It was like old times for former Roger Williams University icons Hector Massa, Vic Collucci and Dwight Datcher, who met recently for an impromptu lunch at Leo’s Ristorante, where they reminisced about their memorable athletic days at the school.

Hector Massa, who will turn 94 in December, was athletic director at RWU when Vic Collucci was head coach of the men’s basketball program and Dwight Datcher was one of his star guards.

“It’s always nice being around Hector,” said Mr. Collucci, who before being hired as the Hawks’ basketball coach, starred for the Providence College Friars under legendary coaches Joe Mullaney and Dave Gavitt. Vic once scored 36 points against Lew Alcindor and UCLA at Madison Square Garden in New York City. “Hector was like a father to all of us.”

Dwight Datcher, a former RWU athletic director, who will be one of the inductees in this year’s Roger Williams University Athletic Hall of Fame class, traveled from Boston to meet up with his two old friends.

“Hector and Vic were very special to me,” he said, “and they still are. We’ve always remained close friends. I love coming back to Bristol whenever I get a chance.”

During their time at Roger Williams, the trio gained a great deal of credibility in helping the 1973-74 basketball team reach the NAIA national tournament in Kansas City. No other Hawks’ hoop team had ever accomplished that feat.

“We won 21 games that year,” recalled Mr. Collucci, “and Dwight was one of the driving forces. Hector, of course, was as supportive of us as anyone. He had hired me as the coach of men’s basketball, and gave me the opportunity to build a championship program. We worked very well together.”

After his Roger Williams University days, Mr. Collucci went on to coach with Dave Gavitt at PC.

“When I look back on it now, I had two great bosses: Hector Massa and Dave Gavitt,” he said. “It doesn’t get any better than that.”

Hector Massa is certainly no stranger to anyone in these parts. Despite his advanced age, the former Bristol Y and Hog Island Day Camp director still drives and gets out for his normal daily routine of a cup of coffee and a meeting with friends.

“I’m too young to slow down,” he said with a chuckle. “It’s not my style. I love being around people, especially these two guys. They keep me going.”

In talking about past glory days, Dwight, a 1,000 point career scorer, was hopeful the entire 1973-74 RWU basketball team would get inducted into the Roger Williams Hall of Fame.

“It wasn’t just about me,” he said. “This was a very special team during a very special time in our lives. They deserve as much credit as I received.”

Mr. Collucci agreed.

“The whole team should be considered for induction into the Hall of Fame,” he said. “Our record speaks for itself. But, I am happy that I will be Dwight’s sponsor for his induction this year. I am deeply honored.”