Over time, Fall has become my favorite season. There’s something about this time of year that I just love: from the crisp air and colorful leaves, the sight of pumpkins and sunflowers, to the excitement that a new school year brings (even if it’s been, ahem, “more than a few” years since I graduated!) Seeing all of these changes makes me want to hit my inner “reset” button and try something new
In this spirit of celebrating change, it seems a perfect time to introduce a new look to the Alumni Newsletter We’re still featuring all of the content you rely on; however, we’re moving from monthly to quarterly and changing the appearance a bit This new design allows us to feature even more stories, showcase school news, and highlight more alumni, including Walt Quinn, our Alumni Spotlight, who is still here to stay! In this issue, we’re
inducted into the Trojan Hall of Fame, as well as introduce you to the alumni that work at North Catholic. So, dive in, stay connected and remember to keep in touch. We love hearing from YOU!
With gratitude and Forever True, - Amber
FOREVER TRUE
JOINING THE NORTH CATHOLIC LEGACY
North Catholic High School proudly welcomes 166 accomplished young men and women from the Class of 2025 into its distinguished alumni community
The 83rd Commencement Ceremony was held on Friday, May 23, 2025, in the Cahouet Auditorium, marking a significant milestone in the academic and personal journeys of our graduates. Seniors Julia Riley and Julia Schaarsmith were honored as co-valedictorians, while Natalia Rushak was named salutatorian. Collectively, the Class of 2025 earned admission to more than 100 institutions including colleges, universities, service academies, and branches of the United States military, demonstrating their dedication to scholarship, leadership, and service
This graduating class joins a proud tradition that began in 1943 with North Catholic’s inaugural commencement Their achievements reflect the enduring values and standards of excellence that have shaped generations of North Catholic alumni.
As these graduates embark on the next chapter of their lives, North Catholic looks forward to the meaningful contributions they will make in their communities and beyond. May they remain grounded in the principles of tradition, community, and faith that define the North Catholic experience now and always, Forever True
Walt Quinn (‘65)
“I’m the only living person who went to North Catholic when it was all boys, who taught at North Catholic when it was all boys, and who then taught when it was co-ed.”
AN INTERVIEW WITH WALT QUINN (‘65)
North Catholic has been a part of Walt Quinn’s life since he was just 13 years old. He graduated from North in 1965 and went on to earn his degree from the University of Dayton in 1969. That Fall, at only 21 years old, Quinn returned to Troy Hill as a teacher. He was hired to develop a Video Program and teach English, working alongside fellow North Catholic alum Charlie Struhar (‘64), who became a mentor and friend.
From that point on, Quinn witnessed the many changes in his alma mater: the transition from all-boys to co-ed in 1974, years of declining enrollment, a brief name change, and eventually the move to a new campus Through it all, he remained steadfastly loyal to North Catholic
“I’m the only living person who went to North Catholic when it was all boys, who taught at North Catholic when it was all boys, and who then taught when it was coed,” Quinn reflects with pride
After 44 years in the classroom, Quinn retired from teaching, but he admits he would do it all over again if given the chance.
“I think teaching is the greatest profession around,” he says “I thought I’d always miss my colleagues, but what I really miss is hanging out with my students. They’re the ones who keep you young.”
Anyone who had “Mr. Quinn” knows his words ring true Former students still marvel at his familiar laugh, quick wit, and unwavering energy, qualities that made him beloved across generations. That popularity also fueled the growth of the Alumni Newsletter In 2016, Quinn became its editor, expanding its content and reconnecting graduates, many of whom had drifted away when the school moved to Cranberry Township. Quinn believes strongly in the importance of keeping alumni engaged.
“Unlike public schools, Catholic schools rely on their alumni. They need alumni support. And the more you can give them about the school they attended and about fellow classmates, the stronger the ties to their alma mater remain.”
Quinn’s commitment extends beyond the newsletter. Since North’s move more than a decade ago, the school has nearly doubled its enrollment. With close to 700 students, a rigorous academic curriculum, a wide variety of competitive sports, and nearly 30 extracurricular activities, North has become an increasingly attractive option for families across the greater Pittsburgh region. Recognizing the importance of sustaining that momentum, Quinn, along with a group of classmates from the Class of 1965, helped establish The Class of 1965 Legacy Scholarship Fund. Their goal was simple: to make North Catholic accessible to more young people who might otherwise be unable to attend Over the years, they’ve raised more than $80,000; money that’s awarded to two
deserving students every four years.
“It’s such a help to provide the opportunity for students to continue their faith and receive a strong education,” he says.
Through all the years and changes, Quinn’s message to his fellow alumni is clear: North Catholic is alive and well, and still the school they once knew.
“They may have changed our school. They may have changed the location. But it is still our school,” Quinn says with conviction.
For Walt Quinn, there is no doubt, he remains FOREVER TRUE
SCHOLARSHIP FEATURE
CLASS OF 1966
It started as a way of giving back Just a few years after celebrating their 50th reunion, members of the Class of 1966 decided they wanted to do something meaningful to help current students facing the rising cost of tuition Their years at North Catholic were special, and they wanted today’s young people to enjoy the same experience.
Like some other classes before them, they chose to create a scholarship fund Under the leadership of Tom Balestreire, and with the dedicated efforts of Jim Beran, Bob Gierl, Paul Ladish, Tom Maier, and Hank Marziale, the committee got to work reconnecting with classmates. Through countless phone calls, emails, and letters, they raised nearly $165,000, all of it dedicated to helping families afford a North Catholic education
In the fall of 2022, they awarded their first scholarship: $2,000 to then-freshman Andrew “Drew” Scears. The gift made a meaningful difference for his family.
Throughout the school year, the committee received updates on Drew’s progress. Encouraged by his success, they continued fundraising and expanded their support, awarding another scholarship the following year and increasing the amount to $2,500
From Left to Right:
McGuire O’Shea (‘29), Hank Marziale (‘66), Maddie Stillwagon (‘28), Tom Balestreire (’66), Jim Beran (‘66), Drew Scears (’26), and Dom Dixson (‘27)
This school year marks a milestone: for the first time since the program began, there is a scholarship recipient in every grade. And this funding comes at a critical time as North Catholic is seeing increased need for our prospective families who value Catholic education.
In September, three committee members had the joy of meeting with the students to hear firsthand how they are doing
For the donors, it has been a rewarding way to give back and witness the impact of their generosity
For senior Drew Scears, it has meant even more: “Without it, being at North Catholic would not have been a possibility for me.”
Thank you to all of our scholarship donors! View other alumni scholarships here.
Alumni scholarships provide valuable opportunities for our North Catholic students to make attending our school a reality. No gift is too small. We are in need of increasing our scholarship opportunities to continue to support the families who value Catholic education.
WHAT’S NEW AT NORTH CATHOLIC
RED-CARPET ROLL-OUT TROJAN OPEN GOLF OUTING
At North Catholic, we’re no stranger to traditions, but starting new ones can take a little extra time and effort. Over the past several years, with the leadership of Megan O’Hara, Director of Admissions, North Catholic has started the tradition of literally (and figuratively) rolling out the Red Carpet for our incoming Freshmen With time, this tradition has started to grow in participation and energy This year, upper classmen student ambassadors, members from the Football team, Cheerleading squad and Band all joined in to welcome these new students on their first day. We also went live on Facebook and Instagram so parents could feel the energy and excitement for their children “Our RedCarpet event on the first day of school is a great way to welcome new students into our community Our goal is to set a positive tone for the school year and reaffirm to our students that they belong at North Catholic. We have a lot to celebrate at NCHS, and our red-carpet welcome event is just one way to showcase our appreciation for our growing student body,” said O’Hara
Our aim is to always keep that community spirit both inside and outside the classroom. We want all of our students to feel welcomed and supported Welcome Freshmen!
Thank you to everyone who attended the Bill Ryan Memorial Trojan Open at Treesdale Golf & Country Club on September 2 This marked the 41st year of the North Catholic Golf Outing The turnout and the weather was fantastic! A special thank you to Mark Schmitt (‘75), owner of Monark Student Transportation, Brian Klaas (‘92), owner of Greater Pittsburgh Specialty Advertising, Natale Sporting Goods, and all of our generous sponsors for making the event a success Proceeds benefit North Catholic High School and support students in need of financial assistance We are forever grateful for your support!
STEELERS RAFFLE
Congratulations to Myrna Snowden, the lucky winner of this year’s Steelers raffle! She’ll be cheering on the Black and Gold with two 2025 season tickets.
We are so grateful to everyone who purchased a ticket. Your support directly benefits our school and helps us provide more opportunities for our students. This raffle is a fun tradition, but it’s also a reminder of the strong community behind North Catholic. Thank you for being part of it!
HOMECOMING HIGHLIGHTS
A HOMECOMING TO REMEMBER
Homecoming week at North Catholic was once again a vibrant reminder of what makes our community so special Students, faculty, alumni, and friends came together in a whirlwind of school spirit, faith, and Trojan pride. From the excitement of Spirit Week to the crowning of our Homecoming Queen, the week was filled with moments that will be remembered for years to come.
Spirit Week brought energy to every corner of the school Students embraced each themed day Sleepy Monday, Jersey Tuesday, and Holiday Wednesday before gathering in reverence for Mass on Thursday The week ended with Forever True Friday, where students proudly wore class colors and competed in games and activities, from dodgeball and volleyball tournaments to yard games by the Grotto.
The highlight of the week was Friday night under the lights The Trojan stands were overflowing with pride as alumni, families, and friends cheered on our football team in a decisive 63–0 victory. At halftime, the 2025 Homecoming Court was introduced, and the crowning of senior Maeve Koroly as Homecoming Queen brought cheers and smiles from all in attendance.
The celebration continued Saturday night as more than 600 students filled the dance floor for the Homecoming Dance, a joyful conclusion to a week full of Trojan tradition For our alumni, Homecoming was more than a school event it was a celebration of shared memories, renewed connections, and the enduring spirit of North Catholic.
ALUMNI SHAPING NC
ONCE TROJANS, ALWAYS TROJANS: Alumni Shaping NC Today
One of the tenets of a North Catholic education is developing a family spirit
Paging through old yearbooks, one can see that many sons and daughters of alumni from the past have become alumni themselves
Over the years, North Catholic grads have returned to their alma mater in varying capacities to help in the operation of the school Many of them, like Lou Baysek (‘44), Ray Dilallo (‘50), Jim Zahren (‘54), and Dave Lyons (’62) returned to teach while others like Don Barth (‘51) and Dave Long (’70) came back to coach The 2025-26 school year is no exception From the administration and staff to the school board and down to the coaching staff, alumni play a prominent role The North Catholic Board, as expected, is replete with alumni
The board is chaired by Nick Navari (‘88) while Kate Certo Blackwell (’83) serves as vice chair Sean Ryan (‘02) is the treasurer The rest of the board is made up of Ralph Fischer (’91), Charles Goetz (’86), Dr Martin Gregorio (‘91), Len Komoroski (’78), Dr Ed Scheid (’69), and Chris Stofko (’91)
On the Administration side of the school, Dena (Dennler) Koenig (‘87) is the
Director of Operations and Amber (Nicotra) Morrison (’94) is the Director of Advancement and Alumni Relations.
Tara (Nicotra) Aiello (‘91), Director of Communications and Development, Amy Certo Caligiuri (’88), Director of Events, and Julie (Rogalla) Zizan (‘87), Guidance Department Assistant, play pivotal roles in the daily operations of the school Walt Quinn (’65) works with the alumni newsletter while Kate Lewandowski (‘03) is the head athletic trainer and Sean Cannon (‘82) assists in the Athletic Department
North Catholic Sports teams have won a host of championships since the founding of the school in 1939. Legendary coaches like Don Barth brought championships in girls basketball to the halls of Troy and his successor, Molly (Larkin) Rottmann (’89), is approaching Barth’s championship victories.
Jen (McDonald) DiGiacomo (‘04) has been named head coach of the NC crew program, Dorothy Dohanics (’05) is the head coach for the girls tennis team, and Tim Aguglia (’93) is the head coach of the girls flag football team.
The ranks of assistant coaches include Marissa Beck Fenton (‘18) in crew, Kate Lewandowski and Lauren Wolosik (’13) in girls basketball, Emma Ivory (class of ‘18) and Kinsey Sperling (’21) in girls lacrosse, and Noah Sperling (‘18) in boys lacrosse. The flag football team has assistant coaches Gianna Aguglia (’23) and Naveh Kelly (’24). During the football season Terry Cronin (’75) can be spotted in the press box keeping the statistics.
Whether it’s setting up a scholarship fund, organizing volunteer opportunities for students or supporting the day-to-day operations of the school, North Catholic graduates have stepped up to support their alma mater
Jen (McDonald) DiGiacomo (‘04), head coach, is pictured here with her 24-25 Crew team.
HALL OF FAME
TROJAN HALL OF FAME
by Walt Quinn
On, Sunday, September 14, eight alumni — one woman and seven men joined the Trojan Hall of Fame. They were all chosen not only for their accomplishments, but also for the way they have given back to their communities.
BOB COLBERT – CLASS OF ‘65
While at North, Bob played football and baseball He was a proud member of the 1963 undefeated football team, famous for blocking a punt that led North to defeating Central Catholic. After graduating from the University of Maryland, Bob became the youngest collegiate head football coach in the country when he took over at Gallaudet College at just 23 years old His 46-year coaching career included positions at every level of the game In 2006, he helped to restart the football program at St Vincent College Bob heads the class of ‘65 legacy scholarship which has raised over $50,000 to aid in tuition assistance
BROTHER ROBERT FLAHERTY, SM – CLASS OF ‘59
Brother Bob has dedicated 65 years of his life as a Marianist Brother He has been at Archbishop Moeller High School in Cincinnati since 1963 and has worked with every single graduating class in the school’s history Outside of Moeller, he has spearheaded initiatives to serve the community Brother Bob has been a model of faith, optimism and service, shaping lives and strengthening communities Brother Bob was unable to attend; his cousin Terry Bowman (‘73) accepted the award and spoke on his behalf
PAUL GAERTNER – CLASS OF ‘71
Paul Gaertner is a world-renowned magician who at the age of 20, won the top award in slight-of-hand magic at an international magic convention in Miami Over the next 4 decades, Paul performed for more than 1,000 corporate clients around the world He made 3 appearances on the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and was featured twice on the cover of the Wall Street Journal Paul appeared on Penn & Teller: Fool Us five times, successfully fooling the legendary duo twice Since 2018, he has been entertaining audiences with his show in Boston His first paying job as a magician was performing at North Catholic’s junior prom for $5
COLONEL MEDIO MONTI – CLASS OF ‘75
Medio Monti has built a remarkable life of athletic, military, and community achievement He was a standout athlete at North Catholic and Allegheny College He went on to a distinguished and highly decorated military career and earned recognition for both service and humanitarian efforts His involvement in his community includes passionately participating in cycling fundraisers for the Veterans Leadership Program and Bike MS He also serves on the Allegheny College Alumni Council
DENNIS RANALLI, DDS – CLASS OF ‘64
From accomplished dentist and educator, to devoted community leader and historian, Dr Ranalli has built a life of service and faith that continues to inspire others His nearly 40-year career at Pitt Dental Medicine reflects excellence in teaching, research, and clinical practice Dr Ranalli’s commitment to North Catholic is reflected in his fundraising efforts for the new school and spearheading the Gena Grant program which provided opportunities for AP Biology students to conduct research alongside Pitt Dental Medicine faculty
ERIN RIGGLE, M.D. – CLASS OF ‘95
Dr Riggle is a Pulmonologist and the Medical Staff President at AdventHealth Littleton Hospital in Colorado In that role, she has helped establish hospital protocols that have improved surgical outcomes, while also serving on numerous committees dedicated to advancing the highest standards of patient care What distinguishes Dr. Riggle is her humanitarian service. She has participated in medical missions to Cambodia, Vietnam, and Kenya conducting rounds, providing care, and teaching medical students Through this work, she has inspired and empowered young women to see themselves as doctors and scientists
MARK SHEPARD – CLASS OF ‘75
Widly regarded as one of the top environmental attorneys in the United States, Mark Shepard has built a career defined by excellence, dedication, and integrity Over the course of his career, he held numerous positions within the Allegheny Bar Association and also served in the Pennsylvania Bar Association Additionally, he is deeply committed to community service He served on the Board of Directors of Catholic Charities for the Diocese of Pittsburgh and is a long-time member of both the Board of Advisors for the Little Sisters of the Poor and the Saint Thomas More Society
Pictured below is the corner store that once stood near North Catholic during its years on Troy Hill. Known by many names throughout its history, the shop holds a special place in the memories of our alumni On these pages, we’ve gathered a collection of stories and reflections they shared with us.
My fondest memory of this picture was that it was known as Red’s store back in my high school days We use to go by his store on our way to baseball and football practices all the time to Fowler Field. It was October, 1960, on our way to football practice at about 3:45pm that we passed Red’s store and heard and saw all of the cheering and celebrating coming out of the store. Red kept a TV on in his store and lo and behold Bill Mazeroski (Maz) had hit the game winning home run of Game 7 in the World Series to beat the Yankees. It was tough to really focus on practice that day Of course, Red was a great guy and owner who always had the best burgers at the time and became a designated Trojan himself through the years Couldn’t wait to get to Red’s after practices
- Larry Szykowny (‘62)
Afavoritestop IthinkIwasin thereeveryday Pickupajimmy cruller,playsomepinball And smokemylastcigarettebefore class Greattimes;TRNeiman gavemethenickname“Pinball Wizard”
In 1954, many days after school, Fran Janaszek (‘56), Herky Poerio (’55), Anthony Caridi (‘55) and I would go to the corner store and play shuffleboard. Some upperclassman (name unknown) would come in and play the song "GEE" by the Crows. He would play it one time and leave If this guy is still alive, he will appreciate this memory.
My best memory of Red's Store (as we called it) was almost a daily occurrence. After school, while waiting for the streetcar or bus, the NCHS riders used to cram into Red's. Sometimes as many as 30 or more students would be smoking and playing Red's pinball machines. The smoke was so thick you would think the place was on fire. When a brother came towards the store (probably to buy cigarettes) our NCHS smokers tried to eliminate the smokey clouds from the store. It was pure pandemonium since students weren't allowed to smoke within 2 blocks of the school. The brother bought his cigarettes and left the store without incident knowing the obvious.
- Jeff Witheral (‘66) PlayingpinballatSloopy’sbefore schoolstarted
-RichardVangenewitt(‘79)
TROJANS ON THE ROAD!
Joe Geiger (‘76) and his wife Patty toured Europe and the Meditteranean in Spring 2025, ending in Rome. While visiting La Botticella, a Pittsburgh Steelers bar, Joe noticed a Central Catholic banner - but no North Catholic! He promised the owner it would be fixed.
As he was planning his class reunion, Joe secured an NC banner from the school which he passed along to his neighbors who also were heading to the same bar. It is now proudly displayed in Rome. Forever True!
Doug Swierczynski (’74), his wife and granddaughter after her first ride on the Pittsburgh incline
Dave Frankowski (‘68) and his wife on their recent trip to London, England.
Jim Vogeley (’64) and Pat Holleran (’62) at Kensington golf course in Ohio.
Dave Lobosco (’92) sent this photo of him, his wife Sharon Sebek (’96) and their family on vacation in Punta Cana.
Above is a photo of 9 of the 14 Balestrieri, Balestreire, Balistreri ‘s that graduated NC. Back row in front of the tree are Tom Balestrieri (‘58) and Joe Balestreire (‘74). Next from left to right is Tom Balestreire (‘63), Tom Balestreire (‘66), Phillip Balestrieri (’99), and Joe Balistreri (‘64) In front is Frank Balestrieri (‘76), Joe Balestreire (‘69), and Peter Balestreire (’59)
A PILGRIMAGE TO REMEMBER
Thank you for sending the recent copy of the August “Trojan Alumni News-letter.” Paul Brinjak and I are old Trojans who attended North Catholic from 1962 thru 1966 Class of 1966! Earlier this summer we walked 160 miles on the Camino Portuguese to the Cathedral in Santiago. The bones of the Apostle Saint James the Greater are said to be buried there, according to church legend.
This is the class of 1957’s 68 reunion picture The reunion was held at Monte Cello’s in July. Bob Gaertner (’57) sent the photo.
Three generations of Quinns: Walt ('65), his grandson, and his son Geoff ('94)
Dave Kopp (’67) and his wife Mary Bobro-Kopp celebrated their 25 wedding anniversary on August 19th th
1975 class reunion working group: (L-R) Joe Cieply, Kevin Gmiter, Mark Shepard, Ray Kasunick, Bill Young, Mike Bezilla, onti
The Camino is the oldest Catholic pilgrimage in Europe. Ten of thousands of Catholics - and non-Catholics - walk variations of it each year for a variety of reasons. Attached is a web link to a short article I wrote describing our Camino that was published in “La Concha,” the magazine of the “American Pilgrims on the Camino.”
Click here to learn more
Meghan Schwab (’99) and Janice Kelly (’99) catching up over dinner in Station Square
Special note: We will do our best to include your submission, but space may be limited
Vince Ranalli ('56)
Congratulations to Kendall Hoffman Long (’11) and husband, Martin (’11) on the birth of their daughter, Francis Mae
Congratulations to Bailey Hollihan (’13) and Neil McKee on their engagement
Congratulations to Brian Miller (’13) and Lynsey Boyle on their marriage
Congratulations to Sean Ryan (’02) and his wife on the birth of their daughter Elizabeth Margarette
Congratulations to Karly Smrekar (‘14) and Jordan Pinkey on their recent marriage ANNOUNCEMENTS!
PRAYER REQUESTS
Jay Attanucci ('91)
Denise Enzerra ('82)
Bob Rathke ('59)
Gary Tevis ('68)
Don Lewis ('57)
Fr. Bill Seifert ('57)
Harmer Weichel ('48)
Brooke Sturgis (‘20)
William McDonough ('47) and his wife
Chuck Meharry ('88)
Kim Altman Girty ('88)
Alfred Camus ('57)
Jim ('61) & Rita Finn
Jim Hamm ('59)
Joe Chalovich ('70)
Jim Profozich ('59)
Dick Turici ('59)
Ed Smith ('47)
James McMahon ('58)
Lori Sullivan ('80)
Bob Schwerer ('55)
Katie Stufft ('26)
Ed Feitl ('65)
Vincent Romano ('57)
Rudolph Hotovec (‘57)
Mike Sprys ('74)
Vinny Jackson ('22)
Tom Way ('56)
Art Heiles ('64)
General Michael Hayden ('63)
James Brennan ('46)
Merl Bell ('52)
Dave Bauer ('57)
Francis "Fran" Janaszek ('56)
Richard Gross ('57)
Rich Bowers ('57)
Tom Neusch ('62)
Antonela Kasic ('15)
William Ward ('55)
Joe Fucci ('62)
Jennifer Mireles (daughter of James) Peiffer ('61)
Bill Yoest ('69)
Bill Kraft ('56)
Don Donatelli ('58)
Tom Loebig ('44)
Fred Slaney ('76)
Charles Hayes ('71)
Tom Cook ('59)
Mary Maloney ('25)
Ed Roche ('73)
Fr. Edward Bryce ('52)
Estelle Brogan (wife of Vince '53)
James Chunko (father of Jon ('02)
Paul Schlosser ('51)
John Brungo ('54)
Keith Schreiber (‘71)
Send your prayer requests to: alumni@northcatholic.org
live in hearts we leave behind is not to die. To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.
To
William Peters (‘53)
Jack Docherty (‘54)
Francis Schlosser (‘54)
James Jordan Jr. (‘55)
Vincent Ranalli (‘56)
Milton “Sonny” Stauber (‘57)
Daniel Joseph Weis (‘57)
Peter Wozniak (‘57)
Timothy Rooney (‘59)
David Mushenheim (‘61)
John S Capan (‘64)
James Glenn (‘64)
Robert Sasinoski (‘66)
Charles Beck (‘67)
George Buckland (‘67)
David Kotlinski (‘70)
Joseph Stiegler (‘79)
Christina Petkovich Hart (‘83)
Amy Marinelli (‘97)
Stephanie Garbe (‘00)
AUGUST LUNCHEON
The August luncheon saw over 60 alumni in attendance. The class of 1967 once again bested the class of 1959 as the most represented David Frankowski from the class of 1968 was a first-time attendee.
SEPTEMBER LUNCHEON
DID YOU RING THE BELL?
There were 56 alumni in attendance at the September luncheon. Medio Monti (’75) won the 50/50 drawing and the class of 1959 retook their title as most represented class edging out the class of 1967
For North Catholic alumni, this is the most important bell in PA It symbolized championships throughout the school’s history dating back to the school’s Troy Hill days It was used at the orphanage that would become a part of the newly constructed North Catholic High School. Initially, it was rung during Holy Week, but later it was used to symbolize victories in football over rival Central Catholic. When North defeated Central in the 1947-1948 school year and won its first Pittsburgh Catholic League Championship, the “Ring the Bell” tradition began The last time the bell was rung for a victory over Central was in 1997 when North defeated them 20-0.
When the football rivalry ended in 2001, the bell remained silent until the 2013-14 season when North won the Class 2A WPIAL football championship. When North moved to the new campus in Cranberry, it was decided that any WPIAL championship team deserved to ring the bell continuing the championship tradition.
Whether the bell was standing in the hall or hanging in the corner of the gym, every NC grad has some memory of the bell. So, tell us your memory. Send your stories to: wquinn@northcatholic.org.
Special thanks to Dennis Ranalli (’64) for sharing the history of the bell
