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Hall of Fame

The Academy of the Holy Names Athletic Hall of Fame recognizes the superior athletic performances of Holy Names alumni and coaches. For more information on this honor or to nominate someone, please complete the form below. Nominations are accepted throughout the year and may be submitted anytime. An annual inductee selection takes place each fall.

 

Hall of Fame 2023 Inductees


Julia Lester ’16 | Soccer

A dedicated student and athlete, Lester was named captain of the soccer team her senior year and led the team to a 19-2 record, with 30 goals and 18 assists. She secured several awards in her senior year, including All-County recognition and Athlete of the Year. She received accolades at the national and state levels and earned a full scholarship to the University of Florida. Post-graduation, she played in Cyprus and now competes in the NWSL for Racing Louisville Football Club, known for her extraordinary work ethic, competitiveness, and humility, according to her nominator.

Becky Vyzas ’08 | Softball

As a standout softball player for the Jaguars softball team, Vyzas set impressive records for batting average and home runs in a single season. During her senior year as the team captain, Vyzas earned the title of Most Valuable Player and a spot on the 2nd Team All-State. Her accolades culminated in being named AHN’s Senior Athlete of the Year.  She continued her success at the University of Tampa. During her junior year, Vyzas set a new school record for home runs in a season, and her career slugging percentage of .610 stands as the highest in University of Tampa history. 

Mike Palios ’89 | Basketball

Even as a young man at the Boys Academy, Palios was full of energy, spirit, and positivity no matter what he was involved in. Voted “Most Athletic” by his classmates, he was the only 7th grade starter on AHN’s first championship basketball team in 1988, with the team going undefeated. Palios took his spirit, enthusiasm, and talent to Jesuit, where he was a starter on the Tiger’s freshman team. His positive attitude carried that team to an undefeated season as well. Palios was also a runner and became a 3-time district track champion in the 1-Mile and 2-Mile and helped Jesuit to its first track district team title in 1992. Mike continues his athletic pursuits as a two-time ironman-distance triathlon finisher in 2005 and 2015.

 

Hall of Fame 2022 Inductees


Margaret "Emmy" Martin ’14 | golf

Martin was a standout golfer in high school, earning several awards, including Tampa Tribune Girls Golfer of the Year and AHN’s Senior Athlete of the Year. She continued her success at TCU, serving as captain, receiving honors such as Teammate of the Year and All-Big 12 Conference Team, and setting a TCU record for low-scoring average. Martin founded the nonprofit Played with Heart to equip the next generation of girls’ golfers with the essentials needed to play the game and bring to light the greater purpose found in the sport. She credits her Academy experience for shaping her faith and preparing her for her successful journey in golf and service.

Catriana Messina ’07 | basketball

Messina was a leader on the basketball court during one of the most successful four-year runs in AHN basketball history, which included two state final-four appearances. While she scored 1,686 points in her career, she had a passion for passing as she led the county in assists her junior and senior years. She joins her twin sister, Gianna Messina ’07, as a member of the Athletics Hall of Fame. In the words of Catriana’s high school coach, Casey Higgins, “Catriana and sister Gianna are arguably the most accomplished set of twins in the history of the area’s high school athletic scene. Catriana is one of the best to ever wear an Academy of the Holy Names basketball uniform.” 
 

Dr. Jennifer Cichon Mackinnon ’89

Tennis
Jennifer Cichon Mackinnon ’89 was a stand-out athlete on the tennis court, playing No. 1 in singles and doubles all four years of high school. She was named Tampa Tribune Player of the Year in 1989, serving as captain and MVP for AHN her senior year. One of her nominators, Sister Mary Patricia Plumb, SNJM ’55, stated, “Jennifer deserves this honor because she was an outstanding tennis player, who was also a remarkable scholar and also played the harp!”
 

 

Hall of Fame 2020 Inductees


Pete Alonso ’09

Baseball
In 2020, Major League Baseball’s 2019 National League Rookie of the Year was inducted into the Academy of the Holy Names Athletics Hall of Fame. Pete Alonso, who attended Academy during grades 6-8, was on hand to receive his award during a middle school assembly. After graduating from the Academy, Alonso played baseball at Jesuit and Plant high schools, where he had a career batting average of .460, and he was recognized as a Louisville Slugger High School All-American and received the Wade Boggs Athletic Achievement Award. Although he had the opportunity to enter the draft from high school, Alonso chose to play baseball at the University of Florida. He was a 2014 Freshman All-American and a member of the SEC All-Freshman Team, and he played in the College World Series in 2015 and 2016. Also in 2016, he was First Team All-American, ABCA All-South Region First Team, Most Outstanding Player, recipient of the Dick Howser Trophy, and a Golden Spikes Award semifinalist for best college baseball player. Alonso was a second-round draft pick for the New York Mets in 2016. He made his major league debut at first base in 2019, when he became the Mets’ all-time, single-season home run leader and broke the record for most home runs by a National League rookie with 53. Alonso also won the Home Run Derby, only the second rookie to do so. Alonso’s former teachers — language arts teacher Glenda Secrest and PE teacher and lacrosse coach Mike Doyle — formally inducted him into the Hall of Fame. Both spoke of Alonso’s impressive work ethic and dedication on and off the field, a theme that echoed throughout the morning’s presentation.

In his acceptance speech, Alonso told the students, “Throughout your life, people are going to say no or that you can’t. All you have to do … is shed off any sort of negative energy or anyone who says you can’t, because you can. It’s all about putting in the work.” Beyond stressing the importance of hard work, Alonso emphasized the importance of self-growth and acceptance. The audience was delighted when he exclaimed, “Being weird is cool, guys!” Although he would not choose a favorite teacher from his time at the Academy, Alonso acknowledged that it was Secrest who helped him prepare for interviews and to be a writer, that two of his middle school history teachers inspired him to major in the subject at the University of Florida, and that learning Spanish at the school helped bridge the communication gap between himself and his Spanish-speaking teammates. “The people here want to get you to be the best person that you can be here and now. … They want to challenge you so [that] you guys can eventually become who you want to be,” he said. Secrest spoke fondly of Alonso, saying, “They may call him the Polar Bear, but he was our Teddy Bear first.” 
 

Julie Johnson Nohra ’95

Basketball
A four-year captain and member of the varsity basketball team, Nohra’s hard work, dedication and leadership helped propel the program to unreached heights while claiming individual accolades and achievements along the way. Nohra became a member of the prestigious 1,000-point scoring club during her junior year, breaking the county’s all-time scoring record her senior year with 1,643 points, and finishing her career with 1,784 points. She was an all-county team member her sophomore, junior and senior years, and a first-team, all-state member her junior and senior years. During her senior year, Nohra averaged 15.6 points and 6.2 rebounds per game, and she helped lead the Jaguars to a state runner-up finish. 

During her time at the Academy, Nohra also shined off the court. She served as president of the Ambassadors her junior and senior years, as the vice president of the Prom Committee, and a member of the S Club and the National Honor Society. She graduated from AHN with honors, and received the Dads Club Scholar-Athlete Award at graduation. Because of her academic and athletic accomplishments, Nohra earned the opportunity to attend the University of Tampa as a scholarship athlete. A member of the Spartans basketball team from 1995-1998, Nohra served as team captain her senior season. She graduated Magna Cum Laude in just three years and was appropriately awarded with the program’s Scholar-Athlete Award her senior season. Nohra’s passion for education is evident in her career choice. After spending a few of her early teaching years at the Academy, she is currently in her 16th year of teaching at Carrollwood Day School. 

According to Athletic Director Kevin Vargas, “On a personal note, I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to watch Julie play in high school, and I was in Lakeland for the final game of her high school career. I truly believe that the success and championships earned following [Julie’s] high school career would not have been possible without the four years she spent at AHN; the impact that she had could be felt in the accomplishments and accolades that followed her playing career.” 

In her acceptance speech, Nohra credited the Academy with shaping the person she is today. “Basketball took me to the next level but the many lessons that I learned at AHN helped me to find success at the next level. The traditions and sisterhood shared here at Academy are truly unique and will stay with me forever,” she said. She concluded with a quote that was personal to her family, “‘There are two gifts we should give our children: one is roots, and the other is wings.’ The Academy is a part of our roots and has given us a strong foundation. Every day you are strengthening your wings and learning to fly. We cannot wait to watch you soar!”
 

Tu Kim Mai Tran ’93

Tennis
At a young age, Mai quickly became a tennis star and was ranked top 10 nationally in singles and doubles by the time she was a preteen. During her freshman, sophomore and junior years at the Academy, Mai played No. 1 singles and doubles, helped her team win the Class 2A district championship for three consecutive years and was selected MVP on the team. In her junior year, she was undefeated with a 12-0 record, winning the individual singles and doubles titles at districts. In the words of her nominator, Sister Mary Patricia Plumb, SNJM ’55, “Tu led the Academy’s team for three years and was the force behind our success and trips to state finals during her time with us.” 
 

 

Hall of Fame 2019 Inductees


William "Bill" Dean ’75

Track & Field, Cross Country, Basketball
An AHN “lifer," Bill attended Boys Academy from 1st grade until graduating 8th grade in 1975. While at Boys Academy, he participated on all sports teams including track, basketball (a captain), softball, swimming and football. Bill was a member of the letterman’s club, the honor roll and was president of the student council in his 8th-grade year. Bill attended Jesuit High School where he was a four-year letterman in track and a member of the 1978 Florida state championship mile relay team. He played basketball for three years and was a varsity letterman. Bill was a letterman in cross country, becoming Jesuit's first district champion his senior year. Bill continued to lead while at Jesuit as student body president and a member of the National Honor Society; he is now a member of Jesuit’s Hall of Fame. 

Bill continued his Catholic education, graduating with a business administration degree from Georgetown University in 1983 where he was a four-year varsity letterman in track and cross country. Bill began his professional career as a licensed certified public accountant with the accounting firm of Price Waterhouse. Subsequent real estate industry experience includes serving as vice president of real estate syndication at Pioneer Western Properties and regional vice president of Radnor Corporation. In 1999, Bill and a partner purchased IRP Realty and, after two decades, joined forces with Willoughby Realty and Water Pointe Realty Group of Stuart, Fla. Bill serves as the managing broker of Water Point Realty Group and is a broker/owner of the company. Bill has served on many committees and is past president of the Martin County Realtors of the Treasure Coast Association and was honored as the Realtor of the Year in 2017. Bill contributes considerable time to his favorite charities including St. Mark's Church and School and the Jupiter Tequesta Athletic Association, serving as a sports director and volunteer coach. Bill’s nominator writes, “I taught Billy at Boys Academy, and he was the kind of young man who made others around him better. He was a natural leader and a wonderful human being.”
 

Kiersten DeHaven ’10

Rowing
An AHN "lifer," Kiersten attended AHN from pre-K through her senior year of high school. A strong athlete in several sports, Kiersten excelled in rowing. While rowing for AHN, she finished fourth at the U.S. scholastic championship in women’s single sculls, as well as first at Florida state championship in women’s single sculls and first in women’s four, stroke seat in 2010. In 2009, as a member of the Tampa rowing club, Kiersten finished sixth at the youth nationals in women’s double sculls, stroke seat, finished first at southeast U.S. regional championship in women’s double sculls, stroke seat and finished first at Florida state championship in women’s four, stroke seat. Kiersten was a member of the junior national team, attending the U.S. national team sculling development camp in 2009 and the U.S. national team sculling selection camp for world championship in 2010. During her high school career Kiersten was also a member of the volleyball team, the National Honor Society, the National Forensic League, an AHN ambassador and a missionary to Ruskin, Mississippi and Appalachia. 

Kiersten matriculated to the University of Notre Dame where she was a member of the varsity rowing team. She was a four-year monogram club member, a member of the Big East season championship team and a National Collegiate Athletic Association tournament participant. Kiersten led the team as boat leader at the NCAA championships, helping the team to break Notre Dame’s school record. She served as the Notre Dame athletics’ conference liaison to the Big East and Atlantic Coast conferences, initiated and organized the rowing team’s first charity event, the “Erg-A-Thon” and was the senior legacy campaign officer for the Notre Dame development office. Upon graduation from Notre Dame with a degree in political science, Kiersten joined the Peace Corps, serving in western Samoa as an education volunteer in 2014 through 2016. In 2017, Kiersten enrolled at Georgetown University’s Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service and will graduate with a master's in global human development. While at Georgetown, Kiersten is working for the Center for Social Justice as a graduate assistant. A remarkable athlete, scholar and humanitarian, Kiersten was inducted into AHN's Athletic Hall of Fame at the Spring Sports Banquet on May 10, 2019.
 

Stephanie Socias ’08

Basketball, Track & Field, Cross Country
A remarkable scholar-athlete, Stephanie distinguished herself during her junior year when she competed in three state athletic championships in the same school year—basketball, track and cross country. Never sacrificing her studies, Stephanie earned the distinction of class of 2008 valedictorian. In addition, Stephanie was recognized as the Dads Club “Athlete of the Year." The St. Petersburg Times named her the 2008 Hillsborough County Student-Athlete of the Year, the Athena Society named her a “Young Woman of Promise” and the Tampa Bay Sports Club presented her with their “Best Effort” award. Stephanie was named to the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) academic all-state team. After high school, Stephanie matriculated at the University of Notre Dame where she was accepted as a walk-on athlete, joining the Notre Dame cross country and track & field teams, but by the end of her second year, a stress fracture in her femur brought her running career to an abrupt end. Stephanie graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a degree in software engineering and went to work as a systems engineer for Lockheed Martin. 

Despite her technological inclinations, her desire to study medicine and become a doctor proved stronger. Stephanie quit her job and traveled to Kenya where she spent two weeks assisting the rural doctors of the Migori village. Upon returning to the U.S., Stephanie completed her organic and biology class requirements at USF. While in Tampa, she assisted head coach Ray Rodriguez with the Academy's cross country team. During the year before medical school, Stephanie worked for the Sliz biology lab at Harvard Medical School in Boston. There she used her technical background to develop a software platform for academic researchers. In collaboration with her colleagues at Harvard, Stephanie was published in numerous academic papers including a “first author” on one. 

Stephanie and her sister, Christina, also an AHN grad, formed their own company, Cassie Innovations, in 2012. The sisters hired a developer, managed a few interns and partnered with an investor. (Note: The sisters tested their app at AHN and even used AHN interns.) Their “Cassie” app was ultimately accepted by Apple and became available on Apple’s app store. However, when the University of Florida College of Medicine invited Stephanie to join the class of 2019, Stephanie took to the pursuit of medicine wholeheartedly. While at the University of Florida, Stephanie continued to distinguish herself. In 2017, she founded a non-profit called GatorAid, formed to promote a greater quality of life to low income elderly clients. Stephanie’s biggest diversion from work and studies has always been running. Stephanie ran the 2018 Boston Marathon in 3 hours and 18 minutes, and Stephanie plans to compete in the 2019 Boston Marathon. In May of 2019, she will receive her MD and start her residency in internal medicine. In the words of her nominator, “In everything, Stephanie attracts the esteem of her colleagues and friends. Her accomplishments are underscored by her kind demeanor and loving heart. A lifelong athlete and academic, Stephanie embodies the best of the Academy of the Holy Names.” Stephanie was inducted at the Fall Sports Banquet on November 12, 2018.

 

Hall of Fame 2018 Inductees


Ricardo “Ricky” Bajo ’81
Basketball
An AHN "lifer", Ricky attended Boys Academy from kindergarten through 8th grade, graduating in 1981. While at Boys Academy, he participated on multiple athletic teams, most notably the varsity basketball team. In 1981, the varsity basketball team was crowned champions of the Catholic Youth Sports League, and Ricky was an integral part of the team's success. Ricky was also a hardworking student and terrific leader. Ricky went on to attend Jesuit High School where he was a standout basketball player. He was a member of the state championship team in 1984 and the co-captain of the 1985 state championship runner-up team. His coach described him as "lightning quick," and he was known as the "human assist." His coach Jon Szponar states, “Ricky is one of the greatest point guards in the history of Jesuit basketball. He was an outstanding leader and one of the most coachable players I've ever coached." Upon graduation from Jesuit, Ricky attended Florida State University, graduating in 1989 with a bachelor's degree in business administration. A member of JHS’ Hall of Fame, Coach Dominic Ciao states, "No one deserves to be in the Hall of Fame more than Ricky Bajo. Not only because of his prowess on the court, but also he is a Hall of Fame human being."
Gianna Messina ’07 | Basketball
Messina was a standout athlete in basketball, softball, and track & field. She achieved numerous accolades in basketball, including two-time first-team all-state, McDonald's All-American honorable mention, and scoring over 2,100 points in high school. Gianna was a team captain for three years, leading AHN to two class 3A state final-four appearances. She continued her basketball career at the University of South Florida before transferring to the University of Tampa. At UT, she set several records, including career three-point field goal and career free throw percentages, and joined the 1,000-point club in just three years.
Julie Hogan Sakre ’91
Soccer, Volleyball, Track & Field, Tennis
"The best, most versatile athlete in our class" is how most classmates describe Julie when she was a student at AHN. Lettering in five sports, Julie excelled in volleyball, soccer, softball, tennis and track. ln volleyball, Julie received the Coaches Award as a sophomore, "Most Valuable Player" as a junior and was named captain of the team her senior year. She was a member of the all-state soccer team in her sophomore year and was named team MVP and Most Outstanding Offensive Player her junior year. From the start, Julie was a track star standout. She was named team MVP as a freshman and again during her junior year. Her track accomplishments include all-state high jumper in both her junior and senior year; all-regional in the 300 meter hurdles, 8000 meter and high jump; all-district in high jump, triple jump, long jump, 300 meter hurdles and 800 meter. Julie's total career points individually scored was 503, and she still holds the AHN record in the triple jump at 35 feet 10 inches set in 1990. At the conclusion of her senior year, Julie was voted "Most Athletic" and received the Dads Club Award honoring her for her achievements as a student-athlete at AHN. Upon graduation from AHN, Julie matriculated to the University of Florida where her athletics took a back seat to studies, but Julie maintained her athletic skills on many intramural teams. Graduating with honors from UF in 1995 with a degree in health science education, Julie's career honed in on the pharmaceutical industry. One nominator wrote, "Julie wasn't just part of a team, she was an integral part of the team. Even 25 years later, she represents "Esse Quam Videri" every day."

 

Hall of Fame 2017 Inductees


Captain Daniel P. Holder ’00
Basketball, Track & Field, Soccer; Softball Assistant Coach
While at AHN, Daniel participated on the basketball, track and soccer teams and was the assistant coach for the softball team, earning the 4-Sport Award in 2000. Upon graduating, Daniel attended Jesuit High School where he was a four-year member of the football, basketball and track teams, reaching the state semifinals in football in 2002 and winning a state championship in track in 2003. As a senior, Dan joined the lacrosse team and was a member of the 2004 state championship team. In 2004, Dan matriculated to the United States Air Force Academy where he played division 1 football and helped lead Air Force to a bowl game. Upon graduation from USAFA, Dan was one of 25 officers selected for pilot training class at Vance Air Force Base. He has amassed over 3300 hours and flown over 1100 combat hours to date. Daniel currently flies the C-17 and has achieved the role of evaluator, ensuring that the current and next generation aircraft commanders and instructors are upholding Air Force standards. Captain Holder states, "We are doing our mission so that others can succeed and survive. That caring ethos was instilled in me during my time at the Academy of the Holy Names and has continued to grow through my life experiences."
Coach Craig McConnell
Swimming & Diving Coach [YEARS]
The "father of AHN swimming," Craig partnered with the late Sr. Constance Casey to introduce competitive swimming to AHN. His enthusiasm and skill created a winning combination. He ushered in a dominant stretch across the city and region which led to AHN capturing the city and district championships in each of his eight years with the program. His AHN coaching career included 63 dual meet victories, 21 invitational championships and resulted in numerous swimmers earning all-county and all-state accolades. Over a three-year span in the late 1970s, AHN swimmers received a total of 32 all-American certificates. In the years of 1974-1976, the team finished as 4A high school state runners-up behind perennial national champion Pine Crest High School. Craig was not merely seen as a swim coach but was, and remains, a life coach. As one of his many nominators stated, "His words, his teachings, his examples and his coaching have never left me. Craig McConnell is one of the greatest influences in my life and in the lives of so many other girls who swam for him. He is one-of-a-kind."
Dr. Saioa Torrealday ’96
Basketball
A standout basketball player, Saioa was team captain of the basketball team that played in back-to-back state championships. Capping off four years of success, she had a 121-11 career record and was a member of the 1996 state basketball championship team. She currently ranks #18 on the all-time Hillsborough County scoring list and #3 in AHN scoring history with 1,875 points. As a senior, she was selected by her classmates as "Best All-Around." Upon graduating, she received a full athletic/academic scholarship to Barry University where she was a NCAA division II four-year starter and team captain. She currently ranks #3 in all-time games played and #5 in all-time assists at Barry. Upon graduation from Barry with a BS in biology in 2000, Saioa began medical school in Washington, D.C. and was commissioned as a U.S. Army Medical Corp Officer. She remains on active duty and has been selected for promotion to the rank of lieutenant colonel.

 

Hall of Fame 2016 Inductees


Danielle Darby England ’02
Basketball, Cross Country, Track & Field
An all-county member and three sport athlete at AHN in track, cross country and basketball, Danielle earned the title of “Most Athletic” as voted on by her senior classmates. Danielle’s high school basketball career points totaled 1,765. Upon graduating from AHN, she received a congressional appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, where she was a member of the basketball program. As one nominator wrote, “Danielle was a star athlete, a star student and a star leader. She is truly deserving of membership in AHN's Athletic Hall of Fame.”
Kelley Hug Kennerknecht ’06
Swimming & Diving
One of the most celebrated swimmers to graduate from AHN, Kelley was a four-time high school All-American, establishing school records in the 100, 200 and 500 free, along with the 100 back, 100 fly, 200 medley relay, 200 free relay and 400 free relay. Kelley matriculated to Stanford University on scholarship and was a four-year member of its program. As a senior, Kelley led Stanford to a first place finish at the Pac-10 championships and a second place finish at the NCAA championships. During her collegiate career, she was a two-time NCAA All-American and competed in three events at the 2008 Olympic trials.
Preston Tucker ’04
Baseball
Upon graduation from AHN, Preston attended Plant High School where he honed his baseball skills and was a standout for the Panthers. He earned a scholarship to the University of Florida where he rewrote the Gator record book. Upon the completion of his four years, Preston set the school record for most hits, doubles, runs batted in and at-bats and finished second all-time on the Gators career home run list. As a freshman, he was the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association Freshman Hitter of the Year and the Southeastern Conference Co-Freshman of the Year. Additional accolades include being named an All-American and All-SEC selection in 2011 and 2012. Preston was drafted by the Houston Astros in the 7th round of the 2012 Major League Baseball draft, and on May 7, 2015, he made his major league debut.
Dr. Kelly Glover Zavitz ’03
Softball, Volleyball, Basketball
A three-sport athlete in volleyball, basketball and softball, Kelly was an asset to her team no matter the sport. In addition to being a standout on our AHN athletic teams, she was a superior student who participated in a slew of high school clubs and activities. Kelly endeared herself to teammates and classmates with her drive, humility, sportsmanship, humor and kindness. Matriculating to the University of Tampa, Kelly continued her softball career where she played four years for the Spartans. In the words of one nominator, "Kelly embodies our motto. Whether in the classroom, on the field or in the community, she truly lived the values she believed in and led her peers by example."

 

Hall of Fame 2015 Inductees


Kelly Jackson ’99
Softball, Volleyball, Basketball
A three-sport athlete, Kelly was a five-year starter in softball, four-year starter in volleyball and three-year starter in basketball. Kelly was a member of the 1996 state championship basketball team and a member of the 1997 state runner-up volleyball team. In Kelly's senior year, she was awarded the Outstanding Athlete Award, "Most Valuable Player" for volleyball and softball, the Leadership Award for both volleyball and softball and the Dads Club Senior-Athlete Award. Kelly matriculated to Eckerd College on scholarship where she was a four-year starter in both volleyball and softball. She was a member of the Sunshine State All-Conference team in both volleyball and softball, was the James Harley Senior Award winner in 2003 and a member of the Sunshine State Conference athletic committee. Kelly continues to hold the Eckerd College record for career assists in volleyball. In 2003, she earned a bachelor's degree from Eckerd College, then earned her master's from USF in 2006. Post-grad, Kelly was awarded the 2006 Outstanding Adult Female Player of the Year by USA Volleyball-Florida region. Kelly continues to contribute to volleyball and softball as a high school varsity coach and club volleyball coach. As one nominator wrote, "Kelly is a very positive leader who inspired everyone around her. She was a friend to everyone."
Jose Jozik ’82
Soccer, Basketball, Track & Field
Jose began his sports career growing up on MacDill Air Force Base and in South Tampa. Jose was an all-county and all-state soccer player and was a member of the Florida state championship select soccer team during his 8th-grade year at Boys Academy. While attending Boys Academy, Jose played basketball and soccer and ran track. Jose graduated from Boys Academy and went on to Jesuit High School where he continued playing basketball, soccer, track, baseball and football. He was the captain of the 1985 team that beat city champion Gaither in the last game of the season. Jose graduated from Jesuit in 1985 and matriculated to Princeton University where he played football for the Tigers. In 1990, Jose graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in history and received a congressional appointment in the U.S. Military Academy. Working for human resources for more than 20 years, Jose is currently the director of human resources at EA Sports in Orlando, Fla. Jose is also a member of Jesuit's Hall of Fame. His nominator writes, "Jose is an obvious choice for the AHN Athletic Hall of Fame. He was a remarkable athlete, using his gifts to help his teams succeed. He continues to be a remarkable graduate, friend, husband and father."

 

Hall of Fame 2014 Inductees


Stephanie Agliano ’77
Tennis, Basketball, Softball, Volleyball
SNJM "Light the Fire" Award
An accomplished athlete in volleyball, softball and basketball, Stephanie Agliano was particularly gifted in tennis. In her junior year, her thoracic nerve was affected by a virus that caused paralysis to her right arm and right back muscle. Defiant of doctors' recommendations to immobilize the right arm in the hopes of nerve regeneration, she continued to dedicate herself to tennis, building her strength up to an almost full recovery after two years and accepting a full tennis scholarship to Hillsborough Community College. After graduating from HCC, she matriculated to the University of Florida where she walked onto the team as an alternate. Stephanie is deserving of Hall of Fame honors for her ability to overcome devastating obstacles with a determination and spirit that is a shining example for all of us. As one nominator wrote, "She stands out not just because of what she has accomplished, but more importantly, what she had to go through to accomplish it-without complaining, just figuring out a way to make it work."
Sara Petrick ’05
Cross Country, Track & Field
Sara began her athletic career with AHN's cross country and track & field teams in middle school, qualifying in the FHSAA finals five consecutive years and achieving all-state honors in the 1600 meter and 3200 meter events. Matriculating to the University of Florida, Sara earned 12 letters while competing all four years for UF, being named to ESPN's academic all-American district III second team. While at UF, she was the team representative for the Student Athletic Advising Committee and was a member of the dean's list, the president's honor roll and the SEC honor roll and graduated summa cum laude. In 2012, Sara won the Gasparilla 15K and competed in the USA Olympic marathon trials. While at Academy, Sara won the "Esse Quam Videri" award and, to this day, continues to live by the school's motto, "To be, rather than to seem."
Lisa Companioni Smith ’98
GymnasticsAt the age of three, Lisa began her athletic career as a gymnast. She competed throughout high school, and upon graduation, received a full athletic scholarship to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. As a high school freshman, Lisa created and performed a balance beam maneuver known in the Olympic handbook as "The Companioni" followed by "The Companioni II" in 1996. A two-time member of the U.S. Junior Olympic national team, she attended the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs. Lisa was the 1995 southeastern All-Around champion and the 1995 regional beam champion along with multiple state championship titles. Highlights of her collegiate career include 2002 team captain of the ACC championship team, multi-year Coaches Award winner for outstanding performance, two-time NCAA regional qualifier and the inspiration for "The Companioni Award," annually given to a UNC gymnast for "tenacious spirit." Lisa is a true example of success due to hard work and life-long dedication.

 

Hall of Fame 2013 Inductees


Kim Healy Russell ’78
Swimming & Diving

A four-time all-American swimmer (1975-78), Kim was a five-year member of AHN's swim team. As a member of the 200 yard medley relay team, she helped lead the team to a 1977 state championship in that event and was also a member of the 1978 medley relay team that swam the seventh fastest in the country. Kim broke school records in the breaststroke and held the 100 yard school record of 1.12.00 for a number of years. Upon graduation, Kim went to Texas Christian University on a swimming scholarship where she served as team captain for three years. While attending TCU, she was a member of the medley relay team that placed first at nationals for division II, was a three-year all-American and was named the school's "Most Outstanding Swimmer." A true scholar and athlete, Kim graduated magna cum laude with an accounting degree in 1982.

In 2004, Kim's oldest daughter became a student and swimmer at AHN, and Kim made the transition as a team mom. In this role, Kim quickly became the "backbone of the AHN swim team" with Kim continuing to assist in this role through the high school swimming careers of each of her three daughters. Through it all, Kim has been a humble and unsung hero on the pool deck. As one of her nominators states, "The beauty of Kim and the reason for her nomination is not only for what she did for the team, but for the way she did it. She is the essence of an AHN graduate and a living example of "Esse Quam Videri."

John Marc Tamayo ’82
Basketball
A "natural athlete," John Marc was a standout on the basketball court at Boys Academy, playing point guard for the undefeated Academy Crusaders during his 8th-grade year. As a student at Jesuit, baseball became his sport of choice. Named an All-County baseball player, John Marc was one of three players to represent Hillsborough County in the 1986 Florida All-Star game. That same year, Jesuit won the Tony Saladino Tournament, and John Marc was named MVP. After transferring from the University of Miami, he became a three-year letterman at Florida State University. Collegiately, he was a member of the 1988 Pillsbury All-Tourney Team in Minnesota, participated in the 1989 College World Series and was named a 1990 national semi-finalist for the Disney Scholar-Athlete Award. After earning his BS degree in 1990, John Marc attended Florida State University College of Law, graduating with a Juris Doctorate in 1994. A partner in his own law firm, John Marc has continued to give back to the community through his service on many boards throughout his professional career. As one nominator states, "He was a successful athlete at the elementary, high school and college level and continues that excellence in his career and personal life to this day."

 

Hall of Fame 2012 Inductees


Tara Hyer ’04
Swimming & Diving
A four-year letterman and captain of the swimming and diving team, Tara still holds the school's two diving records. While attending AHN, Tara was named MVP of the swimming and diving team for three consecutive seasons and earned the following accolades: first team All-American, Florida district and regional champion, Florida Catholic state champion and top-three finisher in the Florida state meet in each of her four years of high school. Tara was also a junior Olympic diving nationals qualifier from 1997 through 2002. After graduating from AHN, she took her talents to the University of Notre Dame where she continued to excel, receiving the Coaches Award and being named MVP of Notre Dame's diving team in 2007 and 2008. Tara earned the Big East championship in platform, was named an all-Big East diver in 2005 through 2008 and captain of the swimming and diving team in 2008. In May 2009, Tara earned a gold medal in the REAL diving, cliff diving championships in Mexico. As her nominator wrote, "Tara is a gifted athlete who is a wonderful role model and demonstrates the character that AHN hopes to develop in their athletes."
Jennifer Jacobs Cullifer ’04
Softball
An outstanding athlete best known for her softball pitching, Jen lettered in all four years of high school. She was first team all-state as a senior and second team all-state as a sophomore. Jen was team captain and three-time squad MVP. She was selected as district MVP as a senior and was named all-county during her sophomore through senior years. During Jen's senior year, the softball team went undefeated in the district and ended the season with 13 wins. If Jen was pitching, AHN was winning! Upon graduation, Jen accepted a scholarship to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where she attended on a full ride. In her four years at UNC, Jen finished her career second on the school's all-time home runs (31) and RBIs (144) list. As one of her nominators wrote, "Jennifer is the perfect AHN athlete-a lady who is poised and talented in the classroom and on the field."
Jay Trezevant ’74
Baseball, Boys Basketball, Boys Track & Field
A standout athlete, Jay excelled in all sports offered at Boy Academy: basketball, swimming, track & field and baseball. He was a repeat recipient of the Gold Shirt for Physical Fitness Excellence, a decathlon-style competition held up to four times annually, and set and held a collection of individual school records. Jay was a standout in the classroom as a steady member of the honor roll, president of Student Council and a yearbook staff member. At Jesuit, swimming became his sport of choice; Jay participated on teams that extended Jesuit's city-wide undefeated streak to 12 years. During Jay's junior year in high school, he experienced a catastrophic diving accident, resulting in injuries that left him quadriplegic. While almost impossible to imagine the mental strength and fortitude it took to pursue his education, Jay returned to Jesuit, completed his studies and immediately enrolled in the University of Florida where he earned four degrees-and undergraduate and Master's degree in accounting and a law degree and Master of Law in taxation. Now a federal prosecutor, Jay was named one of St. Pete Time "Ten People to Watch" in 2008 and a NY Daily News article noted that Jay is "one of the toughest, hardest working adversaries in the courtroom." Jay is an inspiration to all who know him and has never used his handicap as an excuse.

 

Hall of Fame 2011 Inductees


Coach Mike Doyle
Physical Education Teacher, Basketball Coach, Track & Field Coach, Founder and Coach of Lacrosse Team (2002-present)
SNJM Light the Fire Award (first recipient)
Physical education teacher, basketball coach, track and field coach, founder of the lacrosse team and known to all at the Academy, Coach Doyle is a gifted coach and teacher for our elementary students. Nominated by an unprecedented number of current students, former students and parents, Coach Doyle is deserving of the special SNJM "Light the Fire" award in recognition of his hard work, commitment, loyalty and devotion to our students. Lacrosse is the fastest growing sport in Florida, and Coach Doyle has been instrumental in its growth and is recognized as "one of the most respected lacrosse coaches in our area." As one nomintor stated, "I am reminded of St. John Bosco when I see him and how he engages the children. He is a fantastic role model."
Coach Mara Schultz* ’94
Physical Education Teacher & Swimming & Diving Coach [YEARS?]
AHN's beloved swim coach, physical education teacher and Golden Girls club moderator—Mara Schultz. During her almost twelve years at AHN, Mara taught thousands of our students from pre-K through their high school years. Mara guided AHN's swim teams to four city relay titles, a class A-region 3 team championship and qualified swimmers every year for the region and state meets. Her coaching honors included being named 2003 and 2005 St. Petersburg Times Swimming Coach of the Year, as well as earning the honor as the 2005 Tampa Tribune Coach of the Year. In high school, Mara earned all-American honors in the 100 fly and was a member of the state champion 200 freestyle relay in 1993. In 1999, she was named captain of Florida State University's women's swim team. Mara enjoyed a remarkable career, but it was the beautiful way she dealt with cancer that best represented her character. Always the teacher and mentor, she used her cancer to show her students how to live their life with optimism and enthusiasm, with dignity and with grace. Mara possessed an incomparable gift of making everyone feel special, recognizing each person's uniqueness. As one of her many nominators wrote, "Mara embodied all of the good things about the Academy community."
Robin Sharpe ’84
Tennis
Four-year letterman and captain her senior year for AHN's tennis team, the team won three consecutive district titles in 1981, 1982 and 1983. During this time, Robin was first team all-county each season and qualified for state three years in a row. As the number one player in the district in 1983, she was named AHN's "Most Valuable Player." Her achievements led her to Auburn University on a full tennis scholarship where she was a four-year letterman. In 1988, she was named team captain and was selected as Auburn's tennis Athlete of the Year. Robin holds many records at Auburn including being fifth on the school's all-time career singles victories list (63). A highly successful business woman, Robin is currently the corporate account director for Cordis Corporation having been named the 2008 regional corporate account Director of the Year and a President's Club recipient. A true example of success as a result of her hard work and dedication, it is a privilege to induct Robin into the AHN Athletic Hall of Fame.

 

Hall of Fame 2010 Inductees


Britta Wilk McKenna ’79
Swimming & Diving, Volleyball
A 16-time high school all-American swimmer in the butterfly and freestyle, Britta was state champion in the 50 freestyle her senior year. Thirty years after graduating, she still held the school record in the 50 freestyle. Britta also started for the 1976 and 1977 state championship AHN volleyball teams. She received a full scholarship to the University of Minnesota and earned a degree in communications along with the distinguished President's Award for her leadership. She is in Minnesota's Hall of Fame as a three-time swimming All-American and Big Ten champion. As her nominator said, "Britta was an extraordinary athlete. Her commitment and dedication to the Academy's values made her a great ambassador for our school."
Patricia “Patti Jo” Casey ’87
Soccer
Voted "Most Valuable Player" of her national championship club soccer team, Patti Jo spearheaded the founding of the AHN soccer program. As her nominator stated, "We did not have any team members of her quality or experience, yet she was willing to help others learn to play." Patti Jo claimed numerous honors during high school including Hillsborough County Player of the Year. An exceptionally well-rounded student, she was senior class president, editor of the yearbook and Dads Club Outstanding Senior Student-Athlete. Patti Jo attended Yale University where she was soccer team captain and all-Ivy League player in leading Yale to a number 13 national ranking. After earning a Bachelor of Arts in Chinese history, she attended business school at Columbia University and worked on Wall Street.
Richard Gonzmart B’67
Basketball
A member of the first Boys Academy graduating class, Richard starred for the first Boys Academy sports team offered: basketball. At Jesuit High School, he was a member of the 1968 state championship football team. Richard studied hotel and restaurant management at the University of Denver and at the Escuela de Hosteleria in Madrid, Spain. As president of the Columbia Restaurant Group, Richard is a renowned benefactor. Among his many awards are the National Restaurant Association's Humanitarian of the Year and the Tampa Sports Club's Citizen of the Year. Richard is a Jesuit Hall of Fame inductee and was AHN's 2001 Alumnus of the Year. Wife Melanie Heiny Gonzmart and daughters Lauren and Andrea are AHN graduates.

 

Hall of Fame 2009 Inductees


Therese Cullen Seal ’60 | swimming & diving
Though she attended AHN before Title IX greatly expanded athletic opportunities for women, Seal always was involved in sports and many other school activities. She was a member of the Academy Athletic Association and the Varsity Club at AHN. Seal graduated from the University of South Florida and is the founder and president of Seal Swim Schools. In 2007, she was inducted into the U.S. Swim School Association's Hall of Fame. Seal developed an acclaimed educational water safety program for children and co-authored "Swim Safe Little Seals," an illustrated instruction book. 
Sherisha Hills ’98 | basketball
Hills led AHN to the 1996 class 3A state championship and is Hillsborough County's all-time leading scorer with 2,538 points. She was named a three-time All-American by USA Today and was The Tampa Tribune Player of the Year in 1996, 1997, and 1998. Following her senior season, she played in the Nike/WBCA High School All-American All-Star game in Hartford, Connecticut. Hills initially played for the University of Notre Dame before transferring to the University of Florida. Multiple knee injuries cut short her basketball career, but Hills continues to contribute to the sport through coaching and helping young people enjoy the game.
Eric Luallen ’82 | basketball, baseball
As an 8th grader excelling in basketball, Luallen led AHN to an undefeated regular season and started in the Christian Youth Athletic Association All-Star game. Luallen played baseball at Jesuit but became a standout in football for the Tigers. He earned class 3A all-state honors his senior year as an offensive lineman and played in the Florida-Georgia All-Star game. Luallen played football for four years at Florida State University, playing every position on the offensive line. He has continued to be closely involved with FSU athletics, doing various radio work as the pre-game host for Seminole football, as a daily talk show host, and as the play-by-play announcer for FSU baseball.

 

Hall of Fame 2008 Inductees


Michelle Gorecki Robinson ’96 | Swimming & Diving

Robinson was a five-year member of the AHN swimming & diving team and qualified for the state meet each year. She set an AHN record in the 100 freestyle that lasted 11 years and another in the 100 breaststroke (1:08:83) that remained the school's fastest through 2007. Robinson was chosen AHN's Most Valuable Swimmer all five years, and she was a four-time All-American and two-time Academic All-American at Ashland University. She served as a national athlete representative to USA swimming from 1994-2005.

Coach Judy Jennings | Physical Education Teacher & Coach 

A campus fixture for more that 30 years, Coach Jennings taught physical education at AHN from 1968-2000 while also coaching numerous teams. Elementary school girls were her focus, but her generous spirit and talents led her to teach several subjects whenever needed. As a former student said, "Mrs. Jennings was the heart of the physical education program at the Academy. She provided inspiration to all students no matter what their athletic abilities. She was so loyal to the Academy for so many years...It was a blessing to have her teach me and teach my daughters, too." 

Coach Monte Simon* | Physical Education Teacher & Boys Academy Basketball Coach 

Coach Simon taught physical education at the Boys Academy from 1964-1976 and was instrumental in establishing Boys Academy athletics. He grew up in Tampa, was named the Outstanding Athlete in his class at Jesuit, and served four years in the Navy before graduating from the University of Tampa. His Boys Academy basketball teams won the Catholic Youth Athletic Association's Sportsmanship Trophy in 1966, 1969, and 1970. Coach Simon passed away at 56 in 1987, but he continues to inspire many alumni who remember him as "the backbone of the Boys Academy athletic program."

 

Hall of Fame 2007 Inductees


Dr. Mimi Hutcheson ’72 | swimming & diving
The captain of the first Academy swim team, Hutcheson won the city championships in two events while leading AHN to a state runner-up finish. Hutcheson has a Bachelor of Arts and MD from the University of South Florida and was an AHN assistant coach while in college. She is credited with establishing the tradition-rich AHN swimming and diving program. Hutcheson won her age group in her first triathlon in 1991, and she placed fifth in her age group at the Ironman world championships in Hawaii in 1992.
Anne Marie Davis ’74 | tennis
The vice president of student council her senior year, Davis was an accomplished athlete in many sports but was best known for her tennis prowess at the Academy. She was an all-county player all four years at AHN and played four years on the University of South Florida tennis team. Davis later coached the USF and Florida State University women's tennis teams, and she currently works for the United States Tennis Association (USTA). In 2001, Davis was a USTA Florida section district 2 Walk of Fame honoree.
Andre Kirwan ’88 | soccer, basketball, track & field, softball
A team captain in every sport for the Boys Academy — soccer, basketball, track & field and softball — Kirwan was an exemplary student-athlete at AHN and Jesuit. He led AHN to an undefeated basketball season in 1987-1988 and earned nine varsity letters in three sports at Jesuit. Kirwan matriculated to Stanford University where he lettered in football four times while earning a Bachelor of Arts in human biology. He played eight years in the Canadian Football League with Toronto and Ottawa.