By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich, Register Correspondent

DERBY — The Board of Education this week named the Derby High School gymnasium after an “icon” in the school system.

Alphonso Vitello, who worked in the district for more than 40 years, was bestowed the honor during Thursday’s board meeting.

“He was my mentor and was like a father to me,” said board Vice Chairman Ken Marcucio. “He was an icon in the school system for many years.”

Vitello, a 1941 DHS graduate, began his career here in the 1951, wearing many hats over the years as head football, basketball and baseball coach, guiding his teams to several championships. He became the athletic director in 1968, and served in that capacity until 1988, when he handed the reins over to Marcucio. Vitello continued to work at DHS as a social studies teacher, and headed up that department until his retirement in 1992.

As a DHS student in the late 1930s and early 1940s, Vitello was a star athlete, according to Marcucio. He donned the Red Raiders football jersey from 1937 to 1941 as both a halfback and linebacker. In 1940, Vitello was a vital part of the team that was crowned Housatonic Valley league champs.

Vitello was named an all-state athlete, and played second base and shortstop for the school’s baseball team. In 1941, Vitello was named the school’s most valuable athlete.

“He’s an amazing guy, and we are honored to do this for him,” Marcucio said, as he handed a plaque to Vitello during Thursday’s meeting, noting his numerous accomplishments in Derby.

Vitello, who was surrounded by his wife of 62 years, Eulalia, and three grown sons, Al, Paul and John, said he was honored to have the board recognize him.

“I don’t know where the time went,” Vitello quipped. “This is a great honor. I appreciate it, thank you very much.”

Vitello, who is in his 80s, said he was thrilled to know the gym he spent so much of his time in during his youth will now bear his name. Continued...

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“It’s very great,” he said.

Bradley School Principal Linda Coppola, a former student of Vitello’s, recalled having Vitello in school for ancient history and economics, saying it was a privilege to be in his classroom.

Superintendent of Schools Stephen Tracy said Vitello played a major in role in shaping the lives of hundreds of students.

“He served with distinction, and was instrumental in the personal and professional development of Derby High School students,” Tracy said. “He made a lifetime commitment to Derby.”

Jean Falbo-Sosnovich can be reached at jean.sos@snet.net. For more Valley news, visit the View from the Valley blog at www.nhregister.com.

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