Presented in recognition of outstanding athletic achievement and significant contributions to sports programs and the Deaf community.
Jack Antal – Class of 1961
At WPSD, Jack Antal was a standout athlete who excelled in both basketball and soccer. He was named an All-American Basketball Player in 1960. Jack went on to represent the United States in the World Games for the Deaf (now known as the Deaflympics), being selected for the U.S. basketball team twice—in 1961 and 1969—and for the U.S. soccer team in 1965. He earned two gold medals in basketball, though the soccer team did not place.
Beyond his athletic achievements, Jack showed his support for WPSD by contributing to the Alumni Giving Tree. He was inducted into the USA Deaf Sports Federation Hall of Fame as an athlete in 1990 and later honored by the WPSD Alumni Association with the Athlete Hall of Fame Award in 1996.
Jack Antal passed away on January 26, 2026, at the age of eighty-three.
Jerry Bush – Class of 1969
Jerry Bush enrolled at WPSD and graduated with the Class of 1969. A talented and dedicated athlete, he played varsity soccer, basketball, and track all four years of high school. He was an integral part of WPSD’s success at the Eastern Schools for the Deaf Athletic Association (ESDAA) Track Tournaments, helping the team secure championships in both 1968 and 1969.
Following graduation, Jerry attended Bethany College, earning his degree in 1972. He continued his love for sports there, playing college soccer for two years.
After college, Jerry began his professional career at the Maryland School for the Deaf, first serving as a dorm counselor and later becoming a supervisor. His passion for athletics never waned, and he accepted the role of Varsity Basketball Head Coach in 1984. He led the team for a decade until 1994 and returned to coach for one additional season in 1998–1999. Under his leadership, the team won the ESDAA Basketball Tournament three times (1987, 1993, and 1999) and captured back-to-back National Basketball Championships in 1992 and 1993.
Jerry was eventually appointed Athletic Director, a position he held until his retirement in 2006, culminating in 34 years of devoted service to the Maryland School for the Deaf. In recognition of his outstanding contributions and impact on generations of student-athletes, he was honored with the Athletic Hall of Fame Award in 2017.
Jerry Bush passed away on May 26, 2023, at the age of 74, leaving behind a legacy of sportsmanship, mentorship, and dedication to the Deaf community.
Gary Butlin – Class of 1974
Gary Butlin enrolled at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD) and made his mark as a multi-sport athlete, participating in soccer (4 years), wrestling (5 years), track (4 years), and softball (2 years). As a standout wrestler, he competed at the 2nd Annual Invitational Wrestling Tournament in 1969, narrowly losing the championship match by a referee’s decision. He went on to place second place at the National Independent College Preparatory Schools Tournament held at Lehigh University in 1973.
Gary served as wrestling captain from 1972 to 1974. Under his leadership, the WPSD wrestling team achieved its first winning season since 1959, finishing with an 8-6 record. His individual season record in 1974 was an outstanding 11-1-1, contributing to a two-year varsity record of 27-4-1.
After graduating, Gary worked as a resolute postal employee, retiring in 2011 after 26 years of service. Never one to stay idle, he turned his passion to sports once again—this time through cornhole. In 2023, he founded the Pennsylvania Deaf Cornhole and currently serves as its President. He has competed in numerous tournaments across the eastern United States, winning several matches and championship titles.
Gary also remains active in the WPSD community, organizing cornhole tournaments as part of his fundraising efforts for the Alumni Association. His continued dedication helps strengthen alumni connections and support the school.
Michael Chuto – Class of 1970
At WPSD, Michael Chuto was an outstanding wrestler and competed in soccer and track and field. He claimed individual championships at the Invitational Wrestling Tournament in both 1968 and 1969 as an 180-pound competitor, and his team won the wrestling championship in 1969. In track and field, WPSD was crowned ESDAA Track Tournament Champions in 1968 and 1969, during which Mike broke two school records in shot put and discus. He was honored as the Most Outstanding Athlete in 1968.
Mike studied in the painting shop at WPSD and went on to work as a painter until his retirement. In recognition of his athletic achievements, he was inducted into the Athlete Hall of Fame in 1999.
Michael Chuto passed away on February 21, 2026, at the age of seventy-six in Cocoa Beach, Florida.
Barbara (Barnacastle) Cline – Class of 1977
Barbara Barncastle was a standout athlete at WPSD, excelling in all girls’ sports. She played soccer for 3 years, volleyball and basketball for 4 years each, tennis for 2 years, and softball for 1 year. She was also an active member of the Girls’ Athletic Association for 3 years. After her school years, Barbara worked for the Post Office until her retirement. In recognition of her athletic achievements, she was honored with the Athlete Hall of Fame Award in 2014.
Robert Cline – Class of 1980
At WPSD, Robert Cline was a three-sport athlete, competing in soccer, basketball, and track for three years. He broke three school records in the 100-yard dash, 440-yard dash, and the one-mile relay. In recognition of his achievements, he was named the Most Outstanding Athlete in 1979.
Robert worked at NRG Energy in a power plant for 38 years before retiring. While working, he continued training for the World Games for the Deaf (now the Deaflympics). In 1981, he represented the United States on the track team, competing in the 200-meter dash and the 4×400-meter relay. He earned a gold medal in the 4×400 relay.
In honor of his athletic accomplishments, Robert was inducted into the Athlete Hall of Fame in 2014.
Anthony Crino
Anthony Crino enrolled at WPSD but left in 1944. He played both soccer and basketball, and while he was skilled in both sports, he was especially known as a star basketball player during his school years.
After leaving WPSD as a student, he was invited to return and work at the school. Over the decades, he held a variety of roles, taking on many odd jobs and later contributing significantly to the athletics program. From 1976 to 1986, he served as a basketball assistant coach and junior varsity coach. He retired in 1993 after more than 45 years of dedicated service to WPSD.
In the wider Deaf community, Anthony earned a strong reputation as a gifted basketball player, competing for deaf clubs across the country. His impact on the sport was recognized with his induction into both the Eastern Athletic Association of the Deaf Hall of Fame and the American Athletic Association of the Deaf Hall of Fame in 1986. At the WPSD Alumni Reunion in 1987, he was also honored with the Athletic Hall of Fame Award.
Anthony Crino passed away on February 16, 2009, at the age of 85. In his memory, the WPSD Alumni Association, along with his family and friends, dedicated a tree in front of the gymnasium to honor his life and legacy.
G. Wesley Dickson – Class of 1948
Wesley Dickson, originally from Greensburg, enrolled at WPSD and graduated in 1948. During his school years, he was a dedicated athlete who played both soccer and basketball, helping his team to win the ESDAA Basketball Championship in 1948.
After graduation, Wesley attended Gallaudet College (now Gallaudet University), earning his degree in 1953. He returned to WPSD in 1955 to teach in the school’s printing shop, launching a career in education that would span decades. Alongside teaching, he joined the school’s basketball program as an assistant varsity coach and as the junior varsity coach.
Wesley retired from teaching in 1982 after 27 years of service but remained deeply involved with the school. In 1994, he joined the WPSD Board of Trustees, serving until his full retirement in 2017. Altogether, Wesley dedicated 50 years of service to WPSD.
He was also a committed member of the WPSD Alumni Association for 18 years, serving as President (1960–62), Trustee (1965–72), and Member at Large (1993–96, 2005–11). Wesley generously supported the school’s “Sharing the Future” initiative, further demonstrating his lifelong devotion to its mission.
In recognition of his many contributions, Wesley received numerous honors, including the WPSD Outstanding Alumni Award of the Year (1995), the Alumni Merit Award and Athletic Hall of Fame induction (2005), and the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award (2020).
Wesley Dickson’s legacy embodies the spirit of commitment, versatility, and service that have long supported the daily life and enduring success of the WPSD community. He passed away on December 20, 2019, at the age of 90.
Michael Dorrell – Class of 1957
At WPSD, Michael Dorrell was an outstanding basketball star and played soccer for four years. He was selected three times as an All-Basketball Star at ESSDA Basketball Tournaments and was named an All-American Basketball Player in 1956 and 1957.
Michael represented the United States on the basketball team at the World Games for the Deaf (now Deaflympics) in 1961 and 1965, winning gold medals both times. In a great honor, he was chosen as the flag bearer for the entire U.S. team during the opening ceremony in 1965. He was inducted into the USA Hall of Fame as an athlete in 1983.
After studying in the printing shop at WPSD, Michael worked as a linotype operator until his retirement. He was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame in 1990.
Charles Fisher – Class of 1956
Charles Fisher was a proud member of the Class of 1956 at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD), where he played both soccer and basketball for four years. After graduation, he remained active in sports, playing basketball for many years with the Pittsburgh Association of the Deaf (PAD) and participating in the PAD Bowling League.
Charles worked as a printer for the Pittsburgh Post Office for 33 years. During that time, he also served in various roles at WPSD. He began as a houseparent in 1968, serving for four years, and became a media technician in 1972, a position he held for two decades. He continued working part-time as a Media Aide until retiring in 1998, completing a total of 30 years of service to WPSD.
A devoted sportsman, Charles loved coaching and mentored WPSD’s freshman teams in soccer, basketball, and track. He was a loyal supporter of the school, attending countless sports events, school functions, and Alumni Reunions. His love for WPSD lived on through his family—his sons Alan, Bobby, and Harry followed in his footsteps by playing sports at WPSD. His granddaughters, Hannah and Danielle played sports, too.
Charles served the Alumni Association with distinction for 24 years. He held the position of Treasurer from 1969 to 1975 and again from 1994 to 1999. He also served as Member-at-Large from 1981 to 1994.
In recognition of his dedication, Charles received the Alumni Merit Award in 2017. He was posthumously honored with the Athletic Hall of Fame Award in 2020, though he was informed beforehand by the Chair of the Alumni Awards Committee that he would be inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame. Charles Fisher passed away on January 1, 2022, at the age of 84.
Dale Ford – Class of 1965
At WPSD, Dale Ford was honored as the first Most Outstanding Athlete in 1965. He excelled in soccer, basketball, and track. In recognition of his achievements, he was inducted into the Athlete Hall of Fame in 2008.
After his athletic and academic years, Dale dedicated his career to education and youth development. He retired as Coordinator of the After-School Program at the Model Secondary School for the Deaf in Washington, D.C.
David Glenn – Class of 1973
David Glenn was born into a farming family and, after graduating, returned to work on the farm. He eventually became a landowner, holding one-third of the acreage through a division among three sons. He retired in 2010 and now enjoys his well-earned retirement.
During his years at WPSD, David was a standout athlete, participating in soccer and basketball for three years and track for four years. He was also a three-year member of the Varsity Letter Club. His track team won the ESDAA Track Tournament Championship twice, in 1968 and 1969. David broke two school and ESDAA records in the 880-yard dash and the mile run. In 1971, he was recognized as an All-American Track Athlete and was named Most Outstanding Athlete at WPSD.
In recognition of his athletic achievements, the WPSD Alumni Association inducted David Glenn into the Athletic Hall of Fame in 1999.
George Greco – Class of 1919
George Greco was a trailblazer in WPSD athletics, taking the field in the fall of 1918 as a member of the school’s first interscholastic soccer team. A talented all-around athlete, he also served as the pitcher for the baseball team and played for four years.
George truly shined on the basketball court, playing four seasons and contributing to one of the most dominant eras in WPSD history. His team went undefeated twice—posting a 16-0 record in 1916–17 and an incredible 23-0 record in 1918–19. Over four years, the team amassed an outstanding record of fifty-three wins and only two losses. George served as team captain during the 1916–17 season and once scored fifty points in a single game against the WPSD Alumni team, helping lead the varsity to a commanding 102–18 victory in 1919.
Janice (Mogus) Gwizdak – Class of 1968
At WPSD, Janice Mogus was a dedicated athlete who played volleyball, basketball, and softball throughout her high school years. After graduation, she pursued a long career in administration, retiring in 2010 after 40 years of service as a billing and distribution specialist.
Janice remained actively involved in sports within the Deaf community. She played softball and volleyball for the Pittsburgh Association of the Deaf and participated in a ladies’ bowling league until the league was discontinued. A passionate golfer, she competed in tournaments in Pennsylvania and Ohio, becoming a member of the Ohio Deaf Golf Association (ODGA). Janice distinguished herself by winning the ODGA Women’s Championship six times.
In recognition of her athletic achievements, Janice was honored with CAAD Hall of Fame (1997), ODGA Hall of Fame (2011), and WPSD Alumni Association Athletic Hall of Fame (2020).
Walla (Franer) Harding – Class of 1967
At the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD), Walla Franer was a standout athlete who participated in all girls’ sports and was also a member of the cheerleading squad. In 1965, she made history as the first female to receive the Most Outstanding Athlete award at WPSD.
After graduating in 1967, Walla worked as a custodian at the U.S. Post Office until her retirement. She remained passionate about sports and was eager to play softball for the Pittsburgh Association of the Deaf (PAD), a dream she fulfilled for many years.
Her athletic achievements were recognized beyond WPSD—Walla was inducted into the Central Athletic Association of the Deaf (CAAD) Hall of Fame in 1997 and received the Athletic Hall of Fame award in 1999.
Walla Franer passed away in November 2016, leaving behind a legacy of athletic excellence and trailblazing spirit.
Wes Hawkins – Class of 1978
Wes Hawkins was a standout athlete during his years at WPSD, excelling in soccer, basketball, and Wes Hawkins was a standout athlete during his years at WPSD, excelling in soccer, basketball, and track. He broke the school record in the 220-yard dash and was honored twice as a Most Outstanding Athlete, in 1976 and 1977.
After graduation, Wes returned to WPSD as a dormitory counselor for middle school boys, where he continued to share his passion for sports. His coaching contributions included:
- Varsity Basketball Assistant Coach and JV Basketball Assistant Coach (1982–1986)
- Varsity Track Assistant Coach (1983–1988)
- Freshman Soccer Assistant Coach (1984–1986), then Freshman Soccer Coach (1987–1988)
- Freshman Basketball Coach (1986–1988)
Wes was also an accomplished athlete on the international stage. He competed with the USA Deaf Soccer Team, which placed runner-up in the 1980 regional games and achieved fifth place at the 1985 Deaflympics.
In the Deaf sports community, Wes played softball and volleyball for the Pittsburgh Association of the Deaf (PAD). His PAD volleyball team won the Central Athletic Association of the Deaf (CAAD) Championships in 1984 and 1985, though they were eliminated at the National Volleyball Championships in Los Angeles in both years.
In recognition of his athletic excellence and contributions, Wes Hawkins was inducted into the WPSD Athletic Hall of Fame in 2005.
Christie Homell – Class of 1994
At WPSD, Christie Homell was a multi-sport athlete who played volleyball (4 years), basketball (4 years), softball (1 year), and track (3 years). She served as team captain for volleyball (1991–1994) and basketball (1992–1994). In 1991, she led her team to win the Central States Schools for the Deaf (CSSD) Basketball Championship. After graduating, Christie went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania.
Christie began her career in education in 2000 as a teacher at Children’s Choice, and in 2016, she became an American Sign Language (ASL) teacher. She was actively involved in the school’s volleyball program from the beginning and was appointed Varsity Volleyball Coach in 2007. After the COVID-19 pandemic, she decided to step down, concluding 13 years of coaching.
Her coaching career was marked by impressive accomplishments. Under her leadership, her team won three consecutive ESDAA Volleyball Championships (2016–2018), and she was honored as Volleyball Coach of the Year in 2016. In recognition of her athletic and coaching achievements, Christie was inducted into the WPSD Athletic Hall of Fame in 2023.
Joseph Jezerski – Class of 1955
Joseph Jezerski was born on August 22, 1935, in Weirton, West Virginia. He first attended the West Virginia School for the Deaf before his family relocated to Pennsylvania, where he enrolled at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD). While at WPSD, Joe was an avid athlete, playing soccer and basketball for four years.
After graduation, he worked as a printer at the Pittsburgh Press and Post-Gazette for 35 years until his retirement.
Joe was a dedicated leader in the Pennsylvania Society for the Advancement of the Deaf (PSAD), serving as President from 1988 to 1992. He was also one of the founders of the PSADLand Camp in Clearfield County, a retreat that became meaningful to many in the Deaf community.
In recognition of his athletic contributions, Joe was inducted into the WPSD Athletic Hall of Fame in 1993. Also, he was honored for their induction into the Eastern Athletic Association of the Deaf Hall of Fame
Joseph Jezerski passed away on February 9, 2018, in Boynton Beach, Florida, at the age of 82.
Harry Lewis – Class of 1966
While a student at WPSD, Harry Lewis was a talented athlete who played soccer for two years, and basketball and track for four years. In recognition of his athletic excellence, he was named a Most Outstanding Athlete in 1966.
Although he later settled in Michigan, Harry remained a proud and active WPSD alumnus. He regularly attended Alumni Reunions and has served on the Alumni Award Committee since 2020. In recognition of his contributions and athletic achievements, Harry was inducted into the WPSD Athletic Hall of Fame in 2002.
Joseph Michiline – Class of 1967
At WPSD, Joe Michiline played soccer for two years and competed in basketball and track for four years. He served as captain for all three sports. Joe set a new WPSD record in the pole vault and was named the Most Outstanding Athlete in 1967.
He represented the USA Track Team in 1969, 1975, and 1981. At the 1969 World Games for the Deaf (now Deaflympics), Joe won a gold medal in pole vault and set a record of 4.00 meters (13’ 1¼”). He also earned a silver medal in the long jump at the 1975 Pan American Games.
Rita Mowl – Class of 1972
Born to Deaf parents, Rita Mowl enrolled at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD), where she thrived academically and athletically. At WPSD, she played volleyball and basketball for four years, field hockey for two years, and softball for six years. She was an active member of the Girls’ Athletic Association for three years and was honored as the Most Outstanding Athlete in 1970.
After graduating from WPSD, Rita attended Thiel College, where she earned her bachelor’s degree. She continued her athletic pursuits, playing volleyball for three years and basketball for one year. She was later inducted into the college’s Hall of Fame for Women’s Basketball.
Rita remained active in sports throughout her life. She played both softball and volleyball for the Pittsburgh Association of the Deaf (PAD) and was recognized as a Hall of Fame Athlete. She also played softball for the Chicago Club of the Deaf (CCD).
An avid bowler for 20 years, Rita held leadership roles in Deaf women’s bowling associations. She served as Law Chair for the Eastern Women Bowling Association (EWBA) for one year and as Secretary/Treasurer of the American Deaf Women Bowling Association (GLWBA) for 14 years. In recognition of her leadership, she was inducted into the GLWBA Hall of Fame.
Rita devoted her career to teaching Deaf students at the Indiana School for the Deaf (ISD) until her retirement. In 2005, she established a girls’ softball team at ISD, furthering her legacy of empowering young Deaf athletes.
In 1996, the WPSD Alumni Association honored Rita Mowl with the Athlete Hall of Fame Award.
Karen Park – Class of 1973
At WPSD, Karen Park played field hockey and soccer for one year, and volleyball, basketball, and softball for three years. She was also a member of the Girls’ Athletic Association for two years. In recognition of her athletic achievements, Karen was inducted into the WPSD Athlete Hall of Fame in 2008.
Randy Prezioso – Class of 1975
After graduating from the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD), Randy Prezioso began his college studies at the University of Tennessee before transferring to Gallaudet College, where he graduated in 1980.
At WPSD, Randy was a standout athlete. He played soccer (3 years), basketball (3 years), softball (2 years), and track (4 years). He broke a school record in the 100-yard dash and was honored as a Most Outstanding Athlete in 1975.
In 1982, Randy joined Gallaudet University as a computer programmer. Over the years, he rose through the ranks and eventually became the university’s Registrar, retiring in 2014 after 32 years of dedicated service.
Beyond his professional career, Randy was deeply involved in the global Deaf community, especially in athletics. He served as Financial Officer for the Winter Deaflympics from 1993 to 2005 and held leadership roles in Deaf golf. From 1998 to 2005, he was a Board Member and Treasurer of the United States Deaf Golf Association (USDGA). He also served as Logistics Officer for the World Deaf Golf Championships in Sweden (2004) and Canada (2006).
Randy’s commitment to his alma mater was reflected in his contribution to the Alumni Giving Tree, and in 2014, he was proudly inducted into the Athlete Hall of Fame in recognition of his lifelong dedication to Deaf sports and community leadership.
Stanley Puzausky – Class of 1933
At the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD), Stanley Puzausky was a standout athlete who played basketball for four years. In 1932, his team captured the ESDAA Basketball Championship title, marking a proud moment in the school’s athletic history. In 1933 Stanley served as team captain during his senior season.
Following graduation, he continued his love for the game by playing basketball with various Deaf clubs for many years, earning respect for his dedication and sportsmanship.
In recognition of his contributions and athletic excellence, Stanley Puzausky was honored with induction into the WPSD Athletic Hall of Fame in 1993.
Stephen Rute – Class of 1974
Stephen Rute enrolled at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD) in November 1957 at the age of three. During his years at WPSD, he was a dedicated student-athlete, participating in soccer and basketball for four years, track for three years, and softball for two years. In 1971, he set a school record in soccer by scoring 16 goals in a single season. In track, he broke three school records—in the 220-yard dash, the 4×220 relay, and the 330-yard intermediate hurdles. Even as a young athlete, Stephen dreamed of one day playing on the USA Deaf Soccer Team.
After graduating from WPSD, Stephen entered Gallaudet College in 1975. He played for the Bison soccer team for four years and was named Most Valuable Player three consecutive times (1976–1978). In 1976, the team achieved the best season record in school history at the time: 8 wins, 2 losses, and 1 tie. He also participated in indoor and outdoor track during his freshman year and contributed to the football team as a kicker in 1979.
Stephen’s childhood dream came true in 1980 when he was selected as captain of the USA Deaf Soccer Team for the World Games for the Deaf (now known as the Deaflympics). The team finished as runner-up in the regional games held in Mexico City. In the 1985 Deaflympics hosted in Los Angeles, California, the team placed fifth, winning two games and losing two. Most notably, the USA earned its first-ever international soccer victory by defeating Australia—sending a powerful message to the world that the American Deaf soccer team had arrived. As a result, the USA Deaf Sports Federation decided to continue supporting the development of the national soccer program.
In addition to soccer, Stephen played softball for several Deaf clubs and competed in volleyball with the Pittsburgh Association of the Deaf. His team won the Central Athletic Association of the Deaf (CAAD) Volleyball Championship in both 1984 and 1985.
Stephen has also been a lifelong golfer. He joined the Ohio Deaf Golf Association (ODGA) in 1999 and served in several leadership roles: Secretary/Treasurer (2005–2013), Secretary (2015–2021), Vice President (2022), and President (2024–2025). He also chaired the Midwest Deaf Golfers Association Tournament in 2014.
In recognition of his exceptional service and athletic accomplishments, Stephen received the Alumni Merit Award in 2002 and was inducted into the WPSD Athlete Hall of Fame in 2005.
Paul Savanick
Paul Savanick enrolled at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD) and left in 1933. During his time at WPSD, he was an active athlete, playing both basketball and baseball. He was a member of the basketball team that won the Eastern States Deaf Athletic Association (ESDAA) Championship in 1932.
Following his school years, Paul worked as a printer and eventually retired from the Mennonite Publishing House. He remained deeply involved with the WPSD Alumni Association for nine years, serving as Member-at-Large from 1978 to 1981 and again from 1984 to 1987. In 1981, he was elected 2nd Vice President, and when the 1st Vice President was unable to continue his duties, Paul stepped up to lead the preparations for the 25th Alumni Reunion in 1987.
In recognition of his athletic achievements, Paul Savanick was inducted into the WPSD Athletic Hall of Fame in 1993.
Daniel Sheppeck – Class of 1991
At WPSD, Danny Sheppeck was a three-sport athlete, playing soccer, basketball, and participating in track for four years. He was named Soccer Player of the Year in 1990 and set a school record in the 330-yard Intermediate Hurdles.
In 1993, Danny achieved national recognition by earning a spot on the USA Deaf Soccer Team, which placed eighth in international competition.
Danny donated to the Alumni Giving Tree. In recognition of his athletic accomplishments, Danny was inducted into the WPSD Athlete Hall of Fame in 2014.
Richard Siar – Class of 1969
During his time at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD), Richard Siar was a standout athlete. He participated in soccer, basketball, and track for four years. A record-breaking runner, he set two school records in the 880-yard dash and the mile run. Richard was a key contributor to WPSD’s track team, which won the Eastern States Deaf Athletic Association (ESDAA) Track Championships in both 1968 and 1969.
In recognition of his athletic excellence, Richard was inducted into the WPSD Alumni Association’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2014.
Following graduation, Richard worked for the U.S. Postal Service until his retirement. He passed away on September 11, 2024, at the age of 75, remembered for his achievements on the field and his dedication throughout his life.
Eugene Stangarone – Class of 1931
Eugene Stangarone enrolled at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD) in November 1918 and graduated in 1931. He chose to remain at the school for an additional year as a postgraduate. A talented athlete, Eugene was named an All-American Deaf Basketball Player in 1931. He helped lead WPSD’s basketball team to win the Eastern States Deaf Athletic Association (ESDAA) Championship in 1932—the same year the team was recognized as the Mythical National Champion.
After completing his education, Eugene worked as an auto repairman until his retirement.
He dedicated 19 years of service to the WPSD Alumni Association, holding several key roles: 2nd Vice President (1952–1955), Trustee (1962–1969), and Member-at-Large (1978–1987). In 1984, Eugene made history as the first alumnus to be inducted into the WPSD Athletic Hall of Fame. Many years later, in recognition of his lifetime of dedication, he was posthumously honored with the Alumni Merit Award in 2023.
Eugene Stangarone passed away on March 11, 1986, leaving behind a legacy of athletic achievement and loyal service to his alma mater.
Paula Tajc – Class of 1976
At the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD), Paula Tajc was a standout three-sport athlete, competing in volleyball, basketball, and softball for three years. She was also an active member of the Girls’ Athletic Association for two years. In recognition of her athletic excellence, Paula was honored as the Most Outstanding Athlete in 1975.
Paula continued her athletic journey with the Pittsburgh Association of the Deaf (PAD), where she played softball and volleyball for many years. Her contributions to Deaf athletics were recognized when she received the Athlete Hall of Fame Award in 2002.
Allen Talbert – Class of 1972
At the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD), Allen Talbert was a dedicated three-sport athlete. He played soccer and ran track for four years, and played basketball for five years, serving as basketball captain during the 1969–70 and 1971–72 seasons. He also broke the school record in the 2-mile relay event.
Allen continued his athletic journey at Gallaudet College, where he played soccer for the Bison team. In 1976, the team achieved the best season record in school history at the time: 8 wins, 2 losses, and 1 tie.
In 1980, Allen was a member of the USA Deaf Soccer Team that made history by earning the team’s first international victory.
Following graduation, Allen began his coaching career. He served as the soccer coach for the first coed team at Horace Mann School for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing in Boston for two years, then coached soccer for one year at the Austine School for the Deaf in Vermont.
After moving to Washington, D.C., Allen joined the Model Secondary School for the Deaf (MSSD), where he was an assistant coach in softball for two years and volleyball for four years. He later served as Coordinator of the Transition Program at MSSD, retiring in 2014 after 29 years of dedicated service.
Allen also gave back to his alma mater by contributing to the Alumni Giving Tree. In recognition of his lifelong commitment to Deaf athletics and education, the WPSD Alumni Association honored him with the Athletic Hall of Fame Award in 2023.
Lydna (Pelton) Tasselli – Class of 1976
At the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD), Lynda Pelton was a standout four-sport athlete, competing in soccer, volleyball, basketball, and softball for three years. Her exceptional performance and dedication earned her the title of Most Outstanding Athlete in 1974.
Lynda remained connected to her alma mater, generously donating to the Alumni Giving Tree. In recognition of her athletic achievements and continued support of the WPSD community, she was honored with the Athlete Hall of Fame Award in 2017.
Valentine “Val” Wojton – Class of 1976
After graduating from the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD) in 1976, Valentine Wojton began his college education at Slippery Rock University before transferring to Gallaudet College, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in 1981. At Gallaudet, Val excelled as a baseball player and served as team captain for three years. He was named Most Valuable Player, boasting a .302 batting average and an impressive .973 fielding average, and pitched for the Bison baseball team.
In 1986, WPSD welcomed Val back as a dormitory counselor. He transitioned to teaching in 1991 and was later promoted to Coordinator of the Sign Communication Program in 1994. Val’s passion for athletics and leadership in education led to his appointment as Athletic Director in 2002, a role he held until his retirement in 2023. His 37 years of service at WPSD included coaching nearly all sports—both boys’ and girls’ teams—and advising numerous student organizations. As a soccer coach, Val’s teams earned the National Soccer Team of the Year title six times.
Val extended his community service to the Pittsburgh Association of the Deaf (PAD), where he served as President during three terms: 1990–1996, 2004–2006, and 2025–2027.
An avid softball player, Val was also active with the National Softball Association of the Deaf (NSAD). He served as Deputy Commissioner in 2001 and Commissioner during two terms: 2002–2006 and 2008–2010.
In recognition of his lifetime of service and achievement, Val has received several prestigious honors:
- Athlete Hall of Fame Award (2002)
- Alumni Merit Award (2017)
- Distinguished Alumnus Award (2020)
Provided by Stephen Rute, WPSD Class of 1974 who spend his time for the research on alumni awards. This would not have been possible without his support in our WPSD Alumni Association.