It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to the 2012-2013 athletic season!

As an alumnus of Aquinas, I am proud to be part of such a rich tradition of academic and athletic excellence. Throughout its long and proud history, Aquinas Institute has embraced a philosophy that a well-rounded athletic program is an integral part of the Aquinas educational mission. As a Catholic institution, Aquinas espouses Christian values and principles, as well as promoting the development of the human spirit, mind and body. Aquinas athletics will continue to serve as a vehicle for these qualities, as well as fostering a safe, fun, and friendly environment for our student athletes to develop strong character, integrity, loyalty, and a strong sense of team work and sportsmanship.

 

Aquinas is proud that a large percentage of our student body participates in athletics. These students will not only develop athletic skills by working with our outstanding coaching staff, but will also benefit from an athletic philosophy that promotes fitness for life, and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle free of drugs and alcohol.

 

The 2010-11 season proved one our most rewarding ever with the crowning of 5 sectional champions and one state championship team. As usual the vast majority of our varsity teams achieved scholar athlete status. However this year two of our teams – football and hockey – achieved the highest NYSPHSAA award, being crowned number one academically in their respective sports. Even more impressive the football team finished the season 13-0, earning the state championship both academically and athletically, earning a key to the city presented by now State Lt. Governor and Aquinas alum, the Honorable Robert Duffy. Another impressive event was having both our boys and girls basketball teams travel to Glens Falls for the Final Four in their respective classes. Also noteworthy is having our boys indoor track and softball teams earn sectional titles.

 

Due to the generosity of our fine alumni Aquinas has some of the finest athletic facilities in the state.  However we all know that it is the people of AQ who make it such a wonderful place. I want to extend my deepest appreciation to the coaches, players, parents, faculty, administration, alumni, and fans that have helped make Aquinas athletics a first class program.

 

 In closing, I want to extend my best wishes to the student athletes and coaches for a successful and blessed season. Continue to represent Aquinas with class, dignity and respect while demonstrating competitive spirit and fair-play. Above all, develop life-long friendships and a true devotion to Aquinas which give true meaning to our school's Alma Mater; "Aquinas Ever More."

 Sincerely,

 Anthony Bianchi '81
 Director of Athletics