Monday, November 10, 2025 | St. Lawrence County, NY
POTSDAM – The Potsdam Central School community gathered September 19–20 to honor the newest members of its Athletic Hall of Fame, celebrating athletes, coaches, teams, and community …
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POTSDAM – The Potsdam Central School community gathered September 19–20 to honor the newest members of its Athletic Hall of Fame, celebrating athletes, coaches, teams, and community supporters.
The weekend began Friday with a golf outing at the Potsdam Town and Country Club, followed by a social and induction ceremony at the Potsdam Elks’ Club. On Saturday, inductees visited the Hall of Fame wall at the Gillette-Saunders Physical Education Complex, were introduced at halftime during the Gouverneur–Potsdam football game, and joined alumni and friends for a tailgate party at Sergi’s Banquet Hall.
The induction ceremony included the Pledge of Allegiance, remarks by Superintendent Jerry Griffin, and the presentation of awards and honorees by Hall of Fame President Jim Mason.
Special Awards
The Gertie LaBaff Community Service Award, established in 2004 to recognize hard work, dedication, and community spirit, was presented to the Potsdam Volunteer Rescue Squad.
The Outstanding Contribution to PCS Athletics Award went to the Potsdam Booster Club.
Outstanding Coach
The Hall of Fame recognized Anthony (Tony) Vaccaro for his achievements and impact as an outstanding coach.
Outstanding Individual Athletes
The Class of 2025 honored ten individual athletes: Anthony (Tony) Rishe (1959–63), Bobby Guyette (1973–77), Stuart Barrows (1976–80), John Fencil (1985–89), Tim Narrow (1987–91), Alexandra Stewart (2000–04), Desiree Webster (2002–05), Ginette Cornett (2005–09), Monique Cornett (2007–11), and Zac Adams (2006–11).
Outstanding Teams
Three teams were also inducted: the 1997–98 Boys’ Basketball team, the 2014–15 Boys’ Soccer team, and the 2014–15 Girls’ Soccer team.
Background
The Potsdam Central School Athletic Hall of Fame was established in 2004 through the efforts of community member Norma Sharlow and a small organizing committee. Its mission is to honor individual athletes, teams, coaches, and contributors who have brought recognition to PCS athletics or provided exceptional support to its programs.
Operating costs for the Hall of Fame were initially supported by a loan from the PCS Booster Club, as well as donations from local businesses, organizations, and community members. Today, continued support from alumni, inductees, and friends helps fund plaques, certificates, invitations, programs, and the induction dinners.
Since its first ceremony in October 2004, the Hall of Fame has inducted dozens of athletes, coaches, and contributors across generations, recognizing both athletic accomplishments and community service.
The committee invites nominations of future candidates. Nomination forms, along with access to past yearbooks and local news archives, are available online through the Northern New York Library Network. Completed forms may be mailed to PCS Athletic Hall of Fame, P.O. Box 902, Potsdam, NY 13676.
