The following is a description explaining our shells names:
"The Chief": Our first shell an eight, still very much in use today, is proudly named after the founder & owner of the Pittsburgh Steeler's Art Rooney Sr. The Rooney family was very instrumental in establishing rowing at North Catholic H.S. and is very much involved today. As The Chief approaches it's thirtieth year of service he gladly awaits the class of 2005.
"Thomas J. Macaluso": Is proudly named after my close friend "Mac" who passed away in the spring of "93". The Mac promptly went undefeated for 2-1/2 yrs winning a National Championship in the Women's Junior 4 in 1994. Today, the bow of the Mac is still chasing finish lines.
"The Parents of 1994": After coming off our Championship season, this very proud parents association donated a new lightweight four. This shell is an integral part to the continuing success of our Women's & Ltwt. programs.
"Eagles Four": This four is proudly named in honor of 4 young men who rowed together and achieved the prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Jonathon Baker, Glenn Riddle, Mike Deneen, Chris Bistolas and Nicole Murphy made up this fine crew.
"Heather's Smile": Is proudly named after Heather Greb who sadly left us during the 94-95 season. Heather possessed a radiant smile that stays with us everyday. This 2-/2x is used to teach our rowers the fine quality of small boat racing.
"Wizard Won": This 2-/2x is proudly named after my wife's father Stephen Balich, who sadly passed away in Dec. of 99. This charismatic man possessed a magic that touched us all. Plus, the Wizard never lost!
"The Fighting 36th": Our newest eight, was donated by The Lamb Family in the spring of 2000. This shell is proudly named after one of the most highly decorated divisions of World War II for which Michael Lamb's father proudly served. This division known for it's heroism and amphibious assaults took many a prisoner. Proudly, adorning 15 Congressional Medals of Honor, 10 Presidential Unit Citations and numerous other battle medals. We at North Catholic hope to honor this shell by achieving many medals as well.
"Frank J. Sands" 03: Our first schoenbrod shell a New 2-/2x was named after Current Head Coach Frank J. Sands
"St. Alphonsus": First of 2 new Resolute 4+ purchased in 04-05. St. Alphonsus was the Bishop & Doctor of the Church, Patron of Moral Theologians. He suffered great pain, depression and anguish in his life but provided a great example of perseverance as he went on to have visions, give prophecies and perform miracles.
We at North Catholic High School are extremely proud of our Fleet of Neczypor, Schoenbrod and Resolute racing shells and for whom they are named!