Ponaganset High School Athletic Hall of Fame
Induction Class of 2014
The Intrepid 13
1975 – 1976 Football Team
The 1975 football season started out the same way it had every previous year for Ponaganset High School. But not long after the start of the season, the size of the team started to dwindle. Players left the school, others left the team, and when a rash of injuries hit – affecting the squad even further – the school committee began to take notice. The committee was concerned that having just 13 players was not safe or practical enough to sustain a high school football team.
These 13 players, however, said differently. With an undeniable coach by their side, players, parents and friends of Ponaganset Football put up a fight against the administration to keep the sport going. But the toughest fight of all took place on the field. Every player had to know every position, because at any given moment, they might be called on to perform.
It was the love of the game that kept these Ponaganset Chieftains fighting against bigger and better teams every Saturday. On Tuesdays, they were let out of practice early to attend school committee meetings and fight to retain football. These 13 players were asked to practice hard, play harder and show everybody they belonged playing football for Ponaganset.
Not only does the present football program, but all of Ponaganset Athletics owes a debt of gratitude to these players for persevering against a mountain of obstacles on and off the field. This team achieved more in their loses, than they ever could have in victory. Without their commitment to Ponaganset Football, the successes and championships of future teams would not have been realized and the lives of thousands of athletes would’ve been changed forever.
Head Coach: Mr. Frank Pazienza
Assistant Coach: Mr. Paul Shawver Student-Athletes: Neal Beltram, Leo Bowler, Ralph Ciarlo, Arne Johnson, Chris Johnson, Bernie Lemire, Jay Leonhardt, Fran Morey, Craig Tetreault, Carl Tucker, Gary Tucker, Jim Williams, John Williams.