The Academy Inducts Notable Alumni into the Sports Hall of Fame

Head of School Kolia O'Connor opened the ceremony by congratulating the inductees and commending them on their hard work and dedication to athletic, academic, and personal achievements during their time at the Academy and beyond. He said to be inducted into the Hall of Fame one does not only have to show outstanding athletic performance, but also a conviction for success in their personal lives; something each inductee has clearly done.

Win Palmer, Director of Athletics, introduced one of the inductees as well as each presenter – head varsity girls soccer coach Jessica Peluso, former Middle School boys lacrosse coach Matt Elliott, and former varsity boys basketball coach Victor Giannotta – who, in turn, introduced each of the inductees from their respective fields or sports; emotions ran high. Tammy, with tears in her eyes, expressed sincere gratitude to the Academy for pushing her to be the best person she could be, and said the lessons she learned on the soccer field taught her how to be a better person, both on and off the field.

Corey also explained that his teachers, coaches, and teams all played a part in his exceptional performance as a basketball player, student, and as a working professional in his day-to-day life.

Similarly, Tommy started his thank you speech by acknowledging the emotional moment and recognizing his loved ones who were in attendance. “Tammy, I feel you,” he said as he attempted to compose himself. Tommy explained to students that his failures as a lacrosse player, more than his accomplishments, inspired him to push himself to improve himself as a player when he attended the Academy, and to still push him to improve each and every day.

Several members of the 1997 State Champion boys basketball team reflected on overcoming great obstacles as a team and individually to accomplish the Academy’s first ever state championship title.

One thing each inductee had in common was their sincere appreciation and love for Sewickley Academy. Each inductee expressed gratitude for the life lessons they learned while attending the Academy, and told the students in the audience that they were being given the opportunity to be great and to excel in their academic, personal, and professional lives.

The ceremony wrapped with a knockout competition between the hall of famers and a group of Middle School students.

Congratulations, Tammy, Tommy, Corey, and members of the 1997 boys basketball team! Go Panthers!