During Homecoming and Reunion Weekend in September, Trinity-Pawling held its Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, which celebrates former teams, student-athletes, and coaches who have reflected honor upon the School by virtue of outstanding performance and exemplary contributions to their alma mater, community, and profession. This year’s inductees were Kevin Foster ’81 and Dave Coratti P’08.
Athletic Director Brian Foster ’79 introduced the honorees, emphasizing their commitment to relationships and personal character. “When I think about these two guys… I think about relationships. The incredible brothers they have been, sons, fathers, grandfathers… To me, that’s the most important thing.”
Foster shared a message from Kevin’s former teammate, Kirk McCaskill ’79, highlighting Kevin’s dedication to his teams: “Kevin always prioritized the team’s success. His selflessness is a rare quality in sports and every team he played for was undeniably better because of his presence.”
Dan Rooney ’81, Kevin’s classmate, then took the stage, emphasizing Kevin’s excellence as a student and an athlete. “He was probably one of the best hockey athletes that I was ever exposed to,” Rooney noted, while also praising Kevin’s kindness and humor.
Touched by the honor, Kevin reflected on his journey to Trinity-Pawling, sharing stories of the sacrifices his family made and how he and Brian came to the School together.
Coach Coratti was also celebrated for his decades of dedication to Trinity-Pawling athletics. Former student-athlete Chukky Okobi ’96 shared how Coach Coratti’s mentorship shaped him: “I’ll never forget what he said because it stuck with me and it plays into everything that happened to me after I was done here. He said, ‘I know you can do better, and if you do, then you’ll be better.’ And it was really that simple.” Paul Mancuso ’06 echoed similar sentiments, saying, “Coach Coratti’s impact transcends his athletic achievements. He spent 40 years inspiring countless athletes, instilling in them not just skills that you can see, but the values of hard work, resilience, and teamwork.”
In his heartfelt speech, Coach Coratti reflected on his 40 years of contributions to Trinity-Pawling athletics and shared memories and highlights from the many sports he coached. “Along the way, there were some wins, losses, some championships. For me, it was all about the journey.”
The ceremony concluded with a surprise as Head of School Bill Taylor announced that there was “one last bit of unfinished business.” Coach Coratti once again took the stage to announce the induction of Brian Foster ’79 into the Athletic Hall of Fame. “He put his heart and soul into T-P hockey,” Coratti said, recognizing Foster’s impact as both a player and a coach.
Visibly moved, Brian Foster responded, “I wasn’t expecting this at all. I remember Miles Hubbard saying, ‘I haven’t worked a day in my life working here.’ Most days I feel like that. I can’t believe this happened today, and I am very thankful.”
The event was a heartfelt tribute to these exceptional individuals whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the entire Trinity-Pawling community.
View the event photos here.
by Missy McCluskey