It was an evening of reminiscence and tribute to the Hamden Hall Athletic Program – and the individual athletes and coaches who have elevated the program to a level of excellence that historically yields a significant number of graduates continuing play at the collegiate level.

Alexis Highsmith Smith 1997, Chris Kuselias 1980, Len Fasano 1977, and Al Ippolito 1975, all of whom were college athletes, were the inaugural inductees into Hamden Hall’s premier Athletic Hall of Fame. Joining them were legendary varsity basketball coach David Beckerman, who produced nearly 20 college-bound players during his tenure, and the 1962-’63 basketball team, which was the first team in the school’s history to be invited to play in a post-season competition.

Emcee and ESPN broadcaster Joe Tessitore, whose two children attend Hamden Hall, called senior student-athletes on stage to acknowledge each recipient as he or she came forward to accept their award. Head of School Bob Izzo commended the students for their well-roundedness and commitment.

“They are student-athletes who also commit great amounts of time to other co-curricular areas of the school – including debate, music, theater, math team, and student government. A great strength of Hamden Hall is that we are large enough to offer a wide range of opportunities – yet small enough to allow students to participate in many areas of school life,” he said.

The Athletic Hall of Fame was established to recognize exceptional student-athletes, coaches, teams, and supporters of the athletic program who have made contributions both on the playing fields and in the community. The inductees exemplify the school’s high athletic standards and were honored for their legacy of hard work and commitment, dedication to teamwork, and impact on the school’s tradition of athletics.

Chris Kuselias 1980, a current Hamden Hall parent of three, acknowledged his fellow honorees and spoke of his time under the pines when he played football, basketball, and baseball and earned the Mr. Hustle Award for outstanding male athlete in 1980. Chris played Division I baseball at UConn.

“I truly enjoyed the Hall of Fame event and was overwhelmed by the feeling of community amongst Hamden Hall staff, students, and alumni. I am so proud and honored to be part of this unique group, and will continue to support and promote the school and its programs whenever possible,” noted Chris.

Alexis Highsmith Smith 1997 was joined by her extended family at the event, including her sister, Hamden Hall alumna Jennifer Highsmith 1999. Alexis played on the Duke Women’s Varsity Soccer Team and was a four-year Varsity letter winner as well as team captain.

“It is quite an honor to be a member of the inaugural Hall of Fame class and in the company of such accomplished members of the HH community,” said Alexis. “It was a very special night for my family and I and it was incredibly wonderful to see so many former teachers, coaches, and schoolmates.”

Honorees and fellow Fasano, Ippolito and Lee L.L.C. attorneys Len Fasano 1977 and Al Ippolito 1975, both of whom played Ivy League football at Yale and Harvard respectively, brought fellow alumnus Marc Riccio 1973 on stage in order to make a special presentation. The three established the David K. Ricciardi 1973 Mr. Hustle Award in honor of their friend, David Ricciardi, who has taken ill.

“This award will be given to a three-sport varsity athlete who exemplifies David’s traits,” said Al. “David exhibited untiring and extraordinary effort, hustle, and determination, thus increasing his value to each team well beyond his inherent talents.”

On hand to accept the recognition for her husband was Margaret Ricciardi and the couple’s son, Kelly.

The evening started with the 1962-1963 basketball team, which had six representatives on hand including co-captain Arnold Rosenfield who traveled from California for the event. And perhaps most apropos was the evening’s final recipient – David Beckerman, in whose “house” the event was held (and duly noted!)

David coached Hamden Hall’s varsity basketball team for more than a decade – from 1993 through 2004. During that time, Hamden Hall won eight New England Championships including six consecutive wins from 1998 through 2004, amassed six Fairchester Championships, and seven Hornet Holiday Championships. Many of David’s former players were in the audience to show support for their former coach.

“The induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame was a great honor that recognized the unbelievable success we had with the Hamden Hall basketball program. It also reflected what the school is all about – a caring attitude that respects its students, athletes, and coaches,” maintained David.

Click here to view a slideshow from the event.