Clarence Alumna Inducted Into Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame

As she was inducted into the Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame, Clarence High School alumna Kathleen Sweet shared the importance of athletics in her life.  

"Team sports are in my view the best possible training for life," said Sweet, who was known as Kathy while in school. "The work, the common goals, the friendships, mentoring, and, yes, the silliness that comes from high school girls and young women college athletes. It's really pure joy."

The Class of 1983 graduate, a multi-sport athlete who excelled on the basketball court, was one of 12 inductees recognized during a ceremony on November 11. While at Clarence High School, Sweet's career included leading the basketball team to four straight section titles, and being named the Most Valuable Player at the 1982 State Basketball Tournament. She also was a member of the varsity soccer, volleyball and field hockey teams during her time as a student.

Among the many family, friends, mentors and supporters thanked by Sweet during her remarks were her former Clarence coaches, Charlie Vesper and Elizabeth Dunne.

“Each of my coaches in their own way pushed me beyond my comfort zone as an athlete, as a teammate and as a person,” Sweet said. “They helped me become a better version of myself.”

After graduating from Clarence, Sweet played basketball at Boston College, becoming recognized as the “first dominating pivot player” in the school’s history. She is one of only 14 players in the school’s history to ever tally 500 points and 500 rebounds. Sweet is a member of both the Clarence High School Athletic Department Wall of Fame and Boston College Hall of Fame.

Following her athletic career, Sweet earned her law degree from Villanova University, and earned multiple honors for her work from Best Lawyers in America and Defense Trial Lawyers of Western New York. Earlier this year, Sweet was sworn in as the 128th president of the New York State Bar Association.

Other members of this year's Hall of Fame class include included Clar Anderson, Mike Buczkowski, Joey Giambra, Jack Jurek, Tom Montemage, John Murphy, Paul Owens, Jim Peelle, Meaghan Sittler, James Starks, Jillian Vogtli.

More information about the Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame can be found at https://www.buffalosportshallfame.com/