Tau Winter 2013

THE

AU

WINTER 2013 A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNI, PARENTS & FRIENDS OF ST. FRANCIS HIGH SCHOOL

Thomas Telesco San Diego Chargers

Class of 1991

David Caldwell Jacksonville Jaguars

Class of 1992

STORY ON PAGES 4&5

2 2

IN THIS ISSUE GM 2 Pages 4 & 5 Fine Arts Page 6 Alumni News & Notes Pages 8 & 9 Fall Sports Recaps Pages 10 & 11 March for Life Page 12 Upcoming Alumni Events Page 14 Justinian XXXII Page 15 WINTER 2013

THE

AU

A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNI, PARENTS & FRIENDS OF ST. FRANCIS HIGH SCHOOL

Thomas Telesco San Diego Chargers

FROM THE PRESIDENT Dear Friends,

What a winter! Between various storms, freezing cold and spring-like conditions we are constantly adapting to changes in our weather and our lives. Even the Church itself now needs to adapt to a historical change in leadership with the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. As much as things seem to stay the same, they can quickly change. Change is good and certainly adds variety to our lives and helps us all to move forward in many endeavors. The season of Lent now upon us has always been a season of renewal (change) for the Church. I hope and pray that all will take some time to renew ourselves and reÀect upon what is truly important in our lives. 8ltimately, it is our relationship with God himself that should guide all we do. I hope that you will take some time this Lenten season to reÀect on your life, all the great things you have accomplished, and what is yet to come.

Speaking of accomplishments, we are always so proud of our Alums who have distinguished themselves in their chosen Âżelds. Soon after the 1ew <ear we learned that two of our Alums had been named general managers in the 1FL, Tom TelescoÂś , the San Diego Chargers and Dave CaldwellÂś , the -acksonville -aguars. Congratulations! This is quite an accomplishment and quite an honor for the school. Please see the article on pages 4-5 to learn more.

Another honor came at the end of -anuary at the Annual 0arch for Life in Washington, DC. Twenty-one of our students along with 0r. 5ory 5eichenberg and Br. 1ick traveled to our 1ationÂśs capitol and were selected to march on the front line leading the 4 th anniversary 0arch For Life. We are so very proud of our young men who choose to stand up and march against abortion. (Page ) -anuary was a very busy month which included a road trip to meet alums in the Washington, D.C. area and Charlotte, 1C. Tony .osowskiÂś 5, -erry GorczycaÂś , Paul BartellÂś and I packed up and drove to gather with alums, a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and meet with alums who now reside away from Western 1ew <ork. 5egional 5eceptions were held in Arlington, VA on -anuary th and Charlotte, 1C on -anuary st. Be on the lookout for a regional reception coming to a city near you. (Page )

Class of 1991

Plans for -ustinian XXXII are in full swing. This yearœs theme is the ³5enaissance 0an´. The Dinner Auction will be held on Saturday, 0ay 4, . Invitations will be in the mail soon and this year you will have the option of purchasing your reservations online via our website. We hope you will be able to attend the event and/or a gift gathering party or two.

David Caldwell Jacksonville Jaguars

Class of 1992

STORY ON PAGES 4&5

ON THE COVER GM

2

Two Alums NFL General Managers

Finally, this issue of the Tau contains an envelope for the - Annual Giving Appeal. I ask that if you have not yet made your gift to please do so. Donations may also be made securely online. A substantial portion of the money raised through this effort is used to fund tuition assistance as we strive to make a St. Francis education available to all those who desire one. 0ay God bless you for your generosity.

Pax et Bonum

President

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TONYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TOPICS TONY KOSOWSKI â&#x20AC;&#x2122;75 He stood over his golf ball lining up the tricky putt â&#x20AC;&#x201C; should he play the break and curl the shot in with Âżnesse or play through the break and muscle the shot straight in the hole? Well in this case the golfer decided to hit the shot through the loop the loop and right into the cup for a hole in one!! Augusta?

Torrey Pines? 1o it was the championship putt â&#x20AC;&#x201C;putt course in our 0ain Gym! The Alumni Association sponsored the ÂłAlumni Family Day´ Saturday, -anuary th. It was billed as a chance to break up the winter doldrums for the kids and Âłtrue to form´ the weather outside was dreary and very windy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; hey itÂśs Buffalo â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but inside a record number of participants enjoyed the bounce house, an obstacle course, b basketball, k b ll soccer and d air i brushed tattoos in the gyms. A magic show, reptile and exotic animal show in the auditorium and for the Âżrst time a hole miniature golf course. It seemed that everyone had a great time and IÂśm sure many kids slept soundly that night â&#x20AC;&#x201C; I know their parents did! Thank you to all who participated, and we hope to see you next year.

Stop in and catch a basketball game, wrestling match or hockey game youÂśll be surprised at how caught up in the action you can get. 5eserve tickets for this yearÂśs 0usical â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ÂłDamn <ankees´ â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and if you make it to SaturdaysÂś 0arch th showing, the Alumni Association will host a reception at P0, for SF Alumni, in the gym before the play and during the intermission. Visit the website or call the school for information on dates and times.

2n 0arch at A.0., we will have the Alumni 0emorial 0ass in the Chapel followed by light refreshments in the Student Dining 5oom.

It is a chance for us to remember all our Alumni and friends who have gone on to eternal rest. 0ay they rest in peace.

5eunions for anniversary classes ending in or are being planned for the upcoming year. If you are interested in helping organize your class, contact Gerry Gorczyca at ext 4 or email gorczycag#stfrancishigh. org. The Class of will celebrate their 5 th Anniversary of Graduation with a 0ass, brunch and tour of the school on Friday

ST. FRANCIS TAU VOL4 NO 2

PublisHED THREE TIME S A YEAR BY THE

ST. FRANCIS HIGH SCHOOL OFFICE FOR INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT 4129 LAKE SHORE ROAD ATHOL SPRINGS, NY 14010-0185 WWW.STFRANCISHIGH.ORG 716-627-1200

-

VICE PRESIDENT FOR INSTITUTIONAL 0ay 4,

ADVANCEMEN V T

We also held regional reunions in VA and 1C In -anuary, and will be hosting reunions in Boston, 0A and 1<C , 0arch st and nd.

If you live in either area please plan on attending. They are a great way to meet other St. Francis Alums in your area. If your business or travels take you to either area when we are having a reunion you are also very welcome to join us. The venue will be listed on our website.

5egional 5eception in Arlington, VA

5egional 5eception in Charlotte, 1C The th Annual Bocce Ball Tourney will be held -une on the grounds of SFHS and the th Annual Golf outing, a perennial sell out, will take place -uly th. 0ore details will be forthcoming in the mail and on our website.

I think if you make time to attend one or more of the events, you will be glad you did.

We do make a number of attempts to notify our alumni regarding the events held on and off campus; by mail and email. Friend us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter. If you would like to get the info electronically, visit the website and sign up.

If you are ever in the area, stop in for a visit and a tour.

WE WELCOME YOUR COMMENTS...

SCHAFFSTALLS@STFRANCISHIGH.ORG

SUE SCHAFFSTALL EDITOR & DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING COVER DESIGN & FINE ARTS FR. MARK DAVID SKURA â&#x20AC;&#x2122;71, OFM CONV. JERRY GORCZYCA â&#x20AC;&#x2122;73 ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES- SPORTS PHOTOGRAPHY

JERRY GORCZYCA â&#x20AC;&#x2122;73 SUE SCHAFFSTALL YEARBOOK STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS LIFETOUCH JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS/RICK WILSON SAN DIEGO CHARGERS PROOFREADING PAT KACZMARCZYK PAUL BARTELLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;88

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Smith describes Telesco as reserved, but quick to smile and laugh, very trustworthy. ³He gave every effort in the classroom and on the football ¿eld. He took the leadership role very seriously; you knew that these things mattered to him´. Smith said he wasnœt surprised that Telesco has reached this level of success. ³When he was at Indy you could see that he was taking on bigger and bigger roles. He knows his stuff, you could see that he was going to move up the ladder and that he was ready for the next step.´

GM

2

BY SUE SCHAFFSTALL

-anuary was quite a month for St. Francis High School. -erry Smith, head varsity football coach, has had an ear to ear smile ever since. Like a proud father, he is basking in glow of his former playersœ success and giving credit where credit is due. Three major announcements in as many days. First we learned that Brian Polianœ accepted the head coaching position at the 8niversity of 1evada. Then the announcements that Tom Telescoœ was the San Diego Chargers new General 0anager and Dave Caldwellœ the General 0anager of the -acksonville -aguars. ³If they were my sons I would be very proud of them, not just because of their accomplishments, but because of the people they have become,´ said Coach Smith.

Photo: The San Diego Chargers Telesco spent 5 seasons with the Indianapolis Colts organization ( - ), the last six as the teamÂśs Director of Player Personnel. In 5, Telesco began his 1FL career as a Scouting Assistant for the Carolina Panthers. He served in that role for two seasons before becoming an Area Scout in . Telesco also worked as a summer intern for the Buffalo Bills ( - 4).

According to Telesco, his Catholic school background prepared him to take on this new role. He attended SS. Peter and Paul Elementary School in Hamburg before high school at St. Francis and eventually college at -ohn Carroll. â&#x20AC;&#x153;St. Francis really prepared me for college, the teachers challenged you to think and you had to learn time management. I was not overwhelmed when I went

to college. I played football, basketball and even some baseball at St. Francis.´ Telesco admits that he was really a basketball guy until he met Smith and Assistant. Head Coach -ohn Scibetta. ³They really helped me to develop a passion for football.´ Telesco says he still keeps in touch with the friends that he met in high school and is still close with coaches Smith and Scibetta. ³A very special memory that I have of the two of them is from the ¿rst Super Bowl when we were in 0iami playing Chicago. To have the two of them there

Front left to right: Chris Polian, Tom Telesco, Bill Polian, -ohn Scibetta Brian Polian. Back: Dave Caldwell -erry Smith was great. They drove from Buffalo to 0iami, through a snow storm and rain storms. It was very special to me to be able to share that moment with them, from the game to the post game party.´ What advice would Telesco give to current St. Francis students? ³Listen to your teachers and coaches, they are great resources, use them. There was a great faculty during my time at St. Francis. Everyone there took an interest in the kids whether in the class room, or on the ¿eld. <ou canœt take things for granted.´ ³He was a normal St. Francis student, but he had an edge to him, he liked to win,´ said Smith of Caldwell. ³Especially in his junior and senior years when he played varsity, you could see the desire and determination with an emphasis on production.´ A determination which has paid off and helped him land the G0 position with the -acksonville -aguars.

Photo:-acksonville -aguars/ 5ick Wilson Caldwell has served in the 1FL for 5 years, most recently as Director of Player Personnel in for the Atlanta Falcons. Prior to being promoted to Director of Player Personnel, he spent the last four seasons with the Falcons as the Director of College Scouting overseeing AtlantaÂśs

5

Photo:-acksonville -aguars/5ick Wilson Assistant where he spent two seasons. He served as a liaison between the college scouting director and multiple area scouts while focusing on draft preparations. ÂłThe ability to adapt to everyday life and people,´ is one of the lessons he learned while at St. Francis which has prepared him to take on this new job. The camaraderie and sense of teamwork at St. Francis, Caldwell says is where he learned the basis of teamwork. According to Caldwell his best memories of St. Francis were just regular days. Âł-ust driving into the parking lot every day, I loved it, not just the athletics, but all of it.´ Caldwell explains that Smith and Scibetta were a big part of â&#x20AC;&#x153;laying the groundwork for my work ethic, they were key components in helping me succeed.â&#x20AC;? Smith credits both Caldwellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and Telescoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents for doing a great job raising them. He says he was not surprised that Caldwell has risen to this level of success, Âłwhen he went to Atlanta it was clear he was going places.´ Smith describes him as having a great conÂżdence and credits him with not being afraid of stepping out of his comfort zone.

Caldwell keeps in touch with about 5- guys from St. Francis that graduated with him or a year behind him. He was back in town for the Alumni Golf tournament in and says heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s already planning on attending again this year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t look too far into the future, enjoy your time at St. Francis and make the most of it,â&#x20AC;? is the advice Caldwell would give to current students.

Both men expressed a genuine fondness for their Alma 0ater. They are very humble, and canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe that everyone is Âłstill making such a big deal´ about this.

Smith explains that both Telesco and Caldwell were at St. Francis when Bill Polian was the G0 of the Buffalo Bills. ÂłThey worked the Bills camps and observed how to do things the right way; there were a lot of successes under Bill Polian.´ Some may say they got their jobs because of their relationship with Bill Polian. ÂłHe may have opened a door but in this business you have to prove yourself and if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get the job done, it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter who you know, said Smith. These guys have become successful and they have always been willing to help St. Francis High, especially the football program, they are extremely loyal to the school and the program.´ Loyal is also a way to describe Smith. Âł0y entire experience at St. Francis High School from to the present has given me much more than I have given it. I raised family here. All the players and the students that I have had the privileged to coach, teach and mentor have allowed me to do things I never could have dreamed of because of the relationships that God has given me the ability to have, and I am very grateful.´ Smith describes himself as Âła little rough around the edges´. ÂłI am not the easiest guy to get along with. I can be brutally honest and sometimes that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sit well with people,´ says Smith ÂłI am fair, and I believe that all of my players would say that Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m fair.´ Scibetta who has been assistant to Smith since the beginning is credited by Smith for being instrumental to the program. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a bit more polished than I am.´ â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am really pleased that a bunch of my players have gone into football as players (Doug Worthington, Washington 5edskins), Coaches (Brian Polian, 8niversity of Nevada, head coach) scouts and top executives.´ Some more of Smithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s former players include: Chris Polian (Scout, Atlanta Falcons), Brian Dabol (Asst. Coach, Brian Polian New England Patriots), .yle Smith (Scout, Washington 5edskins), 0att -aworski(Colts), Dave Hack(CFL) and -im .ubiak(Colts), and many others too numerous to list here. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I get great satisfaction out of seeing all of these guys do well. They are great family men, raising kids, dedicated to success. This is a great honor for the school.´

DAVE CALDWELLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;92 & TOM TELESCOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;91

college area and regional scouts. His Âżrst years in the NFL were spent with the Indianapolis Colts. From - , Caldwell was the Western 5egional Scout with Indianapolis covering major college football conferences, including the Pac- , Big and Big . Coming from a successful Colts franchise that claimed a victory in Super Bowl XLI against the Chicago Bears, Caldwell was part of a scouting team that accounted for multiple starters and Pro Bowl players.

Caldwell broke into the NFL in with the Carolina Panthers as a Scouting

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FINE ARTS 2012-2013 SEASON

November 3 and 4, 2012

s

er y a l P cis

anent r F . t pres he S

T

March 15 and 16 at 7 March 17 at 2 Alumni Hall Theatre

Tickets now on sale call 627-1200 or order online at www.StFrancisHigh.org

Joe Boyd is a middle-aged fan of the hapless Washington Senators who is offered the irresistible opportunity to lead his favorite team to victory in the pennant race against the New York Yankees.

And all it will cost him is his soul.

Faust meets professional baseball in this devilishly clever Broadway musical that is sure to entertain.

7

CHRISTMAS CONCERT

GRECCIO The 0en’s Choir and the Freshman Class celebrated a Christmas Service of Lessons and Carols at Greccio on Sunday, December , in Friars’ Hall Chapel.

TIMELESS TRADITIONS

The Christmas Concert was held on Wednesday, December , at : pm in Alumni Hall Theater. 0en’s Choir, Chorus Classes, Concert Band, -azz 0essengers, Percussion Ensemble and Senior Schola performed.

ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES

8

1950â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

1980â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Anthony Rudnicki â&#x20AC;&#x2122;59â&#x20AC;Ś author of â&#x20AC;&#x153;BIP2LA5 B8FFAL2-A 0osaic of 0inds -ourney´. Combining memoir, humor, history and art, the book is a search for self and an authentic meaning to life. Edward -ardin, retired writer-editor of the New <ork Daily News calls it a â&#x20AC;&#x153;roller-coaster ride rekindling images of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Catcher in the 5yeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;2ne Flew 2ver the Cuckooâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nestâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.´ The page book includes 5 short stories with original art works and photos. See website: BIP2LA5 B8FFAL2 for details. Anthony will be donating 5 of books sold to alumni to St. Francis High School.

0embers of the Class of held their th Class 5eunion on Saturday November 4, .

They began with a 0ass in the Chapel celebrated by Fr. 0ark David, then went on a tour of the school; afterwards a reception was held at Hoakâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Thanks to .en Sovinski and 0ike Talluto for setting up the festivities .

1960â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ken Rollek â&#x20AC;&#x2122;62 and John Buczkowski â&#x20AC;&#x2122;63â&#x20AC;Śwere inducted into the Western New <ork Baseball Hall of Fame in September of . .en and -ohn were cocaptains of the American Legion DelBello team of the Plewacki Post in . The team was only the second from Buffalo to advance to the American Legion World Series, and the only one since the Burke Brothers in . The team won the City of Buffalo, Erie County, District and then the New <ork State Championship in Cooperstownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Abner Doubleday Stadium . The DelBello beat defending champion Staten Island - .

1990â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dr. Edward Kasprzak â&#x20AC;&#x2122;93â&#x20AC;Śand wife Terri welcomed their Âżrst child, Tyler Edward , on -anuary , .

They live in Tonawanda, N<. Ed works at 0illiken 5esearch Associates, Inc. in the Âżeld of automobile vehicle dynamics. He is also an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the 8niveristy of Buffaloâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dept. of 0echanical Engineering. He was named the Professor of the <ear by the 8B chapter of Tau Beta Pi (engineering honor society). He is also the recipient of the Excellence in Engineering Education award by SAE International, the Society of Automotive Engineers.

Gregory Knab â&#x20AC;&#x2122;95â&#x20AC;Ś married Erin Scott on August , at the Immaculate Heart of 0ary Church, Denver , Colorado. The wedding party included brother Stephen Knab â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;98, Robert Garra â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;95 and Kevin Furlong â&#x20AC;&#x2122;91. Erin and Greg now live in Atlanta, Ga.

1970â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s A few members of the Class of 1970 sported St. Francis golf shirts at their annual golf outing in Tampa, FL. Pictured from left to right: -oe Benzinger, Greg Coon, Paul Frascella, -im .ilcoyne, 5ay 5ettig and Paul Didas

Stephen Zawistowski â&#x20AC;&#x2122;73â&#x20AC;Śrecently published the second edition of a textbook he co-authored titled â&#x20AC;&#x153;Shelter 0edicine for Veterinarians and Staff´.

Chris Glascott â&#x20AC;&#x2122;96â&#x20AC;Śand his wife -ulie Anna were promoted to major in the -udge Advocate General division of the 8nited States Army. The ceremony took place at Fort Belvoir, Washington, D. C. Chris and -ulie Anna are currently taking post-graduate courses for -AG in leadership as well as various legal and military concepts.

Owen Taylor â&#x20AC;&#x2122;96â&#x20AC;Śwas married to Liz Norris on Sept. , at Walkerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Landing on Amelia Island, Fl. Joseph Zgoda â&#x20AC;&#x2122;96â&#x20AC;Śand his wife .risten, welcomed daughter, Skylar Grace on December , .

-oseph is the owner of =goda Design Graphics in Tonawanda, N< and is a member of Business Networking International.

9

Gabe Edwards â&#x20AC;&#x2122;99â&#x20AC;Śhas recently been promoted to vice president of the Custom Shell Tube Division of Cataract Steel Industries, located in Niagara Falls, N.<., with an ofÂżce in Hamburg, N.<.

Dr. Arthur J. Michalek â&#x20AC;&#x2122;99â&#x20AC;Śhas recently had an article of his featured on the cover of Biophysical -ournal. The article is â&#x20AC;&#x153; Phosphorylation 0odulates the 0echanical Stability of the Cardiac 0yosin-Binding Protein C 0otif´.

2000â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tony Bellagamba â&#x20AC;&#x2122;01â&#x20AC;Ś and his wife, Breanne, welcomed their second daughter, Harper Grace, on September 4, . Their older daughter, 5eagan, is very excited to be a big sister. The Bellagambas

David Sanok â&#x20AC;&#x2122;01â&#x20AC;Ś and -amie 0ooney were married on 2ctober , at Saint Sophiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Church in Albany, N<. The wedding reception was held at the Saratoga National Golf Club. St. Francis alumni attending were Brian Ferrisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;00, Jeff Wareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;00, Kevin Crawfordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;01, Mike Sweeneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;00, Mike Sanokâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;69, David Sanokâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;01, Phil Blatnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;01, Nick Missoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;01, Kevin Seitzâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;01 and Mike Sabatoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;01.

Victor Deveso â&#x20AC;&#x2122;10â&#x20AC;Ś was recognized at a dinner on Wednesday, December 5, for his hard work and dedication in the wake of Hurricane Sandy. Deveso attends S8N< 0aritime College and was honored for going above and beyond in the aftermath of the disaster.

According to 0aritime Assistant Dean of Students Arianne 5omeo, Deveso â&#x20AC;&#x153;performed tasks or services in an exemplary manner and showed unparalleled dedication to the 0aritime community, aided those in need and exhibited grace under pressure.

Jacob M. Lesinski â&#x20AC;&#x2122;10â&#x20AC;Śhas been inducted into Sigma Tau Delta English Honor Society and .appa Delta Pi Education Honor Society. He also won the 0ary Louise White Creative Writing Award at S8N< Fredonia.

Donald Argy III â&#x20AC;&#x2122;12â&#x20AC;Ś has been named to the Deanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s List at The Citadel, The 0ilitary College of South Carolina, for the fall semester of . Don is a cadet seeking a bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in Business Administration.

BY JERRY GORCZYCA â&#x20AC;&#x2122;73

currently reside in Naperville, Illinois

Luke Tasker â&#x20AC;&#x2122;09â&#x20AC;Ś was a unanimous Âżrst team All-Ivy League pick for Cornell 8niversity. Tasker caught 5 passes for yards and touchdowns in games. His yardage total was sixth in Ivy League history.

Tasker ended his college career ranked second on Cornellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s alltime receiving yards list with 4 .

ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES

Jonathan Lopez â&#x20AC;&#x2122;99â&#x20AC;Ś and wife 0elissa, welcomed Elliott -ackson Lopez on November , . -on was recently hired as a mathematics professor at Niagara 8niversity.

Frank Castiglia â&#x20AC;&#x2122;08â&#x20AC;Ś graduated with a 0aster of Arts Degree in Integrated 0arketing Communications from St. Bonaventure 8niversity, with an overall GPA of 4. .

He worked as a Graduate Assistant for St. Bonaventure 8niversityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s I0C Graduate Program from August until December . Frank created and implemented a website for his family business, Castiglia Funeral Home, Inc. Erie County Cremation Service, the 85L is www. cfhecc.com

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Varsity Fall Sports Recap

by Jerry Gorczyca â&#x20AC;&#x2122;73

Cross Country With the deepest and most consistent team in recent memory, the St. Francis 5ed 5aider XC team outperformed expectations. This was an excellent year for XC in Western N<, and this team held its own admirably. After graduating 5 varsity runners the previous year, the team needed people to step up and they did. Senior -urek Lelonek had his most active season in 4 years and ran a personal and team best : at the Eden Invite. Senior Ben Brady won of the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Âżve league meets this year, besting Bishop Timon and Nicholsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; top runners at Delaware Park.

A strong freshman class will bode well for the future, as sophomores Francis Schichtel and Tyler 5andle continue to improve upon their already impressive varsity performances. A strong corps of -uniors led by Âżrst year XC runner Tim Bartnik will ensure that this team will be in good shape in the years ahead.

The highlight of the season came during the second weekend in 2ctober when St. Francis Âżnally won the Dunkirk Invitational.

After two consecutive nd place Âżnishes, the 5ed 5aiders broke through and gutted out a win against Southern Tier rival Fredonia. It was a team effort in the truest sense, and the victory secured the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s place in St. Francis XC history.

Golf This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team had the privilege to start the season by playing in a tournament at Firestone CC in Akron, 2hio. The day trip gave the players a chance to get to know each other and do a little team bonding. The team competed in a -day tournament at Firestone, Âżnishing 5th out of teams.

Senior Cory Cullen shot a -over par round of 4, while 5yan Fishback Âżnished with a solid 4-over par round of .

After the trip to 2hio, the team came back to WN< and had a very exciting and interesting season. The team Âżnished -4 playing their best matches in the Firestone Tournament and in the All-Catholics. The team Âżnished rd overall at the 0idwest Prep Classic held at Diamond Hawk as well as nd overall at the All-Catholic match with Senior Cory Cullen and Freshman David Hanes earning All-Catholic honors. The team will return all but two seniors, so the future of the program looks solid.

Soccer â&#x20AC;&#x153;5elevant´ is the term to describe the St. Francis Soccer team. Not just for itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s improved play in the 0onsignor 0artin Association, but for the effort put forth against teams from

5ochester, Pennsylvania and 2hio. The 5ed 5aiders started the season by playing Strongsville, 2hio to a - draw. Shortly after that, they traveled to Erie to take on 0ercyhurst Prep and came away with a - victory. 2ur annual Night Game was a success as visiting Bishop .earney was handed a - overtime loss by the home squad. A ranking in the top in Western New <ork has proven that St. Francis is once again â&#x20AC;&#x153;relevant´ in Varsity Soccer.

In divisional play, the Varsity improved to a tie for nd place with a 4-4- record ( - - overall) with thrilling wins against St. -oes, Canisius and Nichols. After a semi-Âżnal victory over Nichols, St. Francis fell in overtime to Canisius to deny the team a trip to Long Island and the State Finals.

Captains -ason -ablonski and Drew Bassini kept the team working hard all season with a never quit attitude. First Team All-Catholic awards were given to -ablonski( goals), Sam Eggleston ( goals) and Tyler Eister(4 goals). Second Team AllCatholics awards were given to Bassini, Aaron Hayes( goals) and Nathan Squier.

The future looks bright for the Varsity program as the goaltending tandem of 0atthew Gabalski and Alex Davis, who produced shut-outs together, will both be returning in .

-oining them will be Eggleston, Hayes, Brett Bosinski, 0atthew 8nger( goal), Sean Cook( goal), Nick Lenahan( goals) and Sophomore Seth Snyder( goal). The returning players, along with a talented group of -V players, will have the goal of getting the team to the next level, a championship.

Volleyball The 5ed 5aider Varsity Volleyball team went through a youth movement this past season as four freshmen saw action at the varsity level. Nick Batchev, -ake .aempf, Brandon Schweickert, and -ames Barry all made an impact for the 5ed 5aiders. Despite the lack of varsity experience, the 5ed 5aider varsity volleyball team Âżnished the season with an - 4 record and a fourth place Âżnish in the 0sgr. 0artin league (5- ).

The team came up short in the 0sgr. 0artin Playoffs losing to eventual playoff champion and top three ranked Canisius in the semiÂżnals, after defeating Cardinal 2â&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hara in the quarterÂżnals.

The team was led by nd team All-Catholic junior Tom Duszkiewicz, seniors Taylor Walber, Alex Warthling and 0att .unselman.

The 5ed 5aiders once again played a tough schedule, facing teams in the top ten in not only Western New <ork, but throughout New <ork State. The 5ed 5aiders competed against every team that was ranked in the Buffalo News Top Ten at

11

Another tournament highlight was at the Clarence Tournament in which the 5ed 5aiders defeated Canisius in pool play - , Âżnished nd in pool play and earned a WN< Top Ten ranking of . That ranking lasted three weeks for the 5ed 5aiders.

The 5ed 5aiders also travelled to Webster (5ochester) to compete in their tournament, in which the 5ed 5aiders defeated a highly ranked 5ochester area team in Fairport, and a highly ranked WN< team in 2rchard Park before falling to Spencerport in the quarterÂżnals.

The marquee game of the year was the homecoming match against St. -oeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Âżttingly called â&#x20AC;&#x153;5ock the 5ed´. The 5ed 5aiders came out Âżred up and hung tough against then ranked St. -oes. Despite a hyped up student section and a great atmosphere the 5ed 5aiders came up short in three games, - 5, - 5, and - 5. With the underclassmen gaining the valuable experience to compete in big games, the 5ed 5aiders look to put forth a victory in next seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s game.

With the possibility of returning players, seven juniors and the four freshmen, the version of the 5ed 5aider varsity team may be one of the most experienced in Western New <ork.

-uniors Tom Duszkiewicz, David .ennedy, and Nick Novak will be entering their third seasons on varsity and will be called upon to be offensive leaders. -unior -ack 0oretti will continue his growth at the setter position and be called upon to run the offense; while juniors Tom 5osenlund, -oe Benz, and 5ichard Luczak add depth to the front row.

Football The season started with a lot of apprehension. How the players would respond to the graduation of starters from the squad? The annual Lockport scrimmage seemed to answer the question as the 5ed 5aiders dominated all three teams they faced, Sweet Home, Niagara WheatÂżeld and Grand Island. But the tide would quickly turn.

The team lost its Âżrst games to Aquinas of 5ochester, Holy Trinity of Long Island, St. -oeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Cathedral Prep of Erie, Canisius, St. 0aryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of Lancaster and nationally ranked St. Ignatius of Cleveland. Hi-lights were hard to come by in those weeks. Standout performances included -arrett Dolegalaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tackles against Aquinas, Alex 0istermanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s yards rushing and 5 TDs against Holy Trinity, -ake Dolegalaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s TD toss to

brother -arrett, Elliot Buccieriâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 4 yard return of a fumble, and -ordan =akroczemskiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tackles against St. -oeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, -ake Dolegalaâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s 5 yards passing and TDs to Alex 0isterman and .errick Woyshner against Canisius, 0ike 0illerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tackles and -ulyan Colemanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pass receptions vs. St. 0aryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.

Although the 5ed 5aiders lost 5 - to St. Ignatius, the team may have played one of their better games in Cleveland. They put in a great effort against the Wildcats, keeping them in check for most of the Âżrst half. The 5ed 5aiders brought back something from that game â&#x20AC;Śa new sense of self conÂżdence. It was obvious in the next games.

Week brought 2â&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hara to Athol Springs and the newly conÂżdent 5ed 5aiders posted their Âżrst win of the season - 4. -ordan =akroczemski scored TDs and Alex 0isterman rushed for yards and added more TDs. -ake Dolegala capped off the scoring early in the fourth quarter. Brother -arrett Dolegala led the team with 4 tackles and every 5ed 5aider got on the Âżeld.

In the last regular season game St. Francis faced WN<â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nd ranked Tigers of Bishop Timon/St. -ude, and promptly disposed of the South Buffalo crew - .

After Dylan 0acDonald forced a Tiger fumble, recovered by -im Canterbury at the 5ed 5aider 4 , Alex 0isterman ran 5 yards on the second offensive play of the game for St. Francis. -arrett Dolegala leading the team with tackles anchored a stout defense that completely shut down the Tigers.

Alex 0isterman rushed for yards and TDs with tackles on defense. Brian 0elisz also added a TD. The st round of the playoffs had St. Francis traveling to St. 0aryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for the right to go to 5alph Wilson Stadium . St. 0aryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s was conÂżdent after defeating the 5ed 5aiders â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in week . The 5ed 5aiders totally dominated the Lancers as the 5edWhite Gold scored on all 5 of its Âżrst half possessions. St. Francis pounded out 4 total yards with 4 coming on the ground. Alex 0isterman had a career game rushing times for 5 yards and 5 TDs. The defense was again led by -arrett Dolegala with 5 tackles, for loss and an interception. 0ike 0iller added tackles and Adam Valenti had tackles and fumble recoveries.

The Semi-Final game at 5alph Wilson Stadium against the 5egular Season Champion and New <ork State 5anked Canisius Crusaders. The Âżrst quarter mirrored the Âżrst games of the season. The 5ed 5aiders moving the ball, hurting themselves with a penalty or a turnover and the opposition taking full advantage. Turning the ball over 4 times resulting in points for the Crusaders doomed the 5ed 5aiders to a 45 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; loss ending their season. -arrett Dolegala, 0ike 0iller and Adam Valenti again led the 5ed 5aiders on defense with , and tackles respectively.

CROSS COUNTRY, FOOTBALL, GOLF, SOCCER, VOLLEYBALL

one point or another during this season. The 5ed 5aiders also competed in six different tournaments throughout Western New <ork and 5ochester, including the Cheektowaga Tournament, in which the 5ed 5aiders lost in the championship to Grand Island.

At the Lockport Tournament, the 5ed 5aiders Âżnished nd in their pool and were matched up against West Seneca West in the semiÂżnals. The 5ed 5aiders came up short losing the second set of the best of three, - . At the tournament, junior Tom Duszkiewicz was named to the All-Tournament team.

MARCHING ON THE FRONT LINE

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Twenty-one students and two faculty members from St. Francis High School were among the hundreds of thousands of pro-life advocates who participated in the annual 0arch for Life in Washington, DC on Friday, -anuary 5, . St. Francis High School was selected to participate in the of¿cial front contingent of the 4 th Annual 0arch for Life. Every year, one high school and one college or university is chosen to participate in this important role of the march, and the students from St. Francis shared this honor with students from Notre Dame 8niversity. The St. Francis students carried white 0FL Àags and the St. Francis High School banner.

St. Francis High School Director of Franciscan <outh 0inistry the Franciscan Service Program, 0r. 5ory 5eichenberg said, “St. Francis High school students have been participating in the march for many years and it is truly a great honor to be asked to march on the front line.´

13 +Jane Domon Retired Secretary of Fine Arts & Athletics, Mother of Robert Jr. ’84, +William ’85, Michael ’87 & Patrick ’89

+Mr. Thomas Anderson Grandfather of Andrew Anderson Class of 2015

+Blanche Galvin Grandmother of Chester Knauss Class of 2015

+Sean Auricchio Son of Jamie ’92 & Robin

+Victoria Gorczyca Mother of Gerald ’73, Paul ’76, John ’77, Steven ’83, Grandmother of Paul ’02 & Matthew ’09

+Myron Bogan Grandfather of Joel Galanti Class of 2016

+Walter A. Myslewski ’47 +Daniel Olczak ’43 +Noreen Randle Grandmother of Tyler Class of 2015 +Patricia (Trish) Randle Mother of Tyler, Class of 2015, Trey ’91, Jarrod ’96, Kent ’98, & Josh ’98 +John Rosiek Grandfather of Tristan, Class of 2016, Father of John ’81 & Matthew ’83

+Mark Boland ‘79

+ JoAnn Fleckenstein Grandmother of William Class of 2015

+Christopher Bosilkowski ‘99

+Joseph Jastrzemski ’46

+George Burns, Jr. Grandfather of Ryan Deas Class of 2016

+William Jerreld Grandfather of Zakary Class of 2014

+ Irene Schunke Mother of Norman – Head of Maintenance, Great-grandmother of Brandon Kozak Class of 2016

+Marie Carroll Grandmother of Anthony Morano, Class of 2013 & Tyler Morano, Class of 2015

+Dolores Kelsey Grandmother of Jack Morgan Class of 2014

+Randy Smith Father of Erik ’02, Co-chair Justinian XXV

+Fr. Roman Chwaliszewski ’51, OFM Conv.

+Virginia Korba Grandmother of Chad Emilianowicz Class of 2016

+David Strozyk Father of Jacob, Class of 2013

+Matilda DiFrancesco Grandmother of Tom Ferber Class of 2013

+Debra Maziel Sister of Sheila Mangino, Staff +Hugh McTigue Grandfather of Tyler Class of 2013

+Sheryl Williams Grandmother of Immanuel Williams,Class of 2015 +Louis Zawistowski ’50

Father of Stephen ’73

2011-2012 ANNUAL REPORT OF GIFTS CORRECTIONS WE ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THE FOLLOWING DONORS TO ST. FRANCIS HIGH SCHOOL WERE NOT PROPERLY LISTED IN THE 2011-2012 ANNUAL REPORT OF GIFTS Annual Gifts to the Scholarship/ TuitionAssistance Fund 0r. 0rs. Vincent Frisicaro should have read: 0r. 0rs. Vincent Frisicaro , In Honor of Fr. 0ichael .olodziej (Scholarship)

Annual Giving Appeal Donors Friends Cornerstone Club ( , - ,4 ) 5ev. Theodore 5og

.yle 5eid 0emorial Scholarship Fund ,

Fr. 5u¿nus Club ( 5 - ) 0r. and 0rs. 5obert Pacholski 5ev. 0ark Wolski

Wegryn 0emorial Golf Tournament should have read: Ed Wegryn 0emorial Golf Tournament ,5

IN MEMORIAM

Please remember in your prayers the following members of the St. Francis High School Family who have recently passed away:

HALL OF FAME - BOCCE BALL - GOLF

14

ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME NOMINATIONS Nominations for the St. Francis Athletic Hall of Fame dedicated to the memory of Very 5everend 5u¿nus Niedzwiecki, 2F0 Conv. are currently being accepted until April 8, 2013. Nominations may be submitted by any friend or supporter of St. Francis High School. The requirements for nomination are: . Attended St. Francis High School for at least two years . Graduated in good standing at least ¿ve years prior to nomination . Participated in at least one sport at St. Francis High School Nominations can be e-mailed to Steve Otremba at otrembas@stfrancishigh.org or mailed direct to Steve’s attention at : St. Francis High School 4129 Lake Shore Road Athol Springs, NY 14010-0185 2U ¿OO RXW WKH QRPLQDWLRQ IRUP XQGHU WKH $WKOHWLFV WDE RQ WKH WRS RI WKH KRPHSDJH

SAVE THE DATES BOCCE BALL TOURNAMENT

5eserve Saturday, -une nd for the Alumni Association Bocce Ball Tournament on the front lawn. 0ore information will be coming soon!

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION GOLF TOURNAMENT The th Annual Alumni Association Charity Golf Tournmament will take place on Thursday, July 11, 2013 at Terry Hills Golf Course in Batavia, N<. The Cost will be 5 per golfer which includes lunch, greens fees, a cart and dinner. 0ore information will be forthcoming. 5egistation will also be available on our website.

15

JUSTINIAN XXXII

The education of the whole person - mind, body and spirit - has long been the tradition of St. Francis High School. This year’s -ustinian celebrates the journey our sons take from boyhood as freshmen to manhood as seniors. They graduate not as ordinary men, but as men of character and integrity who are equipped to make a positive difference in the world. 2ur St. Francis 5enaissance 0en are encouraged to become the best they can be through the avenues of academics, arts, athletics and, above all, faith.

0ost importantly, our St. Francis gentlemen are taught that every strength and talent they possess are gifts from God. They are encouraged to use these gifts for the glory of God and for the good of their fellow man. The St. Francis 5enaissance 0an is one who knows that the ultimate source of every gift, of every opportunity, and of every challenge is God, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Saint Francis heard a message from God, “5ebuild my Church.´ And so he did, both literally in the rejuvenation of a crumbling structure, as well as, spiritually in a renewal of the faith of God’s people. As we celebrate the themes of rebirth and renewal, we cannot help but be thankful for the opportunity our sons have to develop themselves as 5enaissance 0en while attending St. Francis High School.

This year’s -ustinian will be held on Saturday, 0ay 4, . There are many opportunities for parents, alumni, alumni parents, faculty and all who have an interest in the future of our St. Francis 5enaissance 0en to be involved. -oin us in a gift gathering party, help by volunteering with any of the many aspects of the -ustinian, and ¿nally attend this year’s dinner auction to support “The 5enaissance 0an.´ Paul Sue Santandreu – -eff -ulie Stefaniak – Steve Sarah Tasker

JUSTINIAN XXXII - MAY 4, 2013

THE RENAISSANCE MAN CELEBRATING THE ST. FRANCIS TRADITION

N2N-P52FIT 25G. 8S P2STAGE PAID Hamburg, New <ork PE50IT N2. 5

4129 LAKE SHORE ROAD * ATHOL SPRINGS, NY 14010-0185 WWW.STFRANCISHIGH.ORG

UPCOMING ALUMNI EVENTS Memorial Mass March 3, 2013 - 10 am - Friars’ Hall Chapel

Bocce Ball Tournament June 22, 2013 - Front Lawn - 1 pm

Spring Musical Reception March 16, 2013 - 6 pm - Main Gym

Golf Tournament July 11, 2013 - Terry Hills Golf Course

50 Year Reunion Recognition Day( Class of 1963) May 24, 2013 - Alumni Hall

ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES……KEEP US INFORMED………

PLEASE FORWARD ANY ALUMNI NEWS TO JERRY GORCZYCA ’73 ST. FRANCIS HIGH SCHOOL, 4129 LAKE SHORE ROAD, ATHOL SPRINGS, NY, 14010 OR E-MAIL GORCZYCAG@STFRANCISHIGH.ORG NAME ____________________________________________ GRAD YR ______ ADDRESS _______________________________________ CITY ________________________ STATE ______ ZIP _________ PHONE - HOME________________________ CELL _________________________WORK ____________________________ E-MAIL_________________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________________

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