM she carved out a legacy as rich as that at RMHS. At the end of her career in 1992 she was UVM's career leader in strikeouts, wins, ERA, games pitched, complete games and innings pitched. Her career record was 43-35 with a 1.33 ERA.
GEORGE RADULSKI
Class of 1937- Inducted 1998- Football, Basketball, Baseball
George earned nine letters for his efforts playing football, basketball and baseball at Reading High School.
People who remember his career say he was probably best in football. Primarily an end, he was elected captain of the 1936 team during his senior season. In those days, there was no free substitution, so George played both offense and defense.
Playing an independent schedule< Reading's opponents included such schools as St.Clement's, Ipswich, Thayer Academy and Wilmington in addition to now familiar rivals like Wakefield, Stoneham and Winchester. In fact, George caught a touchdown pass during the first Reading-Stoneham Thanksgiving game, a 13-0 reading victory.
A three year center on the basketball team, he averaged about 6 points a game in an era when 30 points represented a high scoring game for a team. In George's senior season, Reading was undefeated and won the Middlesex League title. They lost a tight battle with Natick to narrowly miss qualifying for the Tech Tourney. He scored 61 points for the season, sixth best in the league.
Each spring, he turned to baseball. A first baseman for his first two years, George moved across the diamond to play third base during his senior year. He was known as a consistent hitter and an excellent defensive player.
Following graduation, George attended Boston University where he played varsity basketball and football, serving as a
senior captain. A highlight of his collegiate career was playing against the famous Boston College Sugar Bowl team.
A lifelong Reading resident, George worked for thirty years for the Reading Recreation Department and also served as the town pool manager for ten years.
Class of 1937- Inducted 1998- Football, Basketball, Baseball
George earned nine letters for his efforts playing football, basketball and baseball at Reading High School.
People who remember his career say he was probably best in football. Primarily an end, he was elected captain of the 1936 team during his senior season. In those days, there was no free substitution, so George played both offense and defense.
Playing an independent schedule< Reading's opponents included such schools as St.Clement's, Ipswich, Thayer Academy and Wilmington in addition to now familiar rivals like Wakefield, Stoneham and Winchester. In fact, George caught a touchdown pass during the first Reading-Stoneham Thanksgiving game, a 13-0 reading victory.
A three year center on the basketball team, he averaged about 6 points a game in an era when 30 points represented a high scoring game for a team. In George's senior season, Reading was undefeated and won the Middlesex League title. They lost a tight battle with Natick to narrowly miss qualifying for the Tech Tourney. He scored 61 points for the season, sixth best in the league.
Each spring, he turned to baseball. A first baseman for his first two years, George moved across the diamond to play third base during his senior year. He was known as a consistent hitter and an excellent defensive player.
Following graduation, George attended Boston University where he played varsity basketball and football, serving as a
senior captain. A highlight of his collegiate career was playing against the famous Boston College Sugar Bowl team.
A lifelong Reading resident, George worked for thirty years for the Reading Recreation Department and also served as the town pool manager for ten years.
GEORGE "CHUCK" ROSS
Class of 1974- Inducted 2005- Baseball, Football
Chuck was dubbed "Mr. Everything" by the Herald Advertiser after making the Herald American All-Scholastic baseball team in 1974. During his RMHS heyday hr was one of the school's all-time best baseball players . He was an outstanding pitcher and hitter. In the fall he left his mark as a standout two way end for coach John Hollingsworth's football team.
The 6'2", 210 pound right hander was 7-2 with a 0.66 ERA in his senior year for the baseball team. When not pitching Chuck played third base, hitting .360 with four home runs and five doubles from the clean up spot. That year he was named a Boston Globe and Herald All-Scholastic.
For three straight years he was a Middlesex League All-Star under head baseball coach Gil Congdon. For his career he was 13-4, allowing just 11 earned runs in 133 innings with a 0.74 ERA. He struck out 121 batters and only walked 37.
His lifetime batting average on the Reading High varsity team was .330 and he led the team in home runs and RBIs his junior and senior seasons.
Chuck was a two way starter in football at defensive and offensive end. He was one of the reasons the Rockets were regarded as the besr defensive team in the ML. He won the team's Unsung Hero Award, the Coaches' Award and was a ML All-Star selection as a senior.
Chuck had an outstanding four year pitching career for the Springfield College Chiefs. He was the only freshman to make the varsity team and finished the season, leading all NCAA Division 2 pitchers with a 0.81 ERA which earned him second team All-American honors. He finished as a two time All-New England pitcher and as a junior in 1977 was named the Eastern College Athletic Association (ECAC) Division 2 tournament MVP after leading the Chiefs ro an ECAC championship.
After graduation in 1978, Chuck went on to coach high school baseball in Belfast, Maine.
Class of 1974- Inducted 2005- Baseball, Football
Chuck was dubbed "Mr. Everything" by the Herald Advertiser after making the Herald American All-Scholastic baseball team in 1974. During his RMHS heyday hr was one of the school's all-time best baseball players . He was an outstanding pitcher and hitter. In the fall he left his mark as a standout two way end for coach John Hollingsworth's football team.
The 6'2", 210 pound right hander was 7-2 with a 0.66 ERA in his senior year for the baseball team. When not pitching Chuck played third base, hitting .360 with four home runs and five doubles from the clean up spot. That year he was named a Boston Globe and Herald All-Scholastic.
For three straight years he was a Middlesex League All-Star under head baseball coach Gil Congdon. For his career he was 13-4, allowing just 11 earned runs in 133 innings with a 0.74 ERA. He struck out 121 batters and only walked 37.
His lifetime batting average on the Reading High varsity team was .330 and he led the team in home runs and RBIs his junior and senior seasons.
Chuck was a two way starter in football at defensive and offensive end. He was one of the reasons the Rockets were regarded as the besr defensive team in the ML. He won the team's Unsung Hero Award, the Coaches' Award and was a ML All-Star selection as a senior.
Chuck had an outstanding four year pitching career for the Springfield College Chiefs. He was the only freshman to make the varsity team and finished the season, leading all NCAA Division 2 pitchers with a 0.81 ERA which earned him second team All-American honors. He finished as a two time All-New England pitcher and as a junior in 1977 was named the Eastern College Athletic Association (ECAC) Division 2 tournament MVP after leading the Chiefs ro an ECAC championship.
After graduation in 1978, Chuck went on to coach high school baseball in Belfast, Maine.
AL RUNGE
Class of 1953- Inducted 1998- Football, Basketball, Baseball
Al was a nine letterman in an era when freshmen didn't play varsity sports. Albie, as his friends knew him, earned three letters each in football, basketball and baseball. He didn't just earn nine letters, an honorable accomplishment in itself, but he was a three year starter in each sport.
As a senior, he was captain of the football team and winner of the Ingersoll Award. His high school coach, the legendary Joe Crowley, said Albie was the best defensive player he ever coached. Al was an outstanding offensive halfback as well.
In the winter, Albie shifted his attention to the court as a guard on the basketball team.
In the spring, he moved over to the diamond where he enjoyed the same type of success he enjoyed in other sports. In fact, Albie was recognized as an All-Scholastic pitcher on the baseball team.
There can be no doubt, Albie Runge was one of the most outstanding athletes to participate for Reading High School during the decade of the 1950s.
Class of 1953- Inducted 1998- Football, Basketball, Baseball
Al was a nine letterman in an era when freshmen didn't play varsity sports. Albie, as his friends knew him, earned three letters each in football, basketball and baseball. He didn't just earn nine letters, an honorable accomplishment in itself, but he was a three year starter in each sport.
As a senior, he was captain of the football team and winner of the Ingersoll Award. His high school coach, the legendary Joe Crowley, said Albie was the best defensive player he ever coached. Al was an outstanding offensive halfback as well.
In the winter, Albie shifted his attention to the court as a guard on the basketball team.
In the spring, he moved over to the diamond where he enjoyed the same type of success he enjoyed in other sports. In fact, Albie was recognized as an All-Scholastic pitcher on the baseball team.
There can be no doubt, Albie Runge was one of the most outstanding athletes to participate for Reading High School during the decade of the 1950s.
PAUL SACCO
Class of 1988- Inducted 2013- Hockey
Beginning with the start of the 1985-86 season, the RMHS boys hockey team went on to win five of the next six Middlesex League titles. One of the cornerstones igniting this streak was 5' 10" defenseman Paul Sacco.
In his sophomore year, he quickly established himself and earned regular ice time on defense, playing like a veteran. Paul increased his role on the team both offensively and defensively as a junior. An excellent skater with great balance, he had an underrated shot that would be unleashed more and more during his last two years at Reading.
In his last two years, the team ran off consecutive 20-win seasons. Playing usual stellar defense, he picked up his offensive production with 8 goals and 15 assists as a junior and was named a Middlesex League All-Star.
In his senior season, the team stormed into the playoffs as league champs and with a 17-game win streak. They finished the season as Division 1 North champs after beating Woburn 5-0 at the Boston Garden. For the year Paul scored 6 goals and 25 assists and was named a ML All-Star for the second time as well as All-Scholastic by both the Boston Globe and Boston Herald.
For his career, Paul scored 18 goals and 44 assists for 62 points, ranking him fourth for career points among defensemen at the time of his induction.
Paul received a hockey scholarship to Northeastern University and was captain of the 1991-92 team. Following graduation, he played professional hockey in Europe for eight years.
Class of 1988- Inducted 2013- Hockey
Beginning with the start of the 1985-86 season, the RMHS boys hockey team went on to win five of the next six Middlesex League titles. One of the cornerstones igniting this streak was 5' 10" defenseman Paul Sacco.
In his sophomore year, he quickly established himself and earned regular ice time on defense, playing like a veteran. Paul increased his role on the team both offensively and defensively as a junior. An excellent skater with great balance, he had an underrated shot that would be unleashed more and more during his last two years at Reading.
In his last two years, the team ran off consecutive 20-win seasons. Playing usual stellar defense, he picked up his offensive production with 8 goals and 15 assists as a junior and was named a Middlesex League All-Star.
In his senior season, the team stormed into the playoffs as league champs and with a 17-game win streak. They finished the season as Division 1 North champs after beating Woburn 5-0 at the Boston Garden. For the year Paul scored 6 goals and 25 assists and was named a ML All-Star for the second time as well as All-Scholastic by both the Boston Globe and Boston Herald.
For his career, Paul scored 18 goals and 44 assists for 62 points, ranking him fourth for career points among defensemen at the time of his induction.
Paul received a hockey scholarship to Northeastern University and was captain of the 1991-92 team. Following graduation, he played professional hockey in Europe for eight years.
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.
STEVE SAVIANO
Class of 2000- Inducted 2017- Hockey
Right from that very first game his freshman year it was apparent that Steve Saviano was a special player and size was not going to be a factor, in fact it likely fueled him.
He had an amazing engine and determination that made him the player he became. A self-less player, Saviano would rather set up others to score goals than score himself.
When he finished his career four years later in 2000, the Rockets experienced unmatched success in the Middlesex League. Reading teams posted four league titles and four Super 8 berths all under Saviano’s watch.
In fact, Steve Saviano never played in a losing Middlesex League game as the Rockets went 66-0-6 during Saviano’s four years.
The 5-foot-6 155 pound “energizer bunny” left Reading High School as the school’s all-time scoring leader with 70 goals and 148 assists for 218 points from a program that was regarded as the state’s best public school
Reading High head coach Mark Doherty, then an assistant under his father Peter, said Saviano’s attitude was “as good as we’ve ever had here. It makes it a lot easier when the best player is totally committed to the team. A lot of determined players keep that serious focus throughout and Steven was determined too, but did it with a smile on his face.”
A scholarship to the University of New Hampshire followed that was capped in the 2004 season with being named Hockey East Player of the Year, as well as a college hockey All-American and Hobey Baker finalist.
Since his college career ended, Saviano began a successful professional career that has taken him from the East Coast and American Hockey Leagues in the United States to now Europe where he is in his 12th season playing overseas currently with the Belfast Giants.
Class of 2000- Inducted 2017- Hockey
Right from that very first game his freshman year it was apparent that Steve Saviano was a special player and size was not going to be a factor, in fact it likely fueled him.
He had an amazing engine and determination that made him the player he became. A self-less player, Saviano would rather set up others to score goals than score himself.
When he finished his career four years later in 2000, the Rockets experienced unmatched success in the Middlesex League. Reading teams posted four league titles and four Super 8 berths all under Saviano’s watch.
In fact, Steve Saviano never played in a losing Middlesex League game as the Rockets went 66-0-6 during Saviano’s four years.
The 5-foot-6 155 pound “energizer bunny” left Reading High School as the school’s all-time scoring leader with 70 goals and 148 assists for 218 points from a program that was regarded as the state’s best public school
Reading High head coach Mark Doherty, then an assistant under his father Peter, said Saviano’s attitude was “as good as we’ve ever had here. It makes it a lot easier when the best player is totally committed to the team. A lot of determined players keep that serious focus throughout and Steven was determined too, but did it with a smile on his face.”
A scholarship to the University of New Hampshire followed that was capped in the 2004 season with being named Hockey East Player of the Year, as well as a college hockey All-American and Hobey Baker finalist.
Since his college career ended, Saviano began a successful professional career that has taken him from the East Coast and American Hockey Leagues in the United States to now Europe where he is in his 12th season playing overseas currently with the Belfast Giants.
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.
GINO SERRECHIA
Class of 1967- Inducted 2011- Football, Track
A giant of a player at six feet, 230 pounds, Gino loomed large in an era when the 200 pound lineman was uncommon. But he was not only big, he played big.
Gino was a powerful blocker and a force on the defensive line. But his rare athletic ability for a player his size allowed head coach John Hollingsworth to use him as a tackle eligible pass receiver and place kicker.
Undoubtedly the biggest thrill of Gino's career came in 1966, his senior season, versus undefeated Melrose. He caught two key passes and had numerous tackles on defense, including a huge stop on a crucial goal line stand at the Reading one yard line. He also recovered two fumbles and kicked the winning extra point as the Rockets pulled off the stunning 15-14 upset.
Reading finished 8-1 in his senior year to earn a share of the Middlesex League title. Gino was good enough to start at tackle for three years for some of the great RMHS football teams of the mid-60s. In his junior year, his line play keyed the Rockets to one of their greatest seasons, an undefeated 9-0 record in 1965.
His senior year, Gino was selected as a first team Middlesex League All-Star and was named All-Scholastic by the Boston Herald and Boston Traveler.
In addition to his exploits on the football field, Gino threw the shot put and discus for the track team.
He was co-captain of both the football and track team in his senior year.
Class of 1967- Inducted 2011- Football, Track
A giant of a player at six feet, 230 pounds, Gino loomed large in an era when the 200 pound lineman was uncommon. But he was not only big, he played big.
Gino was a powerful blocker and a force on the defensive line. But his rare athletic ability for a player his size allowed head coach John Hollingsworth to use him as a tackle eligible pass receiver and place kicker.
Undoubtedly the biggest thrill of Gino's career came in 1966, his senior season, versus undefeated Melrose. He caught two key passes and had numerous tackles on defense, including a huge stop on a crucial goal line stand at the Reading one yard line. He also recovered two fumbles and kicked the winning extra point as the Rockets pulled off the stunning 15-14 upset.
Reading finished 8-1 in his senior year to earn a share of the Middlesex League title. Gino was good enough to start at tackle for three years for some of the great RMHS football teams of the mid-60s. In his junior year, his line play keyed the Rockets to one of their greatest seasons, an undefeated 9-0 record in 1965.
His senior year, Gino was selected as a first team Middlesex League All-Star and was named All-Scholastic by the Boston Herald and Boston Traveler.
In addition to his exploits on the football field, Gino threw the shot put and discus for the track team.
He was co-captain of both the football and track team in his senior year.
LESLEY SHEEHAN
Class of 1980- Inducted 2001- Tennis
Perhaps the greatest female tennis player to ever play for RMHS, Lesley 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.
Lesley 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 Lesley 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.
Lesley 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, Lesley 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.
Lesley 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 Lesley 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.
Lesley 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.
JESS SILVA
Class of 2000- Inducted 2009- Track, Soccer
In her years at RMHS Jess was a varsity level performer in soccer and track. During that time she was captain of four different teams, was an All-League performer in each sport as well as a Boston Globe All-Scholastic. In the course of her track career, she set three individual school records and two relay team records which had not been topped at the time of her induction.
Jess played varsity soccer for four years and was team captain in junior and senior seasons and was the second leading scorer in the Middlesex League. Her awards included Middlesex League All-Star and Massachusetts All-Star.
In the winter Jess translated her speed on the soccer field to the track oval. Starting in her freshman year, she was a relay team winner at the New England championships. During the outdoor season her sophomore year, Jess was named a ML All-Star and part of another 4x400 Class B relay title. In her junior year, she placed second in the long jump and third in the 100m state Class B championship. Named a captain for her senior year, Jess won the long jump at the Andover Invitational, placed second at the state Class B long jump and 200m and was a member of the winning 4x400 relay team which finished first in record time. At both the All-State and New England championships she was part of the second place finishing 4x400 relay team.
Jess' collegiate track career at Westfield State was equally astounding. A three year team captain and MVP, she broke four individual school records and qualified for the Nationals twice. She was named All-ECAC, All-New England seven times for indoor and outdoor combined and was a nominee for the NCAA Woman of the Year. In her senior year she received the Howard C. Smith Award as the top female senior student athlete in the Massachusetts state college system. Jess graduated cum laude from Westfield State and received a Masters degree from Salem State.
Class of 2000- Inducted 2009- Track, Soccer
In her years at RMHS Jess was a varsity level performer in soccer and track. During that time she was captain of four different teams, was an All-League performer in each sport as well as a Boston Globe All-Scholastic. In the course of her track career, she set three individual school records and two relay team records which had not been topped at the time of her induction.
Jess played varsity soccer for four years and was team captain in junior and senior seasons and was the second leading scorer in the Middlesex League. Her awards included Middlesex League All-Star and Massachusetts All-Star.
In the winter Jess translated her speed on the soccer field to the track oval. Starting in her freshman year, she was a relay team winner at the New England championships. During the outdoor season her sophomore year, Jess was named a ML All-Star and part of another 4x400 Class B relay title. In her junior year, she placed second in the long jump and third in the 100m state Class B championship. Named a captain for her senior year, Jess won the long jump at the Andover Invitational, placed second at the state Class B long jump and 200m and was a member of the winning 4x400 relay team which finished first in record time. At both the All-State and New England championships she was part of the second place finishing 4x400 relay team.
Jess' collegiate track career at Westfield State was equally astounding. A three year team captain and MVP, she broke four individual school records and qualified for the Nationals twice. She was named All-ECAC, All-New England seven times for indoor and outdoor combined and was a nominee for the NCAA Woman of the Year. In her senior year she received the Howard C. Smith Award as the top female senior student athlete in the Massachusetts state college system. Jess graduated cum laude from Westfield State and received a Masters degree from Salem State.
STEVE SMITH
Class of 1985- Inducted 2007- Hockey
Though his hockey career began as a sophomore playing in the shadow of RMHS Athletic Hall of Fame inductee Mike Golden, by the time he graduated Steve took a back seat to no one.
A two time Boston Herald All-Scholastic, he left Reading High with four school records, including most career points (146), most career goals (75), most single season points (66) and most single season goals (32).
His 25 goals as a junior set a RMHS single season record which he smashed with a 32 goal, 34 assist, 66 point senior season. He was also a two time Middlesex All-Leaguer and three time all-star.
In Steve's days Reading was far from the powerhouse it became. Not since the 1976-77 campaign had the Rockets managed a winning season. But he helped change those fortunes, In his three seasons on the varsity, the Rockets finished 41-14-10, qualified for row tournaments and won a rare Middlesex League title.
Watertown was favored to win the Middlesex League in Steve's sophomore year, but led by Golden and Smith, who had 18 goals and 16 assists, the Rockets went 15-3-4 and won the league title.
As a junior he scored 25 goals and added 21 assists, including a team best eight power play goals and four game winning goals.
He was co-captain in his senior year and his leadership helped the Rockets set a school record for the most wins in a single season (16). Reading finished 16-5-2 overall. In the league their record was 13-3-2 good for second place behind Watertown.
In his junior and senior years, Steve earned high honors with back to back selections to play for Team Massachusetts in the Junior Olympic Hockey Tournament. His outstanding play helped pave the way to a full Division One hockey scholarship to the University of New Hampshire.
Class of 1985- Inducted 2007- Hockey
Though his hockey career began as a sophomore playing in the shadow of RMHS Athletic Hall of Fame inductee Mike Golden, by the time he graduated Steve took a back seat to no one.
A two time Boston Herald All-Scholastic, he left Reading High with four school records, including most career points (146), most career goals (75), most single season points (66) and most single season goals (32).
His 25 goals as a junior set a RMHS single season record which he smashed with a 32 goal, 34 assist, 66 point senior season. He was also a two time Middlesex All-Leaguer and three time all-star.
In Steve's days Reading was far from the powerhouse it became. Not since the 1976-77 campaign had the Rockets managed a winning season. But he helped change those fortunes, In his three seasons on the varsity, the Rockets finished 41-14-10, qualified for row tournaments and won a rare Middlesex League title.
Watertown was favored to win the Middlesex League in Steve's sophomore year, but led by Golden and Smith, who had 18 goals and 16 assists, the Rockets went 15-3-4 and won the league title.
As a junior he scored 25 goals and added 21 assists, including a team best eight power play goals and four game winning goals.
He was co-captain in his senior year and his leadership helped the Rockets set a school record for the most wins in a single season (16). Reading finished 16-5-2 overall. In the league their record was 13-3-2 good for second place behind Watertown.
In his junior and senior years, Steve earned high honors with back to back selections to play for Team Massachusetts in the Junior Olympic Hockey Tournament. His outstanding play helped pave the way to a full Division One hockey scholarship to the University of New Hampshire.
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.
MIKE SULLIVAN
Class of 1992- Inducted 2003- Hockey
Mike will forever be linked with the best who ever played for the Rockets after a terrific four year career.
A tall and lanky centerman, Mike was a multifaceted player who did nothing exceptional but everything very well. He graduated as RMHS's all-time scoring leader with 88 goals and 102 assists for 190 points. He parlayed his high success into a college hockey scholarship to the University of New Hampshire and was drafted 118th overall by the Detroit
Red Wings in the 1992 Entry Draft.
The 6'1", 190 pound sophomore began a stretch where he led the Rockets in scoring for three straight years. The team was Middlesex League champs in his sophomore and junior years.
The Rockets secured a berth in the inaugural Division 1A Super 8 tournament in his junior year. That year he scored 24 goals and had 34 assists to pace the Rockets with 58 points. Mike was selected to the All- MIddlesex League team for the second year and was named ML MVP.
As a senior, Mike had a huge season scoring a school record 39 goals and amassing 80 points, a record he still held at the time of his induction into the Hall of Fame. He also led the team to one of its greatest wins, a 5-4 upset of Matignon in the Division 1A Super 8 tournament. Mike had a five point night with two goals and three assists. He was again named ML MVP.
Mike played four years for UNH and won two major awards from the school, The Robert A. Kullen Unsung Hero Award in 1994 and the Charles E. Holt Coaches Award in 1996. He was team captain in his senior year.
Mike embarked on a professional hockey career after graduation and played in the minor leagues for the next few season in the East Coast League and the American Hockey League.
Class of 1992- Inducted 2003- Hockey
Mike will forever be linked with the best who ever played for the Rockets after a terrific four year career.
A tall and lanky centerman, Mike was a multifaceted player who did nothing exceptional but everything very well. He graduated as RMHS's all-time scoring leader with 88 goals and 102 assists for 190 points. He parlayed his high success into a college hockey scholarship to the University of New Hampshire and was drafted 118th overall by the Detroit
Red Wings in the 1992 Entry Draft.
The 6'1", 190 pound sophomore began a stretch where he led the Rockets in scoring for three straight years. The team was Middlesex League champs in his sophomore and junior years.
The Rockets secured a berth in the inaugural Division 1A Super 8 tournament in his junior year. That year he scored 24 goals and had 34 assists to pace the Rockets with 58 points. Mike was selected to the All- MIddlesex League team for the second year and was named ML MVP.
As a senior, Mike had a huge season scoring a school record 39 goals and amassing 80 points, a record he still held at the time of his induction into the Hall of Fame. He also led the team to one of its greatest wins, a 5-4 upset of Matignon in the Division 1A Super 8 tournament. Mike had a five point night with two goals and three assists. He was again named ML MVP.
Mike played four years for UNH and won two major awards from the school, The Robert A. Kullen Unsung Hero Award in 1994 and the Charles E. Holt Coaches Award in 1996. He was team captain in his senior year.
Mike embarked on a professional hockey career after graduation and played in the minor leagues for the next few season in the East Coast League and the American Hockey League.
JEN THOMPSON
Class of 1996- Inducted 2007- Basketball
While a handful of great girls' basketball players have established at Reading High, it was Jen who set the bar for future hard court heroics.
During her senior campaign, she made history by becoming the school's first female hoops player to eclipse the 1000 career point mark. When all was said and done, she finished with 1067 points and two Middlesex League Most Valuable Player honors, setting a standard for all other Reading High players to follow.
From her sophomore to her senior season, Jen led the Lady Rockets by dropping more than 300 points in each of those three years.
The 1000 point milestone came in her final home game against Woburn in which she torched the Tannerettes for 39 points. A week later in the season finale, she brought her hot hand to Stoneham and dropped in 40 more points.
Her late season surge helped her finish her high school career as the Middlesex League scoring champion.
While Jen achieved a considerable amount of individual success during her four year career, her efforts also helped revive a program that had struggled over the past two decades. Although she never had the opportunity to raise a Middlesex League championship banner, she led the Lady Rockets to an 11-8 record her senior year, which was good enough to put the team in the postseason for the first time since 1979.
Jen established herself as the premier player in the Middlesex League in her junior and senior seasons, in which she was named not only an All-Star but League MVP both years.
Jen attended Regis College, where in her senior year she was team captain of the basketball team and eclipsed the 1000 point mark. At the time of her induction was the fifth all-time leading scorer in Regis team history.
Class of 1996- Inducted 2007- Basketball
While a handful of great girls' basketball players have established at Reading High, it was Jen who set the bar for future hard court heroics.
During her senior campaign, she made history by becoming the school's first female hoops player to eclipse the 1000 career point mark. When all was said and done, she finished with 1067 points and two Middlesex League Most Valuable Player honors, setting a standard for all other Reading High players to follow.
From her sophomore to her senior season, Jen led the Lady Rockets by dropping more than 300 points in each of those three years.
The 1000 point milestone came in her final home game against Woburn in which she torched the Tannerettes for 39 points. A week later in the season finale, she brought her hot hand to Stoneham and dropped in 40 more points.
Her late season surge helped her finish her high school career as the Middlesex League scoring champion.
While Jen achieved a considerable amount of individual success during her four year career, her efforts also helped revive a program that had struggled over the past two decades. Although she never had the opportunity to raise a Middlesex League championship banner, she led the Lady Rockets to an 11-8 record her senior year, which was good enough to put the team in the postseason for the first time since 1979.
Jen established herself as the premier player in the Middlesex League in her junior and senior seasons, in which she was named not only an All-Star but League MVP both years.
Jen attended Regis College, where in her senior year she was team captain of the basketball team and eclipsed the 1000 point mark. At the time of her induction was the fifth all-time leading scorer in Regis team history.
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.
EXCELL WALKER
Class of 1997- Inducted 2007- Football, Basketball, Track
Excell had a name that left little doubt he was destined for greatness.
By the time he graduated he "excelled" past even the loftiest of expectations placed on him.
Born in Texas, Excell moved to Massachusetts and played his freshman year at Revere High. In his sophomore year at Reading, his natural ability allowed him to immediately start on the basketball team which he led in scoring with 241 points.
Reading's lone tournament berth during Excel's tenure on the basketball team came in the 1995-96 season, which was his junior year. He led the team in scoring (347 points) and average points per game (17) and was second in total rebounds (95) and steals (41). The team finished with a record of 11-10, a winning record for the first time since the 1986-87 season.
In the 1995 football season, Excell's junior year, he was a dual purpose running back/ receiving threat and starting cornerback for the Rockets, who set a school record for most wins, going 11-0. The team played in the Division 2A Super Bowl, winning the game for RMHS's first Super Bowl championship.
In his senior year, he was the cornerstone of the undefeated 1996 football team that defeated Acton-Boxborough 20-0 for their second straight Division 2A Super Bowl win.
Excell's gaudy statistics included most rushing yards in a single game (257 vs, Woburn in 1996, most touchdowns in a single game (6, also against Woburn), 1377 yards rushing in a season in 1996 (second highest in school history) and 902 points scored scored in basketball at RMHS, which placed him fifth all-time. If the points he scored at Revere High he has 1112 total career points. All records were in effect at the time of his induction.
He was no slouch in track and in his senior year he shined in the 100 and 200 meter dashes. He also ran a leg for Reading's 4x100 relay team.
After graduation Excell attended Division 1-AA Northeastern and played defensive back for the Huskies.
Class of 1997- Inducted 2007- Football, Basketball, Track
Excell had a name that left little doubt he was destined for greatness.
By the time he graduated he "excelled" past even the loftiest of expectations placed on him.
Born in Texas, Excell moved to Massachusetts and played his freshman year at Revere High. In his sophomore year at Reading, his natural ability allowed him to immediately start on the basketball team which he led in scoring with 241 points.
Reading's lone tournament berth during Excel's tenure on the basketball team came in the 1995-96 season, which was his junior year. He led the team in scoring (347 points) and average points per game (17) and was second in total rebounds (95) and steals (41). The team finished with a record of 11-10, a winning record for the first time since the 1986-87 season.
In the 1995 football season, Excell's junior year, he was a dual purpose running back/ receiving threat and starting cornerback for the Rockets, who set a school record for most wins, going 11-0. The team played in the Division 2A Super Bowl, winning the game for RMHS's first Super Bowl championship.
In his senior year, he was the cornerstone of the undefeated 1996 football team that defeated Acton-Boxborough 20-0 for their second straight Division 2A Super Bowl win.
Excell's gaudy statistics included most rushing yards in a single game (257 vs, Woburn in 1996, most touchdowns in a single game (6, also against Woburn), 1377 yards rushing in a season in 1996 (second highest in school history) and 902 points scored scored in basketball at RMHS, which placed him fifth all-time. If the points he scored at Revere High he has 1112 total career points. All records were in effect at the time of his induction.
He was no slouch in track and in his senior year he shined in the 100 and 200 meter dashes. He also ran a leg for Reading's 4x100 relay team.
After graduation Excell attended Division 1-AA Northeastern and played defensive back for the Huskies.
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.
BRIAN WILSON
Class of 1985- Inducted 2003- Basketball
Brian was brilliant guard on the basketball team with slashing drives to the hoop and long range jumpers. When he graduated he was the runaway leading scorer in RMHS history with 1547 career points.
In his freshman year, Brian managed impressive numbers, averaging 12.5 points per game and 3.7 assists per game. His numbers improved his second year when the maturing backcourt star posted 17.4 points per game and 4.2 assists per game.
Brian's drives, long jumpers and lightning quick transition game during his junior year paced him to the greatest single season per game scoring average in RMHS history. His 23.5 points average was still the school record at the time of his induction. Brian also had 3.2 assists per game that season.
In his final year, Brian teamed with future RMHS Hall of Famer Steve Lane, giving the Rockets their finest backcourt duo ever. Named as co-captain that season, Brian averaged 22.4 points per game, the second highest in school history. He also dished out 4.4 assists per game and added 4.4 rebounds and 3.2 steals per game.
Brian led the Rockets to a 75-70 win over Acton-Boxborough in the first round of the Division 1 North tournament, poring in 34 points to key the victory. Then in a match up with powerhouse Andover in the North quarter finals, he torched the Warriors for 40 points but it wasn't enough as the Rockets came up just short, 65-63.
After the season, Brian was named Middlesex League MVP, ML All-Star for the third time, Boston Herald All-Scholastic, Boston Globe Division 1 All-Star and Daily Times Chronicle Basketball Player of the Year.
Brian continued his basketball career at St. Joseph's College in Windham, Maine. He later participated with the now famous BABC AAU program in Boston.
Class of 1985- Inducted 2003- Basketball
Brian was brilliant guard on the basketball team with slashing drives to the hoop and long range jumpers. When he graduated he was the runaway leading scorer in RMHS history with 1547 career points.
In his freshman year, Brian managed impressive numbers, averaging 12.5 points per game and 3.7 assists per game. His numbers improved his second year when the maturing backcourt star posted 17.4 points per game and 4.2 assists per game.
Brian's drives, long jumpers and lightning quick transition game during his junior year paced him to the greatest single season per game scoring average in RMHS history. His 23.5 points average was still the school record at the time of his induction. Brian also had 3.2 assists per game that season.
In his final year, Brian teamed with future RMHS Hall of Famer Steve Lane, giving the Rockets their finest backcourt duo ever. Named as co-captain that season, Brian averaged 22.4 points per game, the second highest in school history. He also dished out 4.4 assists per game and added 4.4 rebounds and 3.2 steals per game.
Brian led the Rockets to a 75-70 win over Acton-Boxborough in the first round of the Division 1 North tournament, poring in 34 points to key the victory. Then in a match up with powerhouse Andover in the North quarter finals, he torched the Warriors for 40 points but it wasn't enough as the Rockets came up just short, 65-63.
After the season, Brian was named Middlesex League MVP, ML All-Star for the third time, Boston Herald All-Scholastic, Boston Globe Division 1 All-Star and Daily Times Chronicle Basketball Player of the Year.
Brian continued his basketball career at St. Joseph's College in Windham, Maine. He later participated with the now famous BABC AAU program in Boston.
Inducted Coaches/Contributors 1997-2017
BRUCE APPLEBY
Boys Tennis Coach- Inducted 2015
Bruce Appleby has been tennis coach at RMHS for a remarkable 52 years and still counting. During this time he has been the driving force in growing the boys varsity program from an average one to perennially one of the best in the Middlesex League and with the most coveted fan base.
Bruce’s teams have recorded over 550 wins in the 52 year span. In the past 41 years his teams have a winning percentage of over 70% and have qualified for the post season 32 times, and in 2001 Bruce was recognized as D1 “Coach of the Year” by the Boston Globe.
RMHS Hall of Fame inductee Michael LaPierre says “Through a lifetime of competitive tennis, I’ve had the great fortune to meet a lot of really talented coaches and mentors. None impacted my life more than Bruce.”
The Watertown native joined the teaching staff at RMHS in 1963, after attending Bowdoin College and serving two years in the U.S. Army. He began his first season as boys varsity coach in Spring 1964.
The program broke through and qualified for the tournament five times in a span of six years beginning in 1975. With the ’76, ’79 and ’80 teams all finishing second in the League with a combined record of 29-4.
By the mid-1990’s Bruce had been at it for 30 years and the team was about to enter the golden age. Starting in 1995, the RMHS boys tennis team has been in the MIAA tournament every year for the last 20 years.
In 2001 Reading won the Middlesex League for the first time ever with a 17-1 record. In 2002 they followed that up with a 16-2 record and another league crown. He also led the Rockets to three appearances in the Division 2 North Sectional Finals (2000, 2004, and 2012).
Boys Tennis Coach- Inducted 2015
Bruce Appleby has been tennis coach at RMHS for a remarkable 52 years and still counting. During this time he has been the driving force in growing the boys varsity program from an average one to perennially one of the best in the Middlesex League and with the most coveted fan base.
Bruce’s teams have recorded over 550 wins in the 52 year span. In the past 41 years his teams have a winning percentage of over 70% and have qualified for the post season 32 times, and in 2001 Bruce was recognized as D1 “Coach of the Year” by the Boston Globe.
RMHS Hall of Fame inductee Michael LaPierre says “Through a lifetime of competitive tennis, I’ve had the great fortune to meet a lot of really talented coaches and mentors. None impacted my life more than Bruce.”
The Watertown native joined the teaching staff at RMHS in 1963, after attending Bowdoin College and serving two years in the U.S. Army. He began his first season as boys varsity coach in Spring 1964.
The program broke through and qualified for the tournament five times in a span of six years beginning in 1975. With the ’76, ’79 and ’80 teams all finishing second in the League with a combined record of 29-4.
By the mid-1990’s Bruce had been at it for 30 years and the team was about to enter the golden age. Starting in 1995, the RMHS boys tennis team has been in the MIAA tournament every year for the last 20 years.
In 2001 Reading won the Middlesex League for the first time ever with a 17-1 record. In 2002 they followed that up with a 16-2 record and another league crown. He also led the Rockets to three appearances in the Division 2 North Sectional Finals (2000, 2004, and 2012).
VIRGINIA BARTLETT
Coach, Teacher- Inducted 2013
Something that is often taken for granted today is the inclusion of girls in high school varsity athletics. At RMHS the availability girls varsity sports is the result, largely, to the efforts of one person, Virginia Bartlett.
Virginia joined the staff at RMHS in 1958 as a physical education teacher. From then until her retirement in 1986 she work tirelessly to develop girl varsity and intramural sports programs. She was the driving force behind bringing intramural programs to interscholastic competition, organizing league schedules and assigning game officials. She was the first field hockey coach and at the forefront of the start of the girls track and gymnastics programs. At one point she was the head coach of the field hockey, basketball, and softball varsity teams during one school year. Her 1959 softball team was undefeated. She also organized the Girls Leaders Club which focused on the support of girls intramural sports.
When Athletic Director Walter Hawkes suffered a prolonged illness, Virginia was appointed acting AD.
She took physical education and athletics seriously, viewing these activities as not just games, but as tools to build confidence, teach respect, and inspire her students to be proud of their accomplishments. "The best part has always been the young people and seeing them grow," she said. "It is the reason I chose to become a teacher."
Coach, Teacher- Inducted 2013
Something that is often taken for granted today is the inclusion of girls in high school varsity athletics. At RMHS the availability girls varsity sports is the result, largely, to the efforts of one person, Virginia Bartlett.
Virginia joined the staff at RMHS in 1958 as a physical education teacher. From then until her retirement in 1986 she work tirelessly to develop girl varsity and intramural sports programs. She was the driving force behind bringing intramural programs to interscholastic competition, organizing league schedules and assigning game officials. She was the first field hockey coach and at the forefront of the start of the girls track and gymnastics programs. At one point she was the head coach of the field hockey, basketball, and softball varsity teams during one school year. Her 1959 softball team was undefeated. She also organized the Girls Leaders Club which focused on the support of girls intramural sports.
When Athletic Director Walter Hawkes suffered a prolonged illness, Virginia was appointed acting AD.
She took physical education and athletics seriously, viewing these activities as not just games, but as tools to build confidence, teach respect, and inspire her students to be proud of their accomplishments. "The best part has always been the young people and seeing them grow," she said. "It is the reason I chose to become a teacher."
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.
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.
TOM DARRIN
Wrestling Coach- Inducted 2007
There's no doubt that to succeed at the highest levels in wrestling, you have to push your conditioning to the limit. And Reading head wrestling coach Tom Darrin is a testament to what honest sweat, discipline, and hard work can produce. In the 29 years up to his induction, he had coached the Rockets to six Middlesex League titles with an overall record of 327 wins, 210 losses, and 12 ties.
Tom started his wrestling career at Reading High as a wrestler back in the 1967-68 season. He then wrestled at Phillips Exeter Academy and at Bowdoin College, where he graduated in 1974. At Bowdoin, he was a four year starter, team captain and received All-New England recognition.
His coaching days at Reading began in 1974 as an assistant and in the 1977-78 season took over as head coach. Competing against some of the state's toughest competition like Winchester and Woburn, Tom and the Rockets held their own, winning league titles in 1981, 1982, 1987, 1993, 2005 and 2006.
The 1987 season remains a highlight. Heavy underdogs to Woburn, Reading edged the Tanners by one point to claim the Middlesex League championship.
He has coached some wrestlers to the sport's highest peaks. Tim Holmes remains the only Reading wrestler to win a New England championship. Randy DeRosa, Josh Gardiner and Chris Robichaud were state chamions.
Tom's work earned him several individual honors including Middlesex League Coach of the Year three times. In 1993, he was named Division 2 North Coach of the Year and in 2006, the Boston Globe Division 2 Coach of the Year.
Under Tom, the Rockets have established a reputation for great sportsmanship, winning Massachusetts Interscholastic Wrestling Coaches Association and MIAA sportsmanship awards.
In 1999, Rom achieved his highest honor when he was inducted into the Massachusetts Interscholastic Wrestling Coaches Association Hall of Fame.
Wrestling Coach- Inducted 2007
There's no doubt that to succeed at the highest levels in wrestling, you have to push your conditioning to the limit. And Reading head wrestling coach Tom Darrin is a testament to what honest sweat, discipline, and hard work can produce. In the 29 years up to his induction, he had coached the Rockets to six Middlesex League titles with an overall record of 327 wins, 210 losses, and 12 ties.
Tom started his wrestling career at Reading High as a wrestler back in the 1967-68 season. He then wrestled at Phillips Exeter Academy and at Bowdoin College, where he graduated in 1974. At Bowdoin, he was a four year starter, team captain and received All-New England recognition.
His coaching days at Reading began in 1974 as an assistant and in the 1977-78 season took over as head coach. Competing against some of the state's toughest competition like Winchester and Woburn, Tom and the Rockets held their own, winning league titles in 1981, 1982, 1987, 1993, 2005 and 2006.
The 1987 season remains a highlight. Heavy underdogs to Woburn, Reading edged the Tanners by one point to claim the Middlesex League championship.
He has coached some wrestlers to the sport's highest peaks. Tim Holmes remains the only Reading wrestler to win a New England championship. Randy DeRosa, Josh Gardiner and Chris Robichaud were state chamions.
Tom's work earned him several individual honors including Middlesex League Coach of the Year three times. In 1993, he was named Division 2 North Coach of the Year and in 2006, the Boston Globe Division 2 Coach of the Year.
Under Tom, the Rockets have established a reputation for great sportsmanship, winning Massachusetts Interscholastic Wrestling Coaches Association and MIAA sportsmanship awards.
In 1999, Rom achieved his highest honor when he was inducted into the Massachusetts Interscholastic Wrestling Coaches Association Hall of Fame.
PETER DOHERTY
Boys Hockey Coach- Inducted 2007
When Peter took over the RMHS hockey team at the start of the 1980-81 season, the program was nowhere near the heights it was to attain later.
But in the 27 years,at the time of induction, he had served as head coach, Peter had helped elevate Reading into one of the elite public school programs in Massachusetts.
Peter's accomplishments include a career coaching record through 2006 of 414-144- 62, 15 Middlesex League titles, a Division 1 North Sectional title in 1988 and 12 invitations to the prestigious Super 8 tournament.
That kind of success translated into Peter being named Coach of the Year by the Boston Globe in 1988 and 1996 as well as Daily Times Chronicle's Coach of the Year in 2005.
He established himself in Reading Youth Hockey and his hiring proved critical in keeping the hockey talent in Reading which turned around the fortunes of the high school program. In the first two years there wasn't much of a change, record wise, as the Rockets went 4-12-2 and 6-12-
But those were relatively young teams and change was coming soon as the youthful players developed into seasoned talent. Mike Golden was the brightest of those young, talented players who normally would have played high school hockey elsewhere, but opted to remain in Reading thanks to Peter, who was Mike's youth hockey coach.
In 1982-83, Mike Golden's All-Scholastic senior year, the Rockets won their first ever Middlesex League title and a date to play Matigon in the old Boston Garden. The tradition was born.
Beginning with the breakthrough season, the RMHS boys hockey program reeled off 25 straight winning years with 23 straight tournament berths. In 1983-84, the team missed the postseason because their 10-6-4 record didn't qualify under the former 70 percent win requirement to qualify.
Boys Hockey Coach- Inducted 2007
When Peter took over the RMHS hockey team at the start of the 1980-81 season, the program was nowhere near the heights it was to attain later.
But in the 27 years,at the time of induction, he had served as head coach, Peter had helped elevate Reading into one of the elite public school programs in Massachusetts.
Peter's accomplishments include a career coaching record through 2006 of 414-144- 62, 15 Middlesex League titles, a Division 1 North Sectional title in 1988 and 12 invitations to the prestigious Super 8 tournament.
That kind of success translated into Peter being named Coach of the Year by the Boston Globe in 1988 and 1996 as well as Daily Times Chronicle's Coach of the Year in 2005.
He established himself in Reading Youth Hockey and his hiring proved critical in keeping the hockey talent in Reading which turned around the fortunes of the high school program. In the first two years there wasn't much of a change, record wise, as the Rockets went 4-12-2 and 6-12-
But those were relatively young teams and change was coming soon as the youthful players developed into seasoned talent. Mike Golden was the brightest of those young, talented players who normally would have played high school hockey elsewhere, but opted to remain in Reading thanks to Peter, who was Mike's youth hockey coach.
In 1982-83, Mike Golden's All-Scholastic senior year, the Rockets won their first ever Middlesex League title and a date to play Matigon in the old Boston Garden. The tradition was born.
Beginning with the breakthrough season, the RMHS boys hockey program reeled off 25 straight winning years with 23 straight tournament berths. In 1983-84, the team missed the postseason because their 10-6-4 record didn't qualify under the former 70 percent win requirement to qualify.
KEN FEIT
Girls Track Coach- Inducted 2005
RMHS track and field success for years was regarded as a boy's phenomenon alone. But to overlook Ken's accomplishments and his contributions to girls track would be a disservice to some great runners and one of the school's all-time great coaches.
In his first 21 years with the Lady Rockets, coaching both indoor and outdoor track, his teams won an astounding 15 Middlesex League titles. Indoors, the team had a record 167-19-3 in that time and outdoors the Lady Rockets record was 174-12-3 under Ken's watch, an overall 91 percent winning record.
Ken is no stranger to success at the state level. The Lady Rockets rang up five indoor State Class B championships and three outdoors Class B titles. His teams were also a fixture on the first place pedestal at the indoor and outdoor Class B relays.
A Saginaw, Michigan native, he was a three sport athlete at Arthur Miller High School. Later, he attended Hope College in Holland, Michigan, where he played football and ran track.
Ken coached both football and track in Fremont, Michigan and at Tufts University, then girls track at Boston University. In the winter of 1983, he became head coach of the Reading girls track team.
The 90's were a golden era as the Lady Rockets won an astounding six straight Class B outdoor relay titles from 1995-2000 and seven straight indoor relay titles from 1993-2000.
In June 1996, Ken led the Lady Rockets to their first and only All-State title and he was named Boston Globe Girls Track Coach of the Year.for his accomplishments that spring.
Four years later, he took home, perhaps his highest individual honor when he was inducted into the Masssachusetts State Track Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2000.
Girls Track Coach- Inducted 2005
RMHS track and field success for years was regarded as a boy's phenomenon alone. But to overlook Ken's accomplishments and his contributions to girls track would be a disservice to some great runners and one of the school's all-time great coaches.
In his first 21 years with the Lady Rockets, coaching both indoor and outdoor track, his teams won an astounding 15 Middlesex League titles. Indoors, the team had a record 167-19-3 in that time and outdoors the Lady Rockets record was 174-12-3 under Ken's watch, an overall 91 percent winning record.
Ken is no stranger to success at the state level. The Lady Rockets rang up five indoor State Class B championships and three outdoors Class B titles. His teams were also a fixture on the first place pedestal at the indoor and outdoor Class B relays.
A Saginaw, Michigan native, he was a three sport athlete at Arthur Miller High School. Later, he attended Hope College in Holland, Michigan, where he played football and ran track.
Ken coached both football and track in Fremont, Michigan and at Tufts University, then girls track at Boston University. In the winter of 1983, he became head coach of the Reading girls track team.
The 90's were a golden era as the Lady Rockets won an astounding six straight Class B outdoor relay titles from 1995-2000 and seven straight indoor relay titles from 1993-2000.
In June 1996, Ken led the Lady Rockets to their first and only All-State title and he was named Boston Globe Girls Track Coach of the Year.for his accomplishments that spring.
Four years later, he took home, perhaps his highest individual honor when he was inducted into the Masssachusetts State Track Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2000.
WALTER E. HAWKES
Coach, Athletic Director- Inducted 1997
Walter joined the Reading school system in 1933 and was a teacher-coach at the Walter S. Parker Junior High School for 23 years. Coach Hawkes became Reading High's Athletic Director in 1958 while also coaching the varsity basketball team through the early 1960s and teaching physical education classes. In fact, at the time of his death in December 1976, Walter was the only Middlesex League AD who also had teaching responsibilities. He used these dual roles to become a mentor for many of Reading's younger, less experienced teachers and coaches.
In 1972, the newly constructed field house was named in his honor. According to Lawrence O'Keefe, chairman of the citizens committee that succeeded in having the field house named after him, "No one can put into words how much the field house meant to him. He was just pleased the youth in town and adults for that matter, had such a facility for their use." How much did the field house mean to Coach? He and his wife Stella celebrated their 40th wedding anniversity there.
In the December 29, 1976 edition of The Reading Chronicle, a young local scribe reported on the year's top five sports stories. Fred Conover wrote in part, "the top story concerns the loss of the greatest man Reading sports has ever known. . . . (Walter's) influence on the people and tthe Town of Reading will never be lost."
We trust Walter's inclusion in the RMHS Athletic Hall of Fame will help preserve the flame of enthusiasm for athletics, pride and sportsmanship that Walter Hawkes carried with such dignity.
Coach, Athletic Director- Inducted 1997
Walter joined the Reading school system in 1933 and was a teacher-coach at the Walter S. Parker Junior High School for 23 years. Coach Hawkes became Reading High's Athletic Director in 1958 while also coaching the varsity basketball team through the early 1960s and teaching physical education classes. In fact, at the time of his death in December 1976, Walter was the only Middlesex League AD who also had teaching responsibilities. He used these dual roles to become a mentor for many of Reading's younger, less experienced teachers and coaches.
In 1972, the newly constructed field house was named in his honor. According to Lawrence O'Keefe, chairman of the citizens committee that succeeded in having the field house named after him, "No one can put into words how much the field house meant to him. He was just pleased the youth in town and adults for that matter, had such a facility for their use." How much did the field house mean to Coach? He and his wife Stella celebrated their 40th wedding anniversity there.
In the December 29, 1976 edition of The Reading Chronicle, a young local scribe reported on the year's top five sports stories. Fred Conover wrote in part, "the top story concerns the loss of the greatest man Reading sports has ever known. . . . (Walter's) influence on the people and tthe Town of Reading will never be lost."
We trust Walter's inclusion in the RMHS Athletic Hall of Fame will help preserve the flame of enthusiasm for athletics, pride and sportsmanship that Walter Hawkes carried with such dignity.
JOHN HOLLINGSWORTH
Teacher, Coach, Athletic Director- Inducted 1998
John served the youth of Reading for over 25 years as RMHS athletic director, long time mathematics teacher and head football coach at RMHS.
Throughout his career in Reading, John and his wife Nancy, herself an educator, were hld in very high esteem by both the young people and adults with whom they came in contact. John coached football ay RMHS for twenty seasons (1955-1974) and his teams had an overall record of 102-67-11. In those twenty football season, his teams earned five Middlesex League titles (four outright), a Class B co-championship, three undefeated seasons (two other seasons with only one loss) and a trip to the 1974 Super Bowl. "Bud," as he is known by close friends, also had the joy of coaching two sons (Jack and Ken) during his coaching career.
Many Reading young men grew up under the tutelage of John and his many assistant coaches over the years. Whether
his team finished in first place or, though not often, in the middle of the pack, John and his assistants helped make each season a positive learning experience for his players.
The coach's legacy, however, was not established solely on the gridiron. John was also a very successful golf coach at RMHS and served as the head basketball coach for three years (1955-58). One of his players, Hall of Famer Don McGillicuddy, benefited from the tutelage of coach Hollingsworth on the basketball court.
Teacher, Coach, Athletic Director- Inducted 1998
John served the youth of Reading for over 25 years as RMHS athletic director, long time mathematics teacher and head football coach at RMHS.
Throughout his career in Reading, John and his wife Nancy, herself an educator, were hld in very high esteem by both the young people and adults with whom they came in contact. John coached football ay RMHS for twenty seasons (1955-1974) and his teams had an overall record of 102-67-11. In those twenty football season, his teams earned five Middlesex League titles (four outright), a Class B co-championship, three undefeated seasons (two other seasons with only one loss) and a trip to the 1974 Super Bowl. "Bud," as he is known by close friends, also had the joy of coaching two sons (Jack and Ken) during his coaching career.
Many Reading young men grew up under the tutelage of John and his many assistant coaches over the years. Whether
his team finished in first place or, though not often, in the middle of the pack, John and his assistants helped make each season a positive learning experience for his players.
The coach's legacy, however, was not established solely on the gridiron. John was also a very successful golf coach at RMHS and served as the head basketball coach for three years (1955-58). One of his players, Hall of Famer Don McGillicuddy, benefited from the tutelage of coach Hollingsworth on the basketball court.
MIM JAREMA
Field Hockey Coach- Inducted 2009
In 1989, athletic director Jack White sought to find a good candidate for the vacant varsity field hockey team head coach position. In search of a coach who would stay on the job for an extended period, Mim was offered the postion. She agreed to temporarily fill the void for no more than three years. At the time of her induction she had been in the position for 20 years.
In that span, Mim completely turned the program around and developed a perennial contender. Through 2008, her teams have been in the state tournament every year and have won at least one game in the tournament. Her team has been Middlesex League champions four times; 1991 (just her secondsecond season), 1992, 2002 and 2007. The 1991 and 2002 teams were Division 1 North finalists and the 1992 and 2004 teams were Division 1 North champions. In both of the championship years the teams lost in the semifinals of the Division 1 state tournament. Om induction night her field hockey teams have won 271 games while losing 67 and tying 53 for an average of .693.
She was named a Boston Globe All-Scholastic coach in 2004 and Middlesex League Coach of the Year three times.
In the mid 90s, in addition to her position as field hockey coach, Mim stepped in to fill a vacancy as head coach of the already successful softball program. It was a short tenure that lasted only three years. In that time, the 1994 and 1995 teams were Middlesex League champions and those teams plus the 1996 team qualified for the Division 1 North tournament. Her three year record was 55 wins and 11 losses for a .833 average and she was named Middlesex League Coach of the Year during that span.
Field Hockey Coach- Inducted 2009
In 1989, athletic director Jack White sought to find a good candidate for the vacant varsity field hockey team head coach position. In search of a coach who would stay on the job for an extended period, Mim was offered the postion. She agreed to temporarily fill the void for no more than three years. At the time of her induction she had been in the position for 20 years.
In that span, Mim completely turned the program around and developed a perennial contender. Through 2008, her teams have been in the state tournament every year and have won at least one game in the tournament. Her team has been Middlesex League champions four times; 1991 (just her secondsecond season), 1992, 2002 and 2007. The 1991 and 2002 teams were Division 1 North finalists and the 1992 and 2004 teams were Division 1 North champions. In both of the championship years the teams lost in the semifinals of the Division 1 state tournament. Om induction night her field hockey teams have won 271 games while losing 67 and tying 53 for an average of .693.
She was named a Boston Globe All-Scholastic coach in 2004 and Middlesex League Coach of the Year three times.
In the mid 90s, in addition to her position as field hockey coach, Mim stepped in to fill a vacancy as head coach of the already successful softball program. It was a short tenure that lasted only three years. In that time, the 1994 and 1995 teams were Middlesex League champions and those teams plus the 1996 team qualified for the Division 1 North tournament. Her three year record was 55 wins and 11 losses for a .833 average and she was named Middlesex League Coach of the Year during that span.
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.
LOIS MARGESON
Girls Swim Team Coach- Inducted 2009
In August 1988 Lois was appointed the first coach of the RMHS girls swim team. She built a program which has made her teams a perennial Middlesex League power. Since the 1991 season, her teams have been ML champs nine times up to 2009 and have had nine second place finishes. During this span the teams have only loss nine Middlesex League dual meets and have had nine undefeated ML seasons.
At the state level, competing at a Division One level, her teams have finished in the top ten of the North Sectionals seventeen of the eighteen years up to 2009 and in the top five from 2003 to 2008. Her 2008 team won the North Sectional meet and was third overall in the All State meet.
Lois was recognized as the Coach of the Year by the Reading Chronicle in 2008. She was named Girls Swim Coach of the Year by the Boston Globe in 2005.
Her team entered the 2009 season with an undefeated streak of 32 Middlesex League meets and four straight ML titles. Lois looked for girls who are willing to work to their fullest ability every day at practice and perform their best when it counts the most. She has said "Life is not measured by the breaths you take, but rather by the moments that take your breath away."
Girls Swim Team Coach- Inducted 2009
In August 1988 Lois was appointed the first coach of the RMHS girls swim team. She built a program which has made her teams a perennial Middlesex League power. Since the 1991 season, her teams have been ML champs nine times up to 2009 and have had nine second place finishes. During this span the teams have only loss nine Middlesex League dual meets and have had nine undefeated ML seasons.
At the state level, competing at a Division One level, her teams have finished in the top ten of the North Sectionals seventeen of the eighteen years up to 2009 and in the top five from 2003 to 2008. Her 2008 team won the North Sectional meet and was third overall in the All State meet.
Lois was recognized as the Coach of the Year by the Reading Chronicle in 2008. She was named Girls Swim Coach of the Year by the Boston Globe in 2005.
Her team entered the 2009 season with an undefeated streak of 32 Middlesex League meets and four straight ML titles. Lois looked for girls who are willing to work to their fullest ability every day at practice and perform their best when it counts the most. She has said "Life is not measured by the breaths you take, but rather by the moments that take your breath away."
PETE MOSCARIELLO
Baseball Coach- Inducted 2005
Pete was just 23 years old when he became the head baseball coach at Reading High in 1977. Since then his name has become so synonymous with Rockets baseball that it is difficult to imagine the program without him.
The baseball team had been Middlesex League champions ten times with a 429-161 record at the conclusion of the 2004 season. Despite the tough competition in a highly competitive league with teams like Lexington and Stoneham, Pete built one of the best programs in the ML and with the exception of one season, his teams have won at least half of their games each season under his tenure.
Pete's teams, up to the time of his induction, have qualified for the state tournament 21 times including the Division 2 North finals four times. In 1996, the team won the Middlesex League and for the only time in school history, the state championship. Spearheaded by RMHS 2003 Hall of Famer Steve Langone and 2005 Hall of Famer David Pizzotti, the Rockets beat Auburn 7-0 in the Division 2 final to complete a 24-2 season. At the end of the season, Pete was named the Boston Globe Coach of the Year.
Pete has been a member of Massachusetts Baseball Coaches Association his entire career. In 1993, he collaborated with Lexington head coach, Tom O'Grady, organizing an annual trip to the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. There the Minutemen and Rockets played a league game on historic Doubleday Field, the birthplace of baseball.
Pete graduated from UNH in 1975 and was hired to teach math at Reading High. He took over the varsity program when Gil Congdon left following the 1976 season.
The program blossomed in the late 1980s. By the 1990s, a string of league championships and tournament berths followed. In 2002, Pete received his highest honor when inducted into the Massachusetts Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame.
Baseball Coach- Inducted 2005
Pete was just 23 years old when he became the head baseball coach at Reading High in 1977. Since then his name has become so synonymous with Rockets baseball that it is difficult to imagine the program without him.
The baseball team had been Middlesex League champions ten times with a 429-161 record at the conclusion of the 2004 season. Despite the tough competition in a highly competitive league with teams like Lexington and Stoneham, Pete built one of the best programs in the ML and with the exception of one season, his teams have won at least half of their games each season under his tenure.
Pete's teams, up to the time of his induction, have qualified for the state tournament 21 times including the Division 2 North finals four times. In 1996, the team won the Middlesex League and for the only time in school history, the state championship. Spearheaded by RMHS 2003 Hall of Famer Steve Langone and 2005 Hall of Famer David Pizzotti, the Rockets beat Auburn 7-0 in the Division 2 final to complete a 24-2 season. At the end of the season, Pete was named the Boston Globe Coach of the Year.
Pete has been a member of Massachusetts Baseball Coaches Association his entire career. In 1993, he collaborated with Lexington head coach, Tom O'Grady, organizing an annual trip to the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. There the Minutemen and Rockets played a league game on historic Doubleday Field, the birthplace of baseball.
Pete graduated from UNH in 1975 and was hired to teach math at Reading High. He took over the varsity program when Gil Congdon left following the 1976 season.
The program blossomed in the late 1980s. By the 1990s, a string of league championships and tournament berths followed. In 2002, Pete received his highest honor when inducted into the Massachusetts Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame.
KIM PENNEY
Girls Basketball Coach- Inducted 2015
It’s easy to say the highlight of Kim Penney’s 15-year Reading High varsity girls’ basketball coaching career was leading the school to its first-ever state basketball championship in 2012 – the epic finale to a perfect 25-0 season.
Although this momentous achievement — one that secured her reputation as one of the top coaches in the state — is every bit as impressive as it sounds, Kim Penney’s career had so many “highlight-worthy” coaching moments that it’s hard to choose just one.
Best described as a 5-foot-4 firecracker; her energy, enthusiasm, knowledge and love for the game was always apparent. Her genuine interest in the success of each and every one of her student-athletes, both on and off the court, was evident to all those who had the pleasure of having her as a coach or working alongside her.
When Kim took charge of the girls basketball program she breathed new life into it. After two building years in 1998-99 and 1999-2000, the girls program became a state tournament fixture. Penney’s last 13 teams all played in the MIAA tournament.
Under Kim Penney, many great and potential future RMHS Athletic Hall of Famer played under her: Julie Severance, Jenny Shoemaker, Justine Lyons, Mary Silvia, Jackie Lyons, Carlene Kluge, Olivia Healy and Morgan O’Brien all achieved great success at Reading High with Kim Penney as their coach. All were Middlesex League All-Stars and many were All-Scholastic high school players that went on to play college basketball.
The moments that Kim Penney would say define her as a coach are not her mind-blowing 244-90 career coaching record, 5 league championships, 2 sectional championships and a state title, rather the times spent making a positive lasting impression on those around her.
Girls Basketball Coach- Inducted 2015
It’s easy to say the highlight of Kim Penney’s 15-year Reading High varsity girls’ basketball coaching career was leading the school to its first-ever state basketball championship in 2012 – the epic finale to a perfect 25-0 season.
Although this momentous achievement — one that secured her reputation as one of the top coaches in the state — is every bit as impressive as it sounds, Kim Penney’s career had so many “highlight-worthy” coaching moments that it’s hard to choose just one.
Best described as a 5-foot-4 firecracker; her energy, enthusiasm, knowledge and love for the game was always apparent. Her genuine interest in the success of each and every one of her student-athletes, both on and off the court, was evident to all those who had the pleasure of having her as a coach or working alongside her.
When Kim took charge of the girls basketball program she breathed new life into it. After two building years in 1998-99 and 1999-2000, the girls program became a state tournament fixture. Penney’s last 13 teams all played in the MIAA tournament.
Under Kim Penney, many great and potential future RMHS Athletic Hall of Famer played under her: Julie Severance, Jenny Shoemaker, Justine Lyons, Mary Silvia, Jackie Lyons, Carlene Kluge, Olivia Healy and Morgan O’Brien all achieved great success at Reading High with Kim Penney as their coach. All were Middlesex League All-Stars and many were All-Scholastic high school players that went on to play college basketball.
The moments that Kim Penney would say define her as a coach are not her mind-blowing 244-90 career coaching record, 5 league championships, 2 sectional championships and a state title, rather the times spent making a positive lasting impression on those around her.
PHIL VACCARO
Coach, Athletic Director- Inducted 2013
Phil had been employed by Somerville High School before joining RMHS as a math teacher in 1981. He also took a position as varsity soccer coach which he held until he was named Athletic Director. His teams were becoming more successful through the years and finally in 1994, the year after he left, had their best year going undefeated in the Middlesex League and winning the State North Sectional Final.
In his reign as AD the performance of the athletic teams was outstanding, but may be as important to Phil, RMHS won the District B Sportsmanship Award eight times. The football team had five Super Bowl victories. The boys hockey team was the first public school to win the Super Eight title in addition to numerous appearances in the Super Eight tournament. The baseball team, softball team, girls basketball team, and girls swimming team, all won State titles. There were a multitude of sectional titles/finals and league titles in basketball,track, soccer, field hockey, tennis, volleyball, golf and gymnastics. In 2008 and 2010 RMHS received the Boston Globe's Division Two Ames Award for the highest winning percentage for all sports combined. Eight athletes were named Academic All-Scholastics by the Boston Globe.
In 2009 Phil was selected as the Masssachusetts State Athletic Director of the Year and the following year was a finalist for the National Athletic Director of the Year.
Phil always emphasizes the the lifelong and life-quality values learned through educational athletic participation, "Sportsmansip. . . the winning point!"
Coach, Athletic Director- Inducted 2013
Phil had been employed by Somerville High School before joining RMHS as a math teacher in 1981. He also took a position as varsity soccer coach which he held until he was named Athletic Director. His teams were becoming more successful through the years and finally in 1994, the year after he left, had their best year going undefeated in the Middlesex League and winning the State North Sectional Final.
In his reign as AD the performance of the athletic teams was outstanding, but may be as important to Phil, RMHS won the District B Sportsmanship Award eight times. The football team had five Super Bowl victories. The boys hockey team was the first public school to win the Super Eight title in addition to numerous appearances in the Super Eight tournament. The baseball team, softball team, girls basketball team, and girls swimming team, all won State titles. There were a multitude of sectional titles/finals and league titles in basketball,track, soccer, field hockey, tennis, volleyball, golf and gymnastics. In 2008 and 2010 RMHS received the Boston Globe's Division Two Ames Award for the highest winning percentage for all sports combined. Eight athletes were named Academic All-Scholastics by the Boston Globe.
In 2009 Phil was selected as the Masssachusetts State Athletic Director of the Year and the following year was a finalist for the National Athletic Director of the Year.
Phil always emphasizes the the lifelong and life-quality values learned through educational athletic participation, "Sportsmansip. . . the winning point!"
InducteD: teams 1997-2017
1940 BASKETBALL AKA "THE FOXY FIVE"
Inducted in 2017
In what can only be called a “Cinderella Story” 1939-40 basketball team wouldn’t suffer their first loss until March and the Middlesex League champs wrote history at Reading High School by going undefeated in league play a feat that has not been matched in the 78 seasons to follow for the boys program.
The five starters, dubbed as the “Foxy Five”, were forwards Herb White and Lenny Wright, the tallest team member was the 5’11’ center Dick Merritt and the guards were Wally Haselton and John Hrynowski. The five accounted for all but 13 points scored by the team that season.
The game of the season was played at Stoneham HS with the title on the line. The “foxes” came back from a seemingly insurmountable (for the era) 8 point deficit in the fourth quarter. The game was won when White stole the ball from Stoneham then raced down court to hit the winning basket with 4 seconds to play.
The Foxy Five had completed their unlikely undefeated regular season run of 12-0 and captured the Middlesex League title or as the newspaper headline described it “nailed it to the mast.”
Reading was invited to the Tech Tourney as one of the eight Class B teams in the state so honored, in the first year of the tourney's two division format. In round one Reading drew powerhouse Framingham in a game to be played at Hangar Gymnasium at MIT College.
In a back and forth game described in the Boston Globe as a high scoring “mad-cap fracas” the Foxy Five lost a heartbreaker 42-41 to the eventual champions.
Merritt was named to the all- tournament team for his 19 point effort scoring almost half of his team’s points.
For individual accolades on the season White was the Middlesex League’s leading scorer and both Merritt and Wright finished in the top ten.
The “Foxy Five’s” magical run was over but the nickname stuck for decades as the players were forever associated with the distinction by townspeople familiar with that era.
Inducted in 2017
In what can only be called a “Cinderella Story” 1939-40 basketball team wouldn’t suffer their first loss until March and the Middlesex League champs wrote history at Reading High School by going undefeated in league play a feat that has not been matched in the 78 seasons to follow for the boys program.
The five starters, dubbed as the “Foxy Five”, were forwards Herb White and Lenny Wright, the tallest team member was the 5’11’ center Dick Merritt and the guards were Wally Haselton and John Hrynowski. The five accounted for all but 13 points scored by the team that season.
The game of the season was played at Stoneham HS with the title on the line. The “foxes” came back from a seemingly insurmountable (for the era) 8 point deficit in the fourth quarter. The game was won when White stole the ball from Stoneham then raced down court to hit the winning basket with 4 seconds to play.
The Foxy Five had completed their unlikely undefeated regular season run of 12-0 and captured the Middlesex League title or as the newspaper headline described it “nailed it to the mast.”
Reading was invited to the Tech Tourney as one of the eight Class B teams in the state so honored, in the first year of the tourney's two division format. In round one Reading drew powerhouse Framingham in a game to be played at Hangar Gymnasium at MIT College.
In a back and forth game described in the Boston Globe as a high scoring “mad-cap fracas” the Foxy Five lost a heartbreaker 42-41 to the eventual champions.
Merritt was named to the all- tournament team for his 19 point effort scoring almost half of his team’s points.
For individual accolades on the season White was the Middlesex League’s leading scorer and both Merritt and Wright finished in the top ten.
The “Foxy Five’s” magical run was over but the nickname stuck for decades as the players were forever associated with the distinction by townspeople familiar with that era.
1953 GOLF TEAM
Inducted 1998
The 1953 golf team"s dominance was undisputed. The team's record was an unblemished 9-0 as they easily defeated their league opponents. The team's depth of talent was so complete that many of their matches ended in 9-0 shutouts.
In an era when leagues were not grouped in divisions based on school population, Reading thrashed all comers on their way to a Middlesex League title and an undefeated record. They appropriately culminated their outstanding season with a state championship trophy.
All six starters were seniors: Captain Leo Connors, Hal Cogger, Henry Milton, Jack Hardy, Cliff Reed, and Arthur Ouiment. The alternates were William Hugh and Jack Reed.
Inducted 1998
The 1953 golf team"s dominance was undisputed. The team's record was an unblemished 9-0 as they easily defeated their league opponents. The team's depth of talent was so complete that many of their matches ended in 9-0 shutouts.
In an era when leagues were not grouped in divisions based on school population, Reading thrashed all comers on their way to a Middlesex League title and an undefeated record. They appropriately culminated their outstanding season with a state championship trophy.
All six starters were seniors: Captain Leo Connors, Hal Cogger, Henry Milton, Jack Hardy, Cliff Reed, and Arthur Ouiment. The alternates were William Hugh and Jack Reed.
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 their 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 three Globe All-Scholastics with Dick Horton and Jim Brown. 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 Gilligan, 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 their 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 three Globe All-Scholastics with Dick Horton and Jim Brown. 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 Gilligan, Ned Kevorkian, Lawrence Lapham, John Muise, Ken DiCicco, Dick Cootey, and Paul Hubbard, among others, played vital roles that season as well.
1965 FOOTBALL TEAM
Inducted 1998
The 1965 football team under the direction of coach John Hollingsworth was known throughout the state for its fierce, dominating defense and steady offense.
Tri-captains Marty Butts, Bill Scott and Paul Hermann led the team on the field and off. Scott and Butt anchored the extremely talented offensive and defensive lines: Jim Henry, Wayne Lapham, Larry Hodson, Dick Lupo, Toby Winkler, Dick Lucchini, Larry Rice, Gino Serrechia and Brian Dacey. Hermann led a deep backfield with Rick Stoddard, Jackie Hoyt, Carl Gerade and Norm Southard.
At quarterback, junior Bill Kelly threw for 561 yards and four touchdowns. Three of those passes were caught by end Norm Powers. Kelly also scored 38 points, third on the team behind Stoddard's 54 points and Hoyt's 42 points. Bill Carroll also saw action at quarterback and was a regular starter in the defensive secondary. Eric Young, Chick Spaulding, George Watkins, John Freitas, Frank Driscoll and Jim Kiley also played significant roles.
In nine superb games, the Rockets dominating defense limited their opponents to a total of 32 points (3.6 PPG), including five shutouts. All three standards were Reading Middlesex League single season records on induction night.
A 22-6 Thanksgiving Day victory over Stoneham capped a dream season. The '65 team was clearly one of the best teams in the program's history, outscoring its opponents by an average of 21 points. The team's legacy includes an undefeated season, a ML title and an Eastern Massachusetts Class B co-championship.
Inducted 1998
The 1965 football team under the direction of coach John Hollingsworth was known throughout the state for its fierce, dominating defense and steady offense.
Tri-captains Marty Butts, Bill Scott and Paul Hermann led the team on the field and off. Scott and Butt anchored the extremely talented offensive and defensive lines: Jim Henry, Wayne Lapham, Larry Hodson, Dick Lupo, Toby Winkler, Dick Lucchini, Larry Rice, Gino Serrechia and Brian Dacey. Hermann led a deep backfield with Rick Stoddard, Jackie Hoyt, Carl Gerade and Norm Southard.
At quarterback, junior Bill Kelly threw for 561 yards and four touchdowns. Three of those passes were caught by end Norm Powers. Kelly also scored 38 points, third on the team behind Stoddard's 54 points and Hoyt's 42 points. Bill Carroll also saw action at quarterback and was a regular starter in the defensive secondary. Eric Young, Chick Spaulding, George Watkins, John Freitas, Frank Driscoll and Jim Kiley also played significant roles.
In nine superb games, the Rockets dominating defense limited their opponents to a total of 32 points (3.6 PPG), including five shutouts. All three standards were Reading Middlesex League single season records on induction night.
A 22-6 Thanksgiving Day victory over Stoneham capped a dream season. The '65 team was clearly one of the best teams in the program's history, outscoring its opponents by an average of 21 points. The team's legacy includes an undefeated season, a ML title and an Eastern Massachusetts Class B co-championship.
1967 BASKETBALL TEAM
Inducted 2015
Inducted 2015
The 1966-67 Reading High School boys basketball team came into the season with great confidence, lofty goals and an experienced and skilled starting five. The only new element to the varsity program was the 27-year-old former junior varsity coach named Bruce MacGregor who became a shooting star on the RMHS athletic scene.
Reading left nothing to chance during the ’66-67 season as the Rockets compiled a 13-1 league mark and 17-3 overall regular-season record and cruised into the renowned post-season tournament as Middlesex League champions.
The starting quintet consisted of four future RMHS Hall of Famers, who combined were part of seven Middlesex league title teams and three RMHS Hall of Fame teams, while garnering 12 first-team All-League selections and five state-level All-Scholastic honors.
The hungry Rocket hoopsters were led by Co-captains guard Mike Jackson and forward Bill Kelly, Joining the captains were the team’s leading scorer guard Bill Carroll, 6-foot-5 center Rich “Stretch” Williams and a junior forward George Watkins.
Other members of the team included valuable sixth man Jimmy Murphy, Tom Norton, Ken Doucette, John Snook, Ron DePatie, Mike Pilla, Dick Carroll, John Norton, Jim Walsh, Robert Yeo and assistant coach Dick Gillis.
The Rockets highlight wins included ending defending Class B champ Melrose’s 20 game win streak, three wins over a powerful Lexington squad and their quarterfinal win over Cathedral in the Tech Tourney semi-finals.
Despite the loss of their final game the 1966-67 Rocket squad set a standard of excellence that still holds the test of time. They are tied all-time for the most regular season wins and overall wins in a season, and one of three Reading teams reaching the Tech Tourney semi-finals in the modern era.
Reading left nothing to chance during the ’66-67 season as the Rockets compiled a 13-1 league mark and 17-3 overall regular-season record and cruised into the renowned post-season tournament as Middlesex League champions.
The starting quintet consisted of four future RMHS Hall of Famers, who combined were part of seven Middlesex league title teams and three RMHS Hall of Fame teams, while garnering 12 first-team All-League selections and five state-level All-Scholastic honors.
The hungry Rocket hoopsters were led by Co-captains guard Mike Jackson and forward Bill Kelly, Joining the captains were the team’s leading scorer guard Bill Carroll, 6-foot-5 center Rich “Stretch” Williams and a junior forward George Watkins.
Other members of the team included valuable sixth man Jimmy Murphy, Tom Norton, Ken Doucette, John Snook, Ron DePatie, Mike Pilla, Dick Carroll, John Norton, Jim Walsh, Robert Yeo and assistant coach Dick Gillis.
The Rockets highlight wins included ending defending Class B champ Melrose’s 20 game win streak, three wins over a powerful Lexington squad and their quarterfinal win over Cathedral in the Tech Tourney semi-finals.
Despite the loss of their final game the 1966-67 Rocket squad set a standard of excellence that still holds the test of time. They are tied all-time for the most regular season wins and overall wins in a season, and one of three Reading teams reaching the Tech Tourney semi-finals in the modern era.
1968 BASEBALL TEAM
Inducted 2009
The 1968 baseball team entered the season as defending Middlesex League champions, but the team had lost many key players to graduation. Coach Peter Finn assembled a new team built primarily with four seniors, four juniors and three sophomores. Off to a bad start the team was 1-3 with three consecutive losses after four games. From that point on the team was undefeated in the remaining ten Middlesex League games. After a season ending 12-0 victory over Wakefield, they were crowned ML champions.
In the opening game of the Eastern Massachusetts playoffs, behind strong pitching from Len Luizza and strong defense, the team advanced with a 5-2 victory over Waltham.
The second game was a tough one against a good Stoneham club. Len Luizza, Dave Merullo and Jim KIley combined to pitch Reading to a 4-2 victory.
In the Eastern Mass Class A finals, little used George Watkins started and held Dedham scoreless for six innings before being replaced by Jim Kiley. Reading held on to become Eastern Mass Class A champs, 5-3.
The semifinal Massachusetts State Class A game pitted Reading against Keith Academy. The call went out to Len Luizza again and he responded with a one hitter with eight strike outs over nine innings. Captain Tom Aucella had two hits, stole three bases and scored both runs in the 2-1 victory.
The final game was against a strong Springfield Tech team. But it was not Reading's day as they lost 3-2. Reading made it interesting in the ninth inning, losding the bases with two outs, but the rally ended when the final batter struck out.
For the Rockets, their 14 game winning streak ended ans they finished the season with a 15-4 record.
The team's leading hitters were Tom Aucella, John Doherty and Jim Kiley, all of who were named ML All-Stars. Larry Johnson was also named to the All-Star team.
John Doherty and Jim Kiley were named to the Boston Globe All-Scholastic bench squad and John Doherty to the Class A All-Star team.
Inducted 2009
The 1968 baseball team entered the season as defending Middlesex League champions, but the team had lost many key players to graduation. Coach Peter Finn assembled a new team built primarily with four seniors, four juniors and three sophomores. Off to a bad start the team was 1-3 with three consecutive losses after four games. From that point on the team was undefeated in the remaining ten Middlesex League games. After a season ending 12-0 victory over Wakefield, they were crowned ML champions.
In the opening game of the Eastern Massachusetts playoffs, behind strong pitching from Len Luizza and strong defense, the team advanced with a 5-2 victory over Waltham.
The second game was a tough one against a good Stoneham club. Len Luizza, Dave Merullo and Jim KIley combined to pitch Reading to a 4-2 victory.
In the Eastern Mass Class A finals, little used George Watkins started and held Dedham scoreless for six innings before being replaced by Jim Kiley. Reading held on to become Eastern Mass Class A champs, 5-3.
The semifinal Massachusetts State Class A game pitted Reading against Keith Academy. The call went out to Len Luizza again and he responded with a one hitter with eight strike outs over nine innings. Captain Tom Aucella had two hits, stole three bases and scored both runs in the 2-1 victory.
The final game was against a strong Springfield Tech team. But it was not Reading's day as they lost 3-2. Reading made it interesting in the ninth inning, losding the bases with two outs, but the rally ended when the final batter struck out.
For the Rockets, their 14 game winning streak ended ans they finished the season with a 15-4 record.
The team's leading hitters were Tom Aucella, John Doherty and Jim Kiley, all of who were named ML All-Stars. Larry Johnson was also named to the All-Star team.
John Doherty and Jim Kiley were named to the Boston Globe All-Scholastic bench squad and John Doherty to the Class A All-Star team.
1974 FOOTBALL TEAM
Inducted 2013
Future RMHS Athletic Hall of Fame coach John Hollingsworth had high expectations for the team to be the first league champion since 1967 and they didn't disappoint him.
The Rockets possessed a two dimensional offensive attack with the record setting Tom Dwyer throwing down field to the talented H of F member Ken Hollingsworth and Dave Johnson and having an equally potent weapon in Tom Hunt who was an elite running back with the strength to run up the middle and the speed to break away on long runs.
The team's offensive line and overall defense was held in high regard as well. Steve Garey, Tim Sharkey, Mike Iannelli, John Atwood, and Mike Schloth were stalwarts on both sides of the ball and joined Steve Mantia and Kevin Larocco on the offensive line. On defense, the two way players joined Don Rice, Tom Ratacik, Mark Kirby, and Norm Black in the front seven with a secondary of Jim Shiner, Tom McCarron, Dave Johnson and Ken Hollingsworth.
In the regular season the defense held opponents to 74 points and only allowed more than one touchdown in a game three times and never more than two.
The league title came down to a match up between two 8-0 teams. Reading came away with a 14-7 win over Belmont. They ensured a trip to the Super Bowl with a 20-0 victory over Stoneham on Thanksgiving Day.
Their Division 1 Super Bowl opponent at BC's Alumni Field was once beaten Natick. Natck got off to a fast 20-0 lead. The Rockets responded with a Dwyer to Hollingsworth 53 yard touchdown pass and a 68 yard return of a blocked punt by Barry Knox but that was close as they would get as Natick won 26-14.
The team was led by co-captains Hollingsworth, Dwyer and Rice. Hollingsworth, Hunt, Johnson and Rice received All-Middlesex League honors. Dwyer still held the school record of 28 career touchdown passes at the team's induction. Hollingsworth was named an All-Scholastic by both the Boston Globe and Boston Herald.
Inducted 2013
Future RMHS Athletic Hall of Fame coach John Hollingsworth had high expectations for the team to be the first league champion since 1967 and they didn't disappoint him.
The Rockets possessed a two dimensional offensive attack with the record setting Tom Dwyer throwing down field to the talented H of F member Ken Hollingsworth and Dave Johnson and having an equally potent weapon in Tom Hunt who was an elite running back with the strength to run up the middle and the speed to break away on long runs.
The team's offensive line and overall defense was held in high regard as well. Steve Garey, Tim Sharkey, Mike Iannelli, John Atwood, and Mike Schloth were stalwarts on both sides of the ball and joined Steve Mantia and Kevin Larocco on the offensive line. On defense, the two way players joined Don Rice, Tom Ratacik, Mark Kirby, and Norm Black in the front seven with a secondary of Jim Shiner, Tom McCarron, Dave Johnson and Ken Hollingsworth.
In the regular season the defense held opponents to 74 points and only allowed more than one touchdown in a game three times and never more than two.
The league title came down to a match up between two 8-0 teams. Reading came away with a 14-7 win over Belmont. They ensured a trip to the Super Bowl with a 20-0 victory over Stoneham on Thanksgiving Day.
Their Division 1 Super Bowl opponent at BC's Alumni Field was once beaten Natick. Natck got off to a fast 20-0 lead. The Rockets responded with a Dwyer to Hollingsworth 53 yard touchdown pass and a 68 yard return of a blocked punt by Barry Knox but that was close as they would get as Natick won 26-14.
The team was led by co-captains Hollingsworth, Dwyer and Rice. Hollingsworth, Hunt, Johnson and Rice received All-Middlesex League honors. Dwyer still held the school record of 28 career touchdown passes at the team's induction. Hollingsworth was named an All-Scholastic by both the Boston Globe and Boston Herald.
1975 BOYS SPRING TRACK
Inducted 1997
The 1975 team was led by tri-captains Russ Bosbach, Tom McCarron and Scott Chandler and coached by Harold Bond, Dick Gillis and Hal Croft.
The team won the state All-Class Meet and in the process became the first Reading team in any sport to win a state championship.
The team blitzed through the Middlesex League, earning at least 100 points in every meet. Their catalyst was Bosbach who after winning the indoor state high jump championship at 6' 3", a school record in 1975, led the spring team by setting the school record in the triple jump (45' 2-1/2") and winning the 120 yard high hurdles in the Class B meet.
The mile relay team of Chris McConnell, Barry Knox, Leo Kashian and Tom McCarron dominated the winter and spring seasons and set a state record at 3:25.6. It was this remarkable relay team that clinched the All-State championship at the state meet. Notably that day McConnell, after placing second in the individual 220, led off the relay event with a :51.2 quarter mile. McCarron anchored the relay for the victory with a :50.7 quarter after placing second in the open quarter mile at :50.8.
Don Norton, a junior, set a school record in the mile with a 4:23.5 mark in the regular season and went on to place fifth in the two mile at the All-Class meet. Mark Kirby set a school record in the pole vault at 12' 6"; Steve Westra followed an undefeated dual meet season by placing sixth in the Class B with a 1:59.3 half mile; Jim Shiner placed fourth in the Class B 180 yard low hurdles; Norm Black placed sixth in the Class B 100 yard dash; Leo Kashian backed up Russ Bosbach in the triple jump at 41' and Steve Knapp did the same in the high jump at 6'. In addition team members such as Costantino Ricci, Nathan Smith, Mark Feeney, Mike Schloth, Steve Norton, Jeff Beers, Keith Spinney, Dave Johnson and Mark Warren all made valuable contributions.
Inducted 1997
The 1975 team was led by tri-captains Russ Bosbach, Tom McCarron and Scott Chandler and coached by Harold Bond, Dick Gillis and Hal Croft.
The team won the state All-Class Meet and in the process became the first Reading team in any sport to win a state championship.
The team blitzed through the Middlesex League, earning at least 100 points in every meet. Their catalyst was Bosbach who after winning the indoor state high jump championship at 6' 3", a school record in 1975, led the spring team by setting the school record in the triple jump (45' 2-1/2") and winning the 120 yard high hurdles in the Class B meet.
The mile relay team of Chris McConnell, Barry Knox, Leo Kashian and Tom McCarron dominated the winter and spring seasons and set a state record at 3:25.6. It was this remarkable relay team that clinched the All-State championship at the state meet. Notably that day McConnell, after placing second in the individual 220, led off the relay event with a :51.2 quarter mile. McCarron anchored the relay for the victory with a :50.7 quarter after placing second in the open quarter mile at :50.8.
Don Norton, a junior, set a school record in the mile with a 4:23.5 mark in the regular season and went on to place fifth in the two mile at the All-Class meet. Mark Kirby set a school record in the pole vault at 12' 6"; Steve Westra followed an undefeated dual meet season by placing sixth in the Class B with a 1:59.3 half mile; Jim Shiner placed fourth in the Class B 180 yard low hurdles; Norm Black placed sixth in the Class B 100 yard dash; Leo Kashian backed up Russ Bosbach in the triple jump at 41' and Steve Knapp did the same in the high jump at 6'. In addition team members such as Costantino Ricci, Nathan Smith, Mark Feeney, Mike Schloth, Steve Norton, Jeff Beers, Keith Spinney, Dave Johnson and Mark Warren all made valuable contributions.
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.
1986 GIRLS SOFTBALL
Inducted 1986
As the season started the softball team was an unknown commodity. A consensus of Middlesex League sports writers had picked Reading to finish no higher than second behind Melrose. But on opening day, Reading squared off against that Melrose team and dominated their stunned rival by a 12-1 score. They went on to win win their third consecutive Middlesex League title with a 16-2 record.
Following the league championship, the Lady Rocket juggernaut steamed on to win the North Division 1 Sectionals with victories over Peabody (16-2), Pope John (4-0), Lawrence (5-3) and Chelmsford (7-2). Reading beat South Division 1 Champion Dartmouth by a score of 7-2 in the State semi-finals and then went on to beat Springfield Cathedral, 7-3, to claim the Division 1 State title.
This was a team with all the attributes of a champion: depth with a .307 team batting average; power with 50 extra base hits, including 9 home runs and 17 triples; scoring with an average of almost 10 runs a game and speed with 124 stolen bases, or an average of 5 per game. The pitching staff had a combined ERA of 1.50 and allowed opponents an average of only 3 hits per game.
The 1996 Middlesex League and Division 1 State Champion team members were: Christina Falcione, Christine McSweeney, Heather Gale, Kim O'Riordan, Jill Bendikian, Janice Coates, Jodi Wixtead, Cathy Tucker, Beth Moxcey, Caroline Fleming, Cindy DiSanto, Cindy Warren, Katie Quinn, Tricia Rogers, Diana Morello, Nicole Sinclair, Deanne Turner and Laura Curry.
Inducted 1986
As the season started the softball team was an unknown commodity. A consensus of Middlesex League sports writers had picked Reading to finish no higher than second behind Melrose. But on opening day, Reading squared off against that Melrose team and dominated their stunned rival by a 12-1 score. They went on to win win their third consecutive Middlesex League title with a 16-2 record.
Following the league championship, the Lady Rocket juggernaut steamed on to win the North Division 1 Sectionals with victories over Peabody (16-2), Pope John (4-0), Lawrence (5-3) and Chelmsford (7-2). Reading beat South Division 1 Champion Dartmouth by a score of 7-2 in the State semi-finals and then went on to beat Springfield Cathedral, 7-3, to claim the Division 1 State title.
This was a team with all the attributes of a champion: depth with a .307 team batting average; power with 50 extra base hits, including 9 home runs and 17 triples; scoring with an average of almost 10 runs a game and speed with 124 stolen bases, or an average of 5 per game. The pitching staff had a combined ERA of 1.50 and allowed opponents an average of only 3 hits per game.
The 1996 Middlesex League and Division 1 State Champion team members were: Christina Falcione, Christine McSweeney, Heather Gale, Kim O'Riordan, Jill Bendikian, Janice Coates, Jodi Wixtead, Cathy Tucker, Beth Moxcey, Caroline Fleming, Cindy DiSanto, Cindy Warren, Katie Quinn, Tricia Rogers, Diana Morello, Nicole Sinclair, Deanne Turner and Laura Curry.
1986-87 BOYS BASKETBALL
Inducted 2017
The ’87 Rockets capped the program’s last great basketball era where they went an unprecedented 52-15 during the three-year period.
The team coached by Reading Athletic Hall of Famer Bill Carroll reached the pinnacle with 19 wins, still tied as the school record and a Middlesex League co-championship. This was accomplished by a dedicated and very entertaining basketball team that has been difficult to duplicate in the years to follow.
It was a fast, competitive and highly-skilled team fortified by great basketball IQ. In a time with no shot clock or 3 point field goal the team set a school record per game scoring average of 75.4 a Ripken-esque number that easily still stands today. In the 30 years since this team walked off the court for the final time, the highest a Reading team has come to that scoring standard was 63.8 points per game.
There were 10 seniors, including one truly exemplary player in Steve Lane, the state’s first Gatorade Player of the Year. This senior group was led by Lane, Mike McGillicuddy, and Derek Sanford, as the three were all Middlesex League All-Stars with Lane also repeating as the League’s MVP.
The other seniors were Carl McFadden, John Flibbert, Billy Jones, Donny Neville, Al DeAngelo, Steve Whalen and David Borgal who played basketball hard and played quite efficiently during their careers.
This class played in seven tournament games and won four of them during their three years. It was sad to see this team go, especially looking back now decades later.
The entertainment value, the skill and the competitiveness of this group was something to watch and it is fitting that the 1987 Reading High boys’ basketball team takes its rightful place in the Reading Athletic Hall of Fame.
Inducted 2017
The ’87 Rockets capped the program’s last great basketball era where they went an unprecedented 52-15 during the three-year period.
The team coached by Reading Athletic Hall of Famer Bill Carroll reached the pinnacle with 19 wins, still tied as the school record and a Middlesex League co-championship. This was accomplished by a dedicated and very entertaining basketball team that has been difficult to duplicate in the years to follow.
It was a fast, competitive and highly-skilled team fortified by great basketball IQ. In a time with no shot clock or 3 point field goal the team set a school record per game scoring average of 75.4 a Ripken-esque number that easily still stands today. In the 30 years since this team walked off the court for the final time, the highest a Reading team has come to that scoring standard was 63.8 points per game.
There were 10 seniors, including one truly exemplary player in Steve Lane, the state’s first Gatorade Player of the Year. This senior group was led by Lane, Mike McGillicuddy, and Derek Sanford, as the three were all Middlesex League All-Stars with Lane also repeating as the League’s MVP.
The other seniors were Carl McFadden, John Flibbert, Billy Jones, Donny Neville, Al DeAngelo, Steve Whalen and David Borgal who played basketball hard and played quite efficiently during their careers.
This class played in seven tournament games and won four of them during their three years. It was sad to see this team go, especially looking back now decades later.
The entertainment value, the skill and the competitiveness of this group was something to watch and it is fitting that the 1987 Reading High boys’ basketball team takes its rightful place in the Reading Athletic Hall of Fame.
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.
1987-88 BOYS HOCKEY
Inducted 2007
The best two year run for the RMHS hockey program was capped by the 1987-88 team. Captained by defenseman Paul Sacco and Mike Vedder and propelled by the big first line of Vedder, Kevin Thomson and Derek Dendler and backstopped by goalie Bob MacKeil, the Rockets finished 20-2-2, won the Middlesex League and Division 1 North Sectional titles and lost in the Division 1 state final.
The second line of Rich McSorley, Mike O'Keefe and Mark Tango came through with their share of goals to give the offense excellent balance. Head Coach Peter Doherty dropped forward David Matrona back to defense to pair with Sacco. The pair were equally gifted offensively as they were defensively.
Also contributing in the forward ranks were Chris Murray, Rob Donnelly, Frank Golden, Joe Hamwey, Barry Moore, Chris Hughes and Scott Cuozzi. Defensively D.J. Crowley and Keith Wilson were a solid pairing along with Scott Wade and Chris Allen.
In the net, MacKeil had a sparkling 2.29 goals against average. MacKeil and backup goaltender Mike Velky each recorded a shut out while they shared three others,
Woburn was Reading's toughest competition during the regular season. Reading lost to them 8-4 and tied them 3-3 in the second meeting. The Rockets won their final six Middlesex League games to win the title by three points over the Tanners.
In the Division 1 North tournament the Rockets dusted off Central Catholic 6-2, then skated to a relatively easy 5-1 win over Belmont. This set a third meeting with Woburn in the Division 1 North final. Mike Vedder scored the game's first goal in the opening minute and the Rockets rolled to a 5-0 victory for Readings first hockey sectional title.
In the Division 1 state final against Catholic Memorial, the Rockets gave a strong account of themselves, taking a 1-0 lead, but CM emerged with the 3-1 victory.
Inducted 2007
The best two year run for the RMHS hockey program was capped by the 1987-88 team. Captained by defenseman Paul Sacco and Mike Vedder and propelled by the big first line of Vedder, Kevin Thomson and Derek Dendler and backstopped by goalie Bob MacKeil, the Rockets finished 20-2-2, won the Middlesex League and Division 1 North Sectional titles and lost in the Division 1 state final.
The second line of Rich McSorley, Mike O'Keefe and Mark Tango came through with their share of goals to give the offense excellent balance. Head Coach Peter Doherty dropped forward David Matrona back to defense to pair with Sacco. The pair were equally gifted offensively as they were defensively.
Also contributing in the forward ranks were Chris Murray, Rob Donnelly, Frank Golden, Joe Hamwey, Barry Moore, Chris Hughes and Scott Cuozzi. Defensively D.J. Crowley and Keith Wilson were a solid pairing along with Scott Wade and Chris Allen.
In the net, MacKeil had a sparkling 2.29 goals against average. MacKeil and backup goaltender Mike Velky each recorded a shut out while they shared three others,
Woburn was Reading's toughest competition during the regular season. Reading lost to them 8-4 and tied them 3-3 in the second meeting. The Rockets won their final six Middlesex League games to win the title by three points over the Tanners.
In the Division 1 North tournament the Rockets dusted off Central Catholic 6-2, then skated to a relatively easy 5-1 win over Belmont. This set a third meeting with Woburn in the Division 1 North final. Mike Vedder scored the game's first goal in the opening minute and the Rockets rolled to a 5-0 victory for Readings first hockey sectional title.
In the Division 1 state final against Catholic Memorial, the Rockets gave a strong account of themselves, taking a 1-0 lead, but CM emerged with the 3-1 victory.
1992 FIELD HOCKEY TEAM
Inducted 2005
1992 was a special year for the RMHS field hockey team
Almost as impressive as their 20-2 record, Division 1 North championship and a berth in the Division 1 state semifinals was a rare 1-0 win over Watertown that secured a Middlesex League co-championship.
Head Coach Mim Jarema's Lady Rockets outscored their league opponents by a combined 73-3. Their defense was also phenomenal and in 18 regular season games, the Lady Rockets rang up 16 shut outs. Leading the way was senior midfielder Patty Jarema, who earned All-League honors and a spot on the Boston Herald All-Scholastic team. Forwards Michelle Differ and Megan Kennedy and sweeper Kerry Reardon were top scorers.
The team tri-captains were goalie Kate Griesmer, midfielder Shannon Rea and Reardon. Differ was the team's highest scorer with 13 goals and nine assists in the regular season. Along with Patty Jarema she was named All-League. All-Stars included Reardon and center back Kathryn Murphy.
Along with Differ, the bulk of the scoring came from starting right wing Tracey Cook with 11 goals and six assists in the regular season, Kennedy with 15 goals and three assists and starting inner Jackie Perella with 11 goals and two assists. Backup right wing Jill Fiore had nine goals and three assists.
Key defensive contributors included Murphy, starting right back Patrice Ahearn and starting left back Andrea Parsons. Jaime Bergin, Kristen Chasse, Holly Curtis, Megan Lavoie and Lauren Perella all contributed as well. Griesmer was the starting goalie and was backed up by Amy Fantasia.
After splitting two matches that season to share the league title, Reading beat Arlington 7-1, Acton-Boxboro 2-1 and Danvers 1-0 to win the Division 1 North championship before losing to Dartmouth 1-0 in the Eastern Massachusetts Semifinals.
Inducted 2005
1992 was a special year for the RMHS field hockey team
Almost as impressive as their 20-2 record, Division 1 North championship and a berth in the Division 1 state semifinals was a rare 1-0 win over Watertown that secured a Middlesex League co-championship.
Head Coach Mim Jarema's Lady Rockets outscored their league opponents by a combined 73-3. Their defense was also phenomenal and in 18 regular season games, the Lady Rockets rang up 16 shut outs. Leading the way was senior midfielder Patty Jarema, who earned All-League honors and a spot on the Boston Herald All-Scholastic team. Forwards Michelle Differ and Megan Kennedy and sweeper Kerry Reardon were top scorers.
The team tri-captains were goalie Kate Griesmer, midfielder Shannon Rea and Reardon. Differ was the team's highest scorer with 13 goals and nine assists in the regular season. Along with Patty Jarema she was named All-League. All-Stars included Reardon and center back Kathryn Murphy.
Along with Differ, the bulk of the scoring came from starting right wing Tracey Cook with 11 goals and six assists in the regular season, Kennedy with 15 goals and three assists and starting inner Jackie Perella with 11 goals and two assists. Backup right wing Jill Fiore had nine goals and three assists.
Key defensive contributors included Murphy, starting right back Patrice Ahearn and starting left back Andrea Parsons. Jaime Bergin, Kristen Chasse, Holly Curtis, Megan Lavoie and Lauren Perella all contributed as well. Griesmer was the starting goalie and was backed up by Amy Fantasia.
After splitting two matches that season to share the league title, Reading beat Arlington 7-1, Acton-Boxboro 2-1 and Danvers 1-0 to win the Division 1 North championship before losing to Dartmouth 1-0 in the Eastern Massachusetts Semifinals.
1992 FOOTBALL
Inducted 2015
Inducted 2015
The legacy of the 1992 Reading High football team goes beyond the basic fact that it was a dominant 10-0 undefeated Middlesex League champion and a Super Bowl participant. The 1992 team built a dynasty as it set the standard for all the other Reading championship football teams that have followed for over 20 years.
The seeds for the success of the 1992 season began in 1991 when Tom Kasprzak, who had been the head coach at Thanksgiving rival Stoneham High for the past nine years, was hired as the Reading coach. The new coach had a way of making everyone feel important. Nobody was treated differently, on or off the field
It became a whirlwind season of success for the 1992 Rockets with fire engine escorts, bonfire pep rallies and Ch. 5’s Mike Lynch covering the Thanksgiving Day game in Stoneham.
All Scholastic Bill Tucker established a record for rushing yards in a season (1546) that still stands as well as scoring the third most points (150) in a season. The quarterback Jim Murphy was also an All-Scholastic throwing for 8 TD’s while intercepting an equal number as the starting safety. The two also provided excellent leadership that transcended down to everyone.
Other returning standouts and role players like captains Matt Peabody and David Baggs, along with the likes of Owen McDonald, Duane Sigsbury, Mike Cashman, Charlie Cain, Kevin O’Malley, David Carvalho and Sean Duggan. And there was a solid junior class led by skill-positioned players such as Tom Fratto, Brian Keefe and Chris Donegan.
The team is proud of the fact they helped make Reading a respectable program across the state and infused a sense of pride throughout the community that still resonates.
Said Murphy: “We built the foundation of the program with a special group of people all playing vital roles -- coaches, players, parents, fans. We paved the way for 25 years of RMHS football success.”
The seeds for the success of the 1992 season began in 1991 when Tom Kasprzak, who had been the head coach at Thanksgiving rival Stoneham High for the past nine years, was hired as the Reading coach. The new coach had a way of making everyone feel important. Nobody was treated differently, on or off the field
It became a whirlwind season of success for the 1992 Rockets with fire engine escorts, bonfire pep rallies and Ch. 5’s Mike Lynch covering the Thanksgiving Day game in Stoneham.
All Scholastic Bill Tucker established a record for rushing yards in a season (1546) that still stands as well as scoring the third most points (150) in a season. The quarterback Jim Murphy was also an All-Scholastic throwing for 8 TD’s while intercepting an equal number as the starting safety. The two also provided excellent leadership that transcended down to everyone.
Other returning standouts and role players like captains Matt Peabody and David Baggs, along with the likes of Owen McDonald, Duane Sigsbury, Mike Cashman, Charlie Cain, Kevin O’Malley, David Carvalho and Sean Duggan. And there was a solid junior class led by skill-positioned players such as Tom Fratto, Brian Keefe and Chris Donegan.
The team is proud of the fact they helped make Reading a respectable program across the state and infused a sense of pride throughout the community that still resonates.
Said Murphy: “We built the foundation of the program with a special group of people all playing vital roles -- coaches, players, parents, fans. We paved the way for 25 years of RMHS football success.”
1994 Baseball
Inducted 2013
The RMHS baseball team began the 1994 season in epic fashion, outscoring opponents by an incredible 74-0. on the way to a 6-0 start. They finished the regular season as co-champions of the Middlesex League with a 19-1 record.
After post-season victories over Salem and Lincoln-Sudbury, the Rockets lost in the Division 2 North finals to their arch-rivals Stoneham High, ending the season with a record of 21 wins and 2 losses. Both of the season losses were to Stoneham.
During the season, RMHS outscored the opposition 150-36. Ten of their 21 victories were shut-outs, The pitching staff had a 1.12 ERA.
Sophomore Steve Langone was 9-1 on the mound with a ERA of 0.69, striking out 75 batters in 70-2/3 innings. Senior co-captain Tom Fratto went 8-1 with a 1.51 ERA. Tom led the team in batting average (.375), home runs (5), RBIs (24) and slugging percentage (.846). Chris Donegan batted .318 and led the team in doubles (7).
Co-captain Dan Robinson, Chris Donegan, Steve Langone and Tom Fratto were named Middlesex League All-Stars. IN Addition to the aforementioned players, Chris and Coley Foley were selected to play in the ML All-Star game.
1994 Baseball
Inducted 2013
The RMHS baseball team began the 1994 season in epic fashion, outscoring opponents by an incredible 74-0. on the way to a 6-0 start. They finished the regular season as co-champions of the Middlesex League with a 19-1 record.
After post-season victories over Salem and Lincoln-Sudbury, the Rockets lost in the Division 2 North finals to their arch-rivals Stoneham High, ending the season with a record of 21 wins and 2 losses. Both of the season losses were to Stoneham.
During the season, RMHS outscored the opposition 150-36. Ten of their 21 victories were shut-outs, The pitching staff had a 1.12 ERA.
Sophomore Steve Langone was 9-1 on the mound with a ERA of 0.69, striking out 75 batters in 70-2/3 innings. Senior co-captain Tom Fratto went 8-1 with a 1.51 ERA. Tom led the team in batting average (.375), home runs (5), RBIs (24) and slugging percentage (.846). Chris Donegan batted .318 and led the team in doubles (7).
Co-captain Dan Robinson, Chris Donegan, Steve Langone and Tom Fratto were named Middlesex League All-Stars. IN Addition to the aforementioned players, Chris and Coley Foley were selected to play in the ML All-Star game.
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.
1995 FOOTBALL TEAM
Inducted 2007
As the 1995 football season began, Reading fans were hungry for a Super Bowl champion. Later that fall they got their wish as the Rockets pulled out what many consider the greatest win in the football program's history.
After capturing the Middlesex League title under head coach Tom Kasprzak, the Rockets rallied from a 23-0 deficit in a 33-23 victory over Acton-Boxborough in the Division 2A Super Bowl for RHMS's first Super Bowl title.
The team finished the year as only the second Rocket squad to eclipse 300 points in a season, finishing with 315 points for an average of 28.6 points per game. Its 11-0 record produced the most wins in school history.
The team was led by quarterback/safety Dave Pizzotti, who became the fourth recorded 1000 yard passer for the school, throwing for 1107 yards and a record breaking 17 touchdowns.
Balancing the passing game was an equally formidable ground game led by tailback Eric Wilson who finished the season with 979 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns rushing. Junior tailback Excell Walker helped the cause with 242 yards rushing and he caught eight passes for 214 yards and a team best five touchdowns. Terence Wilson, Kenyon Davis and Delsin Grubbs also shared ball carrying duties. Bill Robichaud, Erik Olson, Mark Thornton, Tom Ensminger and Matt Noonan among others were outstanding blockers.
The team enjoyed a terrific receiving corps. LeEric Daye and tight end Mike Gillis led the team with 12 catches and four touchdowns receptions each. Chris Smith had nine catches for 360 yards, a 40 yard per catch average, and also caught four TD passes.
The Rockets also had a stout defense, ranking second in the league with the fewest points allowed. Kenyon Davis earned All-Scholastic honors for his play at nose guard.while Grubbs, Noonan, Robichaud, Ensminger, Pizzotti, Walker, Wilson, Chad Hixon, Erik Kaloyanides, Charles Israel and Mike Lehane helped shore up the underrated defense.
Inducted 2007
As the 1995 football season began, Reading fans were hungry for a Super Bowl champion. Later that fall they got their wish as the Rockets pulled out what many consider the greatest win in the football program's history.
After capturing the Middlesex League title under head coach Tom Kasprzak, the Rockets rallied from a 23-0 deficit in a 33-23 victory over Acton-Boxborough in the Division 2A Super Bowl for RHMS's first Super Bowl title.
The team finished the year as only the second Rocket squad to eclipse 300 points in a season, finishing with 315 points for an average of 28.6 points per game. Its 11-0 record produced the most wins in school history.
The team was led by quarterback/safety Dave Pizzotti, who became the fourth recorded 1000 yard passer for the school, throwing for 1107 yards and a record breaking 17 touchdowns.
Balancing the passing game was an equally formidable ground game led by tailback Eric Wilson who finished the season with 979 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns rushing. Junior tailback Excell Walker helped the cause with 242 yards rushing and he caught eight passes for 214 yards and a team best five touchdowns. Terence Wilson, Kenyon Davis and Delsin Grubbs also shared ball carrying duties. Bill Robichaud, Erik Olson, Mark Thornton, Tom Ensminger and Matt Noonan among others were outstanding blockers.
The team enjoyed a terrific receiving corps. LeEric Daye and tight end Mike Gillis led the team with 12 catches and four touchdowns receptions each. Chris Smith had nine catches for 360 yards, a 40 yard per catch average, and also caught four TD passes.
The Rockets also had a stout defense, ranking second in the league with the fewest points allowed. Kenyon Davis earned All-Scholastic honors for his play at nose guard.while Grubbs, Noonan, Robichaud, Ensminger, Pizzotti, Walker, Wilson, Chad Hixon, Erik Kaloyanides, Charles Israel and Mike Lehane helped shore up the underrated defense.
1996 BASEBALL TEAM
Inducted 2003
In the spring of 1996 The RMHS baseball team won the Division 2 state championship. On their way to the championship, the Rockets won the Middlesex League title with a record of 17-1 and finished 24-2 overall. The team was coached by Pete Moscariello, assisted by Ted Bryson.
Backboning the team was RMHS Athletic Hall of Famer Steve Langone. Steve was the Boston Globe Division 2 Player of the Year and All-Scholastic as well as Boston Herald All-Scholastic. He was also the ML MVP.
Steve Langone was ace of the staff that included Boston Herald All-Scholastic and Boston Globe Division 2 All-Star
Dave Pizzotti and junior Erik Olson, a ML All-Star. Jamie Severance was a capable backup. As a team, the talented group held opposing batters to a mere .155 batting average and had a team ERA of 1.08.
The Rockets had more than just great pitching. They were a well balanced, timely hitting team with a sound defense. They averaged almost 10 hits a game and had a team batting average of .342.
All-Star Chris Smith was the team's centerfielder and leadoff hitter, posting a team best .478 batting average with 32 hits, 22 runs and 13 stolen bases. Joe Sabia, an all-star second baseman, batted .457. Dan Farnham was a ML alternate all-star and a brilliant defensive catcher.
Jamie Severance, the full time right fielder, batted .389 with 15 RBIs. Dave Pizzotti batted .349 with a team leading 22 RBIs. Erik Olson batted .318 and Steve Langone who played shortstop and second base when not on the mound, batted .386 with 27 hits.
Other key contributors included outfielder Scott Reinold, third baseman Rob Higgins, left fielder Jay Connelly, second baseman Jeremy Purington, utility player Mike Thompson and backups Jim Gray, Bill Olsen and Steve Palumbo. The team manager was Ryan Fitzgerald.
Inducted 2003
In the spring of 1996 The RMHS baseball team won the Division 2 state championship. On their way to the championship, the Rockets won the Middlesex League title with a record of 17-1 and finished 24-2 overall. The team was coached by Pete Moscariello, assisted by Ted Bryson.
Backboning the team was RMHS Athletic Hall of Famer Steve Langone. Steve was the Boston Globe Division 2 Player of the Year and All-Scholastic as well as Boston Herald All-Scholastic. He was also the ML MVP.
Steve Langone was ace of the staff that included Boston Herald All-Scholastic and Boston Globe Division 2 All-Star
Dave Pizzotti and junior Erik Olson, a ML All-Star. Jamie Severance was a capable backup. As a team, the talented group held opposing batters to a mere .155 batting average and had a team ERA of 1.08.
The Rockets had more than just great pitching. They were a well balanced, timely hitting team with a sound defense. They averaged almost 10 hits a game and had a team batting average of .342.
All-Star Chris Smith was the team's centerfielder and leadoff hitter, posting a team best .478 batting average with 32 hits, 22 runs and 13 stolen bases. Joe Sabia, an all-star second baseman, batted .457. Dan Farnham was a ML alternate all-star and a brilliant defensive catcher.
Jamie Severance, the full time right fielder, batted .389 with 15 RBIs. Dave Pizzotti batted .349 with a team leading 22 RBIs. Erik Olson batted .318 and Steve Langone who played shortstop and second base when not on the mound, batted .386 with 27 hits.
Other key contributors included outfielder Scott Reinold, third baseman Rob Higgins, left fielder Jay Connelly, second baseman Jeremy Purington, utility player Mike Thompson and backups Jim Gray, Bill Olsen and Steve Palumbo. The team manager was Ryan Fitzgerald.
1996 GIRLS SPRING TRACK TEAM
Inducted 2005
With two Boston Globe All-Scholastics, Andrea Comeau and Julie Wurie as well as Boston Globe Coach of the Year and future Massachusetts State Track Coaches Association Hall of Fame inductee Ken Feit, the 1996 RMHS girls track team couldn't lose and it didn't.
Reading finished 9-0 during the Middlesex League spring season of '96, defending its ML track crown in dominating fashion. The Lady Rockets also won the Class B Relays, the Andover Invitational, the state Class B championship and then capped off the season for the ages with an All-State championship.
Comeau was the league and perhaps the state's best athlete that year. She was Class B, All-State and New England champion in the hurdles, placed second at the All-States in the high jump and won her third consecutive Middlesex League MVP award. Wurie was an All-State champion in the 400 and a runner up at the Class B meet. Along with Comeau, she was part of a 4x400 relay team that set a new RMHS record that remained at the time of the induction.
The Lady Rockets placed an amazing 15 individuals on the ML All-League team including Jackie Fay, Ellen, Cantillon, Alison Roberts, Sandra DiPillo, Jenessa Lanigan, Kara Mirachi, Laurian Flanagan, Anne Baumgartner, Sarah Takach, Jen Thompson, Lynda Joudrey, Lori Gorgone, Tina Caporale, Comeau and Wurie
Reading won its first Class B title under Coach Feit, scoring 98 points by placing in 13 of 17 possible events.
The team did itself one better the next week at the All-States. Comeau won the 100 meters and placed second in the high jump and Wurie ran her best race of the year to win the 400. Later Wurie and Comeau teamed with Fay and Flanagan to take second in the 4x400 relay, clinching the meet with 37 points.
Inducted 2005
With two Boston Globe All-Scholastics, Andrea Comeau and Julie Wurie as well as Boston Globe Coach of the Year and future Massachusetts State Track Coaches Association Hall of Fame inductee Ken Feit, the 1996 RMHS girls track team couldn't lose and it didn't.
Reading finished 9-0 during the Middlesex League spring season of '96, defending its ML track crown in dominating fashion. The Lady Rockets also won the Class B Relays, the Andover Invitational, the state Class B championship and then capped off the season for the ages with an All-State championship.
Comeau was the league and perhaps the state's best athlete that year. She was Class B, All-State and New England champion in the hurdles, placed second at the All-States in the high jump and won her third consecutive Middlesex League MVP award. Wurie was an All-State champion in the 400 and a runner up at the Class B meet. Along with Comeau, she was part of a 4x400 relay team that set a new RMHS record that remained at the time of the induction.
The Lady Rockets placed an amazing 15 individuals on the ML All-League team including Jackie Fay, Ellen, Cantillon, Alison Roberts, Sandra DiPillo, Jenessa Lanigan, Kara Mirachi, Laurian Flanagan, Anne Baumgartner, Sarah Takach, Jen Thompson, Lynda Joudrey, Lori Gorgone, Tina Caporale, Comeau and Wurie
Reading won its first Class B title under Coach Feit, scoring 98 points by placing in 13 of 17 possible events.
The team did itself one better the next week at the All-States. Comeau won the 100 meters and placed second in the high jump and Wurie ran her best race of the year to win the 400. Later Wurie and Comeau teamed with Fay and Flanagan to take second in the 4x400 relay, clinching the meet with 37 points.
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.
2001 SOFTBALL TEAM
Inducted 2009
During the 2001 preseason, the Daily Times Chronicle ran a headline in the RMHS team preview story that said "Is the Cupboard Bare?" Prehaps a third or fourth place finish for the Lady Rockets in the Middlesex League.
The team was led by All-Middlesex League players Julie Severance, Courtney Campbell, Kim Harrigan and Nikki Pandolfo, along with reliable leadoff hitter Katie Rush.
After two midseason losses to Lexington and Burlington, Reading would have to settle for second place at 15-3 in the Middlesex League, one game behind league champion Lexington at 16-2.
With a 17-3 overall record, Reading set its sights on the MIAA Division 1 North tournament and opened with a 6-2 win against Peabody. Bishop Fenwick, a long time softball power in the state was the quarterfinal opponent. In the semifinals the Lady Rockets defeated Lowell 2-1.
Now it was on to the Division 1 North finals against Merrimack Vallet Conference opponent Chelmsford. It was a grueling night of softball at its highest level in the high school ranks. The Lady Rockets managed an 11th inning 1-0 win.
Taunton was up next. Reading scratched across tow runs in the third to secure their 2-0 upset win.
The Division 1 state championship game was played at Worcester State College. The Lady Rockets systematically dismantled Springfield Cathedral, 8-1, chipping away little by little to win the state championship.
The state title was the RMHS softball program's second in school history, matching the efforts of the 1986 team.
Inducted 2009
During the 2001 preseason, the Daily Times Chronicle ran a headline in the RMHS team preview story that said "Is the Cupboard Bare?" Prehaps a third or fourth place finish for the Lady Rockets in the Middlesex League.
The team was led by All-Middlesex League players Julie Severance, Courtney Campbell, Kim Harrigan and Nikki Pandolfo, along with reliable leadoff hitter Katie Rush.
After two midseason losses to Lexington and Burlington, Reading would have to settle for second place at 15-3 in the Middlesex League, one game behind league champion Lexington at 16-2.
With a 17-3 overall record, Reading set its sights on the MIAA Division 1 North tournament and opened with a 6-2 win against Peabody. Bishop Fenwick, a long time softball power in the state was the quarterfinal opponent. In the semifinals the Lady Rockets defeated Lowell 2-1.
Now it was on to the Division 1 North finals against Merrimack Vallet Conference opponent Chelmsford. It was a grueling night of softball at its highest level in the high school ranks. The Lady Rockets managed an 11th inning 1-0 win.
Taunton was up next. Reading scratched across tow runs in the third to secure their 2-0 upset win.
The Division 1 state championship game was played at Worcester State College. The Lady Rockets systematically dismantled Springfield Cathedral, 8-1, chipping away little by little to win the state championship.
The state title was the RMHS softball program's second in school history, matching the efforts of the 1986 team.