The stars were out in full force Saturday night at the 39th annual Bristol Athletic Hall of Fame induction banquet at the Venus de Milo in Swansea, as 16 new Hall of Fame members were introduced to a crowd of approximately 200 people.

“It was a great night for everyone,” said longtime committee member and past chairman Richard C. “Dickie” Sousa. “This was a great class this year, consisting of some of the best all-around high school athletes, as well as several other athletes who were inducted in the Special Recognition category.”

The Class of 2019 included Dennis Dobbyn, John Ratier, Michael Topazio, Andrew B. Abilheira, Paul Castigliego, Jr., Lenny Estrella, Jr., Marc Federico, Jayson Gaynor, Kerri (Ferreira) Giarrusso, Kristen (Oliver) King, Kendra (Lanzire) Klein, Brian Machado, Michael Marolla, Kenneth V. Nerone, Nichole O’Connell, and Phillip Wagoner.

Welcoming remarks were given by Hall of Fame Committee chairman Paul LaFleur, followed by the introduction of the inductees by T.J. DelSanto, Mt, Hope High School Dept. Chair of Physical Education and Health. Mr. LaFleur then led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the Invocation and Memoriam by Deacon Paul Bisbano.

Following dinner and the official induction ceremonies, benediction was given by Deacon Bisbano. Mr. DelSanto gave closing remarks.

Hall of Fame Committee members include Chairman Paul LaFleur, Paul R. Vollaro, vice chairman; Ray Edler, recording secretary; Gary Palumbo, corresponding secretary; Brad Borges, treasurer;  and Richard C. Sousa, past chairman. Also, Henry Cabral, Mike Gibbemeyer, Wayne Lima, John Lunney, Jr., Tony Rosano, Mickey Securo, Paul Cirillo, Mike Bento, and Tim Shaw.