For the first time in five years, the Harborfields Central School District inducted seven individuals into its Athletic Wall of Fame. The induction ceremony was held on Friday, October 25, at Harborfields High School and included touching tributes to one former coach and six former athletes all of whom left their mark on Harborfields athletics.
This year’s inductees included: Bill Daye ‘89, Falyn Dwyer ‘17, Matthew Gribbin ‘96, Patrick Godfrey, Jr. ‘15, Darwin Powell ‘02, Lucas Woodhouse ‘12, and Girls Varsity Basketball Coach, Russ Tietjen (2005 - 2015). These individuals not only left a lasting legacy at Harborfields, but carried the tradition of excellence with them wherever they went. (Click here for more information about the inductees.)
The ceremony, which hasn’t been held since 2019, was revived by the Harborfields Booster Club, the Athletic Council, and the Athletic Department, under the leadership of Mr. Robert Franco. The high school auditorium was filled with nearly 100 friends, family, and former coaches and teachers, all there to support this extraordinary class of inductees.
“The Wall of Fame represents more than just achievements on the field, it is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and legacy of those who have shaped the Harborfields school community,” said Mr. Robert Franco, Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics. “The return of the Athletic Wall of Fame Induction Ceremony presents a unique opportunity to honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire future generations of Harborfields athletes.”
In addition to Mr. Franco and Dr. Manning, Superintendent of Schools, each inductee had the opportunity to say a few words. The common theme among all inductees was how they worked hard and received tremendous support from their families and school community. Without that, none of them thought they’d be where they are now. Sadly, Darwin Powell ‘02 passed away earlier this year, but his son Dante proudly accepted the honor on his behalf.
In a speech by Bridget Hickey, Harborfields Athletic Council President, she recalled a moment when Lucas Woodhouse ‘12, spent a few moments talking to her about sports. The conversation was short, but impactful. It has encouraged her to do the same for younger students and athletes that cross her path.
In addition to the warm welcome back to Harborfields, inductees also received a plaque, a lanyard, and Harborfields t-shirt. There was a reception in the high school cafeteria following the event and they were invited to participate in the Homecoming festivities on Saturday, October 19.
It is the goal of Mr. Franco and the Harborfields Athletics Department to induct a new class to the Wall of Fame on a biannual basis and continue to make the event bigger and better.
Date Added: 10/19/24