RISD Athletics
Hall of Fame
Henry Brenner
Athlete
Class of 1948
Inducted 1982
Henry Brenner grew up at RI School for the Deaf before leaving in 1948 to finish his education at Woonsocket High School, graduating in 1951. While at WHS, Henry transformed into an All-State football player at tackle despite standing only 5'8" and 170 Ibs. He would also earn 2nd team All-State honor in the 220-yard dash.
Henry was a 3-year letterman in football at the University of Rhode Island and served as the team's Co-Captain his senior year at URI despite being Deaf. Henry was voted the best Jewish athlete in Rhode Island in 1953. Henry was inducted to the Providence Gridiron Club, Rhode Island Interscholastic League, and the University of Rhode Island's Hall of Fame.
Henry would move on to become a highly successful teacher-coach at North Dakota School for the Deaf, as well as serving as Director of Athletics for 36 years. The gym at NDSD is named in honor of Henry for his dedication to the school.
Philip Stafford
Athlete
Class of 1952
Inducted 1982
Philip Stafford was a student and an outstanding athlete at RI School for the Deaf - specializing in Cross Country as well as Basketball. Philip competed successfully against his Rhode Island peers in Class D and State Cross Country meets and was also well known and respected by his New England Deaf peers for his left-handed shooting in basketball. Philip would continue his athletic career as a 'star basketball player' for the Providence Deaf Club of the New England Athletic Association of the Deaf during their '7-peat' championship run in the 1950's.
During his time at RISD, Philip became an outstanding wood worker and left school early in 1950 for a carpentry job to help support his family. Philip worked for over 60 years at William Bloom & Son Company and was a proud member of the RI Carpenter's Union.
Bonnie Bell Turner Rose
Athlete
Class of 1968
Inducted 1983
Bonnie Bell Turner was the first Rhode Island School for the Deaf student to participate in the International Games for the Deaf - now known as the "Deaflympics." Bonnie earned a spot on the United States of America Deaf Track & Field team for the 10th International Games for the Deaf (Deaflympics), held in Washington, D.C. in 1965.
Bonnie Bell was the first USA female competitor to finish in the 800-meter run event at the 1965 Deaflympics, good for fifth place overall, with a time of 2 minutes and 34.9 seconds which set a then-USA Deaf women's 800-meter run record.
Bonnie Bell was also a strong contributor to the varsity girls' basketball team at RI School for the Deaf from 1965-1968 and well-respected by her peers for her athletic ability.
Anthony Strakaluse Jr.
Athlete
Class of 1970
Inducted 1983
For over 25 years, Anthony was the world-record holder in the 12 Ibs. Hammer Throw for all boys age 14 and under, with a throw of 210 feet. Anthony was one of four RI Deaf students selected to participate on the USA Deaf Track & Field team at the 12th World Games for the Deaf (Deaflympics), hosted by Malmo, Sweden in 1973. Anthony finished in 7th place in the Discus Throw and earned a Deaflympics Silver medal in the Hammer Throw--missing out on the gold medal by a single centimeter.
At RI School for the Deaf, Anthony earned First Team All Star honors at the 1970 ESDAA Division 2 Boys' Basketball Tournament with a 25-point effort in the tournament championship game to defeat NY State School for the Deaf (Rome, NY) which helped RISD capture their first ESDAA Div. 2 Boys' Basketball Championship.
Anthony would go on to complete his education at La Salle Academy in Providence and earned numerous Track & Field awards in the New England Catholic Championships.
Arthur Coy
Athlete
Class of 1940
Inducted 1985
Arthur was born in Westerly, RI and attended RI School for the Deaf; while at RISD, Arthur learned how to lip read and to become an expert woodworker.
After completing his studies at RISD, Arthur moved to Westerly High School where he became the Quarterback of Westerly's football team and played point guard for their boys basketball team, winning the RI Boys Division II State Championship in 1940-41. Arthur enrolled at the University of Rhode Island, where he earned a Varsity Letter on the boys' basketball team from 1943-44, and was also involved with the Track & Field and Sailing Teams.
After URI, Arthur became a successful aircraft engineer, working for Pratt & Whitney Aircraft Company and was instrumental in helping develop components of the jet engine that is used on commercial airlines. Arthur was inducted to the New England Basketball Hall of Fame in 2009.
Jo-Ann O'Neill
Athlete
Class of 1980
Inducted 1985
Jo-Ann transferred to Rhode Island School for the Deaf from Boston School for the Deaf. After just three years of play, she graduated high school as the most decorated girls' basketball player in school history. Jo-Ann was the first RI School for the Deaf girls' basketball player to score over 1,000 career points and was recognized by the Rhode Island Interscholastic League as a First Team All-State.
Numerous Deaf publications named Jo-Ann as the Deaf Girls' Basketball Player of the Year following the conclusion of her senior year in 1979-80.
Jo-Ann helped lead RISD to their first Eastern Schools for the Deaf Athletic Association championship in 1979 and helped lead them to two New England Schools for the Deaf Girls' Basketball Championships in 1979 and 1980. Jo-Ann went on to become the first women's basketball player to score over 1,000 career points at Gallaudet University and won three Deaflympics Gold Medals for the USA Deaf Women's Basketball team in 1981, 1985, and 1989. Jo-Ann coached the USA Deaf Women's team to two more Gold Medals in 1993 and 1997.
Jo-Ann returned to RISD as a teacher/coach for both the girls' and boys basketball teams and guided the RISD girls team to back-to-back ESDAA Division 2 Girls' Basketball championships in 2001 and 2002. She coached several students to earn 1,000 points of their own.
James Cooney
Coach
Inducted 2022
James Cooney first came to Rhode Island School for the Deaf in 1963 as a teacher and became a mainstay at the school for the next 35 years. James took on numerous roles throughout his years at the school, such as Physical Education Teacher, Classroom Teacher in numerous academic subjects, Athletic Director/Coach, and High School Supervisor. RISD came into the spotlight as one of the most respected Deaf schools in the country during his tenure.
Mr. Cooney was an accomplished and well-loved athletic coach. Through the years, the boys' basketball team won 325 games and 6 ESDAA Div. 2 Boys Basketball Championships. He also coached RISD student-athletes to numerous RI State Individual Championships in Cross Country and Track & Field as well as numerous New England and Eastern Schools for the Deaf Athletic Association championships. He also served as one of the coaches for the USA Deaf Track & Field Team at the 1973, 1977 and 1985 Deaflympics.
Mr. Cooney was an active member and strong advocate for the RI Deaf Community and other regional/national Deaf Athletic Organizations through the years.Upon retirement from RISD, he and his wife, Marilyn, served as Directors of the Gospel School for the Deaf and Harland Hostels in Suva, Fiji for seventeen years.
Kelly Butterworth
Athlete
Class of 1980
Inducted 2023
Kelly Butterworth excelled as an athlete at RISD in track and field and basketball, winning an ESDAA Championship in 1979 and the New England Schools for the Deaf championships in 1979 and 1980.
Kelly graduated from Gallaudet University in 1987, earning All-American honors in field hockey and became the first Deaf woman to play Amateur Athletic Union Field Hockey. She participated in the Winter Deaf Olympics Games in 1991 (downhill skiing) and 1995 (downhill skiing, slalom, and giant slalom).
At RISD, Kelly served as Media Specialist, Librarian, Substitute Teacher, Athletic Coach, and Athletic Director. As a coach, Kelly guided the Girls' Basketball teams to five ESDAA Championships in 1992, 1998, 2001, 2002, and 2007. Kelly encouraged students to succeed both in academics and athletics with a "can-do" attitude, teaching them to never give up on their dreams.
John Roccabello
Athlete
Class of 1962
Inducted 2023
John Roccabello grew up in the residential dorms at the RI School for the Deaf on Hope Street.
John became a master runner, figure skater, and swimmer, continuing to compete into his 60's. He ran in the Boston Marathon over 20 times.
John won a Gold Medal at the 2005 U.S. Eastern Sectional Figure Skating Championships in the Adult Bronze Over 55 category and several other medals in smaller figure skating competitions.
He earned gold medals in swimming at the 2013 Rhode Island Senior Games in freestyle, breaststroke, and backstroke events.John was a Master Gardener at Colt State Park in Warren, RI, for over 35 years.
We honor John's lifelong commitment to his career and his community, proving that Deaf people are capable of anything they set their minds to.
Peter Blackwell
Faculty
Exemplary Leadership
Inducted 2024
Peter Blackwell is inducted into the Hall of Fame in recognition of his unwavering dedication and visionary leadership. As a passionate advocate for athletics, Peter was pivotal in empowering Jim Cooney to establish a comprehensive sports program at RISD. His steadfast commitment was crucial in integrating RISD into the interscholastic league, which led to the inclusion of key sports such as boys' cross-country, outdoor track and field, and varsity girls' basketball.
Peter’s influence extended far beyond these initial achievements. His efforts in championing and supporting the expansion of the sports program helped elevate RISD’s athletic offerings and provided valuable opportunities for students to excel. His leadership was not limited to athletics; he played an essential role in transforming RISD into a leading center of excellence for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. Under his guidance, the institution gained recognition not only within New England but also across the United States for its exceptional educational programs and commitment to inclusivity and excellence.
Peter Blackwell’s legacy is marked by his tireless work in advancing both educational and athletic standards. His impact endures through the many lives he has touched and the lasting improvements he made to RISD’s programs and reputation. His dedication and visionary approach continue to inspire and drive the pursuit of excellence within the institution and beyond.
George Ferrieria
Athlete
Class of 1971
Inducted 2024
George Ferreira, known as George Franco Ferreira, is celebrated for his outstanding achievements in cross country, basketball, and track & field at RISD. Born in Esmolfe, Portugal, and relocating to Rhode Island at age 3, George’s athletic journey spanned from 1956 to 1971, marking 15 years of dedication and excellence.
Under the mentorship of Coach Jim Cooney from 1964 to 1977, George’s athletic prowess flourished. His commitment to cross country was evident in his impressive performance, with a personal best of 12:14 for 2 ¾ miles and consecutive state qualifications. He was also recognized as the R.I. Track Coaches Association All-Class for Class D - 1st All-Team for two straight years. In basketball, George earned All-American honors, reflecting his exceptional skills and contributions to the team. His achievements in track & field were equally remarkable, highlighted by being named the RIIL All-State Cross Country Champion in 1969.
George’s contributions were pivotal in leading his team to victory as ESDAA champions in 1970. His favorite memories include the thrill of winning the RIIL Cross Country State Championship and the satisfaction of securing the 1970 ESDAA Basketball Championship.
Known for his deep respect for Coach Jim Cooney and his belief in the coach’s decisions, George exemplified unwavering dedication and a positive mindset. His advice to future RISD athletes emphasizes that hard work and self-belief are crucial for success, reinforcing the idea that deaf athletes can achieve greatness.After his athletic career, George studied at TVID in Minnesota for 1.5 years and later worked with NAVSEA for 40 years. His career reflects the same commitment and resilience that defined his athletic achievements, making George Ferreira a remarkable figure in RISD’s history.
Elizabeth Ferreira
Athlete
Class of 1978
Inducted 2024
Elizabeth Ferreira Shields is celebrated for her outstanding contributions to RISD, both on and off the field. As a right defenseman in field hockey, she demonstrated exceptional dedication, playing under the guidance of Coaches Jim Cooney and John Carty from 1973 to 1978. She also played basketball for John Carty, where she was more of a bench player due to her limited skill set. Despite this, Elizabeth’s emotional intelligence and great spirits were crucial in keeping the team united. She represented the spirit of teamwork with her encouraging attitude, often motivating her teammates with high fives and a positive mindset to "go and finish up the business." Although her teams did not secure victories in the ESDAA and New England School for the Deaf Tournament, Elizabeth’s impact extended far beyond the scoreboard. She was an amazing role model, providing communication access and fostering an ASL-friendly environment at both school and home.
Elizabeth's approach to sports embraced the essence of a winning culture, but it was never just about the victories. For her, the true meaning of winning was about keeping the team together like a family and being there all the way, no matter what. She often said, "If we lost, then we lost together. If we win, then we win together." Elizabeth was a strong advocate for her teammates, dedicated to maintaining unity and support within the team. A cherished memory is passing down the #21 basketball uniform, a symbol of the Ferreira family’s lasting legacy in RISD athletics. Added to this legacy is Elizabeth's role as a lovely woman and a true team player, embodying the spirit of togetherness, leadership, and a winning culture. Her influence continues to inspire, encouraging future athletes to take pride in being part of the Rooster community and to give back to RISD.
Today, Elizabeth is a devoted homemaker who enjoys yardwork, walking with her dog, and being the #1 fan of the Ferreira family and RISD Alumni. Her legacy is one of leadership, family pride, and an unwavering commitment to the RISD community.
Jack Ferreira
Basketball
Class of 1977
Inducted 2024
Jack Ferreira, known as Joaquim “Jack” Loureiro Ferreira, stands out as a legendary figure in RISD’s basketball history. He was driven by a mindset of teamwork, leadership, and excellence. Throughout his five years on the varsity team, Jack demonstrated a remarkable commitment to the game, scoring an impressive 2,527 points and setting a record with 51 points in a single game—a record that remained unbroken for 48 years. His all-around play and selfless approach to the game were crucial in shaping RISD's basketball program.
Jack’s journey was significantly influenced by Ed Klimaszewski, whose mentorship and positive impact helped Jack's basketball talent and confidence soar. Under the guidance of Coach Jim Cooney from 1973 to 1977, Jack’s influence extended beyond his scoring prowess. His leadership on the court and his ability to inspire his teammates were key factors in the team’s success, including their ESDAA championship in 1973 and four consecutive NESD Championships. Jack's approach to the game was not just about personal achievement but about elevating the entire team, embodying the principles of perseverance, unity, and sportsmanship.
Jack’s legacy is defined by his dedication to the sport and his ability to inspire others through his example. His mindset of playing for the team and his unwavering commitment to excellence continue to resonate with future athletes. Jack Ferreira’s contributions to basketball at RISD reflect a deep understanding of the game’s values and an enduring impact that inspires both past and present players to strive for greatness on and off the court.
Rachel Ferreira
Athlete
Class of 1984
Inducted 2024
Rachel Ferreira is celebrated for her exceptional basketball talent and leadership during her time at RISD. Known for her all-around skills on the court, Rachel played under the guidance of Coaches John D. and John Carty, where she became a cornerstone of the team from 1980 to 1984. Her dedication to the game was unmatched, driving her to continually improve and inspire her teammates to strive for excellence. Rachel's relentless work ethic and commitment to self-improvement were evident in her mantra, "As a player, I play better than yesterday," which she lived by every time she stepped onto the court.
A highlight of her career was during her freshman year, when, with just 5 minutes left on the clock, she scored 17 points to lead her team to an unexpected and thrilling victory against Rome. She embodied the spirit of perseverance and determination. Rachel's senior year brought another memorable moment as she teamed up with her younger sister, Suzy, showcasing their deep bond and synergy on the court.
Her achievements, including scoring 1,600 points, earning MVP honors in her senior year, and being named to the All-Star teams multiple times, reflect her influence and impact in the sport. But Rachel's legacy goes beyond her stats. She was a leader who believed in the power of teamwork and humility, always encouraging open communication and support among her teammates. Her advice to future RISD athletes emphasizes the importance of focusing on personal growth and recognizing that every player has a vital role in the success of the team. Rachel's approach to basketball was not just about winning but about growing as an individual and as a team, making her a true role model for athletes at RISD and beyond.
Suzanne Ferreira
Basketball
Class of 1987
Inducted 2024
Suzanne Loureiro Ferreira embodied the essence of a true athlete—the one whose spirit transcended the game and left a lasting impact on everyone she encountered. A graduate of both RISD and Gallaudet University, Suzanne's love for basketball was more than just a passion; it was a driving force that shaped her life and those around her. On the court, she was a powerhouse, scoring over 1000 points during her notable career at RISD and further showcasing her talents at Gallaudet University over four remarkable years.
Under Coach John Carty's guidance, Suzanne cultivated not only her skills but also a profound understanding of the values that define true sportsmanship: integrity, fairness, and unwavering loyalty. She played with a tenacity that inspired her teammates, yet she never lost sight of the importance of collaboration and unity. For Suzanne, every victory was a shared triumph, and every challenge was met with resilience and a commitment to her team. She shared an exceptional bond with John, which is captured in their special phrase, “Go All The Way, Red!”.
Her wisdom extended far beyond the scoreboard. Suzanne often reminded her athlete-students to "Be positive," a mantra that reflected her own approach to both sports and life. She believed in the power of hard work, the importance of dignity, and the enduring strength of the team spirit. True success, she would say, is achieved together—win or lose, the journey is always collective. This mindset not only defined her as an athlete but also as a mentor and educator.
After her time on the court, Suzanne dedicated herself to teaching at RISD, where she poured her heart into shaping the futures of her students, much as she did with her teammates. Her legacy is one of passion, purpose, and a steadfast spirit—a legacy that continues to inspire all who strive for excellence in both sports and life. Suzanne Loureiro Ferreira's name will forever be associated with the highest ideals of athleticism and humanity, making her a timeless figure in the RISD Hall of Fame.