The Bristol Sports Hall of Fame held its 12th annual induction ceremony November 21 at the Clarion Hotel. Along with seven deserving individuals, The Bristol Tramps, was the first-ever organization inducted into the Hall of Fame’s Class of 2008.

“Our founders along with past and present members are truly honored that the Bristol Sports Hall of Fame has chosen to recognize The Bristol Tramps commitment of helping preserve Bristol’s sports history” said Chairman, Tom Murrone.

“The entire class has improved the community and added to Bristol’s sports heritage,” said Dave Mills, Hall of Fame president. “On behalf of the board of directors, I welcome them into the Bristol Sports Hall of Fame.”

The Bristol Tramps congratulate our fellow Class of 2008 inductees: Maurice “Moe” Baker, Robert Freimuth, Bernice LaFerriere, Phil Lewis, David Raponey, John Reardon, Sr. and Joseph J. Riley.  We’re honored to be in such great company!

The Bristol Tramps Sports Reunion hosted it’s 38th Annual Dinner on Friday, April 11, 2008 at the Clarion Hotel.

The evening began with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the invocation and a moment of silence by Father Al Fontana of St. Anthony’s Church.  Chairman Tom Murrone welcomed the guests and introduced Maryellen Holden as the evening’s toastmaster.  Mayor Art Ward then provided his comments to the capacity crowd of 300+ guests.

Following a family-style dinner, Holden introduced Committee member Donna Papazian, who read a tribute in honor of recently deceased Tramps Executive Director, Tony Savino.  Savino’s widow Deanna, daughter Cathy and son, MSG Anthony Savino, Jr. were recognized in the audience.  Each person in attendance was given a memorial Tony Savino lapel pin.  The pins were the brainchild of Tramps co-chair and senior member, Dan Valerio.

Scholarships and Awards were presented to the 2008 recipients. Each gave a brief speech on their successes,  thanked their families, their colleagues and the Bristol Tramps for recognition of their individual contributions to preserving Bristol’s Sports History.  

The evening concluded with remarks by Chariman Murrone and the benediction by Father Fontana.  Mrs. Holden thanked the crowd and officially closed the evening’s event.