The success of the Haverhill High School athletic program has heightened interest in creating a Hillies Athletics Hall of Fame.
“There is definitely a renewed interest in sports across the community,” said Athletics Director Tom O’Brien. “This is the perfect time to formally recognize those who have brought distinction and honor to Haverhill High. There are so many Hillies out there who deserve recognition for their tremendous accomplishments and contributions.”
Former HHS student-athletes who graduated before 2006 are eligible for nomination. Coaches who left their coaching positions before 2011 or who are at least 60 years old also are eligible for nomination.
Any member of the community may nominate a qualified individual for consideration. An official nomination form can be found on the Haverhill Public Schools web site, www.hillies.org, under the Athletics tab.
Over the past five years, the Haverhill High School Athletic Program has experienced unprecedented growth and success. Participation has jumped from 900 participants per year to more than 1,200, and the program has added four varsity sports. Since 2011, Hillie teams have captured 19 Merrimack Valley Conference titles and 75 teams have qualified for MIAA post-season play.
Nomination information and any supporting material can also be sent by mail to Tom O’Brien at Haverhill High School in care of the Athletics Department, or by email at [email protected] The deadline for nominations is Dec. 1, 2016.
There is already a Haverhill Athletic Hall of Fame, although it has been dormant for years. In addition to Haverhill High athletes, it also includes St James athletes, like Dickie Moynihan, Coach Bodger Carroll, and the 1924 SJHS football team. plus other later SJHS athletes after interscholastic athletics were ended like boxer Jackie O’Neill, baseball player Mike Ryan & golfer Paul Moran. Also, former Lawrence Central Catholic & Holy Cross star Larry ‘Pat’ McCarthy is a member.
My question is, do we need two athletic Halls of Fame? Why not just resurrect the existing Athletic Hall of Fame? Although the existing Hall has no physical location, the lobby of the HHS Gym would be a good location.