LATHAM, NY – The New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) has announced it will formally induct its Hall of Fame Class of 2025 on Wednesday, July 30^th at Rivers Casino/The Landing Hotel in Schenectady, NY.  The NYSPHSAA Hall of Fame, launched in 2002, is sponsored by Zolnier Championship Rings, Crown Awards and Pupil Benefits Plan, Inc.
 
The Class of 2025 is Bill Bryant (Administrator, Section IV), Don Cupertino (Coach, Section I), Larry Gualtieri (Official, Section XI), Terence “T” McMahon (Coach, Section VI), Marty Sherman (Contributor, Section 2), and Carl “Rollie” Stichweh (Athlete, Section VIII). Inductees were chosen using a two-level selection and rating process involving a screening committee and a selection committee.  Nominations were endorsed by each inductee’s member section of the Association—a preliminary requirement in the nomination process—before going onto the NYSPHSAA Screening Committee for consideration, then finally to the Selection Committee. Nominations can be submitted by anyone as long as a section endorsement letter accompanies the submission. The NYSPHSAA Hall of Fame is modeled after the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) program which recognizes individuals in the categories of athlete, coach, official, administrator and related contributor.
 
The 2025 NYSPHSAA Hall of Fame Class will be inducted on Wednesday, July 30th with a reception at 5:30 pm and dinner to follow. Tickets and other Hall of Fame event information will be released at a later time.  
 

BILL BRYANT, Administrator (Section IV)     

Bill Bryant has been a pillar of New York State high school athletics for nearly 50 years. Currently serving as Executive Director of Section IV since 2021, he has held numerous leadership roles since 1976, including Executive Director of the Section IV Interscholastic Athletic Conference (2017–2021).  Bryant began his career as a teacher and coach at Binghamton High School (Section IV) before becoming Athletic Director at Spencer-Van Etten (1985–1988) and Ithaca High School (1988–2010), two other Southern Tier schools. After retiring, he continued to serve students and schools through interim administrative roles in Section V’s Brockport Central Schools (2011–2013) and Section III’s Marcellus Central Schools (2014–2021). A respected leader, Bryant has served on many league, sectional and state committees. His impact on student-athletes and athletic programs has earned widespread recognition. He is a member of the Ithaca College Hall of Fame (1989), Section IV Hall of Fame (2011) and New York State Athletic Administrators Association (NYSAAA) Hall of Fame (2017). NYSAAA honored him as Athletic Director of the Year (2001), with the Apple Award (2002), and the State Award of Merit (2014). He also served as NYSAAA President in 2007.  A standout athlete himself, Bryant graduated from Owego Free Academy and starred at Ithaca College earning All-American honors in 1975 as a wide receiver. He went on to sign as a free agent in the NFL with the Pittsburgh Steelers (1976) and Washington Redskins (1977). He earned a bachelor’s degree from Ithaca College in 1976 and a graduate degree in administration from SUNY Cortland in 1988.
 
 

DON CUPERTINO, Coach (Section I)

Don Cupertino is one of the winningest high school girls varsity soccer coaches in New York State history. Still active, he has accumulated a 544-135-37 record through the 2024 season all as the head coach at Bronxville High School in Section I. “Coop”, as he is referred to by his players, ranks in the top five in wins in the state and his teams have captured three NYSPHSAA State Championships, 22 Sectional Championships and 27 League Championships during his impressive 35-year career (1990-Present). He was voted State Class B Coach of the Year in 2010, then in 2014, was honored again as both the State and Regional Class B Soccer Coach of the Year. Earlier this year, Cupertino was inducted into the New York State Girls Soccer Hall of Fame and is one of just 15 coaches in the entire state to eclipse the 500-win club.  Two years before he took over at Bronxville, he helped establish the first ever girls soccer program with the Eastchester Youth Soccer Club so young girls had a place to play. Not long after, Don established the Patriot Football Club, an elite club for girls to compete at a higher level. His commitment to leadership in the game of soccer led to various roles in Section I including as a Section League Representative for girls soccer and serving as President of the Section I Girls Soccer Coaches Association. Cupertino played soccer at Washingtonville High School in Section IX where he graduated in 1975, then went onto Canton State University where he played four years and earned an associate degree in mortuary science in 1977.
 
 

LARRY GUALTIERI, Official (Section XI)    

Larry Gualtieri is one of the most highly respected officials in New York State having officiated the sports of soccer, basketball and baseball in Suffolk County (Section XI) since 1974. He has been selected numerous times by Section XI to represent the section as an official at the NYSPHSAA Boys Basketball and Boys Soccer State Championships over the last several decades. Almost annually, Gualtieri is chosen as a top rated official by the section to also officiate in the sectional playoffs in all three sports as well. He has been a member of the International Association of Approved Basketball Officials Board 40 (IAABO) of New York State since 1974 and has been a member of the Suffolk County Soccer Officials Association since 1994 serving as President and Vice President of NYS IAABO Board 19. Larry served as the President of the IAABO Board from 1985-87 and from 2012-17.  He has compiled numerous awards for his continued consistency officiating and leadership in the field. Gualtieri was recognized with the Larry Chizever Award (Official of the Year) twice and earned the President’s Award (IAABO Board 40) in 1993, 1997 and 2018. In 2011, Suffolk County Soccer Officials Association awarded him Man of the Year, and five years later the Section XI Coaches Association voted him Referee of the Year. In 2014, he was inducted into the Center Moriches High School Hall of Fame. Gualtieri graduated from Center Moriches High School in Section XI in 1972, went on to earn a degree from Suffolk Community College then completed schooling at Suffolk County Police Academy to become a detective. 
 

TERENCE “T” McMAHON, Coach (Section VI)   

Terence “T” McMahon is the all-time winningest high school boys varsity tennis coach in New York State and currently ranks third all-time in girls varsity tennis all while coaching at Orchard Park High School in Section VI.  Since 1975, he’s accumulated a 661-92 career record on the boys side to go with 41 sectional championships and 52 league championships. Terence’s teams went undefeated in 20 seasons and he once led them to a string of 124 consecutive wins from 2010-2021.  Since 1975, 80 boys players qualified for the state tournament under his leadership. His career coaching varsity girls tennis is nearly as remarkable having piled up a 400-28 record from 1975-2000 which included 21 league championships, 19 undefeated seasons and a run of 159 straight wins from 1989-98. In McMahon’s 25-year girls career, 50 of his players reached the state tournament. In addition to coaching high school, he’s guided college programs with stints as head coach at Canisius College (1964-75) and Mercyhurst College (2011-12).  Terence has been inducted into the Section VI Hall of Fame, Bishop Loughlin Hall of Fame and Buffalo Tennis Hall of Fame while also earning numerous Coach of the Year plaudits locally and statewide. In addition to coaching, he has been the Section VI Boys Tennis Coordinator since 1982. Before kickstarting his career as a social studies teacher, guidance counselor and coach at Orchard Park, McMahon was a star player at Fordham University for a year then transferred to Canisius for his final three years where he was the team captain and eventually earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
 

MARTY SHERMAN, Contributor (Section 2)   

Marty Sherman was a successful multi-sport coach for over three decades and a respected contributor to various NYSPHSAA and Section 2 committees for over four decades. He was most successful over a 33-year period as the varsity wrestling head coach at Corinth High School in Section 2 where he amassed 304 career wins and was named Section 2 Coach of the Year twice.  Additionally, Sherman had success coaching 12 years of varsity baseball, football and track.  As the baseball head coach at Corinth, where he also served as Athletic Director and a physical education teacher, his teams won six league championships and one section championship. Marty has been the NYSPHSAA wrestling state coordinator since 2008 and has served on various wrestling committees including 10 years as the Section 2 Wrestling Coordinator and 15 years as a member of the National Wrestling Coaches Association. As State Coordinator, he has overseen the individual state tournament and the dual meet state tournament, which he was instrumental in helping establish in 2019.  Additionally, Sherman helped initiate vast improvements in the current weight certification process and has guided the wrestling state committee to many other beneficial changes for the safety and equity of wrestlers in New York State. Marty has been inducted into several Halls of Fame including the New York State Wrestling Hall of Fame, Upstate New York Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, NYSPHSAA Section 2 Wrestling Hall of Fame, and the Saratoga Springs High School Hall of Fame. A 1961 graduate of Saratoga Springs High School in Section 2, he continued to Ithaca College where he graduated in 1966 with a bachelor’s degree.
 

CARL “ROLLIE” STICHWEH, Athlete (Section VIII) 

Rollie Stichweh was a four-sport star for Mineola High School in Section VIII from 1957-61.  Most known as a record setting quarterback and defensive back in football, he was also highly successful in basketball, baseball and lacrosse, and a key part of numerous Mineola championship teams in those sports. Stichweh started for three years, and in his senior season he helped the team to an undefeated record and the 1960 Nassau County Championship.  His career was recognized with the Thorpe Award as a senior, recognizing the best high school football player in Nassau County, and being named to Newsday’s All-County basketball team his junior and senior seasons. In the spring, he played three years of varsity baseball before turning to lacrosse his senior season and earning the reputation as a tough, highly skilled player even without having much experience in the sport. Stichweh was a key piece to the school’s county championship in lacrosse in 1961. Upon graduation that year, Rollie earned an appointment to the United States Military Academy/West Point when he was a highly touted football recruit. At West Point, he was the starting quarterback all four years earning numerous awards including an NCAA All-East Football selection in 1964 and earning All-American status in 1965. In 1964, Head Coach Darrell Royal of the #1 ranked University of Texas team referred to Rollie as the best back in the country at the time. Stichweh graduated in 1965 and was required to serve in combat duty in Vietnam despite the New York Giants and Oakland Raiders expressing interest in drafting him to the NFL. He has been inducted into the Mineola High School Sports Hall of Fame, Nassau County Hall of Fame and the Army Football Hall of Fame.
 
 

**HIGH RESOLUTION HEAD SHOTS ARE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST**

College dining halls have their moments, like when you’re in a rush or just want something quick and easy. However, what about when your cravings call for something a little more exciting? Maybe it’s late at night and the dining halls are closed, you’re just on the hunt for something more flavorful.

Fortunately, even if your meal plan doesn’t cover those off-campus eats, your LionCash can take you far. Here’s a roundup of the tastiest LionCash friendly spots that Penn State students swear by.

Raising Cane’s

If you’re a fan of crispy chicken tenders, Texas toast that’s toasted just right and crinkle-cut fries with the perfect crunch, this is your spot. The chicken sandwich is another go-to, stacked with their famous Cane’s sauce that somehow makes everything taste better. It’s fast, filling and always a win.

Tadashi (x2)

Tadashi offers two locations, and depending on your mood, you can choose between sushi or ramen. Craving a spicy tuna roll or a Philadelphia roll? The sushi location has fresh options that won’t disappoint.

Meanwhile, the ramen location serves up steamy bowls of comfort like Tonkotsu, Miso or Shoyu ramen — perfect for chilly State College days.

The Corner Room

The Corner Room, a Penn State classic, offers more than just its vintage vibes. From juicy burgers to hearty pastas and comforting mac and cheese, it’s a great place to sit down with friends and fill up on comfort food. Bonus: it’s located right across campus downtown, so you don’t need to go far.

Yallah Taco

If you’re in the mood for tacos loaded with flavor and personality, Yallah Taco hits the spot. This late-night favorite serves up bold Mexican flavors — think burritos, quesadillas and nachos with a spicy twist. It’s quick, it’s cheap and it’ll keep you coming back.

Irving’s

When it comes to bagels, Irving’s is in a league of its own. Known for their fresh, homemade bagels and spreads, this café is also a solid study spot. Their smoothies, breakfast sandwiches and coffee also make it a great go-to at any time of the day.

Giuseppe’s Pizzeria by Brothers

For those nights when only pizza will do, Giuseppe’s delivers. Their slices are big, cheesy and satisfying, whether you’re grabbing one after a night out or ordering a whole pie with friends. Try their specialty pies for something a little different.

Teadori & Mr. Wish

If your day calls for something sweet, chewy and photogenic, check out Teadori or Mr. Wish. Both spots serve up a variety of bubble tea flavors: from classic milk tea to fruity or matcha-based drinks. Mr. Wish also doubles as an Asian snack market, so you can stock up on goodies for later.

Waffle Shop

Who says breakfast has to happen before noon? Waffle Shop is a local legend for a reason. With pancakes, waffles, omelets and more, it’s a brunch-lover’s dream. Bring a friend, your appetite and don’t skip the hash browns.

Cozy Thai Bistro

From creamy curries to savory Pad Thai, Cozy Thai Bistro brings rich Thai flavors right to downtown. The spice levels range from mild to fire-breathing, so there’s something for every kind of palate.

Indian Pavilion

For those craving authentic Indian cuisine, Indian Pavilion offers everything from buttery chicken tikka masala to vegetarian delights like chana masala and saag paneer. The naan? Absolutely essential.

Ramyun Studio

A hidden gem for ramen lovers, Ramyun Studio flips the script on traditional dining. You choose your ramen from a massive wall selection, pay at the register then heat it up yourself. It’s quirky, fun and has enough flavor options to keep you experimenting for weeks.

Mezeh

Think of Mezeh like a Mediterranean Chipotle. Build your own rice bowl or wrap with options such as grilled chicken, lamb, falafel, hummus, veggies and sauces. It’s quick, healthy and full of flavor.

MORE LIFESTYLE COVERAGE

STANFORD, Calif. – Cardinal men’s gymnast Mark Berlaga has been named one of 42 recipients of the NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship, as announced by the NCAA on Friday afternoon. 

“It’s an honor to receive the NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship, and it would not have been possible without my teammates, coaches, and professors pushing me to work my hardest in and out of the gym,” Berlaga said “It’s a pleasure to represent Stanford Men’s Gymnastics after graduation, where I will use the scholarship to fund my medical school education after a year of working as an Emergency Medical Technician in New York City.”

Given to 21 male and 21 female student-athletes, the NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship winners receive a one-time grant of $10,000. In addition to maintaining at least a 3.2 grade-point average, they must perform with distinction in their sport and be nominated by their institution’s faculty athletics representative.

Berlaga ended his career as a three-time NCAA All-American as a still rings specialist, finishing as the national runner-up in the event in both 2022 and 2024. He is also an MPSF Champion in the event, scoring a 14.600 to win the conference title in 2023. Berlaga contributed to one of the sports’ most impressive dynasties during his time on The Farm, helping guide Stanford to three national championships and three MPSF team titles. 

“Gymnastics sparked my early interest in the human body’s capabilities which quickly led to a fascination of medicine as I began to research antibodies for an HIV vaccine and volunteering at the VA Hospital,” Berlaga added. “My academic and athletic experiences have thouroughly prepared me for my future medical career and I look forward to using everything Stanford has taught me while working to improve patient health:.

Academically, Berlaga finishes his academic career as one of the most decorated student-athletes in collegiate gymnastics, boasting a 4.04 GPA in pursuit of his degree in Biology. The Palo Alto, Calif. native was named the CSC Men’s Division I At-Large Team Member of the Year in 2024, given to the student-athlete with the best combined athletic and academic performance in the At-Large category. Additionally, Berlaga is a CSC First Team Academic All-American, a two-time Pac-12 Academic Honor Roll selection, and a three-time MPSF All-Academic Team honoree.

“I am grateful to my family, friends, and teammates for inspiring and motivating me in my athletic and academic endeavors. I will never forget the experiences I had and the people I met here at Stanford, it was truly a life-changing four years here as a student-athlete. Stanford’s unmatched commitment to excellence has made me a better athlete, student, and person ready to take on the next phase of my career.”

The Colorado College hockey team gathered at Carter Payne Center on Friday to celebrate the 2024-25 season and senior class, and hand out individual awards at the annual team banquet.

The event celebrated the fourth campaign under head coach Kris Mayotte and served as the official sendoff for the team’s three graduate students and three seniors.  

 

Grad students Tyler Coffey, Ty Gallagher and Chase McLane, along with seniors Stanley Cooley, Tommy Middleton and Henry Wilder were honored after the team awards were announced.

 

Junior Noah Laba earned the team’s top honor, the Thayer Tutt Most Valuable Player Award. Laba, who signed with the New York Rangers following the season, finished the ’24-25 campaign tied for second in scoring with 26 points and tied for the team lead with 10 goals.

 

Junior goaltender Kaidan Mbereko won the Steve Ebert Award for the second straight year. The award is given for the combination of dedication, desire, ability and sportsmanship that Ebert exemplified during his time as a Tiger. Ebert, a member of the Class of 1966, was killed in an Army air training plane crash in 1970.

 

Wilder won the prestigious Scott Winkler Award, which honors the player that earns the respect of his teammates by showing humility, optimism and support through his love and appreciation for the game as well as his teammates. Winkler passed away unexpectedly in June of 2013 after completing his senior season at Colorado College. Wilder, who transferred to CC from Boston College, appeared in four games in the net in his two seasons at CC.

 

Freshman Owen Beckner earned the M.B. Hopper Award as the team’s top scorer. He notched 27 points with seven goals and tied for the team lead with 20 assists. His 27 points were the most by a CC freshman since Scott Swanson had 48 in 1995-96.

 

Beckner also won the Bob Johnson Award as the team’s top freshman. He is the first freshman to lead CC in scoring since current Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Jaccob Slavin had 25 points in 2013-14.

 

Gallagher, a transfer from Boston University, won the Tony Frasca Award, given to the player that had the best postseason. Gallagher, who tied for second on the team with 26 points, notched three goals in CC’s best-of-three playoff series at Denver. He signed with the Providence Bruins of the American Hockey League following the season.

 

Sophomore defenseman Brady Cleveland won the Dave Peterson Award as the most improved player after playing in all 37 games in ’24-25. He posted career highs of one goal, two assists and three points this season. He scored his only goal in a 3-1 victory over Denver in game one of the NCHC playoffs.

 

Sophomore forward Zaccharya Wisdom was named the winner of the Rodman Award, given each year to the player demonstrating the highest degree of sportsmanship. The award was founded in 1980 by Dr. Hugh Rodman and his wife, Crete. Wisdom finished fifth on the team in scoring with 21 points (8g,13a) and third with 81 shots.

 

Middleton earned the Paul Markovich award as the program’s top student-athlete. Middleton has a 3.90 cumulative GPA majoring in molecular biology and was named an NCHC Distinguished Scholar-Athlete each of his four years at Colorado College.